The Puget Sound Naval Shipyard has agreed to pay a $56,000 fine for hazardous waste violations at its Bremerton Naval Complex, according to an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

A “waste plating solution” containing hexavalent chromium was improperly stored and handled at the Bremerton shipyard, according to the agreement. The solution dripped through an open grating into a basement and accumulated there. Exposure to hexavalent chromium can cause respiratory illnesses and increases the risk of lung cancer.

“This is a toxic compound that can cause health problems and harm the environement – handling it improperly can have serious consequences,” said Jeff Kenknight, manager of the EPA’s Hazardous Waste Compliance Unit. “Waste management practices are designed to minimize these risks.”

Inspectors also found an open drum of paint solvent on a pier that sat on Puget Sound, according to the agreement. The container risked contaminating the Sound if it had spilled.