EPA v. SOLUTIA INC

Case summary

Solutia operates a chemical production facility ( Facility ) at 730 Worcester Street in Springfield, Massachusetts, where it produces various synthetic organic chemical products, including plastics, adhesives, and resins. The Facility uses several chemicals in its manufacturing processes, including vinyl acetate monomer, which it reportedly has on-site in excess of 2 million pounds. EPA inspected the Solutia facility and determined that Solutia had violated the RMP regulations of the Clean Air Act by: failing to comply with safety information requirements; failing to adequately identify, evaluate, and control hazards; failing to comply with operating procedures; and failing to comply with mechanical integrity requirements. Massachusetts is not delegated to implement this program. The CAFO includes payment of a civil penalty of $15,222 and requires Respondent to perform a supplemental environmental project ( SEP ) that will cost Respondent approximately $59,779. The SEP is designed to enhance emergency response capabilities in the community surrounding the Facility by requiring Respondent to provide equipment to the local fire department, thereby improving the safety of responding personnel and the community. Respondent has certified that it has corrected the deficiencies and come into compliance.

Defendants (1)

• Solutia IncNamed in complaintNamed in settlement

Facilities (1)

• SOLUTIA INC - INDIAN ORCHARD PLANT

  730 WORCESTER STREET, SPRINGFIELD, MA, 011511108

  Registry ID: 110000308435

Statutes cited

• CAA 112[R][7] — Prevention of Accidental Release/Risk Management Plans (RMPs)

Enforcement conclusions (1)

• SOLUTIA INCentered 2017-04-20

  Primary law: CAA

  Federal penalty: $15,222 · SEP: $47,823

Timeline (3 milestones)

• 2017-04-20Complaint Filed/Proposed Order
• 2017-04-20Final Order Issued
• 2017-05-08Enforcement Action Data Entered