Judge Signs Order to Temporarily Close BD Covington, Cap Ethylene Oxide Emissions

Atlanta, GA - This morning in Newton County Superior Court, Judge Eugene Benton signed a Consent Order between Plaintiff Richard Dunn, Director of Georgia’s Environmental Protection Division (EPD), and Defendant Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD). Among several provisions, the Order temporarily closes BD’s Covington facility for air testing, imposes fugitive emissions caps, requires mandatory reports, and imposes deadlines for installation of enhanced pollution controls at BD’s medical sterilization facilities in Covington and Madison.

“As Governor, I have pledged to Georgia families to always put them first and ensure their safety. This agreement allows for cleaner operations and improved, long-term accountability at BD's medical sterilization facilities in Covington and Madison,” said Governor Brian P. Kemp. “I applaud Attorney General Chris Carr and his team for working with us to secure this win for Newton County and the surrounding communities.”

On October 21, 2019, EPD Director Rick Dunn filed a Verified Complaint and Motion for Temporary Restraining Order in Newton County Superior Court, seeking preliminary and injunctive relief against BD's medical sterilization facility in Covington, Georgia.

A signed version of the agreement is available below. The Court has retained jurisdiction of the case for enforcement should BD violate any of the provisions of the Consent Order.