United States Office of Air Quality EPA-450/2-90-008 Environmental Protection Planning and Standards May 1990 Agency Research Triangle Park NC 27711 Air i Status of Selected Air Pollution Control Programs — May 1990 ------- STATUS OF SELECTED AIR POLLUTION CONTROL PROGRAMS MAY 1990 U.S. Environmental Protection Segion 5, Library (5PL-16) £30 S. Dearborn Street, Room 1670 ffiiicago, IL 60604 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards Research Triangle Park, NC 27711 ------- TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Introduction v OZONE/CO PROGRAMS National Ozone/Carbon Monoxide Program 1 Antitampering/Fuel Switching 3 Motor Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) 4 Fuel Volatility 6 Refueling Emission Control 7 Cold Temperature Motor Vehicle CO Emissions 8 Onboard Diagnostics for Motor Vehicles 9 Improved Vehile Evaporative Emission Control 10 Transportation Control Measures 11 Oxygenated Fuels 12 VOC Emission Factors 13 Ambient Nonmethane Organic Compounds (NMOC) Monitoring 15 Regional Ozone Modeling for Northeast Transport (ROMNET) 16 Urban-Scale Photochemical Modeling 17 Federal Measures for VOC 18 AIR TOXICS PROGRAMS National Air Toxics Information Clearinghouse (NATICH) 19 Air Risk Information Support Center (Air RISC) 21 Multiyear Development Plans 23 High Risk Urban Air Toxics 24 High Risk Point Sources 26 Status of Air Toxics Emission Factors and Estimation Tools 27 Air Toxics Modeling Guidance 30 Toxic Air Monitoring System - Methods Development and Sample Analysis. 31 Special Urban Toxics Monitoring Program. '. 32 Inhalation Risk Reference Dose 33 Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act Toxic Release Inventory (Title III, Section 313) 34 Air/Superfund Coordination Program 36 Pathogen Emissions from Medical Waste Incinerators 38 Schedule for Air Toxics Regulations Currently Being Considered Under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act or Other Authorities .... 39 Mobile Source Air Toxics Activities 41 PM-10/LEAD/VISIBILITY IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMS Status of Statewide PM-10 SIP Revisions 42 Status of PM-10 Group I SIP Development 43 Status of PM-10 Group II Committal SIP Development 44 Control of Fugitive Dust 45 Fugitive Emissions from Paved Roadways 47 Winter Road Antiskid Materials 48 Wood Smoke Reduction 49 ------- Wood Heaters NSPS Status Report 50 Prescribed Burning/Smoke Management 51 PM-10 Emission Factors 52 Stack Test Method for PM-10 53 Stagnation Model Analysis Program 54 Diesel Fuel Quality 55 Lead Attainment Program 56 Visibility Protection 57 NSR/PSD PROGRAM Chemical Manufacturers Association (CMA) Rulemaking 59 NOx PSD Increments 60 PM-10 PSD Increments 61 Rulemaking Proposal for Strip Mines and Related Fugitive Dust Issues . 62 New Source Review (NSR) Bulletin Board 63 ACID RAIN/STACK HEIGHTS/SOo PROGRAMS Acid Rain Implementation Overview 64 Acid Rain Implementation - Emissions Monitoring and Tracking Systems . 65 Acid Rain Implementation - Allowance Trading 66 Acid Rain Implementation - Permits and Integration with Existing Programs 67 State Acid Rain Program (STAR Project) 69 US - Canada Bilateral Air Quality Accord Discussions 70 Status of the Clean Coal Technology Program 71 Stack Height Litigation 73 Sulfur Dioxide Guideline 74 COMPLIANCE/ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM Rule Effectiveness Summary 75 FY 1990 Compliance Monitoring Strategy 77 Asbestos NESHAP Strategy 78 Development of Compliance Program Operating Guidance 80 Air Stationary Source Compliance Inspector Training Program 81 Tampering Enforcement 83 Assembly Line Testing/Recall Program 84 Fuel Volatility Enforcement 85 INFORMATION TRANSFER ACTIVITIES OAQPS Information Transfer Activities 86 BACT/LAER Clearinghouse 87 Control Technology Center (CTC) 89 Emission Measurement Technical Information Center 92 Aerometric Information Retrieval System (AIRS) 93 Support Center for Regulatory Air Models Bulletin Board System .... 94 Guideline on Air Quality Models 95 Development of Criteria Pollutant Emission Inventory Guidance 96 OTHER PROGRAMS Status of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) 98 Global Climate Change and Ozone Depletion 101 ii ------- Indoor Air Program 103 Radon Action Program 106 Radionuclide NESHAP 107 FY 1991-92 NSPS Activity 109 Implementing SIP Processing Recommendations 110 National Air Audit System 112 Air Grants - Program to Identify State/Local Program Activities and Costs 113 Clean Air Act Amendments on Operating Permits 115 ------- INTRODUCTION This collection of status reports has been prepared in order to provide a timely summary of selected EPA air pollution control activities to those individuals who are involved with the implementation of these programs. Persons with general questions or those who wish to receive additional copies of this report may contact Bill Hamilton, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Air Quality Management Division, Mail Drop 15, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711. Telephone number 919-541-5498 or FTS 629-5498. Persons with specific questions on particular program activities are requested to call the contact person shown on the individual status report. ------- NATIONAL OZONE/CARBON MONOXIDE PROGRAM The 1977 Clean Air Act Amendments allowed areas, under certain conditions, to have until the end of 1987 to attain the ozone and carbon monoxide (CO) standards. However, according to data through 1989, 102 areas failed to attain the ozone standard and 56 areas failed to attain the CO standard. Because of the health implications of these nonattainment areas (100 million people exposed to unhealthy air), EPA took the position that it could not wait for Congress to act and published a proposed post-1987 ozone/CO nonattainment policy on November 24, 1987. Key points in the proposed policy include: 1. States have to fully implement all previously required control measures ("leveling the playing field"). 2. Flexible attainment deadlines based on the severity of the problem, but imposition of "growth ban" sanctions until within 5 years of attainment. 3. Areas that cannot achieve near-term (3-5 years) attainment must achieve minimum annual emissions reductions of 3 percent beyond that achieved by federally- implemented measures. 4. Consideration of controls in expanded geographic areas for ozone planning-consolidated metropolitan statistical area (CMSA) or metropolitan statistical area (MSA). A major focus of the proposed amendments to the Clean Air Act is the issue of nonattainment of air quality standards. As a result, EPA plans to promulgate a final ozone/CO nonattainment policy are currently on hold pending passage of these amendments. On June 6, 1988 EPA listed the areas not attaining the ozone and/or CO standards by December 31, 1987 (66 ozone and 50 CO) and proposed nonattainment designations for those areas. The resulting State implementation plan (SIP) calls (see following discussion) were done for expanded nonattainment areas (CMSA/MSA). As a result of these calls, construction bans have been imposed in a number of areas. Prior to these activities, because certain States had not made sufficient progress developing the required ozone and CO plans, EPA proposed disapproval for 14 ozone and CO SIP's on July 14, 1987. The EPA has taken final disapproval action where the Agency has been 1itigated--i.e., South Coast, Ventura Co., Sacramento, Kern Co., and Fresno, CA; and Chicago, IL. Final action on the remaining areas is on hold pending amendments to the Clean Air Act. The EPA made calls for SIP revisions to 42 States and the District of Columbia in May-June, 1988. These SIP calls required States to prepare emissions inventories; correct loopholes, deviations, and deficiencies; and monitor non- methane organic compounds. This work would be required under any possible future scenario. New planning and control requirements have been deferred until after the proposed post-1987 policy is made final and/or new Clean Air Act Amendments are passed. ------- NATIONAL OZONE/CARBON MONOXIDE PROGRAM In addition to the areas where the 1988 SIP calls were made, the 1988 air quality data added 37 ozone areas and 4 CO areas to the nonattainment list; SIP calls were made for 33 ozone areas and 4 CO areas in November 1989. Several public interest groups have litigated to compel EPA to disapprove State plans and promulgate Federal implementation plans (FIP's). Based on these suits, EPA is currently negotiating to prepare or is preparing FIP's for the following areas — South Coast, CA (ozone and CO); Ventura Co., CA (ozone); Sacramento, CA (ozone); Kern Co., CA, (ozone); Fresno, CA, (ozone); Chicago, IL (ozone); and Maricopa and Pima Counties, AZ (CO). Further litigation is occurring in Philadelphia, PA, and could result in more requirements for EPA to promulgate FIP's, with continued severe resource demands on, and legal problems for, the Agency. The EPA has undertaken a number of activities to facilitate implementation of new Clean Air Act requirements in the ozone/CO area. One such activity is the formation of the volatile organic compound (VOC) Policy Work Group which serves as a forum for resolving VOC technical issues among EPA's Regional Offices and various Headquarters elements. In addtion, EPA sponsored a workshop in October 1989 to address potential ozone and CO nonattainment issues resulting from revised Clean Air Act requirements. EPA Contact Person Tom Helms (919) 541-5527 (FTS) 629-5527 ------- ANTITAMPERING/FUEL SWITCHING Background The 1989 EPA tampering survey showed that tampering and fuel switching rates remain high. Tampering and fuel switching continue to adversely impact the quality of the Nation's air. 1989 SURVEY RESULTS (percent) NON-I/M ATP* Only I/M + ATP Overall Tampering 25 10 15 Fuel Switching 92 3 * ATP = antitamper ing program There are 47 existing antitamper ing/fuel switching programs (ATP's) in 25 States. These programs cover approximately 25 percent of the nationwide light-duty motor vehicle fleet. Current Status The 1989 EPA tampering survey was completed in August 1989. The report is currently being drafted. The 1990 survey began March 19 at Santa Barbara, California. The other survey sites for 1990 included Houston, Beaumont (TX); Tampa, Miami (FL); Raleigh, Greensboro (NC); Knoxville, Huntington (WV); Lexington (KY); Gary (IN); Minneapolis, Louisville, Covington (KY); and Boston (MA). The EPA's proposed post-1987 nonattainment policy includes provisions for enhanced inspection/maintenance (I/M), which would require many I/M areas to expand or implement ATP requirements. Enhanced I/M is also a key part of the proposed Clean Air Act bills being considered in Congress. The final lead phasedown rule allowing only 0.10 gram per gallon of lead in leaded gasoline was implemented on January 1, 1988. Since then, the market share of leaded gasoline has continued to decline. Leaded gasoline currently has only about 9 percent of gasoline sales. Because of the lower demand for leaded gasoline and the emergence of mid-grade unleaded gasolines, many retail marketing outlets have stopped handling leaded gasoline altogether. The final lead phasedown standard has also resulted in a virtual elimination of the retail price differential between leaded and unleaded gasoline, and at many stations, leaded gasoline now actually costs a penny or two more per gallon than unleaded regular. Such trends will undoubtedly lead to reduced fuel switching in the future. However, this turnaround will not correct the excess emissions problems attributed to the many vehicles which already have lead-poisoned catalysts. EPA Contact Person Al Mannato (202) 382-2667 (FTS) 382-2667 ------- MOTOR VEHICLE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE (I/M) Background The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1977 required the implementation of an I/M program in any area for which the State had demonstrated in its 1979 SIP revision that attainment of the ozone and/or carbon monoxide standards was not possible by the end of 1982. Additional areas adopted I/M after failing to attain the ambient standards by the end of 1982. Currently there are I/M programs being operated in 63 urban areas in 33 States. By 1991, 2 additional states and 6 additional urban areas are expected to be operating. Currently Operating or Scheduled I/M Programs Centralized Contractor Operated Arizona Connecticut 111inois Indiana Florida 4/91 Kentucky: Louisville Mary!and Minnesota 1/91 Ohio: Cuyahoga County 4/91 Tennessee: Nashville Washington: Seattle Spokane Wisconsin Centralized State/Local Operated Delaware District of Columbia New Jersey Oregon Tennessee: Memphis Decentralized Computerized Analyzers Decentralized Manual Analyzers Idaho Rhode Island Anti-tampering Only Inspection Kentucky: Cincinnati suburbs Louisiana Ohio Oklahoma Texas: Houston Alaska: Anchorage Fairbanks California Colorado Georgia Massachusetts Michigan Missouri* Nevada New Hampshire New Mexico New York North Carolina 4/91* Pennsylvania Texas: Dallas 1/90 El Paso Utah: Salt Lake* Provo 1/91* Davis County 1/91* Virginia * Currently operating with manual analyzers but committed to switching by the date specified. ------- MOTOR VEHICLE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE (I/Ml Current Status In 1987 and 1988, several States were asked to submit corrective plans to EPA because audits indicated major operating problems. The Missouri program has submitted a plan to switch to computerized analyzers. Davis Co., Utah has also committed to switching to computerized analyzers by January 1991. It is expected that Provo and Salt Lake will switch at the same time. North Carolina is switching to computerized analyzers by April 1991. The States of Florida and Minnesota have passed legislation to implement centralized, contractor-run I/M programs. Florida has selected the contractors. The EPA FY 1990 activities include continuing program audits and support to the States for enhancing I/M programs and reauthorization where legal authority expires in the near future. EPA Contact Person Eugene Tierney (313) 668-4456 (FTS) 374-8456 ------- FUEL VOLATILITY Background The Agency is concerned over the volatility of motor gasoline. Higher volatility fuel leads to more in-use emissions of evaporative hydrocarbons. This has a significant impact on ozone formation. The Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) of EPA's certification test fuel has not changed since it was first specified at 9.0 pounds per square inch (psi) in the early 1970's. At that time this was representative of commercial fuel. Since that time, however, the volatility of Class C commercial fuel has risen to as much as 11.3 psi on a national average. Since evaporative control systems on cars are designed and tested on 9.0 psi fuel, control systems now in use are not designed to control emissions experienced in use due to higher volatility levels. In addition, this higher volatility fuel results in more evaporative emissions all along the distribution chain for fuel, at transfer stations, and in vehicle refueling. Control of fuel volatility would also reduce these emissions. Current Status A notice of proposed rulemaking on the issue of fuel volatility was published by EPA in August 1987. The EPA promulgated Phase 1 of the proposed volatility control program on March 22, 1989, to begin during the summer of 1989. The Agency held a public workshop on April 28, 1989, to respond to questions relating to the implementation of the regulations. The EPA continues to analyze the comments received relating to the proposed Phase 2 of volatility control. We are currently working toward promulgation of a Phase 2 final rule by the summer of 1990. As proposed, we expect that Phase 2 would implement the final step of control and would take effect beginning in the summer of 1992. EPA Contact Person Tad Wysor (313) 668-4332 (FTS) 374-8332 ------- REFUELING EMISSION CONTROL Background/Current Status Control of motor vehicle refueling emissions by means of onboard controls was proposed by EPA on August 19, 1987. The comments received on the proposal were analyzed, and preparation of a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking was initiated as the second phase of the rulemaking process. A separate notice of proposed rulemaking has been published to address excessive evaporative and running-loss emissions. Review of the supplemental notice subsequently led to concerns in several areas, particularly with regard to the issue of vehicle safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has since completed a draft contractor study of the safety issue and this is now being reviewed by EPA staff. As part of his plan to amend the Clean Air Act (H.R. 3030), the President has proposed to require vehicle refueling (Stage II) emission controls at service stations in all moderate or worse ozone nonattainment areas. Subsequently, amendments proposed in the House and a separate Senate bill (S.1630) both include consideration of onboard controls as well as Stage II. Thus, at present, the Agency's efforts regarding refueling vapor control are largely on hold pending further consideration of refueling control options by Congress and the expected enactment of Clean Air Act Amendments. EPA Contact Persons Glenn Passavant (313) 668-4408 Onboard (FTS) 374-8408 Stephen Shedd (919) 541-5397 Stage II (FTS) 629-5397 ------- COLD TEMPERATURE MOTOR VEHICLE CO EMISSIONS Background A significant number of areas continue to not be in attainment of the national ambient air quality standard for carbon monoxide. About 90 percent of the CO exceedances, nationwide, occur between November and February. Over half of all CO exceedances occur at temperatures below 45 degrees Farenheit, and 90 percent occur below 68 degrees Farenheit. Motor vehicles contribute the vast majority of all CO emissions. The Agency currently tests vehicles for compliance with emissions standards only in the 68 - 86 degrees Farenheit temperature range. Setting a cold temperature CO standard appears to be a cost-effective method of controlling motor vehicle emissions at colder temperatures. Such a standard could help local areas comply with the CO ambient air quality standard. Both clean air bills being considered in Congress include provisions for cold temperature CO standards. Current Status The Agency is drafting a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) proposing cold temperature CO standards for both passenger cars and light trucks. This would set interim standards to assist local areas in their efforts to attain the air quality standard for CO while the Agency determines the level of CO control needed in the long term. We expect the NPRM to be published during the spring or early summer of 1990. EPA Contact Person John German (313) 668-4214 (FTS) 374-8214 ------- ONBOARD DIAGNOSTICS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES Background Malfunctions of the emission control components on current computer controlled automobiles are known to cause significant increases in emissions without affecting driveability. Current estimates show that malfunctioning motor vehicles may contribute over 50 percent of light-duty vehicle VOC and CO emissions. An emission control onboard diagnostic (OBD) system would detect malfunctions within the emission control system and alert the driver through a dashboard- malfunction indicator light of the need for repairs. The OBD system would also facilitate proper repairs through storage of information about the malfunction which can be retrieved by repair technicians. The State of California required a first phase of OBD in the 1988 model year and recently promulgated rules for a second phase to be implemented in the 1994 model year. The Federal rules being developed for proposal are technically similar to the two California phases combined. Current Status The Agency is drafting a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) proposing requirements that all methanol and gasoline-fueled light-duty vehicles and trucks be equipped with an OBD system capable of: (1) diagnosing malfunctions or deterioration of all emission-related systems or components, (2) alerting the vehicle operator to the need for repair, (3) storing information related to the malfunction, and (4) providing access to the stored information for maintenance and testing. The NPRM is expected to be published in the fall of 1990. EPA Contact Person John German (313) 668-4214 (FTS) 374-8214 ------- IMPROVED VEHICLE EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL Background Even after gasoline volatility is reduced, current vehicle evaporative emission control systems are not designed to fully control evaporative emissions under certain common summer conditions. The most serious concerns are vapors generated and released during vehicle operation (running losses) on hot, ozone-prone summer days as well as repeated days of parking on such days. Current Status On Jaunary 19, 1990, EPA proposed a new evaporative test procedure designed to require more effective evaporative systems under more severe ambient conditions. This test procedure as well as others suggested by some auto manufacturers will be the subject of comment and EPA analysis as the rulemaking unfolds. EPA Contact Person Alan Stout (313) 668-4227 (FTS) 374-8227 10 ------- TRANSPORTATION CONTROL MEASURES Background Future EPA transportation control measure (TCM) activities, guidance, and policies will be determined by the final clean air legislation. House Rule 3030 contains no explicit TCM planning or implementation requirements. However, the 5-year, 15 percent emission reduction requirement is likely to cause areas with the most severe carbon monoxide (C0)/ozone and congestion problems to evaluate TCMs for inclusion in SIP's. The well-publicized 1989 air quality management plan for Southern California contains a long list of TCM's which were determined necessary to achieve incremental emissions reductions. If the Southern California area represents the maximum use of TCM's, other areas with lesser problems will probably decide to do "less of the same." Section 1630 does contain explicit TCM planning and implementation requirements for serious ozone and CO areas. These would apply when SIP vehicle miles traveled (VMT) estimates are exceeded. Even more stringent TCM provisions apply to severe ozone areas—including a trip reduction ordinance requiring major employers to achieve a 25 percent increase in average employee vehicle occupancy. Final clean air legislation may also clarify the Section 176(c) conformity requirement which could reduce disagreements with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and increase EPA's role in transportation decisions. While a final Clean Air Act is needed before EPA can develop a TCM policy, the nature of TCMs and their impact on individual travel behavior will require that TCM planning, evaluation, and implementation decisions be done at the local level. Current Status Both the House and Senate bills to revise the Clean Air Act require EPA to develop TCM information documents. The information documents are currently being prepared under contract and should be available in about 6 months. In addition, Region IX just issued a TCM guidance document prepared by one of their contractors. Both bills require an updating of the 1978 EPA-DOT Transportation/Air Quality Planning Guidelines. These guidelines address the integration of SIP TCM activities with DOT's ongoing planning and programming process. EPA Contact Person Gary Hawthorn (202) 382-7749 (FTS) 382-7749 11 ------- OXYGENATED FUELS Background The wintertime use of oxygenated fuels is receiving much attention as a strategy to reduce CO levels. Depending on the type of vehicle and type of oxygenated fuel, vehicles fueled with oxygenated fuel blends emit 10-30 percent less CO. Currently, blends are available that use alcohol (either methanol or ethanol) as well as other oxygenates (methyl-tertiary-butyl-ether [MTBE] and ethyl-tertiary-butyl-ether [ETBE]). Colorado was the first State to adopt a mandatory oxygenated fuels program for the winter of 1988 (January and February) in the Front Range area with a required oxygen content in gasoline of at least 1.5 percent. For the winters (November through February) of 1988-1989 and 1989-1990, Colorado required an oxygen content of at least 2.0 percent. Current Status Currently four states have mandatory wintertime oxygenated fuels programs: Colorado (Front Range area), Arizona (Phoenix and Tucson), Nevada (Las Vegas and Reno), and New Mexico (Albuquerque). Both clean air bills being considered in Congress contain provisions which would require some CO nonattainment areas to adopt oxygenated fuels programs. EPA Contact Person Rich Wilcox (313) 668-4390 (FTS) 374-8390 12 ------- VOC EMISSION FACTORS Background/Status The EPA plans to issue Supplement C to its Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors. AP-42, in the summer of 1990 to include new or revised emission factors for the following VOC source categories: - Refuse Incineration - Sewage Sludge Incineration - Magnetic Tape Manufacturing - Plastic Coating of Plastic Parts for Business Machines - Synthetic Fibers In addition, work is under way to revise VOC emission factors for: - Wood Stoves - Fireplaces - Surface Impoundments - Medical Waste Incineration - Consumer and Commercial Solvents (Area Source) - Gasoline Marketing Operations (Area Source) - Stationary Fuel Combustion (Area Source). In a related activity, EPA has issued the Surface Impoundment Modeling System (SIMS), a personal computer (PC) based program for use in estimating organic emissions from wastewater treatment and disposal operations. The SIMS PC disk, user's manual, and technical background document can be obtained by State and local agencies from EPA's Control Technology Center by calling (919) 541-0800 or FTS 629-0800. Enhancements to SIMS have recently begun and are scheduled to be completed in September 1990. An AP-42 section on wastewater treatment will be completed at the same time. Also, EPA has recently updated the Air Emissions Species Data Manual to include new VOC species as well as particulate species information. This updated two volume report was published in January 1990. Air Emissions Species Manual, Volume I, Volatile Organic Compound Species Profiles. Second Edition. EPA-450/2-90-001a, January 1990. Air Emissions Species Manual, Volume II, Particulate Matter Species Profiles. Second Edition. EPA-450/2-90-001b, January 1990. Users who have the first edition of the Air Emissions Species Manual (EPA-450/2- 88-003 a & b, April 1988) should obtain the following addendum document which contains all of the update material: Addendum to the Air Emissions Species Manual. EPA-450/2-88-003c, October 1989. In addition to the above hard copy products, the Air Emissions Species Manual is also available in a PC diskette version. 