The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reached a significant settlement with Akron Steel Treating, a company located at 336 Morgan Ave. in Akron, Ohio. The settlement addresses serious allegations regarding hazardous waste violations that the company allegedly committed. Akron Steel Treating, which specializes in heat treatment of carbon and stainless steel parts, will pay a civil penalty of $105,855 as part of the agreement.
The EPA's investigation revealed that Akron Steel Treating had stored hazardous waste at its facility for over 180 days without the necessary permits. This is a serious infraction, as such practices can pose significant risks to both public health and the environment. The company was cited for three specific violations: exceeding the weight limit for hazardous waste storage, failing to maintain a manifest system for tracking waste that was shipped off-site, and lacking sufficient aisle space in hazardous waste storage areas. Additionally, the company did not properly label hazardous waste storage containers, which further compounded the risks associated with its operations.
Debra Shore, the EPA Region 5 Administrator, emphasized the importance of adhering to environmental regulations. She stated, "EPA is dedicated to protecting communities such as Akron from the dangers posed by improper and unregulated hazardous waste storage." Shore's comments underscore the agency's commitment to enforcing environmental laws and promoting justice in communities that may be disproportionately affected by environmental hazards.
The EPA's release also highlighted that the facility is located in a community with potential environmental justice concerns. This means that the residents may not have the same level of protection or involvement in decisions regarding environmental laws, particularly those that impact their health and safety. The agency is striving to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, have a voice in matters related to environmental regulations and policies.
In response to the allegations, Akron Steel Treating has agreed to address the violations outlined by the EPA. While the settlement is a step forward, it also raises questions about the company's future operations and its commitment to environmental safety. The ability to effectively manage hazardous waste is crucial, not only for the company’s legal compliance but also for safeguarding the health of the surrounding community.
The financial penalty, while significant, may not fully capture the potential long-term impacts of these violations. Local residents and environmental advocates are likely to watch the situation closely to ensure that Akron Steel Treating implements the necessary changes to avoid future infractions. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of proper waste management practices and the critical role that regulatory agencies play in enforcing compliance.
