All News Releases By Date

EPA cites Abbott Laboratories for clean-air violations

Release Date: 01/14/2005
Contact Information:

CONTACT: William Omohundro, (312) 353-8254

For Immediate Release
No. 05-OPA003

CHICAGO (Jan. 14, 2005) — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited Abbott Laboratories for alleged clean-air violations at the company's health care products manufacturing plant at 1401 Sheridan Road, North Chicago, Ill.

EPA alleges that, among other things, Abbott failed to comply with equipment leak detection and repair requirements at pharmaceutical production units that used hazardous air pollutants.

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

"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."

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