News Releases from Region 01
Settlement with Franklin, N.H. Manufacturer will Help Prevent Hazardous Emissions
BOSTON - A company that manufactures valves in Franklin, N.H. has taken steps to help prevent emissions of hazardous air pollutants under an agreement signed recently with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. According to the settlement, Watts Regulator Co. will also pay a penalty of $112,200 to settle claims it violated the Clean Air Act.
Watts Regulator operates two foundry process lines at its facility in Franklin. Each line has a separate set of controls for particulate matter. These process lines are subject to two National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP). One standard applies to metal fabrication and finishing operations, and the other applies to aluminum, copper, and other nonferrous foundries.
"To ensure better protection of public health and the environment, it is critical for facilities take appropriate steps to demonstrate that they can meet emission limits," said Curt Spalding, regional administrator of EPA's New England office.
According to EPA's complaint, Watts Regulator had failed to submit timely notifications and reports to EPA for both lines and had failed to conduct a performance test on one of the process lines to ensure it meets EPA's emission requirements. Watts has since submitted the late reports and completed the required testing. The company was cooperative with EPA, and once notified of the violations, it promptly took steps to come into compliance with federal air regulations.
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