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EPA cites WCJ for clean-air violations

Release Date: 01/12/2006
Contact Information: William Omohundro, (312) 353-8254

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 06-OPA008


CHICAGO (Jan. 12, 2006) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited WCJ Inc., also known as E & J Metal Co., for alleged clean-air violations at the company's secondary aluminum production operation at 200 24th Ave., Rock Island, Ill.

EPA alleges that WCJ failed to comply with federal monitoring, notification, recordkeeping, inspection and planning requirements for its sweat furnace afterburner used to destroy hazardous dioxins and furans. The alleged violations were discovered during an EPA inspection June 15.

"EPA's mission is to protect public health and the environment," said Regional Administrator Thomas V. Skinner. "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. The company has 30 days from receipt of the notice to meet with EPA to discuss resolving the allegations.

There is evidence that dioxins may cause liver damage and probably cause cancer in humans, while furans may also cause cancer.