CHICAGO (Nov. 2, 2004) -- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 5 has cited Pickens Plastics Inc. for alleged clean-air
violations at the company's plastic composite plants at 149 S.
Cucumber St., Jefferson, Ohio, and at 4212 Anne Ave., Ashtabula,
Ohio.
EPA alleges that both plants allowed emissions of volatile organic
compounds to exceed limits in their state operating permits. EPA
said styrene and acetone are the pollutants released.
"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. EPA met with Pickens Oct. 21
to discuss resolving the allegations and the discussions are continuing.
Breathing high levels of styrene for a short time can cause nervous
system effects such as depression, concentration problems, muscle
weakness, tiredness and nausea.
Breathing moderate-to-high levels of acetone for short periods
of time can cause nose, throat, lung and eye irritation; headaches;
light-headedness; confusion; nausea and vomiting.
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