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EPA cites Mittal Steel for clean-air violations

Release Date: 08/14/2006
Contact Information: William Omohundro, (312) 353-8254, [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 06-OPA141

CHICAGO (Aug. 14, 2006) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited Mittal Steel USA Inc. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's steel mill, 250 W. U.S. Highway 12, Burns Harbor, Ind.

EPA alleges that in 1994, Mittal modified a coke oven battery, resulting in a significant increase in sulfur dioxide emissions, without getting a state permit that would have required the best available technology to control the emissions.

"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. Mittal has 30 days from receipt of the notice to meet with EPA to discuss resolving the allegations.

Exposure to sulfur dioxide can impair breathing, aggravate existing respiratory diseases like bronchitis and reduce the ability of the lungs to clear foreign particles. Sulfur dioxide can cause acid rain and contribute to fine particle pollution. Children, the elderly and people with heart and lung conditions are the most sensitive to sulfur dioxide.

Information on 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 https://www.epa.gov/compliance/complaints.