United States Office of Air Quality EPA 456/B-01-001A
Environmental Protection Planning and Standards June 2001
Agency Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
Air
&EPA USER'S MANUAL FOR THE
RACT/BACT/LAER CLEARINGHOUSE
(RBLC)WEB
Volume 1 - Web Basics
lithlhlln bact
GOVERNMENT
RBLC
CLEAN AIR
Clearinghouse
'I
Developed as Part of a Joint Effort Between the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's
Clean AirT echnology Center (CAT C) and
State and Local Air Pollution Control Agencies
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USER S MANUAL FOR THE
RACT/BACT/LAER CLEARINGHOUSE (RBLC) WEB
CLEAN AIR TECHNOLOGY CENTER
SPONSORED BY:
Information Transfer Group
Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
lune 2001
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DISCLAIMER
This report has been reviewed by the Information Transfer and Program Integration
Division of the Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency and approved for publication. Approval does not signify that the contents reflect the
views and policies of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Mention of trade names or
commercial products is not intended to constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
Copies of this report are available from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port
Royal Road, Springfield, Virginia 22161, telephone (800) 553-6847.
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PREFACE
This user's manual was prepared for and funded by the New Source Review
RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse (RBLC),1 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The RBLC has been established and is maintained by the Clean Air Technology Center (CATC)
to assist State and local air pollution control personnel in making control technology
determinations and in sharing technology information.
The RBLC provides data on prevention and control technology determinations made
primarily by State and local permitting agencies. The Clearinghouse contains over 4,000
determinations that can help the user to identify appropriate technologies to mitigate or treat most
air pollutant emission streams. The RBLC was designed to help permit applicants and reviewers
make pollution prevention and control technology decisions for stationary air pollution sources
and includes data submitted by 50 states and territories in the U.S. on over 200 different air
pollutants and 1,000 industrial processes.
The Clearinghouse also has a rule data base that summarizes all emission standards issued
by EPA's Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS). This includes New Source
Performance Standards (NSPS), National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants
(NESHAP), and Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards. The rule data
base also includes prevention and control technology cost information related to each rule and
references to supporting documentation.
Read the section, Quick Start Instructions for the RBLC Data Base, in this document to
begin using the RBLC Web.
1 NOTE: RACT, BACT and LAER are acronyms for different Clean Air Act program
requirements combined to create the name "RACT/BACT/ LAER Clearinghouse." RACT, or
Reasonably Available Control Technology, is required on existing sources in areas that are not
meeting national ambient air quality standards (i.e., non-attainment areas). BACT, or Best
Available Control Technology, is required on major new or modified sources in "clean" areas (i.e.,
attainment areas). LAER, or Lowest Achievable Emission Rate, is required on major new or
modified sources in non-attainment areas. However, data in the Clearinghouse is not limited just
to sources subject to these requirements. Noteworthy prevention and control technology
decisions are included in the RBLC even if they are not related to RACT, BACT, or LAER
decisions.
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QUICK START INSTRUCTIONS FOR Till
RBLC WEB
What is the RBLC?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Technology Center
(CATC) maintains a permit data base called the RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse or
RBLC. The RBLC permit data base contains information about recent control technology
determinations submitted by State and local agencies. The regulation data base includes
information about federal regulations governing air pollutant emissions. The RBLC Web allows
anyone to search these data bases without any user registration. These quick start instructions
will provide the basics of using the system, running queries, and adding information to the data
base.
To access the RBLC Web, go to the CATC home page (at: www.epa.gov/ttn/catc/) and
click on the RBLC logo. Options found on the RBLC Homepage include links to data base
queries, documents, and related software downloads.
Using the RBLC Web
The data base contains information on facilities that apply for construction permits, the
basis for emission limits (RACT, BACT, or LAER) for each facility, pertinent source operating
parameters such as process types, pollutant emission rates, pollution prevention techniques, add-
on control equipment or other technology, permitting agency contacts, and scheduling data.
Details about all of the data elements can be found in Section 2.2 and Appendix A of the RBLC
User's Manual.
