This is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve them, EPA may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the company. Beta Steel has 30 days to request a meeting to discuss the allegations and how to resolve them. When this goal is achieved, we will no longer have to ensure compliance by taking these enforcement actions. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can affect children, the elderly, and people with heart and lung diseases the most.
Sulfur dioxide causes acid rain.
Exposure to sulfur dioxide can impair breathing, aggravate existing respiratory diseases like bronchitis, and reduce the ability of the lungs to clear foreign particles. Nitrogen oxide and VOC's combine in the atmosphere with other chemicals to form ground-level ozone, which can cause breathing problems, reduced lung function, eye irritation, stuffy nose, and reduced resistance to colds and other infections. Ozone can aggravate asthma and may speed up aging of lung tissue.