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The states were given authority to regulate these materials and processes in the late 80s. This was a vast improvement mainly because they can use cost/benefit analysis whereas the EPA can't. The EPA sets the standards and each individual state decides how to achieve those standards.

McNabb was out of compliance with the state, not the EPA. The state then contracted out the enforcement to EPA. It would be safe to say that the state employees found McNabb to be abrasive and confrontational and advised the feds of this.

It is difficult to draw conclusion as to what McNabb may or may not done because of two things. First, the regulaters are not granting interviews and second, the media never gets the technical details correct.

There is one thing that is clear however. McNaab stated that his employees were required to clean the equipment with the Zep coumpound which is 90% hexane. The man should have his ass whipped and thrown in jail for that. This fact also gives one the insight into what else he may or may not have done.

The man should have his ass whipped and thrown in jail for that.

Why? This stuff is hardly hazardous at all. It contains Hexane, Isopropyl Alcohol (common rubbing alcohol), and Methanol (common wood alcohol). None of the ingredients are carcinogenic, unlike the gasoline you put in your car every week. The only adverse effects are possible eye and skin irritation, and dizziness, etc. from prolonged exposure. MSDS for this product.

Furthermore, nobody is alleging that McNabb was using this solvent improperly, only that he dumped some in the lot out back.

ZEP I.D. RED (liquid)

Fast-Evaporating Industrial Solvent Degreaser PROD. #0570
BENEFITS: Zep I.D. Red is a fast-evaporating industrial degreaser designed for use where fast evaporation and no residue are desirable. This versatile, fast-evaporating liquid degreaser combines speed in cleaning with high solvent power, but without chlorinated solvents or ozone depleting compounds (ODCs), such as 1,1,1, trichloroethane. Zep I.D.Red leaves no residue and is non-corrosive to metals. It may be used in a variety of applications by spraying and/or wiping. Removes oil deposits, grease, dirt, tar and lubricating compounds from circuit boards, electrical contacts, electric motors, machinery parts, electronic equipment, molds, textiles, etc. It's non-emulsifying formula does not interfere with oil/water separators. It is a thin, colorless liquid with a mild, solvent odor.

McNaab stated that his employees were required to clean the equipment with the Zep coumpound which is 90% hexane. The man should have his ass whipped and thrown in jail for that.

The stuff just doesn't sound that bad to me. Why do you dislike it so?

I suspect it is on that secret list that the EPA has; the NCTWDL list. (Nasty Chemicals That We Don't Like)

http://www.eco-usa.net/toxics/hexane.shtml