The HELP System:
The on-line HELP system provides context-sensitive assistance throughout the system.
Simply click on the question mark icon at the top of the page to access a HELP file that explains
the current screen. The RBLC User's Manual can supply answers to more complex questions,
and can be accessed on line or saved to disk. A portable document format (PDF) version of the
document has the advantage of being searchable by the Adobe Acrobat® software.
Queries:
Data Base Queries — Click on "RBLC Data Base Query" on the RBLC home page. Under the
heading, "Permit Data Base Queries", choose from the following options:
~ Query by RBLC ID: Quickly find up to three determinations using the appropriate
RBLC identifier (RBLC ID).
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~ Query by Process Type: Locate determinations that include a particular type source or
process. Pick lists are provided.
~ Standard Query: Build a search criteria by choosing from facility, process, and pollutant
properties. Where appropriate, pick lists of allowable values are available.
~ Advanced Query: Choose from pick lists of data elements and enter desired values to
build a search criteria. Criteria can be combined for more selective queries.1
Continue in RBLC interactive query mode by following the directions on the screen,
making choices by entering text and clicking buttons. Details about searching the data base are in
Section 2.3 of the RBLC User's Manual.
Each Web page has navigation buttons to assist in moving through the Web site.
Use these rather than the Web browser's navigation buttons, which may result in
inaccurate information because of the way that browsers cache information.
Viewing Results On-line
A query allows the user to access the part of the data base meeting the search criteria
specified. Once the query has located a result set, entries in the set may be viewed on-line or
downloaded as a report file. The results of a query are summarized in a table organized by RBLC
ID or facility name, depending on the option selected. The table displays RBLC ID, facility name,
city, and state, along with other information that varies depending upon which the query option
selected. Information about each of the determinations in the query results is organized by
facility, process, and pollutant.
Click on a RBLC ID in the Query Results table to see details about the permitted facility
for that determination. View successively deeper levels of information by clicking on the
navigational buttons at the top of each page. For instance, to access pollutant and related control
and prevention measures, select "Process Information" and then "Pollutant Information".
Reports
The RBLC Web provides several pre-defined formats for viewing and downloading query
results. Both summary and detail formats are available. The list of available formats is contained
in a pick list at the bottom of the Query Results page, details about these reports can be found in
Sections 2.4 and 2.5 of the User's Manual.
1 In general, a user should know what each data element contains to use this option effectively.
Refer to Section 2.2 and Appendix A of the RBLC User's Manual for more information about
individual data elements.
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Regulation Data Base Queries
The organization of the Regulation Data Base is similar to that of the RBLC's permit data
base. Refer to Section 3.2 of the RBLC User's Manual for more information about Regulation
Data Base data elements. Each entry, or rule, in the regulation data base consists of regulation-,
process-, and pollutant-level data. A rule is associated with the type of facility that is the source
of pollutants governed by the regulation.
Choose one of the options under "Regulation Data Base Queries" to locate information of
interest in the regulation data base. Then, to continue in RBLC interactive query mode, simply
follow the directions on the screen, making choices by entering text and clicking buttons. The
RBLC Web offers the following query options:
~ Scan All Regulations: displays all regulations in the data base in groups of 50,
alphabetically by affected facility.
~ Standard Query: build a search criteria by choosing from facility, process, and pollutant
properties. Where appropriate, pick lists of allowable values are provided.
~ Advanced Query: choose from pick lists of data elements and enter desired values to
build a search criteria. Criteria can be combined for more selective queries. This option is
most effective for users with a good understanding of what each data element contains.
Choose the scan option to easily view the entire regulation data base. Entries are
displayed in a table just like query results, and either a detailed listing report or a freeform report
are available for downloading. Choose either the standard or advanced query options to view
only selected regulations. All RBLC query options present an overview of query results in a table
that allows the user to examine details about matching facilities, their processes, and pollutants.
Each option also supports saving results through several different RBLC reports.
