EPA Cites ISG Indiana Harbor

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited ISG Indiana Harbor Inc. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's steel pickling plant, 3001 Dickey Road, East Chicago, Ind.

EPA alleges the ISG Indiana Harbor plant had hydrochloric acid emissions from its pickling line stack four times greater than EPA regulations allow.  Pickling removes rust from the surface of steel.

This is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve them, EPA may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty or bring suit against the company.  ISG Indiana Harbor has 30 days from receipt of the notice to request a meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations and how to resolve them.

"EPA's mission is to protect public health and the environment," said Region 5 Administrator Thomas V. Skinner.  "We will take whatever steps are needed to ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act."

Hydrochloric acid is a hazardous air pollutant.  It is corrosive to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes and can affect the respiratory and digestive tracts.