Fluor-BWXT Piketon Compliance History
Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant (Piketon, Ohio) | Since 2015
A summary of significant non-compliance issues documented in official reports and enforcement actions from the EPA, DOE, and other agencies.
Wastewater Discharge
Clean Water Act / NPDES Permit Violations
- Chronic pH Issues: Over 100 violations since Jan 2015 from failure to neutralize alkaline wastewater.
- Mercury: Exceedances of monthly mercury limits at Outfall 003 noted in 2021.
- Oil/Grease Spill: A minor spill (<1 gal) was reported and remediated in 2021.
- Overall Rate: Despite issues, a 99% NPDES compliance rate was reported for 2021.
Nuclear & Radiological Safety
Department of Energy (DOE) Violations
Jan 2021 PNOV - $2.6M Fee Reduction
Systemic failure in Software Quality Assurance led to:
- Missed bioassays for 193 workers.
- 8 years of underreported radiological data in environmental reports.
Feb 2015 PNOV - $243,750 Civil Penalty
Violations included:
- Improper alteration of Radiation Protection documents.
- Deficiencies in training, records, and work processes.
Hazardous Materials & Safety
Asbestos & Worker Hazard Violations
2015 Asbestos Consent Order
Multiple violations (2013-2014) including:
- Failure to maintain asbestos inventory.
- Improper labeling of asbestos materials and waste.
- Inadequate worker training on hazards.
NIOSH Hazard Findings
An evaluation highlighted:
- Hydrogen fluoride gas at 30x the safety limit in one building.
- Worker concerns about retaliation for reporting safety issues.
Related Environmental Lawsuits
Allegations from Pike County Residents
Since 2019, FBP and other contractors have been named in multiple class-action lawsuits.
Core Allegations:
- Negligent release of radioactive materials (enriched uranium, neptunium-237) from the plant.
- Contamination of nearby properties.
- Causation of serious health issues, including cancer.
- Attempts to conceal the extent of contamination.
Status: Ongoing