ANAHEIM : Environment Group Sues Battery Factory
An environmental group has accused huge battery-maker Delco Remy of failing to sufficiently inform the public about hazardous lead emissions at its Anaheim factory.
California Earth Corps filed a lawsuit last week in Orange County Superior Court alleging that the Delco division of General Motors, which uses lead to make automotive batteries, has violated the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986. The act requires companies to notify workers and residents about toxic emissions from operations.
A lawyer representing California Earth Corps said the battery plant at 1201 N. Magnolia Ave. emits nearly 300 pounds of lead annually into the air, and has failed to adequately warn people about the dangers. Lead exposure, according to state and federal studies, can cause cancer, birth defects, learning disabilities in children and adult reproductive problems.
Attorney Michael Freund said the lawsuit seeks a reduction in the plant’s lead output and better warnings to the public, as well as civil penalties. He said Delco representatives have been receptive to making changes and are involved in discussions.
Delco spokesman Al Wichmann would not comment on the lawsuit but said his company has complied with all federal, state and local regulations.
“We’ve been a member of the Anaheim community for nearly 40 years, and we’ve been a good neighbor to all the people,” Wichmann said.
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