Columbus, OH – Columbus Steel Castings (CSC) has been penalized for years of knowingly violating Clean Air Act regulations at its Columbus, Ohio foundry, according to federal court documents and an EPA announcement. The company, a major supplier to the railroad industry, systematically failed to report malfunctions and exceedances of permitted emission levels, putting nearby residents at potential risk.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s criminal enforcement investigation revealed a pattern of non-compliance stretching from 2004 to 2007. CSC’s Title V permit, issued by the Ohio EPA in 2002, mandated regular reporting of control device issues, annual compliance certifications, proper venting of emissions through baghouses, daily visual inspections, and timely stack testing. Investigators determined CSC employees were aware of these requirements, yet deliberately failed to adhere to them.
Specifically, the foundry neglected to report numerous control device malfunctions and deviations from permitted emission limits in both monthly and annual reports. Critical emissions from the green sand core making and arc air turntable processes were not properly routed through the required baghouse filtration systems. Daily visual emission checks, a simple but vital component of air quality monitoring, were also consistently skipped. Furthermore, required stack testing wasn’t completed within the stipulated timeframe after the expiration of permits for key processes.
Legal Ramifications
On July 20, 2011, CSC was formally charged with six counts of violating the Clean Air Act, specifically 42 U.S.C. 7413(c), which addresses knowing violations of the Act. The company swiftly entered a guilty plea to all charges on July 28, 2011. The sentencing, handed down on November 18, 2011, included a 12-month probationary period and a substantial financial penalty totaling $825,000. This figure comprises a $660,000 federal fine and $165,000 designated as community service payments to Columbus-area charitable organizations serving communities adjacent to the plant.
Corrective Measures Ordered
Beyond the financial penalties, the court mandated CSC implement significant upgrades to its pollution control infrastructure. These upgrades include the installation of interlock devices, designed to automatically shut down emissions sources when associated air pollution control equipment malfunctions, and a bag leak detection system for the furnace’s air control equipment. These measures aim to prevent future violations and ensure more reliable operation of pollution control technologies.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Columbus Steel Castings Company, Inc.
- Location: Columbus, Ohio
- Crime: Violations of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7413(c))
- Years of Violation: 2004 – 2007
- Penalty: $660,000 federal fine + $165,000 community service
- Corrective Action: Installation of interlock devices & bag leak detection system
This case highlights the EPA’s ongoing commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and holding companies accountable for prioritizing profits over public health and environmental protection. The full EPA press release can be found here.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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