13 ------- VOC EMISSION FACTORS EPA Contact Persons E. L. Martinez(919) 541-5575 (Emission Factors) (FTS) 629-5575 David Misenheimer (919) 541-5473 (SIMS) (FTS) 629-5473 William Kuykendal (919)541-5372 (Species) (FTS) 629-5372 14 ------- AMBIENT NQNMETHANE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS (NMOC) MONITORING Background Ambient NMOC/NOX ratios are an important factor affecting the level of VOC controls needed for attainment of the ozone air quality standard and are required as input to ozone models (e.g., EKMA) in preparation of ozone SIP's. In the past, characterization of NMOC/NOX ratios has been hindered by lack of reliable, practical procedures for measuring NMOC. This problem has been overcome by the preconcentration direct flame ionization detection (PDFID) method. During the summers of 1984-89, EPA coordinated special projects to collect NMOC data via the PDFID method. The EPA provided for the analyses of samples at a central analysis facility, while participating State and local agencies collected the samples and shipped them to EPA for analyses. Data recovery is very good; during the 1985-89 period, there was a 90-95 percent data capture. A number of samples were also analyzed by the gas chromatograph procedure. The sum-of-species concentrations from these samples compared extremely well with the NMOC concentration as determined by the PDFID method. Current Status During the summer of 1989, samples were collected from 25 sites in 21 cities. The cost per site was $21,000. Future Milestones The EPA plans to coordinate the NMOC monitoring program for the next few summers. Plans are being developed to offer several options to the basic NMOC program such as sample speciation, 3-hour aldehydes, and 3-hour toxics. Cost estimates for the various options are being developed. Verbal commitments to participate in the summer 1990 program were due to the cognizant Regional Office no later than January 1, 1990. However, since only 9 sites have made commitments so far and sampling equipment is still available, commitments can be accommodated as late as May 15. The cost of the base NMOC program for 1990 is $18,000 and each of the options selected will be approximately $4,000 depending on the number of participants. EPA Contact Person Neil Berg (919) 541-5520 (FTS) 620-5520 15 ------- REGIONAL OZONE MODELING FOR NORTHEAST TRANSPORT (ROMNET) Background It is widely believed that during certain meteorological conditions, the transport of ozone and precursor pollutants is a significant factor in the ozone nonattainment problems of the Northeastern States. A joint EPA/State study, ROMNET, was initiated in October 1987. The modeling domain is rectangular, stretching from the Virginia/North Carolina border to mid- Maine and as far west as the western border of Ohio. The study's major purposes are twofold: (1) to estimate the effects of regional control strategies on the concentration of ozone and precursors transported from city to city and (2) to develop guidance for considering transport in developing inputs to urban-scale air quality models. The ROMNET is a technical study lasting until October 1990. Results are intended for subsequent use by others, such as the Transport Advisory Group identified in EPA's November 1987 proposed ozone policy, in order to formulate appropriate strategies and policies for reducing ozone in the Northeastern United States. Current Status Regional Oxidant Model (ROM) applications have been completed for 14 emission scenarios during a severe ozone episode observed in July 1988. Scenarios include (a) VOC reductions implied by maximum control technology, (b) reductions implied by H.R. 3030 to amend the Clean Air Act, (c) several sensitivity tests in which highly uncertain biogenic emission estimates were perturbed, (d) concurrent reductions in VOC and NOX reflecting maximum control technology, and (e) differential controls applied within versus outside of the Northeast Corridor. Performance of the ROM model in replicating two observed ozone episodes during 1985 has been evaluated. A report will be released in April 1990. The ROM/UAM interface software, enabling users of the Urban Airshed Model (UAM) to use ROM generated data as inputs to UAM, has been completed. This software and its accompanying documentation are undergoing in-house testing for clarity and performance. Future Milestones The ROM applications for additional control strategies, selected in conjunction with the study participants, will continue into the third quarter of FY 1990. A draft final report describing ROMNET results and appropriate guidance is expected by October 1990. Follow-up analyses are anticipated to integrate the regional ROMNET findings with local control requirements. EPA Contact Person Norm Possiel (919) 541-5692 (FTS) 629-5692 16 ------- URBAN-SCALE PHOTOCHEMICAL MODELING Background A relatively simple as well as a more refined photochemical air quality model is currently recommended for use in developing SIP's for multisource urban scale ozone problems; those models are respectively OZIPM4/EKMA and the Urban Airshed Model (UAM). The OZIPM4 incorporates use of the Carbon Bond 4 mechanism and an improved procedure for constructing isopleth diagrams. An updated version of the UAM model has been obtained from the model developer which contains Carbon Bond 4 chemistry. The model has been installed on EPA's IBM computer. Current Status The OZIPM4/EKMA model may be accessed through the Support Center for Regulatory Air Models Bulletin Board System (see status report on this topic which is included elsewhere in this compilation). The model may be run on personal computer as well as on mainframe facilities. A user's guide and other related guidance concerning use of OZIPM4/EKMA are available. The EPA Model Clearinghouse has been expanded to include EKMA, and will resolve issues regarding deviations from guidance. Questions on EKMA should be directed to the appropriate Regional Office personnel. The "5-City Study" with the Urban Airshed Model has been completed. The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of using UAM in the absence of a detailed field study as well as to examine several questions relating to biogenic emissions and use of alternative motor vehicle fuels. A public domain, updated version of the UAM with accompanying user's manuals is expected to be available in May 1990. A work group consisting of representatives from State/local agencies, EPA Regional Offices, EPA HQ, academia, consultants, and industry has been set up to help EPA formulate guidance on the use of UAM in SIP attainment demonstrations. The first meeting of this group was held in April 1990. Future Milestones Workshops to provide hands-on experience to operate UAM are being developed for late FY 1990. Participation will be limited by available hardware. The target audience will be Northeast and mid-Atlantic States. Similar workshops are anticipated during FY 1991 for other areas of the United States. Draft guidance for utilizing UAM in SIP attainment demonstrations is expected to be available for review in early FY 1991. A final version of the guidance is expected by mid-FY 1991. EPA Contact Persons Rich Scheffe (UAM) (919) 541-5391 (FTS) 629-5391 Model Clearinghouse (919) 541-5684 (FTS) 629-5684 17 ------- FEDERAL MEASURES FOR VOC Background To support State and local agencies in developing control strategies for attaining the ozone national ambient air quality standard, EPA will be developing national rules for controlling VOC emissions from selected sources and will be developing new control techniques guidelines and alternative control techniques documents for a variety of source categories. The specific categories under consideration are listed below. FEDERAL RULES 1. Consumer/Commercial Products 2. Marine Vessel Loading 3. Architectural/Industrial Coatings CONTROL TECHNIQUES GUIDELINES/ALTERNATIVE CONTROL TECHNIQUES DOCUMENTS 1. Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI) Distillation Operations/Reactor Processes 2. Wood Furniture Manufacturing 3. Plastic Parts: Business Machine Coatings 4. Plastic Parts: Other 5. Web Offset Lithography 6. Automobile Body Refinishing 7. Clean-up Solvents 8. Petroleum/Industrial Wastewater 9. SOCMI Batch Processes 10. Adhesives 11. Pesticide Application EPA Contact Person: Jim Weigold (919) 541-5642 (FTS) 629-5642 18 ------- NATIONAL AIR TOXICS INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE (NATICH) Background The National Air Toxics Information Clearinghouse was established to assist State and local air pollution control agencies in their development and implementation of air toxics control programs. The Clearinghouse is operated by EPA's Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards. The EPA works closely with STAPPA/ALAPCO to ensure that the Clearinghouse effectively meets the needs of its intended audience. Goals and Objectives The primary purpose of the Clearinghouse is to collect, classify, and disseminate air toxics information from State and local agencies, EPA, and other Federal and international agencies. Providing a mechanism for exchange of information reduces the potential for duplication of efforts. Current Status The Clearinghouse collects information by sending data collection forms annually to all State and local agencies. Agencies are requested to submit information on agency contacts, regulatory program development, acceptable ambient levels, permitted facilities, source testing data, emissions inventories, ambient monitoring, on-going projects, and published reports on Federal research and regulatory development projects and published Federal and international air toxics information. Areas of particular interest (e.g., selection of pollutants of concern, quantifying cancer risks) are covered in more depth in special reports. Information may be submitted by completing the collection forms and submitting them to the Clearinghouse. If a large amount of data is contained in computer files, this information may be transferred electronically to the Clearinghouse data base (NATICH) files. In addition, the Clearinghouse has a mechanism for agencies to directly enter and edit data contained in NATICH for their agency. This allows continuous updating of the data base. Clearinghouse information is distributed in several ways: - A computerized, user-friendly data base (NATICH), available at a cost of approximately $15-20 per hour of use. The NATICH contains all of the information collected by the Clearinghouse, generally indexed by agency, pollutant, emission source, and research subject. Information can be viewed on screen, or users may request comprehensive "batch" reports which will print at a remote location. Federal, State or local government users may also access the Toxic Release Inventory System (TRIS) through NATICH. The TRIS is a data base of information collected as a result of Section 313 (right-to-know) of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) (see status report entitled "Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act Toxic Release Inventory (Title III, section 313)" for more information on this topic). 19 ------- NATIONAL AIR TOXICS INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE (NATICH) - Hard copy reports of data contained in NATICH, issued on a regular basis; special reports on specific air toxics issues; and bimonthly newsletters containing information on State, local, and Federal air toxics programs and activities, research, case studies; etc., which are available free of charge to Government agencies. Future Milestones The linkage of NATICH to TRIS has been quite helpful to users. Similar links are being explored for the Aerometric Information Retrieval System (AIRS) (see included status report for more information on AIRS) and a health effects data base. EPA Contact Persons Melissa McCullough (919) 541-5646 (FTS) 629-5646 Nancy Riley (919) 541-5353 (FTS) 629-5353 John Vandenberg (919) 541-5352 (FTS) 629-5352 Scott Voorhees (919) 541-5348 (FTS) 629-5348 20 ------- AIR RISK INFORMATION SUPPORT CENTER (Air RISC) Background The Air RISC was established in 1988 to assist State and local air pollution control agencies and EPA Regional Offices on technical matters pertaining to health, exposure, and risk assessment for noncriteria air pollutants. It is operated by EPA's Offices of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) and Health and Environmental Assessment (OHEA). The Air RISC is managed by a Steering Committee that provides guidance and makes decisions on funding and various operational procedures. Joan Held, from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, represents STAPPA and ALAPCO by her participation as an advisory member to the Steering Committee. Nicholas Ciceretti, from the Philadelphia Air Management Services, is the back-up contact for Ms. Held. Their purpose as advisory members is to ensure that Air RISC is meeting the needs of its client community. Goals and Objectives The goal of the Air RISC is to support State/local (S/L) agencies and Regional Offices in the implementation of air toxics control programs by providing technical guidance and information on matters pertaining to health, exposure, and risk assessment of toxic air pollutants. The objectives of the center are as follows: - To provide a mechanism to transfer to S/L agencies available health and risk assessment information through summaries of health effects information, workshops, and seminars. - To provide telephone access to EPA expertise as an initial quick response to individual problems. - To provide technical review and/or consultation on site-specific risk assessments. - To provide guidance to S/L agencies on how to conduct hazard, exposure and risk analyses, as well as how to interpret their results. - To provide a mechanism so that S/L agencies can have access to EPA expertise in answering questions pertaining to the scientific basis for conducting risk assessments. - To obtain feedback from S/L's to EPA on technical support needs of those agencies in the area of health and risk assessment. Current Status The Air RISC became fully operational in the last quarter of FY 1988. The Steering Committee includes membership from OAQPS and the OHEA, with advisory members from the EPA Regional Offices, S/L agencies, the EPA library and EPA's Health Effects Research Laboratory. It is important to note the three kinds of services which Air RISC provides: 1. Hotline - for quick referral to experts, and provisions of available EPA health assessment. The Air RISC has responded to over 1,000 requests for information from 68 different State agencies in 47 States and from 56 local agencies on a wide range of subjects. 21 ------- AIR RISK INFORMATION SUPPORT CENTER (Air RISC) 2. Technical Assistance - for more in-depth evaluation and retrieval of information than can be provided via the hotline. The Air RISC has initiated or completed projects on burning of agricultural plastics, open tire burning, asphalt fumes, integrated steel mills, and short-term effects of hydrogen chloride. 3. Technical Guidance - for questions general enough in nature to be applicable for many S/L agencies. The following Technical Guidance Projects have been initiated or completed: - Glossary of Terms Related to Health, Exposure, and Risk Assessment - Directory of Information Resources Related to Health, Exposure, and Risk Assessment of Air Toxics - Air RISC Workshops on Risk Assessment and Risk Communication - Compilation of Odor Thresholds and Toxic Effect Levels - Quantitative Risk Assessment Principles and Procedures-Descriptive Guidance - Risk Communication-Public Participation Manual and Educational Materials - Risk Assessment for Partial Lifetime Exposures - One day courses in risk assessment and exposure assessment. Future Milestones The Air RISC will undertake additional promotional activities in 1990 in order to reach a broader range of S/L agency personnel. Two documents will be completed in late 1990. A descriptive guidance document discussing various approaches to quantitative risk assessment of air toxics is in preparation. A public participation manual discussing steps that can be taken to promote public participation and understanding of air toxics regulatory decisions will be completed in 1990. The latter will also include public education materials to assist in explaining air toxics issues. A study of risk assessment of short-term exposures to hydrogen chloride will be completed in late FY 1990. One day training courses designed for presentation to S/L agency personnel will be developed on the subjects of risk assessment and exposure assessment. These will be available in early FY 1991. A procedure for evaluation of Hotline responses was initiated in 1990 and data are being collected on an on-going basis. EPA Contact Persons Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards Holly Reid (919) 541-5344 AIR RISC HOTLINE (919) 541-0888 (FTS) 629-5344 (FTS) 629-0888 Office of Health and Environmental Assessment Dan Guth (919) 541-4828 (FTS) 629-4828 22 ------- MULTIYEAR DEVELOPMENT PLANS Background/Current Status For FY 1990, EPA continues to provide enabling assistance to State and local air pollution control agencies in developing multiyear development plans (MYDP's) for air toxics. At the beginning of FY 1990, the universe of agencies actively working on MYDP's was 75 and there is a target of 58 adequate plans for the year. The FY 1990 MYDP guidance continues the concepts of flexibility and incorporation of air toxics concerns in particulate matter and ozone programs. Also continued are the concepts of reporting progress made in air toxics programs, of moving from the planning phase to an implementation phase of the MYDP program, and of encouraging interoffice coordination with personnel in other-but-related programs such as the one dealing with the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986. Progress measurement will continue to be important so enabling efforts by EPA can be focused where needs are greatest. The FY 1990 MYDP guidance proposes a new procedure which would streamline the MYDP update process and increase the emphasis on implementation of the immediate year's milestones. The procedure would allow a 3 to 5 year plan to be developed and only the current year's milestones would be modified each year as necessary. This process could occur during the grant negotiation period thus minimizing the effort to annually update MYDP's. As a result of the new procedures, 10 MYDP's were considered adequate at the end of the first quarter of FY 1990. The FY 1991 MYDP guidance under development would direct attention toward preparation for implementing a revised Clean Air Act. The Act amendments are expected to require (1) Federal rules for major sources that emit one or more specified hazardous air pollutants, and (2) a renewable operating permit program which would implement any Federal, as well as, State or local agency standards. The MYDP guidance would advise agencies to begin to identify the changes in their programs that would be needed to implement the revised Act. EPA Contact Person Mike Trutna (919) 541-5345 (FTS) 629-5345 23 ------- HIGH RISK URBAN AIR TOXICS Background/Status The EPA's high risk urban air toxics program was initiated because multiple source, multiple pollutant exposures common to many urban areas have been assessed as being responsible for significant population risks in urban areas beyond those risks and programs which address point sources. The high risk urban air toxics program is a multiyear program to (1) continue to assess the nature and magnitude of the problem, (2) assist State and local agencies to assess their particular urban problems, and (3) identify and promote control measures to mitigate these urban risks. The EPA has assisted State and local agencies in initiating urban air toxics assessment activities such as monitoring, emissions evaluations, exposure modeling, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies. Some areas have developed regulations based on certain aspects of the urban problem (e.g., South Coast California Air Quality Management District). Because the urban air toxics problem may not be fully addressed by Clean Air Act Amendments that focus on major stationary sources, we plan to continue many of the activities in this area. Future activities will focus on continuing to collect and analyze data already collected by State/locals along with the results of EPA's research activities, to build a common understanding of the nature and magnitude of the problem and viable approaches to solving it. An important area of research involves atmospheric transformation and complex mixtures resulting from combustion. Growing emphasis will be placed on mitigation--to identify and promote implementation of measures that will best reduce population risks. Future Milestones -Continue to encourage and enable State and local agencies to undertake assessment and mitigation projects. -Continue to develop and distribute enabling tools (procedures, emission factors, speciation factors, etc.). -Continue to refine EPA assessments of the nature and magnitude of the urban air toxics problem through studies and through support and evaluation of research efforts. -Continue management of EPA's Urban Air Toxics Monitoring Program, depending on State and local support. -Publicize analyses of data resulting from previous years' Urban Air Toxics measurements to communicate observed patterns and levels of associated risks. -Intensify efforts to define, evaluate and promote control measures for urban air toxics. 24 ------- HIGH RISK URBAN AIR TOXICS EPA CONTACT PERSONS Assessment and Mitigation James H. Southerland (919) 541-5523 (FTS) 629-5523 Toxics Monitoring William F. Hunt (919) 541-5559 (FTS) 629-5559 25 ------- HIGH RISK POINT SOURCES Background/Current Status The air toxics high risk point source (HRPS) program is included as an important part of the national air toxics strategy since HRPS are believed to result in many fence!ine situations where at least 10 individual lifetime cancer risk is involved. Approximately one million dollars of Clean Air Act section 105 funds are currently in the base grants for State and local agency progress in identifying and evaluating potential HRPS. In addition, approximately $400K of section 105 funds have been set aside at the national level to enable funding of certain HRPS initiative projects. Typically, $20K is given to a State or local agency which agrees to address a potential HRPS identified by EPA (i.e., promoted initiative) or by the State or local agency itself (i.e., State initiative). For FY 1990, State and local agencies have submitted over 50 proposals for projects to be funded. A total of 16 were selected for funding following coordination with STAPPA/ALAPCO. Each project was funded at a level of $20,000. Also, participating agencies were asked to provide information on the status of current projects. To date, 34 States and 4 local agencies have participated in a total of 66 projects. Of those, a quarter have been completed and more than half resulted in additional controls. EPA Contact Person Mike Trutna (919) 541-5345 (FTS) 629-5345 26 ------- STATUS OF AIR TOXICS EMISSION FACTORS AND ESTIMATION TOOLS Background The Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards compiles and publishes emissions factors and other air toxics emission estimation tools. Current Status/Future Milestones "Locating and Estimating" Series To date, 22 reports have been published as part of this program. Nineteen of the reports are pollutant specific and each of the pollutant-specific reports is titled Locating and Estimating Air Emissions From Sources of (Substance). In addition, three recent source-specific reports are part of a new series of reports entitled Estimating Air Toxics Emissions From (Source Category). Reports in both series include general descriptions of the emitting processes and identify potential release points. The two series include the following reports: NTIS ORDER SUBSTANCE OR SOURCE CATEGORY EPA PUBLICATION NUMBER DATE Acrylonitrile Carbon Tetrachloride Chloroform Ethylene Dichloride Formaldehyde Nickel Chromium Manganese Phosgene Epichlorohydrin Vinylidene Chloride Ethylene Oxide Chlorobenzenes Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB's) Polycyclic Organic Matter (POM) Benzene Organic Liquid Storage Tanks Coal and Oil Combustion Sources Municipal Waste Combustors Perch!oroethylene and Trichloroethylene Chromium (Supplement) 1,3 Butadiene EPA-450/4-84-007a EPA-450/4-84-007b EPA-450/4-84-007C EPA-450/4-84-007d EPA-450/4-84-007e EPA-450/4-84-007f EPA-450/4-84-007g EPA-450/4-84-007h EPA-450/4-84-007i EPA-450/4-84-007J EPA-450/4-84-007k EPA-450/4-84-0071 EPA-450/4-84-007m EPA-450/4-84-007n EPA-450-4-84-007p EPA-450/4-84-007q EPA-450/4-88-004 EPA-450/2-89-001 EPA-450/2-89-006 PB-84-200609 PB-84-200625 PB-84-200617 PB-84-239193 PB-84-200633 PB-84-210988 PB-85-106474 PB-86-117587 PB-86-117595 PB-86-117603 PB-86-117611 PB-87-113973 PB-87-189841 PB-87-209540 PB-88-149059 PB-88-196175 PB-89-1290 PB-89-194229 PB-89-195226 EPA-450/2-89-013 EPA-450/2-89-002 EPA-450/2-89-021 PB-8923501 PB-90-103243 PB-90-160003 1984 1984 1984 1984 1984 1984 1985 1986 1986 1986 1986 1987 1987 1987 1988 1988 1988 1989 1989 1989 1989 1990 Reports to be released shortly include Styrene and Sewage Sludge Incinera- tion. Work is also under way on a report dealing with Formaldehyde (update). 27 ------- STATUS OF AIR TOXICS EMISSION FACTORS AND ESTIMATION TOOLS Compiling Air Toxics Emission Inventories General guidance on compiling air toxics inventories is available in the report Compiling Air Toxics Emission Inventories, EPA-450/4-86-010, revised February 1990. This report outlines general procedures, experiences, sources of information, etc., and provides a good overview to someone initiating an inventory effort. Compilation of Air Toxics Emission Factors A general air toxics emission factor compilation that includes those in the Locating and Estimating series and many others (but little technical narrative) is available in the report Toxic Air Pollutant Emission Factors for Selected Air Toxic Compounds and Sources. EPA-450/2-88-006a, (NTIS Number PB-89-135644). This report lists available air toxics emission factors and references from which the factors were obtained. This document continues to be updated and expanded. A personal computer data base system contains the emission factors and crosswalk data (described below). Toxic Air Pollutant/Source Crosswalk An aid in assessing the types of toxic compounds that may be emitted from source categories is the report, Toxic Air Pollutant/Source Crosswalk - A Screening Tool for Locating Possible Sources Emitting Toxic Air Pollutants, Second Edition EPA-450/4-89-017, (NTIS Number PB-90-170002). The crosswalk contains pollutant names, industrial source categories (SIC codes), and emitting source classifications (SCC's). The crosswalk is updated periodically, along with the combined crosswalk and air toxic emission factor data base system. Air Emissions Species Manual The two volume - Air Emissions Species Manual contains species profiles for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Volume I, Second Edition (EPA-450/2-90-001a), (NTIS PB90-185844) and particulate matter (PM) in Volume II (EPA-450/2-90-001b), (NTIS PB90-184367). An Addendum: An Addendum to the Air Emission Species Manual, EPA-450/2-88-003c, (NTIS number PB-90-146416) updates the previous edition for those who already have a copy of the first edition. These reports contain various emission source profiles useful in estimation of air toxics emissions, identification of possible sources, receptor source modeling, photochemical modeling, and other similar uses. A personal computer data base system contains the species data and is the preferred means of distribution (NTIS number PB90- 501560). The species profiles continue to be updated and released periodically. Other Reports Emissions data and speciation information for many commonly used household, small business, institutional and governmental products generally classified as consumer/commercial solvents are presented in the report, Compilation and Speciation of National Emissions Factors for Consumer/Commercial Solvent Use, EPA- 450/2-89-008, (NTIS number PB-89-207203). 