On-Line Documentation for RBLC
The RBLC is documented in this set of Quick Start Instructions, the RBLC Data Entry
Form Instructions, the RBLC Annual Report, and the RBLC User's Manual. Short descriptions
of each are listed on the Web page where they are located. The user's manual should be kept as a
reference for codes, standard units, and detailed instructions for using the system. In addition to
these traditional forms of documentation, the system includes the context-sensitive on-line HELP
function that is available throughout the entire system.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
VOLUME I: RBLC BASICS
Disclaimer ii
Preface iii
Quick Start Instructions for the RBLC Web iv
What is RBLC
~ Using the RBLC
The HELP System
Queries
Viewing Results On-line
Reports
Regulation Data Base Queries
~ On-Line Documentation for RBLC
Section Page
Section 1: Background and Overview 1-1
1.1 Background 1-1
1.1.1 The Purpose of RBLC 1-1
1.1.2 Regulatory Basis 1-2
1.1.3 Information in the RBLC Web 1-3
1.1.4 Contacting the RBLC 1 -3
1.1.5 Making Suggestions and Reporting Problems 1 -4
1.2 Overview of the RBLC Web Site 1-4
1.2.1 Web Site Organization 1-4
1.2.2 On-Line Help Options 1-6
1.2.3 On-Line Documents 1-6
Section 2: RBLC Permit Data Base Queries and Data Structure 2-1
2.1 Permit Data Base Query Options 2-1
2.2 Permit Data Base Elements 2-2
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Table of Contents (conO
Section
Page
2.2.1 RBLC Data Base Options
2-8
2.3 Searching the Permit Data Base
2-8
2.3.1 Planning the Query
2-8
2.3.2 How To Run a Query
2-9
2.3.3 Query by RBLC Identifier
2-9
2.3.4 Query by Process Type
2-9
2.3.5 Standard Query
2-12
2.3.6 Advanced Query
2-18
2.4 Query Results
2-20
2.4.1 Navigating the Query Results
2-21
2.4.2 Viewing Query Results
2-22
2.5 Data Base Reports
2-25
2.5.1 Generating a Report
2-25
2.5.2 Downloading RBLC Information
2-27
Section 3: RBLC Regulation Data Base Queries and Data Structure
3-1
3.1 Data Base Elements and Structure
3-1
3.2 Searching the Regulation Data Base
3-5
3.2.1 Planning the Query
3-5
3.2.2 How To Run a Query
3-5
3.2.3 Regulation Data Base Query Options
3-5
3.2.3.1 Scan all Regulations
3-6
3.2.3.2 Standard Query
3-6
3.2.3.3 Advanced Query
3-10
3.3 Query Results
3-12
3.3.1 Navigating the Query Results
3-12
3.3.2 Viewing Query Results
3-13
3.3.3 Generating Data Base Reports
3-16
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Section
Table of Contents (conO
Page
Volume II: Data Entry (In Preparation)
Section 4 - Data Entry Overview
4.1 Access
4.2 On-Line Help Options
4.3 Navigating Data Entry
4.4 Planning and Preparation
4.5 Required Fields and Formats
Section 5 - RBLC Web Permit Data Entry and Editing Procedures
5.1 Add a New Determination
5.2 Edit In-Process Determination
5.3 Edit Completed Determination
5.4 Paper (Hardcopy) Data Submission
5.5 Standalone Editor — The Standalone Editor will be available in the summer of2001
Volume III: Appendices
Appendix A — Data Submittal Form and Instructions A-l
Appendix B — Agency Code Listing B-l
Appendix C — Process Type Code Listing C-l
Appendix D — Abbreviations for Processes, Units, and Pollutants D-l
Abbreviations for Processes and Descriptors
Abbreviations for Emission Limit Units
Abbreviations for Pollutants
Appendix E - RBLC Standard Emission Limit Units by Process Type Code E-l
Appendix F — Examples of RBLC Standard Reports F-l
Index of Control Technology Determinations (formerly Appendix F)
Control Technology Determinations by Process Type Code (formerly Appendix G)
Detailed Source Listing (formerly Appendix H)
Freeform Data
ASCII Delimited Data Format
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Table of Contents (conO
Section Page
Appendix G — Examples of Federal/State Regulation Standard Reports G-l
Detailed Listing by Identifier (formerly Appendix H)
Freeform Data
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FIGURES
Section
Page
Figure 1.1
RBLC Web Home Page
1-5
Figure 1.2
Table of Contents for Query Help Topics
1-6
Figure 2-1
RBLC Data Structure and Data Relationships
2-3
Figure 2.2
Query by Process Type Step One
2-10
Figure 2.3
Query by Process Type Step Two
2-11
Figure 2.4
Run Options for Standard Query
2-18
Figure 2.5
Advanced Query
2-19
Figure 2.6
Results Table for a Standard Query
2-21
Figure 2.7
Facility Level Detail Page
2-23
