WCJ Inc., a metal-recycling company formerly known as E&J Metal Co. that operated a sweat furnace at its Rock Island, IL, location, has been cited with clean-air violations by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5.

EPA alleges WCJ failed to comply with federal monitoring, notification, recordkeeping, inspection, and planning requirements for its sweat furnace afterburner used to destroy hazardous dioxins and furans. The alleged violations were discovered during an EPA inspection June 15.

According to local reports, an attorney for WCJ Inc. said the furnace was idled in 2003 when WCJ decided not to comply with new clean-air standards.

EPA indicated its citation stems from preliminary findings of violations. To resolve them, it may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty, or charge the company. WCJ was given 30 days from receipt of the notice to meet with EPA to discuss resolving the allegations. The attorney indicated that is his plan.