28 ------- STATUS OF AIR TOXICS EMISSION FACTORS AND ESTIMATION TOOLS Methodologies and emission factors for estimating air toxic emissions from area sources are included in the report, Procedures for Estimating and Allocating Area Source Emissions of Air Toxics. Working Draft. Based on comments received by the users of this document, the draft may be revised and expanded in the future. The report, Compilation Of Air Toxics Emission Inventory Questionnaires, EPA- 450/4-88-008, (NTIS number PB-88-236237), contains questionnaires used by various State and local agencies to collect air toxics emission data from sources. Other more specialized reports are available for assisting those who wish to undertake an urban air toxics assessment project. These include Analysis of Air toxics Emissions. Exposures. Cancer Risks and Controllability in Five Urban Areas EPA-450/2-89-012a, (NTIS number PB-89-207161), and Assessing Multiple Pollutant Multiple Source Cancer Risks From Urban Air Toxics. EPA-450/2-89-010, (NTIS number PB-89-197222). The former report addresses the evidence of an urban air toxics problem in five cities while the second summarizes evidence, and procedures used, from several studies conducted over the past several years. How To Obtain These Reports Government agencies generally may obtain single copies of these reports by submitting requests along with the EPA publication number to Library (MD-35), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711 or by calling (919) 541-2777 or (FTS) 629-2777. These reports are available for a fee through the National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, Virginia 22161 or by calling (703) 487-4650. EPA Contact Person James H. Southerland (919) 541-5523 (FTS) 629-5523 29 ------- AIR TOXICS MODELING GUIDANCE Background There is increasing emphasis on the assessment of air quality and health impacts of toxic chemical releases. Considerations include both long-term health effects and short-term acute health effects. Support in both long-term and short- term air quality impacts is being provided for the listing of chemicals as toxic and in the development of control regulations under section 112 of the Clean Air Act (National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants). Long-term air quality impacts are generally assessed using the Guideline on Air Quality Models (see status report entitled "Guideline on Air Quality Models"). Short-term impacts must assess the effect of short-term, high-volume releases which frequently occur from equipment upsets and malfunctions. These short-term events have not been classically examined. The EPA has published "A Dispersion Model for Elevated Dense Gas Jet Chemical Releases" in two volumes. The model is known as DEGADIS Version 2.1 and operates on a VAX computer system. The EPA has also published "A Workbook of Screening Techniques for Assessing Impacts of Toxic Air Pollutants." Current Status The EPA is currently examining available techniques for assessing the air quality impact of short-term releases. A personal computer version of the procedures in the Workbook is being reviewed internally and should be available within the next 3 months. In addition, an air toxics model evaluation project is under way for a number of models developed by the public and private sectors using 5 available data bases. A report should be published by EPA by late fall 1990 on the performance of a subset of these models applicable to dense gas releases. A report entitled "Review and Evaluation of Area Source Algorithms for Application to Emission Sources at Superfund Sites" has been published as EPA- 450/4-89-020 and is available from NTIS as PB 90-142753. The report reviews modeling techniques applicable to area sources of toxics such as landfills, lagoons and soil handling operations, and identifies which models are better for various routine uses. Model performance was evaluated against one field data base. Future Milestones The air toxic model evaluation study will continue into 1991 to include non- dense gas air toxics models; reports on these models will follow. Work will continue on developing guidance for modeling techniques applicable to area source releases of air toxics. EPA Contact Person Jim Dicke (919) 541-5682 (FTS) 629-5682 30 ------- TOXIC AIR MONITORING SYSTEM (TAMS) METHODS DEVELOPMENT AND SAMPLE ANALYSIS Background The Toxic Air Monitoring System (TAMS) was initiated in the spring of 1984 after the EPA Administrator directed Program Offices to develop monitoring strategies for toxic pollutants. In response, the Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards prepared an ambient air toxic monitoring strategy. That document included a description of an ambient air toxic monitoring program which was to be conducted jointly by the Office of Air and Radiation and the Office of Research and Development. This program, called the TAMS, was primarily to be used for field evaluation of sampling and analytical methods, for gaining quality assurance experience, and for transferring those technologies to Regional Offices, States, and local agencies. A secondary data use, once methods were developed, was to attempt assessment of the type and relative extent of the toxics air pollution problem in selected urban areas. Current Status/Future Milestones Routine sampling at 10 TAMS stations for non-polar VOCs was discontinued in August 1989. A special diurnal study was conducted during a 10-day period at Houston site 2 from August 15-25, 1989. All samplers were returned to Research Triangle Park (RTP) for evaluation and cleaning during the fall of 1989 and data analysis was begun. A workshop on canister sampling/analysis was held at EPA's offices at RTP on November 7-8, 1989 for 20 participants from the TAMS Regional and State offices. Recertified samplers and canisters were distributed to participating Regional Offices in December 1989. Sampling and analysis for phase-distributed semi-volatile organic compounds and water soluble (polar) VOCs will begin at two sites in June 1990. A report describing data collected from the 10-site TAMS network and special diurnal study including an evaluation of data quality will be published in June 1990. EPA Contact Person Jane Leonard (919) 541-5653 (FTS) 629-5653 31 ------- SPECIAL URBAN TOXICS MONITORING PROGRAM Background/Current Status Because of concerns regarding high cancer risk from multisource, multipollutant interactions in urban areas, State and local agencies have been seeking ways in which to assess the magnitude of potentially toxic compounds in their ambient air. To assist in filling this need, EPA is coordinating toxic monitoring programs designed to provide air quality data for screening purposes. These programs are separate from programs within the Toxics Air Monitoring System (TAMS) described elsewhere in this compilation of status reports. In 1987, EPA began managing a program for ambient toxics screening at 19 sites in 18 cities. The first sample was collected on October 1, 1987, and sampling continued until September 30, 1988. Samples were collected over 24-hour periods at 12-day intervals through a special heated manifold in order to prevent aldehydes from being lost on moist surfaces. The canisters were analyzed for selected hydrocarbons and halogenated compounds. A co-located, hi-vol sampler collected particulates for metals and B(a)P analyses. Data were sent to the participating agencies on a quarterly schedule. The EPA provides the sampling equipment needed to collect the samples, while the participating State and local agencies provide manpower to collect the samples. The samples are analyzed by a central contractor. Participating agencies provide necessary funds to support the program. As of early April 1990, samples from 10 sites are being collected. The cost for the toxics program for 1990 is $27,500 per site. Future Milestones The EPA plans to coordinate similar programs during the next few years. Verbal commitments to participate in the 1991 program should be made to the cognizant Regional Office by October 31, 1990. EPA Contact Person Neil Berg (919) 541-5520 (FTS) 629-5520 32 ------- INHALATION RISK REFERENCE DOSE Background The reference dose (RfD) is a benchmark level (exposure concentration or dose) used by EPA for assessment of noncancer health effects. The RfD is an estimate (with uncertainty spanning perhaps an order of magnitude) of a daily exposure to the human population (including sensitive subgroups) that is likely to be without appreciable risks of deleterious effects during a lifetime. Derivation of an RfD involves review of toxicological literature, determination of the critical endpoint and critical study, and selection of appropriate uncertainty factors. Based on all the data from human and animal studies, the endpoint which is most relevant to humans is selected and the no- observed-adverse effect level (NOAEL) is identified. The RfD is derived from the NOAEL by consistent application of typically order of magnitude uncertainty factors that reflect various types of data used to estimate RfD's, and an additional modifying factor reflecting a scientific judgment of the entire data base for the chemical. After derivation, the RfD and supporting documentation are reviewed by an intra-Agency work group, and acceptable RfD's are verified and included in the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) data base. To date, EPA has developed and verified oral RfD's and a methodology for development of inhalation RfD's has been prepared. The draft document titled "Interim Methods for Development of Inhalation Reference Doses" (August 1987) was reviewed in a public workshop in October 1987. Verification meetings of the RfD work group for inhalation RfD's are under way. An informal work group with Agency-wide participation is planned to discuss the use of RfD's in OAQPS risk assessment and regulatory decisions. Current Status A total of 318 oral RfD's have been verified and are available on IRIS. Inhalation reference doses have been verified for 16 chemicals but are not yet available on IRIS. Supporting documentation has been prepared for inhalation RfD's for approximately 60 additional chemicals. The Interim Methodology for Development of Inhalation Reference Doses was finalized in 1989 and is available from EPA. Future Milestones Development of an additional 50 inhalation RfD's will be initiated by EPA's Environmental Criteria and Assessment Office in FY 1990. The verified RfD's will be available on the Integrated Risk Information System in FY 1990. The verified inhalation RfD's will be available on IRIS in late FY 1990. EPA Contact Persons Karen Blanchard (919) 541-5503 (FTS) 629-5503 Annie Jarabek (919) 541-4847 (FTS) 541-4847 33 ------- SUPERFUND AMENDMENTS AND REAUTHORIZATION ACT TOXIC RELEASE INVENTORY (TITLE III. SECTION 313 Background The development of a Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) was mandated by Congress through the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986. This law provided for the public to have access to information on the quantity of emissions to the environment of over 300 specific chemicals and groups of chemicals, and obligated industry to provide these data to EPA and to State agencies. The Office of Toxic Substances (OTS) of EPA has principal responsibility to compile information submitted by industry in a computerized data base accessible to the public. Reporting facilities were required to provide estimates (no measurements are required) of their annual releases to the air, water, and land, aggregated by facility for each chemical. All continuous and accidental releases were combined, with air emissions separated into the general categories of fugitive emissions and stack emissions. The initial reporting period was for 1987, with reports submitted to OTS by July 1, 1988. Reports for the second reporting year, 1988, were submitted to OTS by July 1, 1989, with these data currently being computerized. The Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) coordinated with OTS on development of TRI implementation activities. The OAQPS has assumed responsibility for interpretation of TRI data with respect to air emissions in response to inquiries from State and local agencies, from within EPA, and from Congress. The OAQPS is also supporting State and local agencies in their use and interpretation of the TRI data, since these agencies are the first point of contact for public inquiries. Current Status Information and guidance materials were forwarded through EPA's Regional Offices to State and local air pollution control agencies prior to the July 1, 1988 deadline. These materials are being supplemented by a Risk Screening Guide that was made available from OTS in the fall of 1989. State agencies also may directly access the EPA data base ("TRIS") through a user-friendly "gateway" developed for the National Air Toxics Information Clearinghouse (NATICH) (see included status report), or through arrangements at the Regional Office level. The computerized data base was made available to the public in June of 1989. Public access is through the computer facilities of the National Library of Medicine, which enables association of the TRI data with health effects and other information available through the Hazardous Substances Data Bank. Several user- friendly software programs have been developed to enable users to search the TRI files. Future Milestones The EPA is developing plans for use of the TRI data by the various program offices. The OAQPS anticipates the principal utility of the data will be in the preliminary evaluation and prioritization of pollutants and source categories and to focus supplemental information gathering. There are potential uses by OAQPS, contingent upon resource availability, in development of emission factors, in cross-checking with other EPA data bases, in support of urban air toxics analyses, 34 ------- SUPERFUND AMENDMENTS AND REAUTHORIZATION ACT TOXIC RELEASE INVENTORY (TITLE III. SECTION 313) in prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) reviews, and in responding to congressional and EPA management questions. The OAQPS is currently comparing data from the TRI data base with information gathered under the air toxics regulatory program to identify any significant discrepancies. At this point, many of the potential uses are uncertain until a better understanding of the quality and completeness of the collected data is available. EPA Contact Persons James Weigold (919) 541-5642 (FTS) 629-5642 Robert Kellam (919) 541-5647 (FTS) 629-5647 John Vandenberg (919) 541-5352 (FTS) 629-5352 35 ------- AIR/SUPERFUND COORDINATION PROGRAM The purpose of the Air/Superfund Coordination program is to assist EPA Regional Superfund Offices in evaluating Superfund sites, developing plans for site cleanup, and implementing cleanup actions. Each Regional Air Office has a Regional Air/Superfund Coordinator to ensure that assistance is provided. This assistance includes the review of proposals, plans, and studies for Superfund sites, and participation in decisions related to preremedial, remedial, and removal actions that may have significant air impacts. Regional Air Offices also help perform field evaluations during removal and preremedial actions at selected sites and consult with Superfund contractors in areas such as air modeling, monitoring, and the use and effectiveness of air pollution control devices. The program includes a number of activities to support the Regional Air Offices. These are: 1. Coordination to facilitate the exchange of information on Air/Superfund issues, procedures, and data among Regional Air Offices and between Regions and EPA Headquarters Offices; and to provide updated technical information and periodic reports to these offices on ongoing studies. Coordination meetings are held at four-month intervals to exchange information, coordinate the overall program, participate in mini-workshops, and receive briefings on pertinent technical and administrative subjects. 2. Training to brief Regional Air Office staff on Superfund program issues, priorities, methods, and procedures; and to brief Regional Superfund staff and contractor personnel on air issues and guidance for analyzing and resolving them. 3. Technical assistance to Regional Air Offices to assist them in analyzing air issues associated with specific sites, reviewing analyses prepared by Superfund contractors, and preparing recommendations on remedial actions proposed to minimize air impacts. 4. National technical guidance (NTG) studies to provide Regional Air and Superfund staffs and State/local agency staffs with technical support, data, and guidance to improve the quality of the data base and the analysis of air issues associated with Superfund sites. Guidance studies completed or in process include: Completed o Air Pathway Analysis (4 volumes) - Volume 1 - Overview - Volume 2 - Emissions Estimates, Preremedial - Volume 3 - Emissions Estimates, During Remediation - Volume 4 - Modeling, Monitoring Guidance o Application of Data Quality Objectives for Ambient Monitoring 36 ------- AIR/SUPERFUND COORDINATION PROGRAM In Process o Storage of Superfund Aerometric Data in AIRS o Soil Vapor Extraction Control Technology o Comparison of Air Stripper Simulations and Field Performance Data o Guideline - Air Review Criteria Checklist o Screening Model - Expert System o Emergency Modeling Guidance o Performance Evaluation - Fugitive Dust Model (FDM) and Industrial Source Complex Model (ISC) o Expert System for Screening Techniques o Application of Long Path Monitors to Superfund Sites o Air Impacts from Remedial Options o Emission Screening/Ranking at Superfund Sites o Air Impacts from Superfund Sites o Less than Lifetime Risks EPA Contact Person Joe Padgett (919) 541-5589 (FTS) 629-5589 37 ------- PATHOGEN EMISSIONS FROM MEDICAL WASTE INCINERATORS Background A method for determining pathogens in air emissions has been developed by EPA to support the development of new source performance standards (NSPS) for medical waste incinerators. The method will be used to indicate the destruction efficiency of incinerators by testing the emissions for viable spores that are added to the incinerator as a waste spike. Another method for evaluating the ash quality is being developed. The method involves charging metal pipes containing live spores into the firing chamber to determine the incinerator's effectiveness in destroying pathogens in the firing chamber. Current Status Laboratory and field evaluations of the method for destruction efficiency have been successfully completed and a draft method has been written. This draft method will be used in a number of tests in FY 1990 to obtain data to support the medical waste incinerator NSPS. The method for assessing ash quality is still in progress, but is in its final stages. All that remains is to determine a suitable size for the metal pipe. Future Milestones Completion of Ash Quality Method: May 1990 Several NSPS Development Tests: Throughout FY 1990 Draft NSPS for Presentation to EPA's June 1991 National Air Pollution Control Advisory Committee: NSPS Proposal: September 1991 EPA Contact Person Foston Curtis (919) 541-1063 (FTS) 629-1063 38 ------- SCHEDULE FOR AIR TOXICS REGULATIONS CURRENTLY BEING CONSIDERED UNDER SECTION 112 OF THE CLEAN AIR ACT OR OTHER AUTHORITIES Pollutant/source category Proposal Date Estimated Final Date Asbestos Revision -Manufacturing, demoli- tion, renovation, fabrication, waste dis- posal Rule clarification, monitoring, record- keeping See Note 2 1/10/89 9/90 Chromium - Industrial Cooling Towers Chromium - Electroplating See Note 2 4/91 FY1992 Hazardous Organic NESHAP (HON) (Standards will cover production and sele- cted use categories for organic chemicals on hazardous pollutant list in proposed CAA Amendments. HON will cover emissions from storage tanks, process vents, equip- ment leaks, handling, and wastewater treatment) Coke Oven Emissions - Charging and Topside Leaks See Note 2 Ethylene Oxide - Commercial Sterilizers Perchloroethylene - Dry Cleaning Trichloroethylene -Degreasing (also covers perchloroethylene, and methylene chloride) Proposed 4/23/87 Reproposal See Note 2 8/91 3/91 See Note 2 FY1992 FY1992 39 ------- SCHEDULE FOR AIR TOXICS REGULATIONS CURRENTLY BEING CONSIDERED UNDER SECTION 112 OF THE CLEAN AIR ACT OR OTHER AUTHORITIES Pollutant/source category MULTI -POLLUTANT SOURCES Municipal Waste Combustion Municipal Landfills3 Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDF^) Accelerated Rule Comprehensive Rule Proposal Date 12/20/89 6/90 2/5/87 5/90 Estimated Final Date 1/91 FY92 5/90 9/91 Wastewater Facilities Source to be cove- red by HON Medical Waste Incineration 3/92 FY93 Electric Util ities^ Notes: 1. Proposed Clean Air Act (CAA) Amendments require the development of a list of categories of major sources of air toxics and of a schedule for regulation. Work is ongoing on these tasks. 2. Schedules are currently being developed based on promulgating technology-based standards for these source categories within 2 years of enactment of Clean Air Act Amendments. 3. Standards are being developed under Section 111 and lll(d) of the Clean Air Act. 4. Standards being developed under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Section 3004(n). 5. Proposed CAA Amendments require EPA to study the emissions of air toxics from these sources, potential control techniques, and cost of such controls. Regulations are to be developed as warranted. EPA Contact Person Jim Weigold (919) 541-5642 (FTS) 629-5642 40 ------- MOBILE SOURCE AIR TOXICS ACTIVITIES Background Motor vehicle emissions account for approximately 58 percent of the annual U.S. cancer incidences due to emitted air toxics. Air toxics emissions can be reduced by reducing motor vehicle VOC emissions; additional toxics reductions can be obtained by reducing the concentration of toxic components and toxic component precursors in the fuel. The use of alternative fuels such as methanol, ethanol and compressed natural gas in vehicles designed for their use can result in about a 90 percent reduction of air toxics emissions. Use of reformulated gasoline should also have significant air toxic benefits. Limited information is available, however, concerning the effect of gasoline composition on exhaust and evaporative emission composition. Current Status The Agency is considering regulatory action to control air toxics emissions from motor vehicles through gasoline and diesel fuel formulation. An advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) is being prepared, primarily to gather information pertaining to motor vehicle emitted air toxics, the health effects of these pollutants, and gasoline and diesel fuel reformulations relevant to their control. Final action in the areas discussed in this ANPRM may depend on the final Clean Air Act Amendments; some current legislative proposals require certain levels of toxics reductions. The EPA is also closely following a joint automotive/petroleum industry program to quantify the air toxics (and ozone) benefits of various gasoline reformulations, including a variety of gasoline oxygenate blends. The EPA has also initiated a program which would help quantify the air toxics benefits of gasoline oxygenate blends. LPA Contact Persons Chris Brunner (313) 668-4287 (FTS) 374-8287 Joe Somers (313) 668-4231 (FTS) 374-8231 41 ------- STATUS OF STATEWIDE PM-10 SIP REVISIONS Background Each SIP for particulate matter must be revised for PM-10 as follows, regardless of whether specific areas within the State have been designated as Group I or Group II areas: To include State ambient air quality standards for PM-10 at least as stringent as the NAAQS; To trigger preconstruction review for new or modified sources which would emit significant amounts of either PM or PM-10 emissions; To invoke the emergency episode plan to prevent PM-10 concentrations from reaching the significant harm level of 600 //g/nr; To meet ambient PM-10 monitoring requirements of 40 CFR 58; and, To meet the requirements of 40 CFR 51.322 and 51.323 to report actual annual emissions of PM-10 (beginning with emissions for 1988) for point sources emitting 100 tons per year or more. Current Status* Region I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X Universe 6 4 6 8 6 5 4 6 7 4 56 Draft SIP 2 0 4 8 0 5 4 0 0 _Q 23 Public Hearing 1 0 5 8 4 5 4 2 1 _Q 30 Final SIP 2 4 5 7 2 5 4 2 1 _1 33 Comments Finals for ME, NH Finals for DE, MD, PA, VA, WV Finals for AL,KY,NC,SC,FL,MS,GA Finals for IN and MN Finals for MT, WY Final for HI Final for WA *Based on data in the PM-10 bulletin board tracking system. Future Milestones Prepare notices of proposed rulemaking on final SIP's submitted to EPA. EPA Contact Person Ken Woodard (919) 541-5697 (FTS) 629-5697 42 ------- STATUS OF PM-10 GROUP I SIP DEVELOPMENT Background The SIP's for PM-10 Group I areas are required to include a control strategy and a demonstration that the strategy will attain and maintain the PM-10 national ambient air quality standard. Developing a SIP for a Group I area requires completing several data gathering and processing tasks. Milestones that EPA tracks include the following: (1) complete emission inventory, (2) submit model protocol, (3) reconcile model results, (4) analyze alternative control strategies, (5) select final strategy, (6) submit draft SIP, (7) hold public hearing, (8) adopt regulations, (9) submit final SIP. Current Status* Region I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X Universe 2 0 1 0 7 1 0 14 16 17 58 Emission Inventories Complete 2 0 1 0 7 1 0 10 16 7 44 Reconcile Model Results 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 3 _2 10 Alternative Control Strategies 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 5 3 _5 16 Public Hearing 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 5 1 6 13 Submit Final SIP 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 5 1 _! 