Figure 2.8
Process Level Detail Page
2-24
Figure 2.9
Pollutant Level Detail Page
2-25
Figure 2.10
Download Report Format Selection
2-26
Figure 3.1
Regulation Data Base Standard Query
3-7
Figure 3.2
Regulation Data Base Advanced Query
3-11
Figure 3.3
Results Table for Regulation Data Base
3-13
Figure 3.4
Regulation Details Page
3-14
Figure 3.5
Process Details Page
3-15
Figure 3.6
Pollutant Details Page
3-16
XI
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SECTION 1:
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
Welcome to the RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse (RBLC) Web. EPA initially
established the RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse to assist State and local air pollution control
personnel in making control technology determinations and in sharing technology information.
Moreover, the RBLC is a resource to industries and consultants when they are preparing permits
and researching control options, and to the public and environmental groups when they are
reviewing and commenting on permitting activities. This user's manual describes how to use the
RBLC Web to access information pertinent to these users.
1.1.1 The Purpose of RBLC
The basic purposes of the RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse are:
~ To provide information on current prevention and control technology
determinations;
~ To provide data on the specific emission limits imposed on existing, new, or
modified sources across the country; and
~ To present summaries of recent federal air pollution regulations and offer a forum
for State and local agencies to maintain similar information for their own rules.
The Clearinghouse should serve as a reference or a starting point for State and local
agencies when considering RACT, BACT, or LAER decisions.
The RBLC data base system performs the following three functions:
~ Allows direct computer access to the data in the RACT/BACT/LAER
Clearinghouse,
~ Allows rapid production of RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse reports; and
~ Allows rapid updating of RACT/BACT/LAER determinations.
The most typical use of the information in the data base is to identify and compare
available control technologies, either for the sake of selecting the most appropriate control in a
specific situation or identifying the range of controls available for a process.
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The RBLC Web on-line search functions allow users to build queries specific to their
needs. These queries can be used to identify the most commonly used control technologies for a
particular pollutant and process, or those being used within a specific period of time or
geographic region. These subsets can be downloaded and used with PC-based data base or
spreadsheet software to do more complex queries. Query options and the mechanics of searches
are discussed thoroughly in Sections 2 and 3.
1.1.2 Regulatory Basis
The Clean Air Act (CAA) of 1970 gave the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
the responsibility and authority to control air pollution in the United States and its territories. One
of the responsibilities given to EPA under Section 108 of the CAA is to publish information on air
pollution control techniques. This information includes data on available technology and methods
for prevention and control of air pollution.
Different provisions of the CAA require the Reasonably Available Control Technology
(RACT), Best Available Control Technology (BACT), and Lowest Achievable Emission Rate
(LAER), and New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) as emission control and pollution
prevention measures:
~ RACT requirements apply to existing sources located in nonattainment areas (i.e.,
areas that do not meet National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)). RACT
requirements are typically prescribed by State and local rules and regulations, but
may also be made on a case-by-case basis.
~ New Source Review (NSR) requirements are case-by-case decisions or
determinations made by the state or local agency based on the requirements of the
applicable regulation. NSR BACT requirements apply to major new and modified
sources located in nonattainment areas and subject to Prevention of Significant Air
Quality Deterioration (PSD) permitting requirements.
