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EPA SETTLES PENDING ACTION AGAINST KERR-MCGEE CHEMICAL LLC IN HAMILTON, MISSISSIPPI FOR ALLEGED VIOLATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE, COMPENSATION AND LIABILITY ACT

Release Date: 08/02/2002
Contact Information: Dawn Harris-Young, EPA Press Relations, 404-562-8421

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today the settlement of an administrative enforcement action against Kerr-McGee Chemical LLC facility in Hamilton, Mississippi for alleged violation of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA, also known as Superfund). According to the Consent Agreement and Consent Order (CAFO), the facility allegedly failed to immediately notify the National Response Center, as required by CERCLA, of a release of sulfuric acid on November 18, 2001 in an amount equal to or greater than its Reportable Quantity. Immediate notification enables federal, state, and local officials to determine whether they need to render emergency assistance. Failure to do so precludes these officials from being able to make a timely response if needed. Under the terms of the CAFO, Kerr McGee has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $4,245. In addition, Kerr-McGee has agreed to perform a supplemental environmental project (SEP) valued at more than $16,000. In accordance with the SEP, Kerr-McGee will purchase a truck-mounted pump and related equipment for the Hamilton County Fire Department. The SEP will benefit the Fire Department in responding to fires and hazardous material spills in remote locations.