Circle K Midwest to Pay Ohio EPA $100K for Air Violations
OAKHURST, N.J. (DTN) --- The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency said in a
news release that Circle K Midwest has agreed to pay $100,000 for air
violations at eight gas stations in the state.
According to the release, the Columbus, Indiana-based company failed to
maintain its vapor control systems or pass several tests to show such systems
for refueling vehicles were operating properly; failed to perform successful
tests at three stations as required at least annually; and failed to have
records at two stations that documented the station operators or managers were
properly trained for those vapor control systems. All of the violations at
these stations have now been corrected.
Of the total eight stations, one is located in Butler County and one in
Hamilton County; two each in Ashtabula, Lorain and Clermont Counties.
Under the terms of the settlement, for the next two ozone-producing summer
seasons from March through October, the company must increase the frequency of
inspections and testing. The company is required to inspect the vapor control
systems at least twice per season, successfully test the systems at least twice
per season and maintain the systems.
Gas stations in Cincinnati, Cleveland and Dayton metropolitan areas are
required to have Stage II vapor control systems federal air quality standard
for ozone. Hydrocarbons escape when gasoline is pumped unless vapor control
systems draw the vapors back into the tank. Under the right weather conditions,
these vapors serve as a precursor to ozone, which can irritate the linings of
people's lungs.
Of the $100,000 penalty, $20,000 will go to fund Ohio EPA's Clean Diesel
School Bus Program Fund, $40,000 will go to the Ohio Environmental Education
Fund, and $40,000 will go toward the administration of air pollution control
programs, as required by state law.
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