~ NSR LAER requirements apply to major new and modified sources located in
nonattainment areas (i.e. areas that do not meet a NAAQS), and are applied by
State and local agencies before a permit to construct may be issued.
~ NSPS apply to both new and modified sources; they must reflect the degree of
emission reduction achievable through the application of the best system of
continuous emission reduction as determined by the EPA Administrator. An
applicable NSPS acts as the baseline for BACT and LAER decisions.
Although the specific criteria governing RACT, BACT, LAER, or NSPS vary, the general
underlying approach is to require the best abatement technology possible on all major existing,
new, or modified sources. Most State and local programs have accepted complete responsibility
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for issuing PSD and nonattainment permits. Thus, it is extremely important that information be
available to assist control agencies in making the necessary control technology determinations in a
nationally consistent manner. The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 made submittal of LAER
to the RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse Information System mandatory.
1.1.3 Information in the RBLC Data Base
The RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse data base includes RACT, BACT, and LAER
determinations made by various air pollution control agencies. Each data base entry contains
information on the permitted facility at facility, process and pollutant levels. Examples of the data
included for each level are:
~ Facility data: Permitting agency contacts, and scheduling data;
~ Process data: Fuel, capacity, and process descriptions; and
~ Pollutants: Basis for the limit (RACT, BACT, or LAER), pollutant emission limits,
pollution prevention techniques, add-on control equipment or other technology,
and control cost data.
1.1.4 Contacting the RBLC
The RBLC is accessible on the World Wide Web, and access requires only a PC, an
Internet connection, and a browser. The RBLC is available from the Clean Air Technology Center
(CATC) home page located at: www.epa.gov/ttn/catc/. No account or password is required to
query and browse the data base.
Authorized State or local air pollution control agency personnel may enter and edit their
RBLC data on-line. An RBLC edit user ID and a password are required for a user to be able to
add information to the data base on-line. Call EPA at (919) 541-0800 to receive an edit
authorization form. An EPA staff person is available to assist authorized users in obtaining RBLC
edit authority as well a security clearance for inputting determinations. Inquiries concerning
RBLC should be directed to:
RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse (MD-12)
Information Transfer & Program Integration Division
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
Phone: (919) 541-0800
or
The Control Technology Center Info Line:
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(919) 541-0800, FAX (919) 541-0242
Completed data input forms (additions to the RBLC data base) can be mailed directly to
EPA at:
RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse
USEPA (MD-12)
RTP, NC 27711
For Web-related issues, the RBLC Webmaster can be contacted through email:
Steigerwald.Joe@epa.gov.
1.1.5 Making Suggestions and Reporting Problems
Comments on the RBLC Web are always welcome. Improvements to the Web are a
continuing goal of the CATC. Please use the contacts listed in Section 1.1.4 to make suggestions
or report problems.
1.2 OVERVIEW OF THE RBLC WEB SITE
1.2.1 Web Site Organization
The RBLC home page (see Figure 1.1) provides access to the RBLC data bases, and links
to related sites. Connect to the RBLC home page from the CATC home page:
http://www.epa.gov/ttn/catc/. Options that are available from the RBLC home page are:
~ Welcome to RBLC — Presents an overview of the RBLC and brief descriptions of
how to use the RBLC data base.
~ What's New — Highlights items recently added or updated on the RBLC Web.
~ RBLC Data base Query — Links to the data base query menu. Browse or search
the entire RBLC data base of completed and in-process determinations, and
regulations from this page.
~ RBLC Data Entry — Links to the RBLC data entry page where authorized users
can log in to add or update control technology determinations for their state or
local agency.