9 *Based on information entered in the PM-10 bulletin board tracking system. Future Milestones Prepare notices of proposed rulemaking on final SIP's submitted to EPA. EPA Contact Person Ken Woodard (919) 541-5697 (FTS) 629-5697 43 ------- STATUS OF PM-10 GROUP II COMMITTAL SIP DEVELOPMENT Background A committal SIP for PM-10 Group II areas is simply an authoritative letter from the State agency or board committing to monitor PM-10 in accordance with 40 CFR 58, report any exceedances and violations of the NAAQS, evaluate the adequacy of existing regulations for particulate matter, and revise the SIP as necessary to attain and maintain the PM-10 NAAQS. The activities that EPA tracks include when States submit drafts, hold public hearings, and submit final SIP's. Current Status* Region I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X Universe 0 3 9 4 40 11 6 18 13 9 113 Public Hearing 0 0 8 2 40 11 6 18 7 6 98 Final SIP 0 3 8 4 40 11 6 18 6 6 102 Comments Final for NY, NJ, and PR Final for PA, VA, WV All submitted All submitted All submitted All submitted All submitted Final for AZ only Final for OR, WA *Based on data in the PM-10 bulletin board tracking system. Future Milestones Prepare Federal Register notices on committal SIP's submitted to EPA. Committal SIP's will be sought for the remaining 11 areas. EPA Contact Person Ken Woodard (919) 541-5697 (FTS) 629-5697 44 ------- CONTROL OF FUGITIVE DUST Background When EPA promulgated the PM-1Q national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS), it retained, on an interim basis, the 1977 Rural Fugitive Dust (RFD) Policy. This policy, which was originally intended for use with the particulate matter NAAQS based on total suspended particulate (TSP), allowed States with rural fugitive dust areas to deemphasize the control of fugitive dust in rural areas when developing and enforcing their State implementation plans (SIP's) for attainment and maintenance of the NAAQS for PM-10. The policy directs that efforts to control particulate matter be expended first at sources in urban areas and next at certain large manmade sources in rural areas. Concurrent with the PM- 10 NAAQS promulgation, EPA proposed three alternative policies for controlling rural fugitive dust and solicited comments on the alternatives and on the adequacy of the definitions which are used in identifying rural fugitive dust areas (52 FR 24716). The EPA formed an interagency work group to review the rural fugitive dust policy and the public comments on the proposed alternative policies. Fugitive dust in urban areas generally is due to vehicle resuspension of dust on and around paved roads, unpaved roads, and parking, or windblown dust emitted from open areas with inadequate ground cover. Previous efforts to control paved road emissions have proven unsuccessful, largely because they relied on periodic street cleaning to reduce surface loadings. Under the urban fugitive dust policy now under development by EPA, programs to prevent dust from reaching the road surface will be emphasized. The policy will also address unpaved roads and open areas. A technical support document, "Control of Open Fugitive Dust Sources," EPA- 450/3-88-008, September 1988, was developed by EPA and distributed to the PM-10 Regional contacts. The document provides control and cost effectiveness information and a regulatory framework which will be helpful in developing and reviewing State implementation plans for PM-10. A computer program and user's manual, EPA-450/3-90-010, April 1990, were developed by a contractor to perform algorithms listed in the technical support document. Several open fugitive dust workshops have been held in Regions IX and X to discuss the technical support document in detail. Current Status The EPA is currently drafting interim guidance to determine control effectiveness for road sanding/salting for emission reductions. The EPA performed an economic analysis of three areas to determine the impact of each of the alternative RFD policies. The cost/benefits analysis for each alternative for all three areas has been completed. The results of the analysis are in review and will be issued in a final report. The OAQPS submitted a proposal to EPA's Agricultural Policy Committee to work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), and the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) to cooperatively pursue a program which would prevent or reduce the emission fugitive dust from agricultural activities. The USDA currently has programs under way under the Food Security Act of 1985 to minimize soil lost from highly erodible lands due to wind and water 45 ------- CONTROL OF FUGITIVE DUST erosion. The USDA's objective of saving the farmland and the EPA's objective of preventing pollution can both be met by using the same preventive measures. This proposal, if accepted, may result in a joint policy and technical guidance which would focus on the benefits of implementing such programs on agricultural lands located near population centers. Future Milestones Both House and Senate bills to amend the Clean Air Act require EPA to publish reasonably available control measures (RACM) for fugitive dust control. The technical support document to develop RACM and evaluate and finalize the fugitive dust policy will be used as the basis for RACM. A work group will be formed. Following the passage of the Clean Air Act Amendments, EPA will reevaluate the proposed alternative RFD policies to ensure consistency with the new legislation. Assistance in holding workshops on control of open fugitive dust sources is available from Headquarters for those Regions interested. EPA Contact Person Robin Dunkins (919) 541-5335 (FTS) 629-5335 46 ------- FUGITIVE EMISSIONS FROM PAVED ROADWAYS Background Fugitive emissions of PM-10 from paved roadways are significant in at least two-thirds of all Group I areas. These Group I areas are often in regions that are arid, have unpaved roads that intersect with paved roads, or are experiencing significant growth and new construction. The magnitude of PM-10 emissions is a function of the silt loading (amount of material < 75 /zm) on the roadways and traffic volume (see AP-42, 11.2.5-1). Emissions from this source category can be decreased by reducing the normal dirt loading by street cleaning or preferably by preventing dirt from being blown, washed, spilled, or tracked onto the roadways. In some areas, mud and dirt trackout onto roadways from construction sites is a significant source of silt loading. Therefore, OAQPS has issued a work assignment to investigate methods of preventing mud and dirt trackout from construction sites. The contractor is to prepare a summary of information on existing State and local regulations that require either clean up or prevention of trackout from construction sites. This summary will include the format of the regulations, who is responsible for enforcement, and a description of the site inspection procedures. The contractor must also identify trackout control measures, design a field demonstration study, and select a study site and control measure to implement and evaluate. First priority in selecting a control measure to implement will be given to measures that will prevent trackout. Current Status Design of the field demonstration study is nearing completion; the study is expected to be conducted in FY 1991. EPA Contact Person Robin Dunkins (919) 541-5335 (FTS) 629-5335 47 ------- WINTER ROAD ANTISKID MATERIALS Background Wintertime applications of antiskid materials on paved roads can cause significant PM-10 emissions if left on the roadway after the snow and ice melt. Antiskid materials are a significant source of emissions in at least one-third of all Group I areas. Fugitive PM-10 emissions increase with the load of material on the road surface (grams/meter ) and the increased silt fraction (portion < 75 /zm) of the surface loading (see AP-42, 11.2.5-1). The silt fraction of the antiskid material varies with the type and source of the material used. The PM-10 emissions from this source category can be reduced by decreasing the amount of material spread on the roadway (surface loading), the silt fraction of the material, and/or the length of time the material is on the roadway. The EPA recently issued "Guidance Document for Selecting Antiskid Materials Applied to Ice- and Snow-Covered Roadways," EPA-450/3-90-007, January 1990, which provides guidelines for selecting antiskid materials. Several methods to determine the characteristics of antiskid materials such as silt content and durability were evaluated. Both wet and dry sieve methods of measuring silt content were evaluated. The document also looked at other characteristics that affected the fines-producing propensity of antiskid materials and discussed nontraditional materials that may reduce potential emissions. Current Status The EPA is currently distributing the antiskid guidance document described above to the Regional Offices and to some State and local offices. Future Milestones The EPA has issued a work assignment to evaluate the durability of several antiskid materials. This work assignment is scheduled to be completed in September 1990. EPA Contact Person Robin Dunkins (919) 541-5335 (FTS) 629-5335 48 ------- WOOD SMOKE REDUCTION Background Wood smoke from residential wood heaters and fireplaces significantly impacts concentrations of PM-10 in several Group I areas. This is especially true in the northwest quarter of the Nation (Regions VIII and X). Concentrations reach episodic levels when inversions trap smoke in mountain valleys. Since some Group I areas impacted by wood smoke could require several years to attain the PM-10 national ambient air quality standards, a statement identifying the key elements which should be addressed in PM-10 State implementation plans for areas with long-term nonattainment problems is being developed by EPA. Current Status Distribution of technical guidance has been completed. The guidance discusses control measures (and their effectiveness) for smoke from residential wood combustion that should be included in SIP's. A policy is currently being developed to define measures to be instituted for greater than 50 percent emission reduction credits for curtailment programs. Discussions have taken place with the Forest Service concerning distribution of 'free' firewood near PM-10 Group I areas which have a residential wood combustion problem. It is hoped that a trial program, which restricts how and where 'free' firewood is available, can be instituted for the next wood heating season. Development of public service announcements for radio and television broadcast is currently under way. These announcements will be available to any State or local agency which is interested, probably for the cost of duplication. Future Milestones Distribute materials developed under American Lung Association grant by summer 1990. This includes a variety of educational materials for distribution to the stove owner, intermediaries such as realtors; chimney sweeps and stove retailers, and the radio and print media. Policy memorandum on emission reduction credits for curtailment programs signed by summer 1990. Continue working with the Forest Service to evaluate the effect of the free firewood programs. Evaluation of air quality data for the 1990/1991 heating season completed by summer 1991. Distribution of public service announcements by fall 1990. EPA Contact Person Martha Smith (919) 541-5314 (FTS) 629-5314 49 ------- WOOD HEATERS NSPS STATUS REPORT Background On February 26, 1988, EPA promulgated new source performance standards (NSPS) for residential wood heaters. These standards are unique in a number of respects. The regulations require that all performance testing be done by EPA-accredited laboratories. These laboratories obtain and maintain accreditation by performing a series of annual proficiency tests with the prescribed test methods. When accredited, these laboratories may perform certification tests on individual model stoves to determine compliance. In a phase-in program, all new stoves to be offered for sale to the public must be certified between 1990 and 1992. Current Status Seven laboratories are currently accredited by EPA as of March 27, 1990. Of these seven, all have completed the proficiency test series for 1990. There are now 241 federally-certified wood heater models. Results from comparability tests conducted in September 1989 on EPA Method 5G versus the Virginia Polytechnical Institute (VPI) method were favorable. Because of these results, the decision was made to continue with the comparability study at Crested Butte, Colorado. Our findings show a correlation between the two methods and the VPI method can be used to represent emissions from in-home wood heaters. The study showed no significant effect of altitude on wood heater particulate emissions using catalysts, but may have been significant (about 25 percent higher at 8900 feet elevation) for a noncatalytic unit. A summary of these findings was distributed February 23, 1990 to all EPA Regional Air Divisions and Environmental Services Divisions for use by State and local air pollution control agencies considering woodheater control programs. EPA Contact Person Dennis Holzschuh (919) 541-5239 (FTS) 629-5239 50 ------- PRESCRIBED BURNING/SMOKE MANAGEMENT Background One of the five major causes of long-term PM-10 nonattainment is the emissions from prescribed burning for silviculture and agriculture activities. In the past, EPA has treated episodes of high particulate matter concentrations caused by prescribed burning the same as episodes caused by wildfires, i.e., considered them as exceptional events. However, high concentrations from prescribed burning are a routine occurrence in some parts of the country and, to a limited extent, are controllable. Current Status At this time, EPA does not have a specific policy on prescribed burning. However, we have established an interagency task force, through the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG), to assist EPA in establishing such a policy. (The NWCG is a group composed of representatives from the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Interior and the National Association of State Foresters.) Our basic philosophy in discussions with the NWCG is that although prescribed burning is a useful and sometimes the only tool available to accomplish silviculture and agriculture goals, it should only be conducted using good smoke management techniques. A statement of nine key concepts in smoke management has been developed by NWCG. In addition, the President's bill to amend the Clean Air Act would require development of guidance on reasonably available control measures (RACM) for prescribed burning. The RACM document must be consistent with and supportive of the nine key concepts developed by NWCG. Future Milestones The RACM document on prescribed burning will be developed by EPA following passage of the Clean Air Act Amendments. Currently, the Amendments call for document development within 18 months of enactment. EPA Contact Person Tom Pace (919) 541-5634 (FTS) 629-5634 51 ------- PM-10 EMISSION FACTORS Background The EPA is continuing development of PM-10 emission factors and is assisting States in filling gaps in PM-10 emission inventories where published PM-10 emission factors are not yet available for particular source categories. Current Status/Future Milestones PM-10 Emission Factor Listing Developed by Technology Transfer, EPA-450/4-89- 023, containing over 400 source operations has been published and was distributed to all State and local agencies during April 1990. A new document, AIRS Facility Subsystem Source Classification Codes and Emission Factor Listing for Criteria Air Pollutants, EPA-450/4-90-003, has been completed and printed. It is also being distributed to State/local agencies during April. A personal computer (PC) diskette containing all of the emission factors has also been prepared for those users interested in PC application of these factors. This publication is intended to replace EPA's SCC and Emission Factor Listing and the Criteria Pollutant Emission Factors for the 1989 NAPAP Emission Inventory. EPA-600/7-87-015. A revised listing of Emission Factor and Emission Inventory publications has been prepared and is available. The next issue of the EPA Emission Factor Clearinghouse Newsletter is planned for publication in June of 1990. Current Clearinghouse projects include the development of PM-10 emission factors for industrial and commercial cooling towers, additional factors for prescribed and wild fires, and additional data to improve emission factors for woodstoves and fire places. Also, projects are under way to develop PM-10 emission factors for additional iron and steel operations as well as particle and wafer board manufacture. EPA Contact Person Dennis R. Shipman (919) 541-5477 (FTS) 629-5477 52 ------- STACK TEST METHOD FOR PM-10 Background Two methods have been developed to measure PM-10. The constant sampling rate (CSR) method uses EPA Method 17 fitted with either a cyclone or an inertial impactor particle separator. The exhaust gas recycle (EGR) method uses a special sampling train equipped with a means to maintain constant flow through a cyclone and variable flow at the sampling nozzle. Both PM-10 methods were proposed June 6, 1989 (54 FR 24213) to be added to Part 51, Appendix M. This notice also proposed to designate Appendix M a test method repository for State implementation plans (SIP's). Test methods in Appendix M or their equivalent will be required in new or revised SIP's. Current Status/Milestones The PM-10 package has completed all required reviews and was signed by the Administrator on March 22, 1990. Operator's Manuals and a PM-10 Source Test Demonstration Video are available from EPA. To find about or acquire the manuals or video, please contact Roy Huntley at (919) 541-1060 or at USEPA (MD-19), RTP, NC 27711. EPA Contact Person Roy Huntley (919) 541-1060 (FTS) 629-1060 53 ------- STAGNATION MODEL ANALYSIS PROGRAM Background/Current Status In some areas, concentrations of PM-10 that exceed the national ambient air quality standards frequently occur during periods of atmospheric stagnation. Stagnation conditions are characterized by poor dispersion of pollutants, for periods of hours to days, with wind speeds averaging less than 1 meter per second. Air quality models routinely used by State, local, and Federal agencies for regulatory purposes (for example, Gaussian models) are technically not applicable to stagnation conditions. As a result, so-called "non-guideline" models have been used, along with guideline models, in initial attempts at analyzing high pollution periods for PM-10 SIP demonstrations. However, uncertainties in these analyses have resulted in a general lack of confidence in our ability to simulate stagna- tion conditions, while the need for this confidence is exceedingly high. A project has been designed to evaluate the performance of the best currently available tools for analyzing stagnation conditions. The goal of this program is to make specific recommendations in EPA modeling guidance which can be generally applied to stagnation conditions. The program includes field measurements to develop necessary meteorological, emission, and air quality data bases for use in evaluating the performance of candidate models in at least one area. This project was not funded adequately to be carried out during the 1989-1990 winter season. Future Milestones The above field project will be conducted during the 1990-1991 winter season if interest and funding are adequate. EPA Contact Person Kenneth Woodard (919) 541-5697 (FTS) 629-5697 54 ------- DIESEL FUEL QUALITY Background The EPA promulgated heavy-duty motor vehicle particulate standards in the mid- 1980's. The initial standards became effective with the 1988 model year, with more stringent standards being phased in the 1991 model year and again in the 1994 model year. When these standards were promulgated, the heavy-duty engine manufacturers indicated that in order for them to meet these stringent standards, the sulfur and aromatics content of diesel fuel would need to be regulated. In the summer of 1988, a joint industry proposal of the Engine Manufacturers Association and the American Petroleum Institute was submitted to EPA which recommended that EPA set a fuel sulfur content limit of 0.05 percent and an aromatics cap of about 35 percent by setting a minimum cetane index of 40, effective in October 1993, for on-highway diesel fuel. In addition, the joint industry proposal recommended that EPA allow certification of 1991-1993 model year engines using 0.05 percent sulfur content diesel fuel. In August 1989, EPA published a notice of proposed rulemaking which closely followed the joint industry proposal, except that it proposed to allow 1991-1993 certification using 0.10 percent sulfur content diesel fuel. A public hearing was held in October 1989 on this proposal. This rule will provide additional particulate and sulfur oxide reductions. Both clean air bills being considered in Congress contain provisions for Federal diesel fuel quality standards. Current Status The EPA is continuing to consider the public comments and expects to promulgate a final rule in the spring to early summer of 1990. EPA Contact Person John Anderson (313) 668-4496 (FTS) 374-8496 55 ------- LEAD ATTAINMENT PROGRAM Background While the Agency has demonstrated commendable success in reducing ambient lead concentrations nationwide through its lead-in-gasoline phase-down program, violations of the lead NAAQS have been observed around point sources. There are currently 4 primary lead smelters and 23 secondary lead smelters; many of these facilities are experiencing exceedances of the 1.5/z/nr ambient standard. Current Status Measures to ensure attainment of the lead NAAQS are being aggressively pursued. Since ambient air quality data are reported for only about half of the secondary smelters, the Agency is expanding the monitoring network in order to assess the true lead attainment posture. Another activity involves the assessment of feasibility for remedial actions and the application thereof. Such actions may be categorized as rulemaking, policy development, SIP revision, enforcement and compliance procedures, etc. Lead contacts have been identified in each Regional Office for those States having sources of lead emissions. Strategy development is under way. In addition, the Agency is embarking on a program of identification of sources of lead emissions other than smelting (e.g., battery manufacturing and reclaiming, waste incineration). Future Milestones Establish and operate monitors around the secondary smelters for which air quality is not currently collected -- summer 1991 Develop strategy to bring violating smelters into attainment -- winter 1990 Identify additional sources of lead emissions -- summer 1991 EPA Contact Person Martha Smith (919) 541-5314 (FTS) 629-5314 56 ------- VISIBILITY PROTECTION Background Ambient Standards On July 1, 1987, EPA rescinded the TSP-based secondary national ambient air quality standard for particulate matter and instituted PM-10-based 24-hour and annual secondary standards to protect against soiling and nuisance effects. On the same date, EPA published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking which solicited comment regarding the development of a secondary national ambient air quality standard for fine particles (those less than 2.5 micrometers in aerodynam- ic diameter). The principal welfare effect to be addressed by such a standard is impairment of visibility. Class I Area Protection Visibility rules to protect visual air quality in Federal Class I areas were promulgated by EPA on December 2, 1980. These rules were based on the require- ments of section 169A of the Clean Air Act. In 1982, the Environmental Defense Fund (EOF) sued EPA to implement the visibility rules for States that had not submitted State implementation plans (SIP's). Because EPA has a nondiscretionary duty under section 110(c) of the Clean Air Act to implement rules for those States which fail to do so, EPA entered into a settlement agreement with EOF to implement the December 1980 visibility rules in three parts. The first part, completed in July 1985, established a monitoring strategy and new source review procedures for visibility impacts in the Class I areas. The second part, completed in November 1987, established: (1) a long-term strategy for visibility protection which included periodic review of the SIP's to ensure progress in remedying existing problems and preventing future problems, and (2) protection for specific views (integral vistas) which extend beyond the borders of the Roosevelt-Campobello International Park (RCIP). The third part required EPA to address existing impairments in seven Class I areas which can be reasonably attributed to a specific source or group of sources. The settlement agreement was revised to allow EPA to address the existing impairment in two parts. The agreement required EPA to propose decisions on impairments in four of the Class I areas by August 31, 1988 and to propose decisions for the three remaining Class I areas by August 31, 1989. On September 5, 1989 EPA proposed 1) not to revise the implementation plans for Maine and Utah to address visibility impairments in the Moosehorn Wilderness and Canyonlands National Parks and 2) to attribute a significant portion of the visibility impairment in Grand Canyon National Park to the Navajo Generating Station. More recent revisions to the settlement agreement allow EPA until February 1, 1991 to propose emission limits for any source identified as a significant contributor to visibility impairment in the Grand Canyon National Park. The EPA, along with other Federal agencies, has created a technical steering committee called the Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments Committee (IMPROVE) to oversee the Federal monitoring effort. The EPA has set aside a portion of the section 105 grant funds to operate the monitoring network. The EPA has agreed to fund the program through FY 1990. 