EPA Cites St. Mary’s Cement For Clean-Air Violations

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited St. Mary’s Cement’s Dixon, Ill., plant for alleged clean-air violations.

The EPA alleges that the Dixon Plant modified its cement kilns without getting a state permit that would require controls to prevent deterioration of air quality. 

In addition, EPA alleges the plant violated state nitrogen oxide emissions rules by operating one of its kilns without installing control technology and by failing to meet emissions testing, monitoring and recordkeeping requirements.

EPA also alleges that the Dixon Plant exceeded federal dioxin and furan emission limits at all of its kilns by not maintaining temperature limits needed to control emissions.

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