The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and S & W Atlas Iron & Metal Co. Inc. have reached a settlement over claims that the company violated the Clean Water Act. The agency alleges that S &W Atlas Iron & Metal exceeded the limits for levels of iron, zinc, and copper in its discharge at its facility in Los Angeles, California. The company is also accused of discharging stormwater through unauthorized breaches in a perimeter wall onto Jordan High School property. To fulfill their end of the agreement, S & W Atlas Iron & Metal must take steps to upgrade their treatment system to prevent stormwater pollutants from discharging into nearby grounds and creeks. These steps include implementing a Stormwater Containment Plan, operating and maintaining the stormwater treatment system and stormwater/oil separator, and training workers on its Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).
In a recent quote, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman said, “Tackling the harmful pollution carried in stormwater is a vital part of the Clean Water Act. This order requires Atlas to improve their stormwater treatment and eliminate any water pollutant discharge from leaving the site and reaching Jordan High School. EPA is committed to protecting human health and the environment by reducing exposure to lead and heavy metals, especially for children and communities with environmental justice concerns.”