Pennsylvania DEP Inspecting Scrap Yard for Possible Air Emission Problems

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection started inspecting three businesses in New Castle as part of its ongoing effort to identify the source of manganese that was detected in air samples taken last year.
The Pennsylvania DEP began monitoring air quality at and near several schools after a December 2008 report in USA Today raised concerns that toxins near schools could create a poor air quality environment. The newspaper used data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency about toxins produced at industrial facilities.

DEP monitored the air near one school, St. Vitus, from Oct. 23 through Nov. 11. The results identified manganese as a pollutant of concern. Sampling results for other metals, including arsenic, chromium, lead and nickel were found to be within the U.S. EPA’s generally acceptable risk range.

Based on that limited data, DEP determined further investigation into the source of the manganese was necessary and, earlier this month, conducted inspections at three nearby facilities: Ferro Tech, New Castle Recycling and PSC Metals.

The department will expand its monitoring effort to sample for smaller-sized particles and hexavalent chromium.
“DEP is conducting a full inspection and inventory of likely sources of the metals found to ensure these sources are in compliance with our requirements,” says Kelly Burch, DEP’s regional director.

To view the full report on testing in New Castle, go to www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/airwaste/aq/default.htm