BOSTON (Legal Newsline) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Oct. 27 that Specialty Materials Inc., a manufacturer of fiber products in Lowell, Massachusetts, will pay $150,000 after allegations of violating the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and Massachusetts waste management regulations.
The company generates hazardous waste during its manufacture of fiber products and composite materials used in aerospace, sporting and industrial applications. Wastes generated include 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, the EPA identified 14 alleged RCRA and Massachusetts regulation violations at the facility. Purported violations included the failure to properly store, handle and manage hazardous wastes; ensure property safety and emergency procedures; maintain appropriate waste records; and provide adequate personnel training.
Specialty Materials has since come into compliance with hazardous waste laws.