57 ------- VISIBILITY PROTECTION Current Status Ambient Standards At this time, EPA is reviewing comments made in response to the advance notice of proposed rulemaking for a fine particle standard. The Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc., filed suit on the PM-10 rulemaking which, in part, challenges EPA's decision to defer action on a possible fine particle secondary standard to protect visibility. This case was combined with other suits on the PM-10 standards. Oral arguments for the combined case took place on December 14, 1989. Class I Area Protection The EPA has prepared a notice of proposed rulemaking which establishes new emission limits for the Navajo Generating Station representing best available retrofit technology to remedy certified visibility impairments in the Grand Canyon National Park. It is anticipated that this proposal will be published in the spring of 1990. The EPA has joined the National Academy of Sciences review of visibility impairment attribution science. The first meeting took place March 27- 28, 1990. The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for June 3-6, 1990. Future Actions Ambient Standards The EPA is continuing its assessment of the need for a possible fine particle secondary ambient air quality standard. Current activities include updating EPA's assessment of the scientific literature and developing methodologies to assess alternative approaches. The EPA is analyzing visibility changes that could result from acid rain requirements under the new Clean Air Act in conjunction with the National Acid Precipitation Assessment Program. Class I Area Protection In accordance with the terms of the settlement agreement, the EPA will promulgate by June 6, 1990 its findings that revisions to the implementation plans for Maine and Utah are unnecessary at this time to address visibility impairments in Moosehorn Wilderness, Maine, and Canyonlands National Park, Utah. EPA Contact Persons Ambient Standards Bruce Polkowsky (919) 541-5532 (FTS) 629-5532 Class I Areas Denise Scott (919) 541-0870 (FTS) 629-0870 58 ------- CHEMICAL MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION (CMA) RULEMAKING Background In 1982, EPA negotiated a Settlement Agreement with the CMA stemming from litigation over regulations for prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) and nonattainment area new source review that EPA promulgated on August 7, 1980. The EPA agreed to propose revisions to the 1980 regulations according to the changes listed in two parts of the Settlement Agreement (Exhibit A and Exhibit B). In August 1983, EPA proposed Exhibit A changes related to fugitive emissions, Federal enforceability, definition of "significant," innovative control technology waivers, secondary emissions, offset banking, prior source shutdowns, and health and welfare equivalence. In a subsequent action, final action on fugitive emissions was taken by EPA in October 1984. Final rulemaking on the Exhibit A portion of the CMA Settlement Agreement was published June 28, 1989. With regard to Exhibit B, the changes to be proposed would allow sources to compute emissions reduction credits for netting and offsetting as the difference between an old and a new (or modified) emissions unit's potential to emit on an hourly basis. [The 1980 regulations required that emissions reduction credits be computed as the difference in typical actual emissions and new actuals (which, by definition, if a unit has not commenced normal operations, is its potential to emit) on an annual basis.] Work on the Exhibit B rulemaking has been suspended several times since 1982, primarily due to resource shortages within EPA. Current Status The EPA is currently analyzing the environmental and economic impacts of promulgating the revisions stipulated in Exhibit B of the CMA Settlement Agreement, as well as other regulatory alternatives that have been identified. A work group was formed in 1988 to review the results of the analyses conducted to support proposed rulemaking. This work group consists of representatives from EPA Headquarters and the EPA Regional Offices. EPA Contact Persons David Solomon (919) 541-5375 (FTS) 629-5375 Dennis Crumpler (919) 541-0871 (FTS) 629-0871 59 ------- NOX PSD INCREMENTS Background In early 1987, EPA was ordered by the court to develop prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) regulations for nitrogen oxides (NOy). The PSD increments for nitrogen dioxide (N02) were proposed on February 8, 1988 and promulgated on October 17, 1988. Two petitions for reconsideration were received, one of which was later dropped. Oral arguments on the petition by the Sierra Club were presented on November 6, 1989. Current Status On March 13, 1990, the regulation was remanded to EPA for further study. The court did not, however, stay the regulation, and no time limit was placed on the response. The court determined that the annual N02 increments promulgated by EPA met the requirements of section 166(d) of the Clean Air Act to be "at least as effective as" those for S02 and PM. However, the court was concerned that the "goals and purposes" of section 166(c) of the Act may not have been met by not addressing short-term concentrations and other N02 species such as nitrates. The EPA is developing draft guidance for implementing the annual N02 increments on 1) SIP and delegation agreement revisions, 2) setting up and maintaining NOv emission inventories, and 3) gathering the data needed for ambient air quality analyses. Future Activities Regional Office comments on the draft guidance will be incorporated into the final guidance documents, which should become available for distribution to Regional and State permit review authorities within the next few months. Review of SIP and delegation agreement revisions is in progress. States have until July 17, 1990 to submit SIP revisions and EPA then has until November 17, 1990 to review and approve (or disapprove) them. EPA Contact Person Eric Noble (919) 541-5362 (FTS) 629-5362 60 ------- PM-10 PSD INCREMENTS Background On July 1, 1987 (52 FR 24634), EPA promulgated revised national ambient air quality standards for particulate matter. In making this revision, EPA established a new indicator based on particles nominally 10 microns and less in diameter (PM-10) to replace the total suspended particulate (TSP) indicator for both the primary and secondary standards. However, EPA did not change the TSP indicator for the prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) increments for particulate matter, and announced its intent to promulgate, in a subsequent rulemaking, PM-10 increments which would be equivalent to the existing TSP increments. Current Status The rulemaking package proposing PSD increments for PM-10 was published in the Federal Register on October 5, 1989 (54 FR 41218). The public comment period ended on February 5, 1990, with 22 comments (including five State air pollution control agencies) being received. The EPA is now reviewing these comments and is preparing a final rulemaking package. Future Activities Promulgation of final PSD increments for PM-10 is now scheduled to occur in late 1990 or early 1991. The PM-10 increments would then become effective 1 year after their date of promulgation, as required by section 166 of the Clean Air Act. States will have 9 months from the effective date to adopt the new increments and submit reviewed plans to EPA for approval. When EPA approves a State's revision to its PSD SIP (containing new PM-10 increments), all TSP area designations within the jurisdiction of such SIP will also be deleted. Consequently, in any area where a TSP area designation no longer exists, Class II and III TSP increments will not apply. For mandatory Federal Class I areas, increments are not tied to the area designation process. The EPA intends to allow States to implement the new Class I PM-10 increments as a surrogate for the existing Class I TSP increments, assuming they are equally protective of the Class I areas of concern. EPA Contact Person Dan DeRoeck (919) 541-5593 (FTS) 629-5593 61 ------- RULEMAKING PROPOSAL FOR STRIP MINES AND RELATED FUGITIVE DUST ISSUES Background On August 7, 1980, EPA listed 30 source categories for which inclusion of fugitive emissions in new source review applicability determinations was necessary. Surface coal mines were not included on this list. As a result, the Sierra Club sued EPA to compel listing. In response, EPA proposed, on October 26, 1984, that surface coal mines be listed, pursuant to the criteria set forth for section 302(j) rulemaking. Current Status/Future Milestones A decision by EPA to not add surface coal mines to the list of sources for which fugitive emissions are included in major source determinations was published in the Federal Register on November 28, 1989. On January 25, 1990, the Sierra Club filed a petition for reconsideration of EPA's decision in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. The petition has been consolidated with the still open National Coal Association v. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (No. 84-1609 and consolidated cases). A court schedule for the case is expected to be set in April 1990. Congress is also considering Clean Air Act Amendments that relate to fugitive emissions from surface coal mines, which may legislatively resolve the issue. EPA Contact Person Bill Lamason (919) 541-5374 (FTS) 629-5374 62 ------- NEW SOURCE REVIEW (NSR) BULLETIN BOARD Background/Current Status Federal policy determinations play a very significant role in the everyday implementation by States and locals of EPA's prevention of significant deterioration and nonattainment area new source review programs. In August 1988, EPA established an electronic NSR Bulletin Board which is available for use by State/local agencies implementing the NSR regulations. This Bulletin Board allows the user to: access a listing and summary of EPA's NSR program policy and guidance memorandums; obtain a complete copy of recent reference memorandums; obtain a current listing of EPA program contacts; and send and receive messages within general and specific categories. State/local agencies should contact their Regional NSR Contact for a copy of the user's manual. User Summary Through March 29. 1990 Cumulative Total Users 70 Cumulative Total State/Local Users 53 Number of Times Bulletin Board Accessed 1,154 Cumulative Number of Messages on Bulletin Board 72 Cumulative Number of Policy/Guidance Files for Downloading 46 The EPA has a project under way to revamp the Bulletin Board to make it more interactive and user friendly. The revised Bulletin Board is expected to be on line by May 1990. Service to the private sector will become available by mid- summer 1990. EPA Contact Persons David Solomon (919) 541-5375 (FTS) 629-5375 Dennis Crumpler (919) 541-0871 (FTS) 629-0871 63 ------- ACID RAIN IMPLEMENTATION OVERVIEW Background In March 1990, the Senate reached a compromise with the Administration (S.1630) which would amend the Clean Air Act. This bill would establish a program to curtail acidic deposition by reducing emissions of sulfur dioxide (SOo) and nitrogen oxides (NOX) primarily from power plants by approximately 10 million tons and 2 million tons, respectively, from 1980 levels. To achieve these reductions, the bill would impose technology-based emission limits for NOX, and in two phases, would allocate S02 allowances to affected utility units. In Phase I, the bill lists allowances for 111 plants (263 listed units) based on 2.5 pounds per million BTU (Ibs/MMBtu) and 1985-87 MMBtu/year heat input (baseline) of the unit. Units must comply by Jan 1, 1995. In Phase II, all utility units are covered - seven categories of units, with seven distinct allowance calculations. These units generally must meet their baseline times 1.2 Ibs/MMBtu by January 1, 2000. So that required emission reductions may be achieved in the most cost effective manner possible, the bill relies on a market-based concept permitting the trading of SO? allowances among affected units. Progress and compliance would be measured through the operation of continuous emission monitoring systems or acceptable alternative methods. A $2,000 excess emissions fee would be charged for every ton of SOg emissions a unit emits over its allowance. Current Status Efforts are under way within EPA to ensure that all necessary technical specifications and program requirements will be available within the schedule provided in both the House and Senate Clean Air Act bills. EPA Contact Person Brian McLean (202) 475-9400 (FTS) 475-9400 64 ------- ACID RAIN IMPLEMENTATION - EMISSIONS MONITORING AND TRACKING SYSTEMS Background The Senate compromise amendments to the Clean Air Act require EPA to promulgate emission monitoring regulations within 18 months of enactment for sources subject to the bill. Within 3 years of enactment, each Phase I affected unit must install and operate continuous emission monitors (CEMS) or an acceptable alternative method, quality assure the data for S02, NC" , opacity and volumetric flow and keep records and reports pursuant to the promulgated regulations. By January 1, 1995, each source subject to this title must install and operate CEMS (or an acceptable alternative). Unavailable CEMS data would be treated as if the unit were uncontrolled, unless the unit can provide satisfactory alternative emissions data. Information reported from these systems will be used for tracking compliance with source-specific emissions allowances, for monitoring the trading of emissions allowances, and for calculating excess emission fees mandated by the bill. Existing programs and regulations governing the use of CEMS and continuous emission rate monitors (CERMS) are expected to provide valuable material for new regulations prescribing CERMS or acceptable alternative methods under the acid deposition control program. This includes existing requirements under applicable new source performance standards in 40 CFR Part 60 and State implementation plans as provided in Appendix P to 40 CFR Part 51. The mandate in the Senate bill to monitor emissions as mass per unit of time impose certain additional technical requirements. Current Status Efforts are under way within EPA to ensure that all necessary technical specifications and program requirements will be available within the schedule provided in both the House and Senate Clean Air Act bills. Future Milestones The EPA would propose emission monitoring and reporting rules 9 months after enactment, and promulgate final rules 18 months after enactment. EPA Contact Person John Schakenbach (202) 475-8545 (FTS) 475-8545 65 ------- ACID RAIN IMPLEMENTATION ALLOWANCE TRADING Background The Senate bill to revise the Clean Air Act mandates reduction in emissions of sulfur dioxide (S02) to curtail acidic deposition. In so doing, the bill does not mandate specific controls on affected sources, but relies on a market-oriented program which permits plant owners or operators to determine the most cost- effective means to comply. Implementation of the Acid Rain Title requirements is accomplished through the issuance of allowances to each unit affected under the bill. Allowances constitute permission for each affected unit to emit specified quantities of SOg, expressed in tons per year. Allowances are freely transferrable among affected sources, so that a source finding it more cost- effective not to reduce its emissions on-site but rather to purchase additional reductions from another facility may do so. In Phase I of the program, affected sources are facilities having units with rated capacity in excess of 100 megawatts (MW) and annual emission rates in excess of 2.5 pounds of SO? per million British therm units (Ib/MMBtu). In Phase II, all utility units are affected sources. Calculation of allowances is accomplished by multiplying an applicable emission rate by the affected unit's annual fuel consumption for the calendar years 1985-1987, as reported to the Department of Energy through its Form 767, along with other factors for growth considerations. The results are expressed as allowable emissions in tons per year. Allowances may be transferred only within each of two geographic regions for existing units; new units may obtain allowances from anywhere in the country. No interpollutant trading is allowed. Sources emitting at levels below their allowances are not obligated to transfer these reductions, but may bank them against compliance with future control requirements. Allowance reserves would be established, and EPA would sell allowances for $1500/ton, as well as conduct allowance auctions. Current Status Efforts are under way within EPA to better define the structure of the allowance trading market, the tracking systems needed to support and facilitate trading, and the necessary compliance tracking and reporting requirements. A study was recently completed by an EPA contractor concerning allowance tracking concepts and should be useful in establishing the initial program. Future Milestones Under the Senate bill, EPA must promulgate regulations on the allowance system within 18 months of enactment. The EPA plans to meet with State and local agency representatives, representatives from the utility industry, and other organizations on a continuing basis to ensure the maximum possible flexibility in allowance trading. EPA Contact Person Brian Mclean (202) 475-9400 (FTS) 475-9400 66 ------- ACID RAIN IMPLEMENTATION - PERMITS AND INTEGRATION WITH EXISTING PROGRAMS Background Operating permit programs are mandated by two titles of the Senate's proposed Clean Air Act Amendments (S.1630). Title V, Permits, requires EPA to promulgate regulations within 12 months after enactment setting forth requirements for State operating permit programs. These programs are intended to provide an expedited procedure for managing stationary source emission limits and, as such, supplant a major portion of the existing State implementation plans (SIPs) with respect to these emission limitations and related monitoring and compliance provisions. States are required to submit permit programs to EPA for approval within 3 years after enactment. Under Title IV, Acid Deposition Control, EPA is required to promulgate regulations within 18 months after enactment, governing Federal permits to be issued in Phase I (and in Phase II for States without an approved permit p'-ogram). Individual source owners are required to submit Phase I permit applications and compliance plans to EPA under this program within 30 months after enactment. These permits will establish the basis for implementation of Phase I, including the trading of allowances among sources affected in Phase I. By January 1, 1994, each Phase II affected source must submit a permit application and compliance plan to the permitting authority. By July 1, 1995, each State with an approved permit program shall issue Phase II permits. By July 1, 1996, EPA shall issue permits to Phase II sources not issued a State permit. Current Status In its identification of critical permitting issues, EPA has targeted several general subject areas for further investigation: The need to establish a bridge between the SIP and the permit program under Titles IV and V to avoid duplicative requirements and inconsistencies. The need to integrate Title IV and V permit programs to ensure that substantive requirements, schedules, and procedural requirements operate harmoniously across related effects categories, i.e., acid deposition, regional visibility, national ambient air quality standards, ozone nonattainment (where relevant to control of nitrogen oxides), and particulate nonattainment (where sulfate contributions may be significant). The need to establish a balance early in the program development process between an enforceable permit program and maximum flexibility in implementing the allowance trading provisions of Title IV. The need for effective communications among the participating EPA offices as well as State and local air agencies in the analysis of key implementation issues and in the development of permit program requirements. 67 ------- ACID RAIN IMPLEMENTATION - PERMITS AND INTEGRATION WITH EXISTING PROGRAMS Future Milestones The EPA is continuing its investigations into opportunities for improved integration of related regulatory programs with acid deposition requirements, and will be meeting with State air agencies throughout the legislative process to ensure development of programs responsive to the needs of State agencies. EPA Contact Person John Schakenbach (202) 475-8545 (FTS) 475-8545 68 ------- STATE ACID RAIN PROGRAM (STAR PROJECT) Background The Final Report of the State Acid Rain (STAR) Program documents a 4-year, $3 million effort that was initiated by Congress and managed by EPA to explore with State governments the issues posed by various acid rain control proposals. When the STAR Program was conceived in 1983, most congressional proposals envisioned controlling acid rain by utilizing existing State implementation plans that were intended to control conventional ambient air pollutants. Under the STAR program, State governments examined possible implementation control issues in a "policy-neutral" manner, i.e. without taking any position on the need for additional emission controls. Thus, the STAR projects and the congressional acid rain debate evolved together. This Final Report documents significant implementation issues associated with a State-based approach to controlling acid rain. These issues arise primarily because of a mismatch between the wide geographic scale of the acid rain problem, the multistate nature of the principal sources of emission (e.g., multistate utilities), and the jurisdictional limitations of State and local air pollution control agencies and public utility commissions. While illustrating the difficulties of relying on the traditional State implementation plan approach, this Final Report points to the need for a break with previous control approaches and suggests more efficient approaches to achieve clean air goals. The President's acid rain control proposal (Title V of the Administration's Clean Air Act Amendments) combines the lessons learned in the STAR Program with the advantages of a market-based approach to pollution control. The STAR recommendations dealing with program design, timing of implementation, energy conservation, and interstate coordination are combined with market-based approaches to facilitate emissions trading and to encourage conservation and clean coal technology in the President's proposal. The STAR Program is separate from the Administration's ongoing acid rain research effort being conducted under the National Acid Precipitation Assessment Program (NAPAP). The NAPAP is evaluating the causes and effects of acid deposition and is due to be completed by September, 1990. Current Status In March 1989, the Final Report of the State Acid Rain Program with Appendices was completed. The third printing is currently available from: David Bassett, OAR Acid Rain Staff ANR-445 U. S. Environmental Protection Agency 401 M Street S.W. Washington, D.C. 20460 EPA Contact Person David Bassett (202) 475-9307 (FTS) 475-9307 Eric Ginsburg (919) 541-0877 (FTS) 629-0877 69 ------- U.S. - CANADA BILATERAL AIR QUALITY ACCORD DISCUSSIONS Background/Current Status President Bush, in his first trip outside the U.S. after assuming office, travelled to Canada to meet with Prime Minister Mulroney on February 10, 1989. While in Canada, the President committed the U.S. to pursuing a bilateral air accord with the Canadian Government. In his address before a joint session of Congress on February 9, the President outlined his plan to submit Clean Air Act legislation, including acid rain controls, within a short period of time. The President's Clean Air Act proposal was submitted to Congress in July 1989. Preliminary meetings have been held between the U. S. and Canadian Governments on the outline of an air quality accord. Formal negotiations will not commence until the Clean Air Act is passed in the U.S. The U.S. team is headed by the State Department, with EPA, and the Departments of Energy and Commerce participating. The draft outline of the accord creates a framework for the consideration of various bilateral air pollution problems. Currently, sulfur dioxide is the only specific pollutant that is named in the draft framework. The major thrust of the acid rain provisions of the President's Clean Air Act proposal is a 10 million ton annual reduction in emissions of sulfur dioxide. The Canadian Government already has an acid rain control program, which calls for sources in the eastern provinces to cut emissions of sulfur dioxide by 50 percent (off 1980 levels) by 1994. The draft accord contains provisions for joint research and monitoring efforts, as well as the production of periodic progress reports. Future Milestones Formal negotiations on the bilateral air quality accord will take place once amendments to the Clean Air Act are passed. Working level technical discussions on specific issues may take place later this spring or early this summer. EPA Contact Person Brian McLean (202) 475-9400 (FTS) 475-9400 Dennis Leaf (202) 475-9306 (FTS) 475-9306 70 ------- STATUS OF THE CLEAN COAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM Background In March 1985, then President, Ronald Reagan, and Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney agreed to appoint high level Special Envoys to examine acid rain issues and to submit a report. That report recommended, among other things, a $5 billion, 5-year innovative control technology demonstration program in the United States. The emphasis was on the commercial-scale demonstration of those emerging technologies that could reduce emissions from existing high sulfur coal burning facilities. This "Clean Coal Technology" (CCT) Program has been established at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). To date, DOE has issued three CCT solicitations. These documents are requests for project proposals meeting certain criteria. Eligible projects would receive up to 50 percent Federal funding. The average Federal funding contribution through Rounds 1 and 2 has been 42 percent. So far, approximately $1.35 billion in Federal money has been obligated to the DOE Clean Coal Technology Program. Current Status DOE received 48 proposals in response to the third solicitation. From these 48 proposals, DOE has selected 13 Round 3 CCT projects for Federal cost sharing. Program Opportunity Notice Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Round 5 2/86 2/88 5/89 6/90* 9/91* Projects Selected for Funding 12 16 13 15* 15* Cooperative Agreements Signed bv 12/89 8 1 0 0 0 Total: (*) Expected. 72* 9 (**) Advanced appropriations, Approximate Federal Funding (in mill ions) $400 $575 $540 $600** $600** $2,715* The DOE CCT program is not the only program demonstrating CCT. Clean coal technologies are being funded and tested by other Federal agencies (including EPA), private organizations, State governments, the Tennessee Valley Authority, and other countries: West Germany, Japan, China, England, Sweden, Austria, Netherlands and possibly others. Future Milestones The Round 4 Program Opportunity Notice (PON) is expected to be issued in June 1990. It is expected that the Round 5 PON would be issued in September 1991. Upon completion of awards in FY 1992, total DOE CCT Program Federal funding will be approximately $2.75 billion. 