Air enforcer gives Fuyao ‘notice of violation’

The Regional Air Pollution Control Agency (RAPCA) has sent Fuyao Glass America a notice of violation on what appear to be alleged violations of record-keeping and emission monitoring requirements.

In a letter dated Feb. 6, an administrator of RAPCA — which enforces state and local air pollution laws in Montgomery, Greene, Clark and other area counties — wrote that the auto glass manufacturer has not been able to provide calculations for emissions of volatile organic compounds, with supporting records.

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Volatile organic compounds, sometimes called “VOCs,” are organic compounds that contain carbon. They’re released from the burning of gas and natural gas as well as from solvents and paints.

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The RAPCA letter — sent over the signature of RAPCA Administrator Jennifer Marsee — said records that Fuyao gave the agency in late November did not have all the required information.

The company was given 30 days from receipt of the Feb. 6 letter to respond.

Among the information RAPCA seeks:

  • Twelve-month VOC emission from each emissions unit
  • Identification of coatings (other than inks) or cleaning solvents used.
  • The amount of gallons of coatings or cleaning solvents used.

Failure to comply could result in administrative or civil penalty, RAPCA warned.

In an interview, Marsee said the violations were found in an October inspection. She said Fuyao did provide some information. “Which was helpful, but it wasn’t enough.”

As condition of permitting to operate, Fuyao is required to maintain records about certain air emissions, she said. “They were not doing all that they should have been doing.”

But Marsee said Fuyao is “absolutely” cooperating with RAPCA. “It’s somewhat of an administrative matter.”

What records Fuyao has provided have not yet been enough to reach a conclusion about the company’s air emissions, she also said.

Fuyao officials did not return messages seeking comment Friday afternoon.

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