Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) Violations Result in Fines for New England Companies

EPCRA Tier II submissions are required to adequately inform local officials and responders of the presence of hazardous chemicals in the case of an emergency. In a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), W.R. Cobb, a metal stamping manufacturer located in East Providence, Rhode Island, has agreed to pay a penalty of $108,900 for alleged violations of EPCRA TRI reporting requirements and the General Duty Clause of the Clean Air Act. Separately, the EPA settled an action with Millard Wire, a Warwick, Rhode Island-based custom metal wire and metal strip manufacturing facility, for violations of EPCRA reporting requirements and the process hazard review requirement of the Clean Air Act. 

"This settlement, which will strengthen public safety, highlights accident prevention and the community's right to know about chemicals in their environment. We take these responsibilities seriously, especially to protect local populations that face disproportionate environmental risks in New England," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash.

Read the full press release on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency site.