71 ------- STATUS OF THE CLEAN COAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM The EPA expects to issue an interpretative ruling this spring which would exempt, subject to certain safeguards, many CCT projects from new source performance standards and new source review requirements. Both the Senate and House proposed Clean Air Act Amendments would exempt, subject to certain safeguards, CCT projects from new source performance standards and new source review. EPA Contact Person John Schakenbach (202) 475-8545 (FTS) 475-8545 72 ------- STACK HEIGHT LITIGATION Background On February 8, 1982, EPA issued regulations restricting the use of tall stacks and other dispersion techniques as methods by which national ambient air quality standards could be attained. These regulations implement section 123 of the 1977 Clean Air Act Amendments. The 1982 regulations were challenged in court and portions were reversed or remanded to EPA. On July 5, 1985, the revised regulations were published. Portions of the 1985 regulations were subsequently challenged. On January 22, 1988 the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit issued its opinion in NRDC v. Thomas, 838 F.2d 1224 (D.C. Cir. 1988). The Court upheld the 1985 regulations, except for three provisions which were remanded for further consideration and rulemaking. These provisions allow dispersion credit for: 1. Pre-1/79 original construction stacks using H + 1.5L; 2. Pre-10/83 within formula stack height increases; and 3. Merged stacks in original construction. In March 1988, five petitions for rehearing were filed. All five petitions were denied in April 1988. In June and July 1988, industry groups filed petitions requesting review by the U.S. Supreme Court of the D.C. Court of Appeals decision. On October 11, 1988, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review the case. Current Status/Future Milestones An EPA work group has been formed to draft a proposal notice in response to the remand mentioned above. At this time, EPA is monitoring the impact of potential Clean Air Act Amendments on section 123 requirements and there is no definite schedule for completion of the proposal notice. EPA Contact Person Doug Grano (919) 541-5255 (FTS) 629-5255 73 ------- SULFUR DIOXIDE GUIDELINE Background Over approximately two decades, programs for control of several criteria pollutants have undergone periodic revisions to account for changes in the forms and/or concentration levels of certain national ambient air quality standards. Among these programs, the program experiencing the least change has been that pertaining to sulfur dioxide (SOo). As a result, planning and implementation policy for S02 control have remained relatively stable, without the periodic issuance of comprehensive guidelines that has occurred in other programs such as ozone and PM-10. Consequently, there was no current, comprehensive compilation of policies and guidance for preparation and review of S02 State implementation plans. With the Administration's proposed amendments to the Clean Air Act and associated changes in the way air quality management programs would be carried out, there has arisen a need to evaluate a number of the Agency's major pollutant control programs in order to ascertain changes that would be needed to comply with a revised Clean Air Act. This effort has resulted in the preparation of the "S02 Guideline," a compilation and summary of currently applicable policy and guidance related to S02 control. The document focuses on preparation and review of S02 State implementation plans (SIP's), but includes summary information pertaining to certain aspects of related programs, such as new source performance standards. As such, the guideline is not intended to establish new or revised policy, but rather to restate in a convenient manner existing policies and guidance relevant to control of SOo. For more detailed guidance and for purposes of citation in regulatory decision making, users are referred to the original materials from which the document was prepared. Copies of some of the original documents are contained in the guideline appendices. Current Status/Future Milestones The final version of the guideline has been distributed to key staff in each of EPA's ten Regional Offices and has been provided to State and local air pollution control agencies. Any necessary revisions to the guideline will be distributed in a similar manner. At least one, and possibly several, workshops are anticipated over the course of the next fiscal year to assist States, locals, and Regional Offices in introducing new personnel to S02 SIP requirements. EPA Contact Person Gretchen Hume (919) 541-0642 (FTS) 629-0642 74 ------- RULE EFFECTIVENESS SUMMARY Background On March 31, 1988, EPA's Stationary Source Compliance Division (SSCD) sent a memo to all the Regional Air Division Directors on the implementation of the Rule Effectiveness Study. The memorandum stated that the implementation of the protocol would begin in FY 1989, and that each Region should commit to at least one rule effectiveness evaluation in an ozone nonattainment area. Since the memorandum was sent, each Region has taken on a study in their area. The protocols were developed for each study and submitted to SSCD for review and approval. After SSCD's approval was granted, each Region proceeded with the study. The initial due date for submittal of the final report was 9/30/89; however, due to the lateness of the initiation of the study within each Region, the date was extended to December 31, 1989. To date, SSCD has only received three reports (from Regions I, IV, and IX) on the study. Based on the teleconference call SSCD conducted with the Regions on January 11, 1990, most Regions indicated that they expect to complete their final reports by March, 1990, at which time they would submit them to SSCD for review. However, to date SSCD has not received any more studies. Due to the lateness of the Regions submitting their reports, SSCD sent out a memorandum to all the Regional Air Directors and Branch Chiefs during the week of April 2, reminding them of their previous commitments to the program and requesting that they submit their FY 1989 studies and FY 1990 protocols by April 16, 1990. Current Status The current status of the Region's FY 1989 reports is as follows: Region I - The FY 1989 study was conducted on Miscellaneous Metal Parts in Connecticut. They are currently waiting to receive the rest of the section 114 letters that were sent out before completing the report. Inspections are near completion. Region II - The FY 1989 study was done on the Gasoline Marketing Industry in New York and New Jersey. The inspections by both the Region and the States have been completed, and the report should be submitted to SSCD by mid-April. Region III - This study consisted of Stage I Vapor Recovery. The Region has completed the study and is completing the report; SSCD should receive the report by mid-April. Region IV - This study focused on the Auto Coating Industry. The SSCD received their report and found it to be very comprehensive. Most of the sources in the report demonstrated that they were in compliance with the regulations. Region V - This study focused on the Miscellaneous Metal Parts Industry. The inspections have been completed and Region is waiting to receive the rest of the section 114 letters. 75 ------- RULE EFFECTIVENESS SUMMARY Region VI - The Storage Tanks studies were conducted in both Louisiana, and Austin, Texas. The report on the study which was done in Louisiana should be submitted to SSCD in the near future. The project was interrupted due to an emergency toxics study the State had to undertake. The study which was done in Austin, Texas, was also held back due to limited resources. This report will be submitted later on in the spring. Region VII - This study was done on Stage I Vapor Recovery in Kansas City. The report will be submitted within the next month. Region VIII - The State of Utah completed the study on External Floating Roofs and submitted it to SSCD in January/February, 1990. The study discovered deficiencies in the regulations and the emission inventory estimates and also in the enforcement program. The State of Colorado conducted a study on Pharmaceutical Synthesis. The report should be completed during the month of April 1990. Region IX - This study was conducted on the Aerospace Industry. The report was completed and submitted to SSCD in January 1990. The study found deficiencies in the aerospace industry regulations which were common to other surface coating regulations. A high noncompliance rate under section 114 of the Clean Air Act was also found. Region X - This study consisted of an overlap in years from a previous study Region X had begun, flowing into FY 1989 when the Rule Effectiveness studies began. These studies consisted of Kraft and sulfur pulp mills, aluminum plants, surface coating, and particulate matter. Results of these studies will be completed and submitted to SSCD during the month of April 1990. The status of the FY 1990 reports include: FY 1990 protocols have been received from Region I on the Perchloroethylene Dry Cleaning Industry in Massachusetts, and from Region III on the Graphic Arts Industry in Richmond, Virginia. The protocol from Region I has been reviewed by SSCD and will be sent out to the review team during the week of March 26, 1990. EPA Contact Persons Karen Randolph/Laxmi Kesari (202) 382-2835 (FTS) 382-2835 76 ------- FY 1990 COMPLIANCE MONITORING STRATEGY Background The EPA issued the Compliance Monitoring Strategy (CMS) on March 31, 1988. Issuance of the strategy was the culmination of a multiyear effort focusing on some very important issues raised about the inspection grant program and EPA's Inspection Frequency Guidance. Features of the CMS that address these issues are: (1) the ability to address local air pollution concerns, (2) the use of inspection targeting, (3) the accounting for the total inspection activity, and (4) the focus on national priorities through a State/EPA negotiation process. Current Status The Compliance Monitoring Strategy replaced the Inspection Frequency Guidance in FY 1989 and continues in FY 1990. The strategy requires EPA and the State to negotiate a State inspection plan that addresses national priorities and spells out FY 1990 inspection commitments. Sources in the negotiated inspection plans are generally flagged in EPA's Compliance Data System (CDS). Training in the use of the inspection targeting model portion of the CMS has been conducted and continued support is being offered. A program that downloads CDS data directly into the Inspection Targeting Program was made available to CMS users. The EPA has completed a study on how to get wider acceptance and implementation of the CMS. The report has been incorporated into the process to investigate revising the CMS for FY 1992. Future Milestones Analysis of the first full year under the CMS will occur in FY 1990. A work group has been formed to investigate revising the CMS for FY 1992. The starting point from which the work group is moving is the impediments to the implementation of CMS that were identified during FY 1989. The proposed revisions should be ready by October 1990. EPA Contact Person Howard Wright (202) 475-7034 (FTS) 475-7034 77 ------- ASBESTOS NESHAP STRATEGY Background On March 31, 1988, EPA issued a revised Asbestos National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) Strategy. The original strategy,-issued on April 6, 1984 intended to promote 100 percent compliance through the implemen- tation of an inspection plan. According to the 1984 strategy, an inspection plan could consist of inspecting "all sources, all contractors, or any other program consistent with the Agency goal of 100 percent compliance." Because the annual notification rate had risen to over 50,000 by FY 1988, it is no longer feasible for most agencies to inspect all sites. Inspecting all contractors may have been the best alternative for an effective inspection plan under the 1984 strategy, however, the 1984 strategy did not fully describe how such a plan would be implemented. After auditing three Regional asbestos NESHAP enforcement programs, the Inspector General's Office remarked that the 1984 strategy "does not provide additional criteria for developing an effective inspection strategy." The revised strategy provides criteria for targeting inspections among a field of an estimated 5,000 contractors as opposed to selecting inspection sites from over 50,000 notifications. Inspection efforts focused on contractors should result in a more resource-effective enforcement program. Appendix A of the strategy establishes a computerized asbestos NESHAP compliance tracking system called the National Asbestos Registry System (NARS). Regions are expected to send quarterly reports of the data elements defined in Appendix A to Headquarters, preferably through electronic transmission. The aggregated nationwide data base will be used to target inspections and promote enforcement as described in the 1988 strategy. Current Status As of February, 1990, EPA had released four reports from the NARS. The reports contained information on notifications, inspections, and compliance for every asbestos contractor who submitted one or more notifications of NESHAP covered activity in FY 1989. The NARS reports have been distributed to delegated States to help them target inspections based upon contractor compliance history. The reports have also been used to extract information for senior agency management on the status of the asbestos program. Future Milestones The EPA is in the final stages of collecting data for a fifth NARS report. This report will contain data for FY 1989 and the first quarter of FY 1990. During FY 1990, EPA will assist and encourage delegated agencies to increase their use of NARS data as one basis for inspection targeting. 78 ------- ASBESTOS NESHAP STRATEGY EPA Contact Persons For Policy Questions and Applicability Determinations: Scott Throwe (202) 475-7002 (FTS) 475-7002 Technical Issues: Omayra Salgado (202) 382-2837 (FTS) 382-2837 National Asbestos Registry System (NARS): Mark Antell (202) 382-2878 (FTS) 382-2878 79 ------- DEVELOPMENT OF COMPLIANCE PROGRAM OPERATING GUIDANCE Background The compliance program operating guidance, developed by the Stationary Source Compliance Division (SSCD) of EPA's Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, reconstructs the procedures and goals of the current EPA/State compliance program planning process. The principal objective is to establish procedures (1) that give each State more freedom and flexibility to establish compliance program goals and commitments suitable to the unique circumstances in that State, and (2) that result in a comprehensive annual compliance program plan which reflects EPA and State agreement and which optimizes the use of Federal and State resources to accomplish both Federal and State goals. To accomplish these objectives, each State will be asked to develop a proposed compliance program plan each year which addresses and balances State and Federal priorities, which evaluates compliance program problems and needs and proposes specific strategies to address them, and which proposes specific objectives and commitments for the year with detailed information on how the objectives will be achieved. Current Status The guidance has been prepared in draft and sent to all Regions, STAPPA/ALAPCO, some States, and other EPA program offices for comment. Comments were received and the guidance is currently being redrafted incorporating the concerns which were applicable. Comments which were not appropriate for inclusion into the redrafted guidance will be referred to one of the appropriate work groups formed for the future direction of the SSCD's program activities for further discussion. The redrafted version of the guidance will be discussed with the EPA Regional Branch Chiefs at the April 1990 meeting and with the EPA Regional Division Directors in June. The redrafted guidance will again be sent to the Regions, STAPPA/ALAPCO, States, and other EPA program offices for further comment. The SSCD is soliciting volunteers for a pilot program (2-3 State/local agencies) to begin in FY 1991. Future Milestones 4/90 Final draft to Regions for review and comment. 6/90 Final draft to Regions for beginning pilots in FY 1991. FY91 Feedback from pilots, final draft guidance revised based on pilot implementation. FY92 and beyond - final guidance prepared and sent to Regions for implementation. EPA Contact Person Mickey Post (202) 382-2869 (FTS) 382-2869 80 ------- STATIONARY SOURCE COMPLIANCE INSPECTOR TRAINING PROGRAM Background The EPA Order 3500.1, effective June 29, 1988, and the Air-Specific Inspector Training Plan for the Stationary Source Control Program, dated February 1989, require EPA compliance inspectors to complete certain prescribed training programs before leading an inspection. State and local air pollution control agencies are encouraged to establish similar inspector training plans and inspection improvement programs. The training plan for stationary source inspectors includes basic courses on compliance inspection fundamentals and health and safety that all Agency inspectors must take, in addition to a series of program-minimum, air- specific courses tailored to develop the technical knowledge and skills needed for conducting quality stationary sources compliance inspections. The EPA order and the air-specific training plan provide for alternative training and limited exception (waiver) of training requirements on a course-by-course basis, mainly for experienced inspectors, based on training and experience. A network of Regional and Headquarters air inspector training coordinators meet monthly through conference calls to discuss program implementation activities/issues. An informal air inspector training advisory group which includes representatives from various State and local agencies has been established to provide input on the overall air inspector training program design and implementation. An EPA Agency-wide Inspector Training Advisory Board comprised of senior officials from all media programs oversees implementation of the EPA order. Guidance and technical support for the air-specific training activities are provided by staff in the Stationary Source Compliance Division (SSCD) and the Air Pollution Training Institute (APTI) of EPA's Air Quality Management Division. Current Status After October 1989, the EPA order requires new compliance inspectors to be trained before leading an inspection. Experienced inspectors hired before the effective date of the EPA order must complete the same training or demonstrate comparable training or work experience by a later date. Currently, new inspectors and experienced inspectors are fulfilling training requirements through existing classroom courses and workshops, monitored self-study courses and reading assignments, and formal on-the-job training utilizing available training materials. An extensive course module development program began in FY 1990 to update and streamline existing training materials and develop new courses to focus on entry-level inspectors. The training modules when completed should minimize training time and result in better trained inspectors. Progress on the modules will be reviewed by the informal advisory group during periodic conference calls as the work proceeds. Nearly all of the course modules and training materials in the EPA inspector training sequence are suitable as is or with minor changes for training State/local air inspectors. Course development is being funded by OAQPS. Training delivery is provided by APTI and the Regions using a variety of funding and delivery mechanisms. 81 ------- STATIONARY SOURCE COMPLIANCE INSPECTOR TRAINING PROGRAM Discussions have been held with the STAPPA/ALAPCO Education and Training Committee, various regional State associations, and individual States to promote closer coordination of the EPA and State inspector training efforts. A survey recently was conducted of the Regional Offices to determine the progress of their inspector training programs and to determine additional training support needs. A survey also is being planned to determine the type and extent of inspector training needs at the State and local level. Future Milestones Results from the recent survey of EPA compliance inspector training will be reported to the Deputy Administrator in a report entitled "Compliance Inspector Training: Building the Enforcement Infrastructure." The draft report will be discussed at the next Agency-wide Inspector Training Advisory Board meeting in June or July. By the October 1991 deadline in the EPA order, all experienced compliance inspectors will be trained or exempted from training based on individual training and experience evaluations. Current and most optimum future inspector training delivery mechanisms for EPA and States/local inspectors will be evaluated and necessary supporting consensus/resource statements will be developed and the results presented to EPA and the States/locals. In February 1989, the Agency-wide Inspector Training Advisory Board established a work group to focus on on-the-job-field training and make it more structured and systematic. The goal was to recommend criteria or protocols and to identify a process by which inspectors could receive quality on-the-job-training. A final draft protocol will be distributed in June. It is intended that the final protocol be adopted as general guidance by early FY 1991. Improvement and expansion of EPA/State in-house training capability will be encouraged and supported to ensure that inspector training programs at all agency levels operate more efficiently and cost-effectively. Instructor training- materials will be developed and distributed to facilitate accomplishing this goal. In FY 1991, development of the fifteen course modules identified in the recommended air-specific inspector training sequence will be developed and will be made readily available to the States/locals. EPA Contact Persons Mark S. Siegler (202) 382-5903 (FTS) 382-5903 Kirk Foster (919) 541-4571 (FTS) 629-4571 82 ------- TAMPERING ENFORCEMENT Background Recent EPA tampering survey data indicate that the removal or rendering inoperative of emission controls remains a significant nationwide problem. Although State/local emissions inspection and anti-tampering programs have reduced some forms of tampering, the problem continues and has changed in some respects. The EPA, therefore, maintains an actively aggressive and somewhat refocused nationwide tampering enforcement program. In August 1986, EPA published an enforcement policy intended to encourage the development, introduction, and installation of reasonably priced aftermarket catalytic converters as an alternative to costly original equipment converters. Under this policy, the installation of converters designed to meet EPA-specified performance requirements and installed under certain limited circumstances would not constitute tampering under the Clean Air Act. This policy was intended to complement the recently-instituted State and local antitampering programs by providing reasonably priced, quality converters. Current Status The EPA maintains a nationwide tampering enforcement program utilizing EPA personnel, contractors, and authorized state and local inspectors. The EPA inspectors primarily target repair shops and fleet operators who may be involved in the large scale removal of major emission control devices such as catalytic converters, air pumps, exhaust gas recycling (EGR) systems, etc. However, there has been a significant reduction in these most blatant forms of tampering, and/or facility operators have become more sophisticated by obscuring the paper trail necessary to document violations. The EPA very closely monitors the compliance of regulated parties with its published aftermarket converter policy. This oversight has resulted in EPA uncovering thousands of instances involving the installation of improper con- verters. Nearly 300 Notices of Violation have been issued to major violators of this policy for such misinstallations. In addition, EPA has also monitored the quality of the converters produced under this policy and has initiated enforcement actions against manufacturers whose products have not met the requirements of the policy. The EPA has also recently focused on "high technology" forms of tampering. These include the marketing of high performance replacement components such as computer chips, carburetors, camshafts, etc., and the recently-growing business of post-sale, pre-delivery high performance modifications of new vehicles. In addition, EPA continues to investigate the manufacture of catalytic converter replacement pipes and engine switching by regulated parties where the required emission controls are not installed. EPA Contact Person Marc R. Hillson (202) 382-2938 (FTS) 382-2938 83 ------- ASSEMBLY LINE TESTING/RECALL PROGRAM Background In 1989, EPA continued its Selective Enforcement Audits (SEA) of assembly line motor vehicles and compliance testing of in-use vehicles. The purpose of both programs is to ensure that production vehicles meet Federal motor vehicle emission standards. Current Status In 1989, EPA conducted 14 SEA audits of light-duty vehicle (LDV) configurations and 7 audits of heavy-duty engines (HDE). The LDV audits showed satisfactory results, however, one HDE configuration failed, resulting in the modification of the configuration. As audit failures cause the interruption of production when the certification of a class is suspended, manufacturers continued to conduct substantial voluntary testing to identify and repair marginal configurations before they are audited; approximately 20,000 vehicles were voluntarily tested in 1989. The EPA's motor vehicle recall program tested 30 light-duty vehicle and light-duty truck engine families in 1989. This testing had the dual purpose of obtaining the recall and repair of failing vehicles, and encouraging manufacturers to design more durable emission control systems to avoid the high cost of future EPA recalls. Almost 5 million vehicles were recalled in 1989. EPA Contact Persons Recall: Cliff Dean (202)382-2491 (FTS) 382-2491 SEA: John Guy (202) 475-8584 (FTS) 475-8584 84 ------- FUEL VOLATILITY ENFORCEMENT Background Final regulations for the first phase of the nationwide Federal gasoline volatility program were issued in March 1989 to control volatility beginning June 1, 1989. The EPA held a public workshop in April 1989 to discuss its initial enforcement plans and to solicit comments from all interested parties on its upcoming enforcement of these rules. The EPA then began the necessary logistical preparation and training to initiate a comprehensive fuels volatility enforcement program. On June 1, 1989, the first effective date of these regulations, EPA began sampling gasoline at upstream facilities, such as refineries, terminals, pipelin- es, etc., in several cities. On July 1, 1989, the effective compliance date for retail outlets, EPA began inspections at these facilities as well. Despite the myriad of sampling, handling, shipping, logistical, and safety issues that had to be addressed with a very short lead time, EPA, along with its contractor, managed to procure and analyze nearly 4,000 enforcement samples nationwide through the compliance period which ended September 15, 1989. During the compliance period, samples were taken from all the major refinery and importer locations and nearly all the major terminals and ozone nonattainment areas in the country. The results indicate an approximately 95 percent compliance rate. Current Status Preparations are presently under way to initiate a more comprehensive and effective enforcement program for the 1990 season. 'Although the required compliance levels have not changed from last year, several minor regulatory changes have been proposed which will streamline inspection procedures and thus enhance EPA's enforcement program. The most significant change for this year involves EPA's plans to incorporate highly reliable and accurate field screening during its normal inspection procedures. The greatest impact of this will be in the substantially reduced number of fuel samples that will have to be packaged, shipped, and analyzed. This will also allow inspectors to immediately identify noncomplying products and conduct more well-directed investigations while still in the area, and thus more quickly have high volatility gasoline removed from commerce with associated air quality benefits. The EPA will also use the data from last year's enforcement program to target problem areas or suppliers and thus enhance the effectiveness of its limited resources. EPA Contact Person Marc R. Hillson (202) 382-2938 (FTS) 382-2938 85 ------- OAQPS INFORMATION TRANSFER ACTIVITIES Background Technology transfer or, more broadly, information transfer, has for years been a key OAQPS activity. Our major clients for information transfer activities are State and local agencies and EPA Regional Offices. Industry, consultants, and universities, as well as the general public, also are important users of many information transfer products. There are many ways to transfer information. They include workshops, reports, manuals, guidance documents, computer bulletin boards, hot lines, technology centers, training courses, and other technical assistance. The dissemination of information via these and other means is increasingly important in enabling States and local agencies to fulfil their expanded responsibilities for implementing the new Clean Air Act. Although OAQPS has received high marks in the past for its information transfer activities, there is a need to ensure both that the program continues to meet client needs in a changing environment and that it makes best use of state- of-the-art communication techniques to do this effectively. Equally important, there is a need to ensure that our clients are aware of the wealth of information already available from OAQPS and, most important, know how to obtain it. Current Status In response to the above concerns, a work group has been organized to help coordinate OAQPS information transfer activities to improve our ability to provide information to our clients. Current activities of this group include: 1. Preparation of a comprehensive directory of information available and how to access it. This will be widely distributed to help potential users obtain the information they need. 2. A review of computerized information transfer mechanisms such as bulletin boards and other computerized data sources to determine (a) how they should be coordinated and improved in the short term and (b) how they can make best use of new technology which will become available over the next few years. 