EPA Region 5 has cited Du-Kane Asphalt Co. for alleged clean air violations at the company's bituminous asphalt manufacturing plant in Addison, Ill. The agency alleged that Du-Kane failed to maintain and operate its pollution control equipment as required by EPA regulations. This caused the plant to exceed its 20-percent limit for opacity.

Opacity means the amount of light obscured by visible particles such as smoke, ash and dust, and the Du-Kane plant emissions were found to be blocking 75-85 percent of the light. An EPA inspector discovered the excessive emissions during a test on Oct. 27, 2005. The test was done in response to a citizen complaint regarding visible emissions from the facility.

“EPA's mission is to protect public health and the environment,” said Regional Administrator Thomas Skinner. “We will take whatever steps are needed to ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act.”

These are preliminary findings of violations. To resolve them, the EPA may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty or bring suit against the company. Du-Kane must respond within 30 days from receipt of the notice to meet with the agency to discuss resolving the allegations. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can affect children, the elderly and people with heart and lung diseases the most.