Bloomfield-based sausage, hot dog and coldcut maker Rachael’s Food has agreed to pay a $65,000 civil fine to claims that it violated laws related to ammonia, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The EPA alleged three violations against Rachael’s, stemming from a late 2014 inspection where it said it found violations of the Clean Air Act.
Specifically, the agency said the company failed to perform a required analysis of hazards related to its work with anhydrous ammonia, lacked information about how much ammonia was in its refrigeration system, had inadequate ventilation, lacked necessary signs and labels, and failed to prevent or repair damage to piping. The EPA also said it found inadequate ammonia detectors and alarms and a lack of eyewash and shower stations.
“The company agreed to and has followed through on correcting these issues, so the neighborhoods surrounding the facility are better protected from the risk of harm from accidental ammonia releases,” said Curt Spalding, regional administrator of EPA’s New England office. “All facilities working with ammonia and hazardous chemicals are required to properly report their use, and to follow laws meant to protect the health of the community and our environment.”
Anhydrous ammonia, which is used to remove bacteria from meat, is corrosive and exposure at high concentrations can endanger health and life, EPA said. The chemical is also flammable and can explode under certain conditions.
