HAMILTON – On March 2, 2010, U.S. Steel Canada Inc. pleaded guilty to one violation under the Environmental Protection Act for discharging a contaminant, namely black particulate, into the natural environment that caused or may have caused an adverse effect. The company was fined $150,000 plus a victim fine surcharge, and was given 60 days to pay the fine.

The Court heard that the company operates a steel manufacturing facility in Hamilton that produces iron and steel products. The steel is made using production equipment which includes a blast furnace to produce molten iron, which is further processed into various steel products.

On July 11, 2008, the ministry received reports from the company and concerned citizens about a significant discharge to the air of black blast furnace material (also referred to as black particulate). As a result of the discharge, black particulate fell over the Hamilton Harbour neighbourhoods and two marinas. Adverse effects included black particulate on area businesses, vehicles, boats, homes, decks and porches, patio furniture, gardens and clothing. Some residents also reported health impacts including difficulty breathing and sought medical attention.

Similar discharges occurred on July 31, August 7 and August 19, 2008.

The incidents were the result of the blast furnace “bleeder” valve opening as a safety measure to prevent a potentially dangerous build-up of pressure in the furnace. The company investigated the incidents and implemented a number of actions to reduce the likelihood of a recurrence.

The company was charged following an investigation by the Ministry of the Environment’s Investigations and Enforcement Branch.