New Bedford pet food company settles alleged EPA violations

PROVIDENCE – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reached settlements with seven New England companies for alleged violations of chemical accident prevention and reporting laws, including a New Bedford, Mass. pet food company.

Finicky Pet Food Inc. was among the seven firms that have agreed to collectively pay more than $580,000 in penalties and to spend more than $750,000 to comply with environmental laws, the EPA announced late Wednesday.

The agency said Finicky Pet Food has agreed to certify to the EPA it is in compliance with federal clean air laws, pay a $89,140 penalty, and provide nearly $100,000 worth of protective clothing to the New Bedford Fire Department.

All the cases involve the use of anhydrous ammonia in refrigeration and cooling units.

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According to the EPA, Finicky failed to annually report the presence to hazardous chemicals to emergency response and planning agencies, as required by the federal Emergency Planning and Community-Right-To-Know Act.

The company also allegedly violated “General Duty Clause” requirements of the Clean Air Act that apply to ammonia refrigeration systems that have less than 10,000 pounds of ammonia by failing to properly assess the refrigeration system for hazards; maintain and label piping and equipment; appropriately store combustible materials; and have adequate ventilation and ammonia alarms.

“These settlements reflect EPA’s commitment to protect New Englanders from exposures to hazardous chemicals in the places they live, play, and work,” EPA Regional Administrator Alexandra Dunn said in a statement.

Scott Blake is PBN staff writer. Email him at Blake@PBN.com.