News Releases from Region 03

MI Metals settles hazardous waste storage violations at Millersburg, Pa. facility

PHILADELPHIA (November 12, 2015) - MI Metals has agreed to pay a $58,816 penalty to settle alleged violations of hazardous waste regulations at its manufacturing facility in Millersburg, Pa., the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today. The settlement addresses compliance with environmental regulations that help protect communities and the environment from potential exposure to hazardous waste.

EPA cited the Florida-based company for violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the federal law governing the treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. RCRA is designed to protect public health and the environment, and avoid costly cleanups, by requiring the safe, environmentally sound storage and disposal of hazardous waste.

Following an inspection by officials from EPA and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, EPA cited MI Metals for RCRA violations involving hazardous waste stored at the facility, including caustic cleaning solution and waste paint.

The alleged violations included: failure to keep hazardous waste containers closed during storage; failure to have a hazardous waste storage tank assessed by a professional engineer; failure to conduct required daily inspections of hazardous waste; and inadequate secondary containment to prevent spills. The company was also cited for failure to properly manage universal waste such as fluorescent lamps that may contain mercury or other hazardous substances.

The settlement penalty reflects the company's compliance efforts, and its cooperation with EPA in the resolution of this matter. As part of the settlement, the company has not admitted liability for the alleged violations, but has certified its compliance with applicable RCRA requirements.

For more information about hazardous waste and RCRA, visit http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/index.htm .