Unsafe handling of anhydrous ammonia has led to Clean Air Act and Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act violations at two Watsonville, California firms. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced settlements with Del Mar Food Products Corp. and S. Martinelli & Co. to resolve these violations. Anhydrous ammonia, a toxic refrigerant used in food and beverage production, can pose hazards to workers and the community.
The settlements come after inspections conducted in September 2021. Del Mar Food Products Corp., which specializes in frozen fruits and vegetables, will pay a fine of $131,420 for inadequate safety measures, including poor ventilation design in its ammonia refrigeration systems. S. Martinelli & Co., primarily an apple juice producer, will pay a fine of $127,828 and contribute to a $67,000 supplemental environmental project. The project aims to provide the Watsonville Fire Department with updated emergency response tools.
EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman emphasized the importance of adhering to federal guidelines when handling anhydrous ammonia. She stated, "Facilities using anhydrous ammonia must adhere to federal guidelines designed to prevent accidents. Those failing to comply will be held accountable."
These settlements are part of the EPA's broader efforts to enforce its Clean Air Act Risk Management Program, which aims to prevent accidental chemical releases. The EPA is committed to ensuring the safety of workers and communities by holding companies accountable for violations and implementing measures to prevent future incidents.
