EPA Regional Office Cites Barrel Reconditioner

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 cited IFCO ICS-Chicago Inc. for alleged violation of federal clean-air regulations at the company's steel drum reconditioning plant in Chicago.

``Last August, we instructed IFCO to test their drum furnace operation to see if it was capturing and destroying the required amounts of volatile organic compounds,'' said Cheryl Newton, acting director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. ``We're citing the company today because it never did the tests.''

The EPA’s action is a preliminary finding of violation. To resolve it, EPA may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty or bring suit against the company. IFCO will have 30 days to request a meeting with EPA to discuss the allegation and how to resolve it.

Volatile organic compounds contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone (smog). Smog is formed when a mixture of air pollutants is baked in the hot summer sun. Smog can cause a variety of respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest pain. Asthmatics, children and the elderly are especially at risk, but these health concerns are important to everyone.