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EPA Cites Wheeling-Pittsburgh for Clean Air Violations

06/22/2006 -  

 

June 22, 2006 — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel Corp. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's steel mills in Steubenville and Mingo Junction, Ohio.

 

Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can affect children, the elderly and people with heart and lung diseases the most.

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

EPA alleges that Wheeling Pittsburgh exceeded limits on opacity (the amount of light obscured by particulates such as smoke, dust, ash) from several processes at the mill. The EPA also said the company exceeded limits on sulfur dioxide emissions.

To resolve these preliminary findings of violations, EPA may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty or bring suit against the company. Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel has 30 days from receipt of the notice to meet with EPA to discuss resolving the allegations.