Murphy Oil USA Inc. in Oberlin and Uzair Inc., doing business as Lakeside Fuel in Perry, failed to properly operate and maintain Stage II vapor control systems on several of their stations' pumps. They also allowed gasoline to be dispensed from those pumps even though the vapor control systems failed to pass equipment [image-nocss] testing requirements. In addition, Lakeside Fuel failed to maintain records verifying that the station's operator or local manager completed vapor control training required by the Ohio EPA.
To ensure that the stations' vapor control systems operate as designed and in compliance with regulations, both companies have agreed to increase the frequency of inspections and testing during the next two years. Lakeside Fuel also will submit documentation demonstrating that the operator or local manager completed the required training.
Uncontrolled gasoline vapors released to the atmosphere contribute to ozone pollution and may prevent the area from meeting the national ambient air quality standard for ozone.
Ohio's emission control regulations require Northeast Ohio gas station owners to install and maintain vapor control systems to capture displaced vapors at the vehicle fill neck during fueling and route them back to the underground storage tank. The Ohio EPA and local air agencies inspect gas stations and monitor testing to ensure that vapor control systems are properly operated and maintained.
Murphy Oil USA's penalty of $10,000 and Lakeside Fuel's penalty of $7,000 will support state and local air pollution control programs, the Ohio Environmental Education Fund and the Ohio EPA's clean diesel school bus program fund.
Click hereto view the settlement with Murphy Oil USA.
Click hereto view the settlement with Lakeside Fuel.
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