EPA fines three midwest firms for environmental violations. (Trends & News).

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has reached agreements with two woodworking companies and filed an administrative complaint against a third for alleged violations of environmental laws.

The EPA fined Laminated Products Inc. of Kenosha, WI, $9,625 for alleged violations of planning, training, record-keeping and reporting requirements for hazardous air pollutants. The cabinet and countertop manufacturer also agreed to an environmental project costing at least $298,000 that will modify its production process to use a water-based adhesive, cutting volatile organic carbon emissions by 17.5 tons annually.

Mastercraft Industries agreed to a $90,500 fine for allegedly failing to limit hexane and toluene content in the contact adhesive materials used at its Rice Lake, WI, factory.

On Dec. 20, the EPA cited architectural woodworker Parenti & Rafaelli Ltd. for use of non-complying coatings that exceed VOC limits at its Mount Prospect, IL, plant, and proposed a $127,600 penalty. Parenti & Rafaelli had 30 days from receipt of the complaint to file an answer and request a hearing. Ron Parenti of the company said, "We are working with the EPA to resolve that problem."