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^ tof
flaacxii &
NSR RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse
RBLC Public Workshops
The New Source Review (NSR) RACT/BACT/LAER
Cleanaghouse (RBLC) database contains mformaticn
istffled torn early aotificatjoa suboattals and air permits
received from State and local air pollution control programs
m the United States. The NSR RBLC Web site also
contains summary information on air pollution emission
standard The data assists State/local agency personnel
and private companies in determining what types of controls
and pollution prevention measures have been applied to
and/or are required for various sources and the
effectiveness of these technologies,
The H3J|BLG,DatabMS..SMgl option lets a user
ifitcractively Query tHs p enxiit datsb'&ss slid the rs^ulstiori
Main Table of Contents
What's Mew
NSR/BBLC Database Oner?
NSR/RBLC Data Entry
RBLC Software
1BLC Documents
Related Sites arid Information
links to State and Local Air
Poluion Control Agencies
On-Line Reference Library
ToolJog
tu~ vrcp .n>T>T
Figure 1.1: RBLC Web Home Page
RBLC Software/RBLC Documents— Lists downloadable files available on the
RBLC web site. These files include published documents like RBLC annual
report, and this RBLC User's Manual. Also available for downloading are tables,
instructions, and other technical information related to using the RBLC.
The RBLC home page also includes links to other related EPA, State, and Local Web
sites. The "Links to State and Local Air Pollution Control Agencies" page contains links to on-
line sources of permit information for every State and Local Agency currently maintaining a Web
presence. The " Online Reference Library" page contains links to EPA and non-EPA Web pages
that provide environmental or technical information. The "Tool Box" link opens a page
containing environmental tools including emissions and costing spreadsheets and other
calculators. Among other EPA links at the bottom of the page, click on the "TTN Home" link to
connect to a complete view of the technical information offered on the TTN.
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1.2.2 On-Line Help Options
The RBLC Web includes a context-sensitive on-line HELP function that is available
throughout the entire system. Buttons with a question mark designate the help function:
*
On the RBLC Query page, click on "Help for RBLC Data Base" for step-by-step
instructions on using the system's permit and regulation query options, including data element
definitions and reporting formats. Figure 1.2 shows the table of contents for this page.
I tlgSCT
iiie Erii: Viev-j
!-j [iiack -
Query the RBLC Data Bases
L'sing the Re eolation Data Base
Scan Regulation Data Base
Standard Query
Advanced Query
Viewaia Results
Viewing Petals about a Regulation
Selecting a Report F ornat
Options fur Querying the RBLC'
Hie KBLC provides different query options designed to help you locate the infonaabon you are interested in, whether m the
permit data base or the regulation data base. Choose the option that most closely matches what you are looking for. AH KBLC
nnmr nntinnc nrfvmt an (wmi™ nf miir mmrsr r*
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These documents can be accessed on line or saved to disk as a portable document format (PDF)
file. A PDF version of any of these documents has the advantage of being searchable by the
Adobe Acrobat® software. Short descriptions of each are listed on the RBLC Documents Web
page where they are located. The user's manual is divided into multiple volumes:
~ Volume 1: RBLC Basics — Provides introductory material for the RBLC data
base, Quick Start Instructions for the RBLC Web, detailed descriptions of the
permit and regulatory data bases, and guidance on using the query system with
both data bases.
~ Volume 2: Data Entry — Provides detailed descriptions of data entry procedures.
~ Volume 3: Appendices — Contains reference tables with the values that can be
used for processes, controls, and emission units; abbreviations for pollutants; codes
for State and local air pollution control agencies and industrial processes; the hard-
copy data submittal form, and example RBLC standard reports.
The user's manual should be kept as a reference for codes, standard units, and detailed
instructions for using the system. The RBLC User's Manual will be updated annually.
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SECTION 2:
RBLC PERMIT DATA BASE QUERIES AND DATA STRUCTURE
The RBLC permit data base contains information about control technology determinations
submitted by State and local agencies. Click on "RBLC Data Base Query" from the RBLC home
page to query the RBLC data bases. From the data base query page, users may view on-line help
for the query options, perform a query on either the permit or the regulation data base, or link to
additional resources. This section outlines the permit data base options, provides a detailed listing
and description of the data elements in the permit data base, and shows how to use the four data
base query options. The Federal/State Regulations data base is discussed in Section 3 of this
Volume.
