South Coast AQMD Issues Violations to Two Paramount Facilities Following Investigation of Slightly Elevated Hexavalent Chromium Levels

Additional air monitoring and testing conducted 

DIAMOND BAR, Calif., Oct. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD) has issued Notices of Violations (NOVs) to two metal casting facilities in Paramount, California - Pro Cast Industries (15555 Minnesota Ave.) and Fenico LLC (7805 Madison St.) - for multiple air quality violations, including the failure to demonstrate compliance with hexavalent chromium emission limits.

In September, the City of Paramount's air monitoring location at 15701 Minnesota Avenue recorded three consecutive samples of hexavalent chromium at slightly elevated levels, which prompted South Coast AQMD to initiate an investigation. Inspections were conducted at numerous nearby facilities, and inspectors found violations at both Pro Cast and Fenico.

At Pro Cast, violations included using chromium-containing material that exceeded rule and permit limits and failing to properly store scrap material, including scrap metal containing chromium alloy. Both facilities failed to:

• Obtain necessary permits to operate metal processing equipment; 
• Conduct required source tests to verify compliance with hexavalent chromium emission limits; and
• Properly clean areas within 20 feet of chromium alloy melting operations.

NOVs can result in civil penalties. Facilities may also take voluntary steps to reduce emissions and prevent future violations. If a settlement is not reached, South Coast AQMD may pursue civil actions in court. This is an active, ongoing investigation.

Additional Air Monitoring and On-Site Evaluations

South Coast AQMD conducted a mobile monitoring survey of air toxic metals. Mobile surveys capture a snapshot in time (less than 5 minutes) and are used to identify potential hot spots. Mobile monitoring was conducted around the facilities and nearby neighborhoods on September 30 and surveyed for metals (e.g., chromium, nickel, titanium, vanadium) and other air toxic metals (e.g., arsenic and lead). These metals are typically linked to metal processing operations. Mobile monitoring survey results did not identify elevated levels.

Technical on-site evaluations were also conducted at the facilities to identify any potential sources of hexavalent chromium within the facilities. South Coast AQMD's investigation is ongoing. Updates will be posted on the South Coast AQMD website as new information becomes available.

Hexavalent chromium is a toxic air contaminant and a known human carcinogen. Long-term exposure over many years can increase the risk of lung cancer.

Background

South Coast AQMD began air monitoring in Paramount in 2013 in response to community concerns. Elevated levels of toxic metals, including nickel and hexavalent chromium, led to an extensive investigation and special monitoring efforts beginning in 2016. Through advanced monitoring, inspections and enforcement, South Coast AQMD identified major sources of hexavalent chromium and required significant operational changes at several facilities, which led to substantial reductions in hexavalent chromium levels.

In 2019, the City of Paramount assumed responsibility for routine air monitoring and has since continued to track hexavalent chromium levels, notifying South Coast AQMD whenever concentrations reach levels of concern. The city's data dashboard can be found at: https://paramountenvironment.org/air/.

More information on South Coast AQMD's monitoring activities can be found at: www.aqmd.gov/paramount.

South Coast AQMD is the regulatory agency responsible for improving air quality for large areas of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, including the Coachella Valley. For news, air quality alerts, event updates and more, please visit us at www.aqmd.gov, download our award-winning app, or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram.

SOURCE SOUTH COAST AQMD