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EPA Cites Koppers for Clean-Air Violations

Release Date: 03/03/2005
Contact Information:

CONTACT: William Omohundro, (312) 353-8254

For Immediate Release
No. 05-OPA022

CHICAGO (March 3, 2005) — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited Koppers Inc. for alleged clean-air violations at the company’s chemical manufacturing plant at 3900 S. Laramie Ave., Stickney, Ill.

EPA alleges that, among other things, Koppers violated monitoring, leak detection and reporting regulations for hazardous air pollutants. EPA discovered the alleged violations during an inspection of the plant last October.

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

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