Respondent owns and operates a facility that produces approximately 300 tons of crushed, cubed, and block ice per day for retail, the fishing industry, and special events. The ice is produced using an anhydrous ammonia refrigeration system. On April 24, 2017, there was a release of anhydrous ammonia from the 6,500-pound ammonia refrigeration system at the Facility, which resulted in the evacuation of more than 100 people from nearby businesses and vessels. Emergency Medical Services personnel responded. Nine people were evaluated on-site for irritated eyes, breathing difficulties, and other symptoms and one person transported himself to an area hospital for evaluation.
On July 10, 2018, EPA performed an inspection of the Facility pursuant to Section 112(r) of the CAA. Based upon the information gathered during this inspection and subsequent investigation, EPA determined that Respondent violated certain provisions of the General Duty Clause of the CAA.
ALLEGED VIOLATIONS