EPA cites potato processing plant in Belfast over ammonia use
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency cited a Belfast potato processor last week over issues with its use of ammonia, seeking as much as $320,000 in penalties.
The Bangor Daily News reported Thursday that the EPA’s complaint against Penobscot McCrum LLC included concerns about safety measures and emergency planning regarding the plant’s use of ammonia in its freezing and refrigeration operations.
A representative from the EPA’s New England Regional Office told the BDN that it isn’t aware of any injuries caused by the ammonia refrigeration system. The federal agency’s biggest concern is the lack of capacity to respond to a major ammonia release emergency.
The EPA representative said the $320,000 sought by the federal agency is the statutory maximum and a standard procedure in such situations, but the agency has made a confidential settlement offer to the company.
Jay McCrum, owner of the company, told the paper the plant has been working with the Waldo County Local Emergency Planning Committee to create a better emergency plan and that the plant doesn't pose a danger to nearby residents.
The director of the Waldo County Emergency Management Agency, told the paper that the EPA has been inspecting other ammonia-using facilities in the state this year as well.
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