OhioEPA
PUBLIC INTEREST CENTER
P.O. Box 1049, 122 S. Front St.
Columbus, OH 43216-1049
Tele: (614) 644-2160 Fax: (614) 644-2737

Media Contact: Kara Allison
(614) 644-2160

Citizen Contact: Mike Settles
(614) 644-2160

Canton, OH – February 11, 2004
Ohio EPA has reached a settlement with Canton Drop Forge, Inc., for violating air pollution control regulations at its forged metal products manufacturing facility located at 4575 Southway Street SW, Canton (Stark County). The company agreed to a $44,000 civil penalty.

As part of its manufacturing process, the company operates a coal-fired boiler. Between August 16, 2000, and October 14, 2002, the Canton City Health Department, Air Pollution Control Division (CAPCD), Ohio EPA’s contractual representative for Stark County, conducted surveillance and inspections at the facility. Inspectors found that the coal-fired boiler exceeded its visible particulate emissions limit on numerous occasions, in violation of the company’s permit and Ohio regulations. In addition, representatives from CAPCD investigated several complaints from nearby residents regarding black ash deposits found on cars, patio furniture and decks between June 26 and August 1, 2002. After collecting and analyzing samples, CAPCD concluded these deposits were fly ash coming from the coal-fired boiler at the facility.

The company has submitted a plan to CAPCD to correct the violations by April 12, 2004. The plan involves improved operational control of the boiler, increased operator training, and implementation of a preventative maintenance plan for the boiler.

The $44,000 civil penalty will be paid to Ohio EPA. As provided by State law, equal portions of the penalty will be used to benefit the Ohio Environmental Education Fund and administer air pollution control programs.