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EPA cites Republic Engineered Products for clean-air violations

Release Date: 09/12/2006
Contact Information: William Omohundro, (312) 353-8254, [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 06-OPA158

CHICAGO (Sept. 12, 2006) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited Republic Engineered Products Inc. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's steel mill at 1807 E. 28th St., Lorain, Ohio.

EPA alleges Republic violated federal and state regulations and its state operating permit by exceeding limits on opacity, or the amount of light obscured by particulates (smoke, dust, ash), from its basic oxygen process vessels and its blast furnace cast house in 2005 and 2006.

The alleged violations were discovered during EPA and Ohio EPA inspections and from information submitted by Republic.

"EPA's mission is to protect public health and the environment," said Acting Regional Administrator Bharat Mathur. "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. Republic 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.