EPA cites EMCO Chemical for hazardous waste violations; proposes $349,015 penalty

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has filed an administrative complaint and compliance order against EMCO Chemical Distributors Inc., North Chicago, Ill., for alleged violations of federal hazardous waste regulations. A $349,015 penalty is proposed.

Following an EPA inspection at the EMCO facility, 2100 Commonwealth Ave., the company was cited for violating Resource Conservation and Recovery Act requirements for managing hazardous waste. EMCO failed to have permits for hazardous waste storage and ensure that hazardous waste containers were properly labeled.

EPA has ordered EMCO to cease storing hazardous waste at its facility unless it fully complies with RCRA requirements, and to submit a closure plan with a cost estimate and assurance of financial responsibility for closure. EMCO has 90 days to make the changes and may request a hearing or settlement conference.

Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, EPA controls hazardous waste from its production to final disposal. Information on Region 5’s hazardous waste enforcement program is at http://www.epa.gov/reg5rcra/wptdiv/enforcement/ecab.htm.