3. The design of a standard OAQPS logo to more clearly identify the reports, guidance manuals, and other products provided by this office. The work group also is considering how potential users, particularly State and local agencies, should become more involved in the overall information transfer program. Most individual activities such as bulletin boards, hot lines, and technology centers already place great emphasis on user input in system design, and user feedback is actively solicited. However, a more comprehensive review of user needs and how well our current activities match these needs has not been undertaken to date. EPA Contact Person Joe Padgett (919) 541-5589 (FTS) 629-5589 86 ------- BACT/LAER CLEARINGHOUSE Background The BACT/LAER Clearinghouse was established to assist State and local air pollution control agencies in selecting best available control technology (BACT) and the lowest achievable emission rate (LAER) controls for new or modified sources in a nationally consistent manner. Goals and Ob.iectives The basic goals of the BACT/LAER Clearinghouse are to: (1) provide State and local air pollution control agencies with current information on case-by-case technology determinations that are made nationwide; and (2) promote communication, cooperation, and sharing of control technology information among permitting agencies. Current Status - The fourth supplement to the "BACT/LAER Clearinghouse - A Compilation of Control Technology Determinations" was published in June 1989. Copies were sent to State and local agencies and EPA Regional Offices on August 8, 1989. - Phase 2 of a project to make the BACT/LAER Information System (BLIS) more user-friendly was completed in April 1990. Phase 2 allows the user to use the data base without using the System 2000 language. Menus and help screens allow the user to search, view, and print customized BLIS reports by entering the following command at the "ready" prompt: EXEC 'CON5.BLIS2'. Direct commands using the System 2000 language can still be made by selecting the appropriate menu option. - The annual meeting of the BACT/LAER Clearinghouse advisory group will be held on April 23 & 24, 1990 in Denver, Colorado, in conjunction with the new source review workshop scheduled at that time. Coordination with appropriate STAPPA/ALAPCO representatives is needed to address needed improvements to the substance and quality of the BACT/LAER data base. - The Control Technology Center NEWS has taken the place of the old BACT/LAER Newsletter, "The Communicator." The CTC News is broader in scope and is not limited to BACT/LAER determinations or activities. - Work will begin on updating the BLIS User's Manual in April 1990. Improve- ments to the manual are needed to address changes in access procedures implemented by the National Computer Center, announce the availability and explain how to access the user-friendly program routines noted above, and to correct typographi- cal errors. The new user's manual should be available in the fall of 1990. - The next (1990) edition of the BACT/LAER Clearinghouse publication will be a 5-year compilation of determinations — not a supplement. This compilation will be distributed in July 1990 and include all determinations entered into the system since June 1985. Earlier determinations will continue to be available through BLIS and in the 1985 compilation document. 87 ------- BACT/LAER CLEARINGHOUSE EPA Contact Person Bob Blaszczak (919) 541-5432 (FTS) 629-5432 88 ------- CONTROL TECHNOLOGY CENTER (CTC) Background The CTC was formed in 1987 to assist State and local (S/L) air pollution control agencies and EPA Regional Offices (RO's) in their implementation of programs to control air toxics, volatile organic compounds (VOC's), and criteria pollutant emissions. It is operated by EPA's Offices of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) and Research and Development (ORD) and draws from the expertise of those two organizations. A STAPPA/ALAPCO work group assures a close working relationship between STAPPA/ALAPCO and the CTC. Three levels of support are provided — a HOTLINE (for a rapid response to questions), direct engineering assistance (for more in-depth support to S/L agencies and RO's), and technical guidance projects (for dissemination of information of broad national interest). Status and Future Milestones The CTC receives over 900 HOTLINE requests for assistance per year. An additional 400-600 telephone requests for assistance per year are received directly by staff engineers. HOTLINE calls are the common basis for initiating engineering assistance and technical guidance projects. The CTC has completed 12 engineering assistance and 17 technical guidance projects since its inception. On-going projects include 10 engineering assistance and 13 technical guidance projects. A list of recently completed and on-going projects follows. Project reports are made available to all S/L agencies and RO's without charge. They are available to others through the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) for a nominal fee. ENGINEERING ASSISTANCE PROJECTS Project Name and Number Completion Date Emissions from Agricultural Plastics 4/89 Burning (87-2), Florida Spray Booth Control Evaluation (88-4), 10/89 Connecticut Methylene Chloride Sources (88-9), 5/89 New York Arsine/Phosphine Scrubber (88-10), 6/90 San Diego Creosote Wood Treatment (88-13), 6/89 Virginia Evaluation of Wastewater Treatment System 4/89 (88-14), West Virginia 89 ------- CONTROL TECHNOLOGY CENTER (CTC) ENGINEERING ASSISTANCE PROJECTS CONT'D Pro.iect Name and No. Completion Date Formaldehyde Emissions from Manufacture of 4/90 Veneer Wood Products (89-4), Virginia Emissions from Solder Manufacturing (89-7), 5/89 111inois Economic Evaluation of Lead Emission Controls 10/89 (89-18), Missouri Incineration of Oil Spill Clean-up Material 12/89 (89-20), Alaska Excess Benzene Emissions from a Refinery (90-2), 1/90 Region III Wood Stove Regulation Analysis (90-3), Colorado 4/90 TECHNICAL GUIDANCE PROJECTS Advisory System - Controlling Air Toxics 5/90 (CAT Enhancement)(87-1) CAT/HAP Manual Brochure (88-3) 4/90 Fiberglass Structures (88-5) 5/90 Hospital Waste Incineration Training Manual 4/89 (88-6) Air Toxic Emissions From Steel Plants (88-9) 4/90 Surface Impoundment Emission Factors (88-11) 10/89 Tireburning (88-12) 10/89 Flexible Packaging Emission Control (89-3) 6/90 HAP Manual Update (89-5) 5/90 Ultrasonic Cleaning of Rotogravure Printing 7/89 Cylinders (89-10) Waferboard Control Evaluation (89-11) 10/89 Powder Coatings (89-12) 10/89 Electrostatic Precipitator Model (89-13) 6/90 90 ------- CONTROL TECHNOLOGY CENTER (CTC) TECHNICAL GUIDANCE PROJECTS CONT'D Project Name and No. Completion Date Steam Stripping of Air Toxics(88-15) 6/90 NOx Controls (89-14) 6/90 Polystyrene Foam Blowing, Phase 2 (89-15) 6/90 Condensibles Testing (89-16) 6/90 Wastewater Treatment Emissions (89-19) 2/90 Flexible Packaging VOC Controls (89-3) 6/90 EPA Contact Persons Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards: Bob Blaszczak (919) 541-5432 (FTS) 629-5432 Office of Research and Development: Chuck Darvin (919) 541-7633 (FTS) 629-7633 CTC HOTLINE: (919) 541-0800 (FTS) 629-0800 91 ------- EMISSION MEASUREMENT TECHNICAL INFORMATION CENTER Background The Emission Measurement Technical Information Center (EMTIC) was established as an information exchange network to promote consistent, uniform application of stationary source emission test methods in the development and enforcement of emission control programs on a national basis. The EMTIC has provided technical assistance to EPA Regional Offices and State and local air pollution agencies in many forms for over a year. Current Status Five packages of technical information have been mailed to the EMTIC information exchange network. In addition to the transfer of technical literature, conditional and alternative test methods, guideline documents, and copies of recent regulatory publications from EPA to the EMTIC network, the State and local agencies have provided EPA Headquarters with suggestions and encouragement toward development of a national source testing accreditation program, comments and advice on the computerized test method information filing system (TSAR), and additional sampling and analysis methods to incorporate into the EMTIC library. Work is under way to complete three technical videos on volatile organic compounds (VOC) sampling and analysis procedures. The second and third special EMTIC emission measurement workshops were completed in December 1989 in California. Over 60 representatives from the California Air Resources Board, the South Coast Air Quality Management District, EPA Region IX and X, and several other State and local agencies, attended the workshops which addressed VOC and toxics emission measurements, continuous emission monitoring data applications, quality assurance and control procedures in emission testing, and an introduction to the TSAR system. Future Milestones Sixth EMTIC mailout April 1990 Seventh EMTIC mailout July 1990 Eighth EMTIC mailout October 1990 Fourth EMTIC workshop April 17-18, 1990 (Dallas, TX) Fifth EMTIC workshop June 1990 (Lexington, MA) EPA Contact Person Peter Westlin (919) 541-1059 (FTS) 629-1059 92 ------- AEROMETRIC INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SYSTEM (AIRS) Background/Status The basic AIRS Air Quality Subsystem (AIRS/AQS) has been in production since July 1987. Since then the system has been upgraded to include an on-line browse and ad-hoc batch capabilities. All of the Regional Offices, 42 States and 4 local agencies are directly accessing AIRS/AQS as of March 1990. The AIRS Facility Subsystem (AIRS/AFS) is in the final software development and data conversion stage of the project. The AFS is scheduled to go into production in the mid- to late-April 1990 timeframe. The Regional Offices have already received their AFS production training and the initial direct user States are scheduled to be trained beginning in May 1990. Over the next several months, the Technical Support Division and the Stationary Source Compliance Division of OAQPS will continue to operate the National Emission Data System (NEDS) and the Compliance Data System (CDS) to ensure a smooth transition to a consolidated mode under AFS. Hardware and telecommunications support for the State and Regional Office end users are being coordinated with EPA's National Computer Center throughout this project. Future Milestones Development of the AIRS Area and Mobile Subsystem (AIRS/AMS) was begun early in FY 1990. The first step is to complete the definition of user requirements and design specifications, which will build upon preliminary user surveys and a workshop held in August 1989. Current plans call for the system software to be developed in FY 1991-1992 and for the system to go into operation in FY 1992. EPA Contact Person John C. Bosch (919) 541-5583 (FTS) 629-5583 93 ------- SUPPORT CENTER FOR REGULATORY AIR MODELS BULLETIN BOARD SYSTEM Background Over the past several years, the Agency has offered regulatory air quality dispersion models to the public via the National Technical Information Service for operation on mainframe computers. Changes in computer technology as well as communications technology have made it possible for the Agency to provide model codes for personal computers through electronic transfer methods, specifically electronic bulletin board service. Current Status A bulletin board service, the Support Center for Regulatory Air Models Bulletin Board System, has been developed to improve the transfer of air quality models to the modeling community and facilitate communications by providing a forum for ideas and information. All regulatory models including several screening models and related pre- and post-processing programs are available for downloading. All regulatory models are personal computer (PC)-compatible. The telephone number for the bulletin board is (919) 541-5742. Recent additions to the bulletin board include Model Clearinghouse reports and a limited number of model user's guides. Future Milestones Future offerings on the bulletin board will include meteorological data and additional model user's guides. EPA Contact Person Jerry Mersch (919) 541-5635 (FTS) 629-5635 94 ------- GUIDELINE ON AIR QUALITY MODELS Background The Guideline on Air Quality Models, originally issued in April 1978, was revised September 1986 and supplemented in January 1988. It is incorporated by reference in 40 CFR 51.166 and 52.21 and is referenced in EPA guidance for development of SIP revisions. The Guideline was prepared in response to the requirements of sections 165(e)(3)(D), 301 and 320 of the CAA. The Fourth Conference on Air Quality Modeling was held October 12-13, 1988, in Washington, D.C. The conference sought public comment on the merits of expanding the modeling guideline to include a variety of new techniques for such issues as complex terrain, roadway intersections, visibility, long-range transport, and others. A number of States participated. The public comment period for the fourth modeling conference closed on February 13, 1989. Over sixty separate commenters responded; their comments are contained in Docket No. A-88-04. Current Status The EPA staff have summarized the fourth modeling conference comments and prepared responses. The report, together with the next set of revisions to the modeling guideline (Supplement B), is now under review. Future Milestones The EPA plans to publish before the end of 1990, a notice of proposed rulemaking on formal changes to the modeling guideline, Supplement B, to incorporate those new techniques that appear to enhance the regulatory modeling program. Comments will be solicited on that proposal using the Fifth Conference on Air Quality Models as the public forum. EPA Contact Person Joe Tikvart (919) 541-5561 (FTS) 629-5561 95 ------- DEVELOPMENT OF CRITERIA POLLUTANT EMISSION INVENTORY GUIDANCE Current Status/Future Milestones Criteria pollutant emission inventory guidance currently being developed by EPA includes: - General technical guidance for preparation of emission inventories projections for VOC, NOX, and CO (stationary and mobile sources). - Procedures for review of ozone and CO SIP emission inventories. Revised guidance reports on the above are expected to become available in the spring of 1990. In 1989, EPA completed work on the Surface Impoundment Modeling System (SIMS), a personal computer (PC) based system for estimating total and individual organic compound emissions from wastewater treatment or disposal. The SIMS currently includes models for estimating emissions from either quiescent or surface-aerated impoundments at facilities such as publicly-owned treatment works (POTW's), treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs), or industrial manufacturing plants, and allows the input of site-specific characterization data or built-in default parameters, depending on data availability and level-of- accuracy need. Work has begun on revisions to- SIMS. Under this work, models for diffused air impoundments, oil/water separators, junction boxes, sumps, lift stations and weirs will be added, the compound data base will be expanded, and report capabilities will be enhanced. This work is scheduled to be completed in September 1990. A PC-based system for compilation and reporting of ozone and CO SIP emission inventories (SAMS) was developed and is being enhanced by EPA as a tool for State and local agencies. The latest enhancement, Version 3.1, is to be issued in April 1990. The system currently supports entry, reviewing, editing, and reporting of detailed point source process and emissions data, and summaries of point, area, and mobile source emissions data. Enhancements to follow in FY 1990 include: - Links with AIRS and the Urban Airshed Model; - Increased reporting capabilities; - Expanded quality assurance checks; - Control strategy analysis capabilities. Long-term research has begun on development of improved methodologies for preparation of area and mobile source emission inventories for criteria pollutants. This work is scheduled for completion in 1993 and will be used in future national and SIP inventory preparation activities. Any additional PM-10 emission inventory requirements and general inventory guidance will be issued as needed. 96 ------- DEVELOPMENT OF CRITERIA POLLUTANT EMISSION INVENTORY GUIDANCE EPA Contact Persons (VOC/NOX/CO) David Misenheimer (919) 541-5473 (FTS) 629-5473 PM-10 E. L. Martinez (919) 541-5575 (FTS) 629-5575 97 ------- STATUS OF NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS (NAAQS) Background The 1977 Clean Air Act Amendments require review and revision, if needed, of all existing NAAQS by December 1980 and at 5-year intervals thereafter. Review of the ozone standard was completed February 1979. The standard was raised from 0.08 parts per million (ppm) to 0.12 ppm, maximum 1-hour concentration. The nonmethane hydrocarbon standard was revoked January 1983. Review of the carbon monoxide standard was completed in September 1985. No change was made to the primary standards; secondary standards were revoked. The nitrogen dioxide standard was reaffirmed in June 1985. The particulate matter standards were revised in July 1987. The revised primary and secondary standards are 50 micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3), expected annual arithmetic mean, and 150 ug/m3, 24-hour average, with no more than one expected exceedance per year. Both the primary and secondary standards are measured as PM-10. Sulfur Dioxide (SOo) The revised criteria document for sulfur oxides (and particulate matter) was issued in March 1984 in conjunction with the proposed revision to the particulate matter NAAQS. The criteria document was again updated in an addendum that was issued July 1987. The staff paper for sulfur oxides was completed in 1982 and updated to reflect the revised criteria in an addendum dated December 1986. The EPA's proposed decision not to revise the S02 standards was announced in the Federal Register on April 26, 1988. Controlled human exposure studies reviewed in the criteria document and staff paper addenda have prompted consideration of a short-term S02 primary standard in addition to the existing standards. Accordingly, the April 1988 Federal Register notice also solicited comment on the alternative of adding a 1-hour $62 primary standard of 0.4 ppm. The EPA also proposed to revise the 24-hour significant harm level for SOo by changing it from 1.00 ppm to 0.29 ppm. In addition, EPA proposed a new snort-term significant harm level of 5 ppm, 5-minute average, together with a 1-hour guide of 2.5 ppm. Associated episode criteria were also proposed. In addition, EPA also proposed several technical changes to the SC>2 NAAQS to codify prior Agency guidance. The comment period on EPA's proposed decision not to revise the S02 standards closed on November 22, 1988. Final action on the proposal is anticipated in 1991. 98 ------- STATUS OF NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS (NAAQS) Ozone The key issues confronting EPA in the ozone standard review are the significance of emerging longer-term health effects data and the appropriate averaging time for controlling welfare effects. Attainment of the existing one- hour ozone standard appears more important than ever based on the accumulation of the collective health and welfare effects data base. The Clean Air Act Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC) has reviewed the ozone staff paper and criteria document supplement and sent a closure letter to the Administrator on May 1, 1989. Although most CASAC members supported tightening the 1-hour secondary standard to 0.10 ppm, the CASAC membership was split on the need for a tighter 1-hour primary air quality standard. The EPA plans to complete review of the 1-hour ozone standard are currently contingent upon the timing of, and the guidance contained in, amendments to the Clean Air Act. Lead The primary and secondary ambient air quality standards for lead (1.5 micrograms per cubic meter, quarterly average) were established in October 1978. The CASAC closed on the revised criteria document and addendum in August 1986. The Committee favorably reviewed a supplement to the addendum to the criteria document and a revised draft of the staff paper in April 1989. The associated report on the lead exposure methodology was completed in March 1989. The CASAC formally closed on the staff paper on January 3, 1990. Proposal in the Federal Register is scheduled for late 1990. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Preparation of a criteria document for the next review of the CO air quality standard is now under way. Public and CASAC review of the criteria document is planned for the fall of 1990. Summary of NAAQS Status Carbon Monoxide - Last review completed 9/85, new criteria document scheduled for CASAC review in the fall of 1990. Nitrogen Dioxide - Last review completed 6/85, new criteria document is being prepared. Particulate Matter (PM-10) - Last review completed 7/87. Sulfur Oxides - Last review completed 9/73; recent proposal 4/88, promulgation scheduled for 1991. Lead - Standard promulgated 10/78; proposal scheduled for late 1990. Ozone - Last review completed 2/79; proposal contingent upon timing and revisions to the Clean Air Act. 99 ------- STATUS OF NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS (NAAQS) EPA Contact Person Bruce Jordan (919) 541-5656 (FTS) 629-5656 100 ------- GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE AND OZONE DEPLETION Background In September 1987, the U.S. and 23 other Nations signed the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, a landmark agreement on the protection of the stratospheric ozone layer. The Protocol entered into force on January 1, 1989, and as of March 1, 1990, had been ratified by 52 Nations. In accordance with the U.S. commitment under the Protocol, the EPA issued its final rule on stratospheric ozone protection on August 12, 1988. This rule places limits on the domestic production and consumption of chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's) and halons (40 CFR 82). Additional scientific studies released subsequent to the Protocol show that the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer might be of greater risk than was originally anticipated. In light of these events, President Bush recently called for even greater efforts in halting the depletion of stratospheric ozone by calling for a complete phaseout of CFC's and halons by the turn of the century. Current Status In 1989, EPA's Global Change Division operated the domestic regulatory program as well as national and international activities in support of the Montreal Protocol. The EPA is involved in activities related to global warming and other atmospheric change issues. The Division tracks, through a computer-based system, the production and consumption of regulated CFC's and halons. Permits or "allowances" granted by EPA are used by industry to manufacture and import these controlled substances, and can be traded between companies to maximize economic efficiency. Reports of trades are submitted in hard copy, or electronically through a dedicated fax to ensure rapid review by the Agency. Mechanisms to ensure compliance with the final regulations include plant inspections by the Regional Offices, checks against import and export data from the U.S. Census Bureau, and company submission of business invoices and bills of lading. The Stationary Source Compliance Division (SSCD) within OAQPS is responsible for monitoring compliance with the regulatory program. On January 1, 1990, a congressionally-mandated excise tax was imposed on the sale of all bulk CFC's and halons that were either produced or imported into the U.S., as well as a tax on imported products that were produced with or contained these chemicals. The Department of the Treasury is responsible for operating this program. During 1989, EPA actively participated in international assessments that analyzed the current status of environmental effects, substitute technology, and economics of ozone-safe technology. This included work on developing new technology and transferring existing technologies among less-developed countries. The Division has been instrumental in the formation of industry consortia to facilitate the development of CFC alternative technologies for national and international use. The Global Change Division's activities include working with industry to develop voluntary standards for recycling in mobile air conditioners and assessing technologies to reduce the emission of halons and CFCs. 101 ------- GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE AND OZONE DEPLETION The Agency has also established a Federal Advisory Committee on issues related to the Montreal Protocol and its domestic implementation. The EPA is also studying emissions associated with global warming. The EPA is actively involved in the assessment of possible control strategies for mitigating global warming, emphasizing cost-effective technologies related to renewable energy sources, increased energy efficiency, and methane emissions. Future Milestones Negotiating sessions are occurring over the next months leading to the Second Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol scheduled for June, 1990 in London. Further reductions in the current limits set for CFC's and halons are expected along with limits on other ozone-depleting substances. The Global Change Division will continue to work with industry in assisting in the transition to alternative chemicals. As part of this program, the Division is reviewing the need for a national recycling program that would encourage or direct users to recover and recycle spent CFC's. EPA Contact Persons John S. Hoffman (202) 382-4036 (FTS) 382-4036 Steve Seidel (202) 382-2787 (FTS) 382-2787 102 ------- INDOOR AIR PROGRAM Background In Title IV of the 1986 Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA), Congress gave EPA a clear mandate to: 1) establish a federally-coordinated indoor air research program, 2) disseminate information on indoor air pollution and mitigation techniques, and 3) assess the appropriate Federal role in solving indoor air pollution problems. In August 1989, EPA submitted the Report to Congress on Indoor Air Quality, pursuant to SARA Section 403(e). This report includes an Executive Summary and Recommendations; Volume I: Federal Indoor Air Quality Activities; Volume II: Assessment and Control of Indoor Air Pollution; and Volume III: Indoor Air Pollution Research Needs Statement. In this report, EPA recommended an expanded indoor air research program, the development of guidelines for ventilation and other building practices, an expanded technical assistance and information dissemination program, and a program to characterize the extent of indoor air quality problems nationally and to develop methods for diagnosing and controlling those problems. The EPA is one of the four Federal agency co-chairs of the interagency Committee on Indoor Air Quality (CIAQ) and organizes the four quarterly meetings of the CIAQ. Using information supplied by the CIAQ members, EPA issued a publication entitled "Current Federal Indoor Air Quality Activities" that is updated annually. The EPA has also issued a number of publications on indoor air topics for the public: a booklet for citizens on indoor air quality, published jointly with the Consumer Product Safety Commission called "The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality;" a "Directory of State Indoor Air Contacts," prepared by the Public Health Foundation; a nationwide survey of indoor air quality diagnostic and mitigation firms; and a series of fact sheets on topics of special interest (e.g., Ventilation and Office Buildings, Sick Building