News Releases from Region 01

Lowell Company Settles with EPA for Hazardous Waste Concerns

BOSTON - A Lowell, Mass., manufacturer of fiber products has come into compliance with hazardous waste laws after the US Environmental Agency found the company was violating federal and state environmental laws.

Specialty Materials Inc. agreed to pay $150,000 to settle EPA allegations that the company violated the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and Massachusetts hazardous waste management regulations. Specialty Materials generates hazardous wastes in the process of manufacturing fiber products and composite materials used in aerospace, sporting, and industrial applications.

Hazardous wastes generated at the company include, among others: methylene chloride, solids and wastewater contaminated with mercury, methyl ethyl ketone, resin and solids contaminated with acetone, isopropyl alcohol, various flammable liquids, waste epoxy and adhesive cleaner, and waste aerosols.

In July 2014 an EPA inspection identified 14 violations of RCRA and the Massachusetts regulations, including that Specialty Materials had failed to properly store, handle and manage hazardous wastes; ensure proper safety and emergency preparedness measures were followed; maintain appropriate records about storage and handling of hazardous materials; and provide adequate personnel training.

More information on EPA enforcement of hazardous waste requirements (www.epa.gov/enforcement/waste-chemical-and-cleanup-enforcement)