EPA Cites Spectro Alloys For Clean-Air Violations

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has filed an administrative complaint against Spectro Alloys Corp. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's aluminum recovery plant in Rosemount, Minn.

"We're proposing a $247,578 penalty and alleging, among other things, that Spectro emitted excessive amounts of dioxins and furans and hydrochloric acid from its furnaces and scrap dryers," said Acting Regional Administrator Bharat Mathur.

Spectro has 30 days from receipt of the complaint to file an answer and request a hearing. It may request an informal conference with EPA at any time to discuss how to resolve the allegations.

EPA said Spectro has made operational changes and done testing that shows it is now in compliance with regulations covering emissions from its furnaces and scrap dryers. It has also fixed other problems identified in the complaint, including data recording device failures.

The regional office also cited International Steel Group’s Cleveland operations for alleged clean-air violations at the company's iron and steel production plant.

EPA alleges that ISG violated state requirements that visible smoke emissions not exceed 20 percent opacity.

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