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EPA cites WCI Steel for clean-air violations

Release Date: 8/29/2005
Contact Information:

CONTACT: William Omohundro, (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release No. 05-OPA163

CHICAGO (Aug. 29, 2005) — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited WCI Steel Inc. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's iron and steel plant at 1040 Pine Ave. S.E., Warren, Ohio. EPA alleges that WCI Steel violated its state operating permit and its permit to prevent deterioration of air quality by failing to control particulate (smoke, ash, dust) emissions from parts of two casthouses at the plant. The alleged violations were discovered during an EPA inspection in March and from information submitted by the company in June. "EPA's mission is to protect public health and the environment," said Regional Administrator Thomas V. Skinner. "We will take whatever steps are needed to ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act." These are preliminary findings of violations. To resolve them, EPA may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty or bring suit against the company. WCI Steel has 30 days from receipt of the notice to meet with EPA to discuss resolving the allegations. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can affect children, the elderly and people with heart and lung diseases the most. # # #