BP to pay $275K to resolve Whiting refinery violations

WHITING, Ind. – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said BP Products North America Inc. has agreed to pay $275,000 in penalties and reduce pollution at its Whiting Refinery to resolve water and air pollution violations.

The EPA said the company has agreed to take steps to reduce pollution from the nation’s sixth largest petroleum refinery, one producing up to 430,000 barrels per day.

BP spokesman Mike Abendhoff said the company is pleased to resolve the claims stemming from a March 2014 spill of up to 39 barrels of oil into Lake Michigan. He says BP remains “committed to safe, reliable and compliant operations.”

The (Munster) Times reported Tuesday the Coast Guard previously assessed a $2,000 penalty against BP for the spill.

The resolution is subject to a 40-day public comment period.