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EPA Cites Chemical Equipment Labs For Hazardous Chemical Reporting Violations

Release Date: 7/20/2001
Contact Information: Bonnie Smith, (215) 814-5543

Bonnie Smith, (215) 814-5543

PHILADELPHIA – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has cited Chemical Equipment Labs, Inc. of Marcus Hook, Pa., for failing to promptly notify officials of a 1997 hazardous chemical spill in Chadds Ford, Pa. and for failing to file timely reports of hazardous chemicals at its Marcus Hook, Pa. facility. EPA is seeking a $54,525 penalty for the alleged violations.

According to EPA, approximately 350 gallons of a de-icing compound spilled after the company’s truck used to transport chemicals was involved in a July 11, 1997 accident near the intersection of Cheyney Road and Route 1 in Chadds Ford, Pa. The chemical spilled onto the public streets, and ultimately entered the West Branch of Chester Creek, resulting in a fish kill.

EPA cited the company for violating regulations requiring companies to immediately notify local, state, and federal emergency response officials after the releases of listed hazardous chemicals. According to EPA, the company did not provide complete information about the spill until a December 20, 2000 response to an EPA information request.

EPA also cited the company for failing to inform state and local emergency response officials, and the Marcus Hook Fire Department, about hazardous chemicals stored at its facility at Walnut and Pine Streets in Marcus Hook, Pa. from 1995 through 1997.

The company has the right to a hearing to contest the alleged violations and proposed penalty.