Metal Shredding Facility Cited by EPA for Clean Air Act Violations

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an administrative order against Sims ARG Inc- a leading scrap metal shedding and recycling facility located at 3000 Vera Street, in Baltimore, Maryland.

The company did not get the necessary permit under the Maryland State Air Permitting Program and the federal Clean Air Act, according to EPA officials. Generally speaking, before beginning operations, metal shredding businesses that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) must get the proper permissions.

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Incidentally, these harmful compounds can contribute to ground-level ozone, which has been proved harmful to human health. Particularly susceptible to the effects of ground-level ozone pollution are those who suffer from respiratory conditions like asthma. VOC emissions from metal shredding facilities are estimated to reach 200 pounds per hour.

EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz commented on the matter, pointing out that metal recycling and shredding companies have been causing air pollution for a number of years. EPA's determination to hold establishments responsible when they don't meet regulatory standards is demonstrated by this action.

The company has 60 days from the effective date of the order to submit a complete permit application to the Maryland state authorities.