The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a settlement with Central Valley Meat Company Inc., resolving claims of violations under the Clean Air Act (CAA) and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). The Hanford-based meat processing company will pay $210,332 in civil penalties and implement substantial safety measures to align with federal environmental regulations.
The violations stem from an inspection conducted by the EPA in March 2022, which revealed deficiencies in the company’s handling of hazardous substances, including anhydrous ammonia—a chemical widely used in refrigeration systems but known for its potential to cause severe health risks and environmental hazards.
“It is crucial for any facility that manages hazardous substances like anhydrous ammonia to implement measures aimed at minimizing the risk of accidental releases to safeguard workers, first responders, and the general public,” said Martha Guzman, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator. “We are pleased that Central Valley Meat has taken necessary steps to improve the safety and compliance of its facility.”
Key Violations Identified by EPA
The EPA’s inspection found several safety and compliance breaches, particularly related to the Clean Air Act’s Risk Management Program (RMP) and General Duty Clause. Among the issues noted were:
Unsealed wall penetrations and holes, posing a risk of ammonia leaks that could endanger workers.
Improperly labeled ammonia piping and equipment, and ammonia sensors set to alarm at unsafe concentration levels.
Delayed repairs on equipment deficiencies, such as a faulty machinery room door seal.
Incomplete operating procedures and process hazard analyses, vital tools for reducing risks in ammonia refrigeration systems.
Further violations under EPCRA included the company’s failure to report hazardous substances stored on-site in 2019 and 2020, and a propane tank omission from its inventory for several years.
Safety and Compliance Improvements
In response to the EPA’s findings and as part of the settlement, Central Valley Meat Company has undertaken a comprehensive upgrade of its refrigeration system. These improvements include:
Correcting equipment deficiencies and sealing wall penetrations.
Ensuring all refrigeration equipment is properly labeled.
Updating operating procedures and process hazard analyses.
Coordinating emergency response plans with the local fire department.
Submitting required hazardous substance inventory reports to state and local authorities.
Broader Implications for Industrial Facilities
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