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EPA reaches agreement with OSCO Industries on clean-air violations

Release Date: 01/13/2006
Contact Information: William Omohundro, (312) 353-8254

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 06-OPA009


CHICAGO (Jan. 13, 2006) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has reached an agreement with OSCO Industries on alleged clean-air violations at the company's grey-iron foundries in Jackson and Portsmouth, Ohio.

The agreement, which includes a $75,000 penalty, resolves EPA allegations that OSCO made major modifications at both plants significantly increasing emissions of carbon monoxide and particulates (smoke, dust, ash) without getting the necessary permits.

In addition, the agreement resolves EPA allegations that, for a period of time on 468 days at the Jackson foundry, and for a period of time on 178 days at the Portsmouth foundry, OSCO emitted carbon monoxide gases without burning them at the appropriate temperature.

OSCO also agreed to an EPA order to apply to the Ohio EPA for permits for both plants. The applications will include requests for more stringent emission limits for carbon monoxide and particulates.

When carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream, it reduces delivery of oxygen to the body's organs and tissues. Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can impair vision, hand movement, learning ability and performance of complex tasks, and can also cause death.

Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can affect children, the elderly and people with heart and lung diseases the most.