EPA Fines 4 Companies Over Chemical Reporting

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has taken action against four companies for failing to report the use of hazardous chemicals, as required by Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act. These reporting requirements are part of the Toxics Release Inventory program.

The settlements include the following companies:

New Jersey Galvanizing and Tinning Works (Newark, NJ): Failed to report nickel usage for three consecutive years. An EPA inspection in August 2024 led to a settlement of $63,800. The company also certified their current compliance and agreed to adopt a plan to help ensure future compliance.
US Polychemical Corporation (Chestnut Ridge, NY): Exceeded reporting thresholds and failed to report for glycol ethers and nonylphenol ethoxylates over three years. The company certified their current compliance and will pay a $39,800 penalty as well as implement a compliance plan to avoid future violations.
L.D. McCauley, LLC. (Orchard Park, NY): Did not report nitrate compounds for 2020 and 2021. After an EPA review, the company certified to their current compliance, agreed to pay a $45,400 penalty and will implement improved compliance measures.
Quality Electroplating Corporation (Caguas, PR): Submitted late reports for zinc compounds and provided inaccurate data for nitric acid and cyanide compounds. The company certified their current compliance, agreed to pay a penalty of $22,900, and will implement a plan to stay in compliance.

Also Read: EPA Fines Power Co For Not Reporting Gas Release

TRI tracks the management of certain toxic chemicals that pose a threat to people and the environment. Facilities that meet TRI reporting requirements must report the details of releases of toxic chemicals to air, land and water, transfers of chemical waste to offsite locations, and methods of waste management and pollution prevention.

These settlements reflect EPA’s commitment to ensuring compliance with environmental laws to protect and inform communities about the potential hazards associated with chemical releases.

Hazardous chemicals are located in many types of facilities and areas. Responders need to know where hazardous chemicals are used and stored, how to assess the risks associated with those chemicals and how to ensure community preparedness for accidents or incidents that may occur. Many facility owners and operators rely on local resources for emergency preparedness and response, including first responders, emergency medical services and hazardous materials response teams. It is important for communities and facility owners and operators to work closely together to ensure chemical safety and security.