2.1 Permit Data Base Query Options
Choose one of the options under "Permit Data Base Queries" to locate information in the
permit data base. Then, follow the directions on the screen to define a query. The RBLC Web
offers the following query options:
~ Query by RBLC Identifier: quickly finds up to three determinations identified by
their RBLC identifier (RBLC ID).
~ Query by Process Type: locates determinations that include a particular source or
process. Drop down lists are used to make selections.
~ Standard Query: allows users to build a search criteria by choosing from facility,
process, and pollutant properties. Where appropriate, pick lists of allowable
values are provided.
~ Advanced Query: allows users to choose from pick lists of data elements and
enter desired values to build a search criteria. Criteria can be combined for more
selective queries. In general, users should know what each data element contains
to use this option effectively.
All RBLC query options present an overview of the query results in a table with links to
pages that provide details about facilities, processes, and pollutants. Each option also supports
saving results in any of the RBLC standard output formats.
Each Web page has navigation buttons to assist in moving through the Web site.
Use these rather than the Web browser's navigation buttons, which may result in
inaccurate information because of the way that browsers cache information.
The RBLC navigation buttons can be used to return to the query page and respecify
search criteria for another query, or use the link at the bottom of the results page to return to the
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main RBLC page in order to choose another query option. If a query is not successful, return to
the query page and respecify the search criteria. Check to make sure that a misspelled word or an
invalid value for a search element is not the problem.
2.2 Data Base Elements
The RBLC data base contains information about a variety of data elements. This
information is separated into three main categories: facility data, process data, and pollutant data.
The data are organized so that each facility determination may have multiple processes and each
process may emit multiple pollutants. Figure 2.1 shows the RBLC data structure and data
relationships. Each facility has at least one process and at least one pollutant. The information
that EPA maintains in the data base on each of the three levels (facility, process, and pollutant) is
listed below. Data elements that can be used in a query are marked with a (*).
Facility Information:
RBLC ID*: The unique identification number assigned to each RBLC
determination by EPA staff. The number consists of the state abbreviation
and a four digit number, i.e. AK-0001 is the first determination entered
from Alaska. A suffix may exist for old determinations for clarification.
• Company Name*: In some cases a parent company will own many
facilities. The parent company's name has been entered in this field. If the
company that owns the facility has the same name as the facility, the name
may be entered in both the company and facility name fields.
• Plant (facility)Name*: See the note for Company Name. The facility
name has been entered here.
• Plant Location Information: The actual location of the facility,
including:
S County;
S State* ( assigned by the system);
S EPA Region*( assigned by the system):
S Facility Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates and UTM
Zone; and
S Class I area names* (e.g., National Parks, Wilderness Area, etc.) located
within 250km of the facility.
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Facility
Multiple Processes per
Facility
Multiple Pol
utants per Process
Figure 2-1: RBLC Data Structure and Data Relationships
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Company contact information: Fields which provide contact
information for the person knowledgeable about the process at the plant or
facility being permitted. Fields are name, mailing address, telephone
numbers (voice and fax), e-mail address, and mailing address, including city
state and zip code.
Permit/file number*: An identification number assigned to the permit by
the permit issuing agency. If the permit is issued by the EPA regional
office, this number would be the region file number.
AIRS Facility Number (Universal Plant ID)*: A unique identification
number for the plant, typically, the EPA Aerometric Information Retrieval
System (AIRS) ID. The AIRS ID number is usually assigned by someone
within the State or local agency assembling the permit but may also be
assigned by an EPA Regional contact.
EPA ID: Data element reservedfor future use.
SIC Code*: The standard industrial classification (SIC) code for facilities used
throughout the Office of Air and Radiation (OAR) at EPA. A list of valid SIC
codes is available as a drop down list in the query and data entry portions of the
RBLC web site, or can be downloaded as a file from the RBLC Documents list.
Permitting Agency information*: Information on the issuing agency,
and the primary contact for the determination. Lists of agency names and
agency codes are listed in Appendix B of this User's Manual and in the
RBLC Web system. Agency contact's names and phone numbers are also
maintained by the system. The contact information is available for RBLC
users with questions regarding the determination.
