National Plastics Corporation may now begin operations.

The company had to meet a host of conditions set by the Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners before opening its plant at 1130 Lehigh Ave., the former location of a vinyl floor manufacturing facility.

Lee Rackus, Whitehall planning, development and zoning bureau chief, confirmed May 24 National Plastics was granted a provisional certificate of occupancy.

One of the factors holding up the plant's opening was a mandated sprinkler system, which had to be installed and inspected before any work could begin at the plant.

Munish Suri, who heads the company, said the firm moved from Palmer Township to Whitehall after outgrowing its former site. The plastics recycling company occupies a relatively small area of the 500,000-square-foot warehouse, which is divided into space for 15 light industrial uses. A solid wall separates National Plastics from other uses in the building.

At hearings held by the commissioners earlier, the company said it uses no hazardous materials or chemicals. Residents disputed Suri's claims that no odor will be detectable.

A total of 125 employees will work two shifts from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. and up to five trucks will travel to and from the facility.