Ken’s Auto Body, Inc. in Port Orchard recently became a 3-star EnviroStars certified business. Ken’s qualified under the combined hazardous waste/air quality requirements of the EnviroStars-Puget Sound Clean Air Agency Autobody Pilot Project. As a benefit, starting next year, owner Ken Davis will be receiving a $200 rebate on his annual permit fee from the Clean Air Agency.

One of the highlights of the operation at Ken’s is the state-of-the-art paint spraybooth, a SprayBake 1000. It enables staff to precision paint a higher volume of vehicles in a contaminant-free space. A special paint mixing room with computerized equipment also securely holds their hazardous wastes in the event that there was ever a spill.

While all the latest equipment is in place at this large operation, nothing beats conscientious staff. Staff at Ken’s are very careful about waste handling and disposal. All containers are properly labeled, sealed, tracked, and kept in overflow safety containment.

Along with solid waste recycling, some hazardous wastes are recycled. For example, waste thinner goes into a special “still” that distills the waste into almost entirely usable product while just a little bit of waste is hauled offsite by a reputable hazardous waste carrier.

Staff from Ken’s had assistance from EnviroStars field staff and Arnold & Associates, a local safety consulting firm. Along with the obvious benefits of working in and creating a safe environment, Ken’s Auto Body will be exempt from routine Clean Air Agency inspections as long as they maintain their EnviroStars certification.

Ken’s Auto Body is located at 2005 Sidney Avenue in Port Orchard and can be reached at (360) 876-2448 or visit www.kensautobody.com.

For more information about EnviroStars or the joint Clean Air Agency autobody pilot project, contact the Bremerton- Kitsap County Health District at (360) 692-3611.