U.S. Steel Fined for Toxic Emissions at Clairton Facility

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster):  The Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) served a fine of $707,568 on Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel for toxic emissions from its Clairton coke-making plant. The imposed fine is for repeated violations during the second half of 2018. The fines will be in addition to any additional measures that will be required by ACHD of U.S. Steel.

The company was faced with two hefty fines in 2018 as well. The fines have now totaled more than $2 million.

According to Jim Kelly, deputy director of environmental health for the county health department, the penalties are in connection with operation of Clairton’s batteries. The ovens associated with batteries were found vulnerable to leaks. The leaked gas contained particulate matter as well as toxins including benzene and toluene, he noted.

Meantime, the Health Department also cited notable improvement in the situation when compared with H1 2018. The most recent data suggests significant drop in number of violations. The violations totaled 75 in Q4 last year. This compares with 169 violations during the second quarter. The improving rate of violations is mainly attributed to better maintenance of batteries, Kelly said.

U.S. Steel has time until April 15 to have its Clairton Coke Works pollution controls repaired and get its new equipment into full operation. The company spokesperson stated that it is currently working actively with state and local officials on improving the environmental performance of the facility.