An investigation conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that Owens Corning Insulating Systems LLC violated the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and Kansas hazardous waste management regulations. The agency alleges that the company’s Kansas City fiberglass insulation facility generates hazardous waste and failed to comply with necessary regulations. These violations include failing to conduct and document determinations of hazardous waste and neglecting to inform state officials when new hazardous waste was created. In addition, the EPA claims that the facility was operating as a hazardous waste treatment, storage, and/or disposal facility without proper permission to do so. Because of this, Owens Corning Insulating Systems faces $115,302 in civil penalties.
In a recent quote, David Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division, said, “This settlement demonstrates EPA’s commitment to protect communities from releases of hazardous waste, especially those already burdened by historical pollution. The Agency is also committed to leveling the playing field for companies that comply with federal law.”