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EPA SEEKS $25,000 FROM PECO FOR LATE REPORT OF PCB SPILL

Release Date: 9/30/1998
Contact Information: Bonnie Lomax (215) 841-5542 September 30, 1998

PHILADELPHIA - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that it has cited PECO Energy Co. for failing to immediately report a July 11, 1996 spill of about one gallon of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).  EPA seeks a $25,000 penalty for the spill, which occurred at PECO’s Sedgely Avenue site.

The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act requires companies to immediately report significant releases of hazardous chemicals to the National Response Center, which coordinates any necessary emergency response.  Prompt, accurate reports of chemical leaks are necessary for expeditious and effective emergency response to chemical accidents.  

According to EPA’s complaint, PECO did not report the spill for 17 hours after discovering the accident.  PECO cleaned up the spill.  

PCBs were commonly used as a nonflammable coolant for transformers and other electrical equipment until the 1970's, when Congress strictly limited the manufacture and use of this toxic substance.  PCBs are considered to be a probable human carcinogen.  

The National Response Center’s toll-free number  is (800) 424-8802.    


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