EPA reaches agreement with Everbrite on clean-air violations

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has reached an agreement with Everbrite LLC on alleged clean-air violations at the company’s sign manufacturing plant at 315 Marion Ave., South Milwaukee, Wis.

The agreement, which includes a $36,106 penalty, resolves EPA allegations that Everbrite failed to comply with recordkeeping and reporting requirements of its state operating permit and federal and state regulations. EPA said the company came into compliance with these requirements in 2006. The Everbrite plant emits pollutants, including particulate matter and volatile organic compounds, to the air.

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

Volatile organic compounds contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone (smog). Smog is formed when a mixture of pollutants react on warm, sunny days. Smog can cause respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest pain. People with asthma, children and the elderly are especially at risk, but these health concerns are important to everyone.

Information about EPA Region 5’s air enforcement program is at http://www.epa.gov/region5/air/enforce/index.html. Potential environmental violations may be reported at http://www.epa.gov/compliance/complaints.