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EPA reaches agreement with Ashland on clean-air violations

Release Date: 08/09/2006
Contact Information: William Omohundro, (312) 353-8254, omohundro.william@epa.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 06-OPA137

CHICAGO (Aug. 9, 2006) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has reached an agreement with Ashland Inc. on alleged clean-air violations at the company's resin manufacturing plant at 142nd Street and Paxton Avenue, Calumet City, Ill.

The agreement, which includes a $60,000 penalty and an environmental project costing $154,400, resolves EPA allegations that Ashland failed to comply with national emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants and the facility's state operating permit.

The plant produces amino/phenolic resins that can be used to make plywood, particle board, adhesives, wood furniture and plastic parts. A number of hazardous air pollutants are used in the manufacturing process.

For its environmental project, Ashland will install and maintain sealless pumps and operate them for at least five years. The pumps are designed to prevent leaks.

Hazardous air pollutants may cause serious health effects including birth defects and cancer. They may also cause harmful environmental effects.

Information of EPA Region 5's air enforcement program is at https://www.epa.gov/region5/air/enforce/index.html. Potential environmental violations may be reported at http:// www.epa.gov/compliance/complaints.