Syndrome, Environmental Tobacco Smoke, and Residential Air-Cleaning Devices). Current Activities Much of the current emphasis in EPA's indoor air program is on the development and dissemination of guidance documents on specific aspects of indoor air quality for key concerned audiences. The EPA works cooperatively with other Federal agencies and private sector organizations, where appropriate, to ensure that these guidance documents reflect the best, most current understanding of the nature and solutions to indoor air quality problems. Topics of documents currently under development include prevention of indoor air quality problems in the construction of new homes (primarily for home builders), prevention of indoor air quality problems in the construction and remodelling of large-scale buildings (primarily for architects and building engineers), indoor air quality management in schools (primarily for school administrators), and diagnosis and mitigation of indoor air quality problems in large-scale buildings (primarily for building owners and managers). A guidance document on the development of environmental tobacco smoke policies for the workplace (primarily for corporate policy-makers, occupational safety 103 ------- INDOOR AIR PROGRAM administrators, and facility managers) is also in draft; current plans call for releasing this document at the same time that EPA releases its risk assessment on lung cancer from environmental tobacco smoke later this year. During FY 1990, EPA has begun to assess the indoor air quality training needs of targeted audiences of interest (e.g., State and local governments, building owners and managers, indoor air quality diagnostic and mitigation firms). To begin this activity, EPA asked the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Regional Office Contacts for their views on the training needs of both the public and private sector in their Regions. The EPA is also preparing a self-paced course module on indoor air quality designed primarily for State and local officials, and it is scheduled for completion during FY 1990. When the first phase of the training needs assessment and the course module are completed, the indoor air program will begin to offer training to State and local officials. There are several other activities under way that may be of particular interest to State and local governments: 1) several multiyear studies on such topics as the economic impact of indoor air pollution and potential indoor air quality controls, and on the nature and prevalence of multiple chemical sensitivity are in planning; 2) after consultation with key potential user groups such as State and local officials, EPA will decide on an appropriate scope and mechanism for an indoor air quality information clearinghouse; 3) in cooperation with public and private sector organizations, EPA will initiate a multiyear effort to evaluate mechanisms for credential ing firms that offer indoor air diagnostic and mitigation services; 4) EPA staff will continue to publish fact sheets on topics of particular public interest (e.g., formaldehyde, combustion devices). Indoor Air Activities Around the Agency The EPA has many indoor air activities that are not in the Office of Air and Radiation's (OAR) indoor air or radon programs. A description of the principal indoor air activities led by offices other than OAR follows. The OAR Indoor Air Division is represented on task forces or work groups for each of these issues. o Mercury in Latex Paint: EPA's Office of Pesticides and Toxic Substances is forming and evaluating options for an Agency response to incidents of mercury poisoning following the use of mercury-containing latex interior paint. The mercury is added to some latex paints as a mildewcide. The EPA response may involve some combination of authorities given to EPA by both the Toxic Substances Counter Act and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act. o Chlorinated Solvents: With EPA's Office of Toxic Substance (OTS) as the lead office, EPA has participated in an interagency work group (with the Consumer Products Safety Commission and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) to identify regulatory and nonregulatory options to reduce exposure to drycleaning (perchloroethylene), metal degreasing (trichlorethylene), aerosols (methylene, chloride, trichlorethylene, perchloroethylene), and paint strippers (methylene chloride). o Lead Dust: OTS and EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD) have received designated funding from Congress to research and implement risk management programs to reduce exposure to lead, particularly lead dust 104 ------- INDOOR AIR PROGRAM from lead paints. This work is being done in cooperation with the Department of Housing and Urban Development. o Pesticide Exposures: ORD has just released the Non-Occupational Pesticides Exposure Study (NOPES) which reports on the results of monitoring personal exposures to pesticides. Hearings on the study are scheduled for the spring, 1990. o Carpet Emissions: There are two EPA activities regarding carpets: (1) OTS has established a work group to assess the risks from exposure to carpets in workplaces in order to develop options for reducing those risks; and (2) the EPA Administrator must reply to a petition by the National Federation of Federal Employees by April 11, 1990 to regulate emissions from carpets because of the alleged health impacts on EPA employees from new carpet emissions. Future Milestones In future years, the emphasis will turn to training for targeted audiences using the publications produced in FY 1990. Potential ways of delivering the training include expanding existing Regional training centers now focussing on radon or asbestos, setting up training in the Regional Offices, using conferences and other meetings sponsored by private sector organizations, and other vehicles. In addition, EPA will continue work on the multiyear studies started in FY 1990. Finally, EPA will begin operation of the indoor air information clearinghouse. Copies of the EPA indoor air publications that have been issued are available from the EPA Public Information Center, PM-221B, 401 M Street S.W., Washington, D.C. 20460. EPA Contact Person Elissa Feldman (202) 475-8470 (FTS) 475-8470 105 ------- RADON ACTION PROGRAM Background The EPA established the Radon Action Program in September 1985. Since then, high radon levels have been found in nearly every State. Program activities were expanded in 1986, 1987, and 1988 in response to the growing scope and complexity of the radon problem. In October 1988, the Indoor Radon Abatement Act (IRAA) was signed into law (15 USC 2661-2671), setting a new long-term national goal that indoor radon levels equal those found outdoors. The mission of the Radon Action Program is to significantly reduce the health risks associated with radon exposure through a partnership with the States, other Federal agencies, and the private sector. The program consists of four main elements: problem assessment, mitigation and prevention, capability development, and public information. Current Status The EPA is undertaking a variety of activities to address the growing public concern over dangers posed by exposure to radon. These activities include assisting States with program development through grants, establishing Regional radon training centers, surveying schools and Federal workplaces, developing model construction standards, evaluating mitigation methods, operating measurement and mitigation contractor proficiency programs, developing user fees for proficiency and training programs, and providing public information including a national education campaign in cooperation with the Advertising Council and the revision of "A Citizen's Guide to Radon." Some of the activities described in the IRAA had been included in the existing EPA program. Others, notably the State grant program, the Regional radon training centers, the mitigation contractor proficiency program, and the Federal buildings study, were part of the new legislation. Future Milestones By October 1990, EPA will have made more significant progress in implementing the IRAA. In 1990, EPA will, among other things, award the first State grants, complete the revision of the citizen's guide mentioned above, update the guidance for radon measurements in schools, and publish the model construction standards. We will also establish additional Regional radon training centers, and continue the mitigation and measurement contractor proficiency programs. EPA Contact Person Margo Oge (202) 475-9622 (FTS) 475-9622 106 ------- RADIONUCLIDE NESHAP Background On December 27, 1979, EPA listed radionuclides as a hazardous air pollutant under section 112 of the Clean Air Act. On April 6, 1983, the Agency proposed standards regulating radionuclide emissions from: (1) elemental phosphorus plants, (2) Department of Energy (DOE) facilities, (3) Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensees and non-DOE Federal facilities, and (4) underground uranium mines. In February of 1984, the Sierra Club filed suit in U.S. District Court to compel EPA to take final action on the proposed standards. As a result, the Agency was ordered to promulgate final standards or make a finding that radionuclides are not hazardous air pollutants and to delist them. Consequently, in October of 1984, EPA withdrew the proposed standards and concluded that no additional regulation was needed. At the same time, the Agency stated its intention to promulgate a different standard for underground uranium mines and also announced its intentions to regulate radon-222 emissions from licensed uranium mills. On December 11, 1984, the Court found EPA in contempt of its order to promulgate final standards. The Court again directed that EPA issue final emission standards for the original four categories or make a finding that radionuclides are not hazardous air pollutants. The EPA complied with the court order by promulgating standards for emissions from elemental phosphorus plants, DOE facilities, and NRC-licensed and non-DOE Federal facilities. On April 17, 1985, the Agency promulgated a work-practice standard for radon-222 emissions from underground uranium mines; and on September 24, 1986, EPA promulgated a final rule regulating radon-222 emissions from licensed uranium mill processing sites, establishing work practices for new tailings. The Agency's actions were subsequently challenged by several environmental groups and the uranium mining industry. On July 28, 1987, the U.S. Court of Appeals remanded to the Agency the emission standard for vinyl chloride, also promulgated under section 112 of the Clean Air Act. The Court concluded that the Agency improperly considered cost and technological feasibility without first making a determination based exclusively on risk to health. Consequently, the Agency concluded the standards for elemental phosphorus plants, DOE facilities, NRC-licensed facilities and non-DOE Federal facilities, underground uranium mines, and uranium mill tailings should be reconsidered. After consultations between all parties to the litigation, the Court granted EPA's motion for a voluntary remand and established a schedule eventually calling for the Agency to propose regulations for all source categories by February 28, 1989 and to promulgate final regulations by August 31, 1989. On February 28, 1989, the Agency proposed four alternative approaches for controlling radionuclide emissions from the following 12 source categories: 1. Department of Energy facilities 2. NRC and non-DOE facilities 3. Nuclear power reactors and support facilities 4. Elemental-phosphorus plants 5. Coal-fired utility and industrial boilers 6. High-level-nuclear-waste-disposal facilities 7. DOE radon sources 8. Phosphogypsum piles 107 ------- RADIONUCLIDE NESHAP 9. Underground uranium mines 10. Surface uranium mines 11. Licensed uranium mill tailings piles 12. Disposal of uranium mill tailings piles. This action follows the court-mandated, two-step process for regulating hazardous air pollutants set forth in the vinyl chloride decision. That decision mandated that the Agency establish a "safe" or "acceptable" level of risk based on health considerations before setting an "ample margin of safety" and taking into account costs and technological feasibility. Public hearings were held the week of April 10, 1989. The public comment period closed May 15, 1989. Current Status On December 15, 1989, EPA announced final rules for radionuclides under 40 CFR Part 61 - National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for the following source categories: NRC non-DOE Federal facilities, nuclear power reactors and their support facilities, DOE facilities, phosphogypsum piles, licensed uranium-mill tailings piles, disposal of uranium-mill tailings piles, and elemental phosphorus plants. The Federal Register announcement included a notice of reconsideration of the NESHAP established in Subpart I for the NRC-licensed and non-DOE Federal facilities. The Administrator's decision to grant a reconsideration of the NESHAP for NRC-licensed facilities was based on comments received from the NRC and the National Institute of Health (NIH). The NRC contended that the NESHAP is duplicative of its (NRC's) regulatory program and unncessary, since it will not provide any additional health benefits. The NIH asserted that the burden imposed by the NESHAP will discourage the use of radionuclides in medical research, diagnostics, and therapies. Future Milestones The Agency is reconsidering the standard under 40 CFR 61, Subpart I, based on comments from the NRC and the NIH. EPA Contact Person Terry McLaughlin (202)475-9610 (FTS) 475-9610 108 ------- FY 1991-92 NSPS ACTIVITY FY 1991 FY 1992 Under Development (Preproposal) Under Development (Preproposal) Medical Waste Incineration SOCMI Batch Processes Synthetic Organic Chemical Offset Lithography Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI) Batch Processes Offset Lithography Proposals Proposals SOCMI Reactor Processes1 Medical Waste Incineration Municipal Landfills NSPS, lll(d)1 Under Development (Post-Proposal) Under Development (Post-Proposal) None None Promulgations Promulgations Polymers Manufacturing (4 NSPS)1 SOCMI Reactor Processes Calciners ai SOCMI Disti Calciners and Dryers (2 NSPS) Municipal Landfills NSPS, lll(d) istillation , SOCMI Air Oxidation1 1. These standards may be proposed or promulgated in FY 1990 depending on length of OMB review. EPA Contact Person Jim Weigold (919) 541-5642 (FTS) 629-5642 109 ------- IMPLEMENTING SIP PROCESSING RECOMMENDATIONS Background Prompted by concern for SIP processing delays, the impact of delays on meeting program objectives, and the negative effect of delays on EPA's relationship with State and local control agencies, EPA established a task group to identify problems in, and recommend changes to, the SIP review process. The recommendations of the task group have been approved by senior EPA management and are described in the report entitled "Final Report of the Task Group on SIP Processing" dated October 1987. The task group identified two basic problems with the current approach to SIP review: (1) excessive review of SIP packages, and (2) uncertainty regarding the outcome of EPA review. The EPA has initiated a program to improve the process of SIP review based upon the recommendations of the task group. An intra-Agency task force was formed to implement the recommendations contained in the task group report. As a result of the recommendations and implementation discussions, EPA issued a policy memorandum on the increased use of direct final rulemaking for noncontroversial SIP actions, a policy on the review of implementation packages received from the States for completeness, and a policy on grandfathering SIP actions submitted prior to policy changes. The use of direct final processing is a program instituted in 1982 (47 FR 27073) and has, where used, resulted in substantially decreased processing times. The task group report recommended increased use of this effective tool to enhance SIP processing. Guidance on "completeness criteria" was issued on March 18, 1988 to the EPA Regional Offices. The Regional Offices have been discussing these criteria with the appropriate State/local control agencies and in many cases have incorporated the completeness criteria into section 105 air grants conditions. The objective of this program is to ensure that SIP packages submitted by the State are complete from the perspective of EPA review. The SIP processing will be expedited by having complete packages submitted and the EPA Regional Offices not having to request additional information from the State to determine whether the revision is approvable. By sharing these criteria with the States, submitting agencies will be more familiar with EPA requirements prior to SIP submission. On June 27, 1988, EPA issued a policy permitting the grandfathering of certain SIP actions from meeting the requirements of recently issued EPA policies. Where approval of such action has no significant or lasting environmental impact, grandfathering the action may better serve the purpose of EPA. Current Status On February 16, 1990, EPA published the final Federal Register notice (55 FR 5824), completing action on the Agency's completeness criteria. Effective with this action, State submissions that fail to meet the criteria will be returned and not considered as submissions under the provisions of section 110 of the Clean Air Act. To ensure Regional Office conformance with this criteria and other activities that have materialized from SIP reform during 1989, EPA recently completed the SIP processing program review guidelines and during FY 1990 will complete the review of at least three Regional Office programs for the expeditious and accurate processing of SIP revisions. 110 ------- IMPLEMENTING SIP PROCESSING RECOMMENDATIONS Future Milestones The EPA expects to complete review of Regional Office programs during FY 1991 and will prepare an evaluation and recommendations for further program improvements based upon these findings. EPA Contact Person Johnnie Pearson (919) 541-5691 (FTS) 629-5691 111 ------- NATIONAL AIR AUDIT SYSTEM Background The National Air Audit System (NAAS) was developed through the joint effort of STAPPA/ALAPCO and EPA in FY 1983. The program was designed initially to audit five phases of the air quality management program in State and selected local control agencies. These areas are: (1) air quality planning and SIP activity, (2) new source review, (3) compliance assurance, (4) air monitoring, and (5) automobile inspection and maintenance. Audits have been conducted on a 2-year cycle with 65 audits (44 State and 21 local and territorial agencies) having been conducted in the FY 1986-87 cycle. This is the last cycle for which the NAAS is complete. The FY 1988-1989 audit cycle was extended through FY 1990 in order to allow for completion of State and local audits which could not be completed earlier, primarily due to resource constraints. Current Status The EPA Regional Offices identified a number of deficiencies in the basic NAAS program which had not changed substantially since the program's inception. The EPA Headquarters has initiated an effort to review the basic goals and objectives of the NAAS. In addition, this examination will determine whether other oversight activities exist for review of State/local agency activities and how these oversight programs relate or overlap with the basic responsibilities of the NAAS. As a result of this examination, a revised program for oversight of State air programs will be designed which will better serve the purposes for which the original NAAS was designed. Future Milestones In an effort to improve the NAAS, EPA is creating a work group to reexamine the goals of the NAAS. Participation in this process will include input from members of STAPPA/ALAPCO who were involved in the development of the original NAAS. It is EPA's intent to ensure that the NAAS meets the goals of both EPA and State and local agencies by identifying problem areas needing improvement and making constructive recommendations for resolving identified problem areas. EPA Contact Person Johnnie Pearson (919) 541-5691 (FTS) 629-5691 112 ------- AIR GRANTS - PROGRAM TO IDENTIFY STATE/LOCAL PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND COSTS Background In 1986, EPA and STAPPA/ALAPCO reached agreement on several principles for governing the Clean Air Act section 105 air grants process. Among these was a recognition that each grantee agency implements a number of recurring activities in enforcement, monitoring, new source review, planning, etc., which form the foundation of the agency's air pollution control program. Following the establishment of these principles, EPA agreed to work with STAPPA/ALAPCO to develop the data base necessary for defining this foundation. Efforts started in late 1986, focusing on the design and conduct of a survey of each State and local agency. A pilot program was developed jointly by EPA and STAPPA/ALAPCO in the spring of 1987. The pilot program consisted of 12 States and 6 local agencies participating in a survey of agency activities and associated costs. By October 1, 1987, the surveys were completed and data compiled for a limited series of analyses. Copies of the individual submissions, summary information, and cost data were sent to the Regional Offices, the participating agencies, and STAPPA/ALAPCO for review. Following the pilot exercise, it was jointly recommended by EPA and STAPPA/ALAPCO to expand the pilot program to all agencies in 1988. To bolster support for the survey, the Presidents of STAPPA and ALAPCO sent letters to the memberships on January 22, 1988, encouraging their full participation. The survey package and instructions for conducting the 1988 exercise were sent to the EPA Regional Offices in February 1988. Initially, the due date for sending in completed questionnaires was April 1, 1988, but by May 15, 1988, only 55 forms had arrived and, by the end of July 1988, only 70 forms had been received. One-quarter to one-third of the questionnaires showed an attempt to display air program data in the level of detail asked for by the form. The remainder offered much less detail and many were incomplete. Two primary reasons for the reluctance of agencies to participate appeared to be that a number of agencies felt threatened by an EPA request for detailed program information, and that the questionnaire represented yet another burden on already strained resources. Also, a few agencies stated that the format of the questionnaire was incompatible with their accounting or tracking systems; therefore, they could only provide estimates for some activities. By the end of the year, EPA had received 86 survey forms from an original mailing to 106 State/local agencies. These participants represented about 82 percent of the section 105 grant monies. While the level of response was high, the survey generally suffered from a lack of enthusiasm at both the EPA Regional and State/local agency levels. This is evident from the extreme tardiness of the responses from many agencies and from the spotty and often very general information provided by many respondents. At the September 1988 STAPPA/ALAPCO meeting, it was agreed that the Funding Committee would informally poll the general membership regarding any possible follow-up with agencies original survey questionnaire. Following the Funding 113 ------- AIR GRANTS - PROGRAM TO IDENTIFY STATE/LOCAL PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND COSTS Committee's poll, it was concluded that no specific follow up would be taken. Instead, an article would be prepared for inclusion in the STAPPA/ALAPCO Newsletter requesting that any pass-through local that desired to submit data pertaining to their agency should do so. As a result of that article, EPA received no additional survey forms. The data on the survey forms have been compiled in a computerized data base for statistical analyses. Various completeness checks, data integrity checks, and a number of statistical analyses have been performed on the data set. A summary of statistical information extracted from the data set was presented at the April 1989 STAPPA/ALAPCO meeting in Nashville. Current Status A final national report showing EPA's statistical findings was prepared and distributed to the Regional Offices and STAPPA/ALAPCO in March 1990. Future Milestones The EPA and STAPPA/ALAPCO will continue to review the data gathered through this survey and the comments submitted regarding the draft national report for purposes of deciding if a periodic update of this information is warranted. Also, efforts are under way to use this information in implementing a program to define core program activities (i.e., those State/local air pollution control activities that are indispensable and below which the program cannot fall without extreme or unacceptable impacts) in the areas of monitoring, compliance, and new source review. Since core program activities are dependent upon the requirements of the Clean Air Act, this project is currently on hold pending final amendments to the Act. EPA Contact Person Steve Hitte (919) 541-0886 (FTS) 629-0886 114 ------- CLEAN AIR ACT AMENDMENTS ON OPERATING PERMITS Background/Status The Administration and Congress have worked together in developing legislation that would provide for operating permit programs to implement the primary provisions of the Act. The Senate and House bills, although differing on some details, are generally similar. The EPA would be responsible for promulgating regulations, within one year of enactment, setting forth the requirements for state programs. All States would be responsible for submitting operating permit programs within 3 years of enactment. The program would apply to pollutants regulated under the Act emitted from all major (100 ton per year potential to emit) sources, sources subject to NSPS or NESHAP, and such others as may be added or deleted by rule. These permits, which will be considered "federally enforceable," will address applicable requirements of the Act and will contain compliance plans, reporting requirements, and other procedures to ensure their effective implementation. Of critical importance is a permit fee requirement to fund the permitting program. The presumptive amount of these annual fees is $25/ton per pollutant (except CO), up to a maximum of 4,000 tons for each source. Permits proposed for issuance will be subject to public comment including, in the Senate bill, an EPA opportunity to veto permits that would modify the SIP in a manner held to be inconsistent with the Act. States not adopting permit programs could potentially be subject to certain sanctions, including EPA promulgation of a program. This permitting program presents important opportunities for improving air quality management, enhancing State and local programs, and focusing EPA's support and oversight. The Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards is now actively involved in its development. This effort includes the management of a work group in which State and local experts identified by STAPPA/ALAPCO have been participating as advisors. Our initial focus is on supporting the early development of draft rules in order to meet the 12-month deadline for promulgation contained in the legislation. We are impressed with the permitting expertise that numerous agencies have developed and encourage them to inform us of their ideas and concerns. EPA Contact Person Mike Trutna (919) 541-5345 (FTS) 629-5345 Kirt Cox (919) 541-5399 (FTS) 629-5399 115 ------- |