The Environmental Protection Agency said Wednesday it reached an agreement with Ashland Inc. on alleged clean-air violations at the company's resin manufacturing plant in Calumet City, Illinois.
The agreement, which includes a $60,000 penalty and an environmental project costing $154,400, resolves EPA allegations that Ashland failed to comply with national emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants and the facility's state operating permit.The plant produces amino/phenolic resins that can be used to make plywood, particle board, adhesives, wood furniture and plastic parts, and a number of hazardous air pollutants are used in the manufacturing process.
For its environmental project, Ashland will install and maintain sealless pumps and operate them for at least five years. The pumps are designed to prevent leaks.