Open / Close Advertisement

EPA Cites Mittal Steel for Clean-Air Violations on Modified Coke Battery

08/15/2006 -  

Aug. 15, 2006 — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited Mittal Steel USA Inc. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's Burns Harbor, Ind., steel mill.

Exposure to sulfur dioxide can impair breathing, aggravate existing respiratory diseases like bronchitis and reduce the ability of the lungs to clear foreign particles. Children, the elderly and people with heart and lung conditions are the most sensitive to sulfur dioxide.

Sulfur dioxide can also cause acid rain and contribute to fine particle pollution.

EPA alleges that in 1994, Mittal modified a coke oven battery, resulting in a significant increase in sulfur dioxide emissions, without getting a state permit that would have required the best available technology to control the emissions.

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