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EPA cites Del's Metal for clean-air violations

Release Date: 12/02/2005
Contact Information:

CONTACT: William Omohundro, (312) 353-8254

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 05-OPA255

EPA cites Del's Metal for clean-air violations

CHICAGO (Dec. 2, 2005) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited Del's Metal Co. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's secondary aluminum production operation at 1605 1st St., Rock Island, Ill.

EPA alleges that Del's Metal failed to test its sweat furnace emissions for dioxins and furans or to install an afterburner to destroy the dioxins and furans. EPA also alleges that the company did not comply with planning, notification and recordkeeping requirements.

"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. Del's Metal has 30 days from receipt of the notice to meet with EPA to discuss resolving the allegations.

There is evidence that dioxins may cause liver damage and probably cause cancer in humans, while furans may also cause cancer.

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