Public Hearing: This field indicates whether a public hearing was held.
New/Modified Source: A new facility will be marked as a new source, a
modification or addition to an existing facility will be marked as modified.
Scheduling information: Permitting scheduling dates stored in the
system are the following:
Application receipt date;
Permit issuance date*;
Start-up date; and
Compliance verification date.
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The RBLC data base includes a character field for each of the above dates
that indicates whether the date is estimated or an actual date.
Notes: This field allows the user to include explanatory information about
the determination which he or she enters into the RBLC data base.
Last update: A field which allows users to see when the last changes
were made to each determination. Assigned by the system.
• Entry date: Date that the determination was first entered into the RBLC
permanent data base. Assigned by the system.
Plant narrative/Emission sources/fuel/Abatement description:
These are notes fields for information about the entire plant/facility.
Plantwide emissions*: The total emissions of CO, NOx, PM, SOx, and
VOC from the entire facility may be available here.
Process Information:
• Process description*: The name of the process which describes the
process listed (examples in Appendix A).
Process type code*: A numeric code assigned to each process used to
categorize determinations. Codes and their descriptors can be found in
Appendix C and in drop down lists in the query and data entry portions of
the RBLC web site.
SCC code*: The source classification code (SCC) for processes used throughout
the Office of Air and Radiation (OAR) at EPA. A list of valid SCC codes can be
downloaded as a file from the RBLC Documents list.
Throughput capacity and units: For each process listed in a
determination, the RBLC data base can contain information about the
throughput capacity of the process unit, i.e. boiler size is often specified
using a throughput capacity measured in MMBTU per hour. In some
cases, throughput may not be entered because it may be considered
confidential business information.
• Primary fuel: The primary fuel used by this process.
• Compliance verification: A series of fields that allow users to enter a
yes or no response to the following questions:
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Compliance verified?
Method of confirmation
Stack testing?
Inspections?
Calculations?
Other testing?
Users may also enter a short narrative description of other types of confirmation
methods.
• Process/Compliance notes: Explanatory information about the process
will have been entered here.
Pollutant Information:
• Pollutant name and CAS number*: The name and Chemical Abstract Service
(CAS) number of the pollutant being controlled. These can be found in Appendix
D.
• Control method code *: A one-character field indicating what method
was used to achieve the emission limits. The choices which may be entered
are:
P — Pollution prevention techniques, e.g., any required process
modification, change in raw material, or management practice designed to
decrease or prevent pollutant emissions;
A — Add-on control equipment;
B — Both pollution prevention and add-on equipment;
N — No feasible controls.
Control method description/Notes *: A description of the specific
pollution prevention and/or add-on control equipment used to meet the
emission limits of the permit. This field is unnecessary if "N" is entered
as the control method code.
• Emission type*: A one-character field indicating whether the emission is
fugitive (F), point-source (P), or area-source (A).
• Percent efficiency*: The design efficiency expected from a particular
type of control equipment or method. This figure is expressed as a
percentage. Percent efficiency can be used in some permits as an
enforceable limit. In these cases, the percent efficiency can be entered in
lieu of the pollutant's emission limit.
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Primary emission limit and units: The primary emission limit listed in
the permit. Unit abbreviations can be found in Appendix D.
Alternative emission limit and units: If provided on the permit, these
numbers represent any alternative emission measurements which the facility
may make. Unit abbreviations can be found in Appendix D.
RBLC STANDARDIZED EMISSION LIMIT AND UNITS: This limit allows
comparison with other similar determinations in the data base. If standard
units are provided for the process type and pollutant for which the user is
searching (see Appendix E), users can compare the entries in this field to
determine the most stringent limits.
Basis for limit *: The statutory basis for the pollutant limit. The choices
which may be entered into the RBLC data base are:
BACT-PSD — Prevention of Significant Deterioration;
BACT-OTHER -- Other BACT (i.e. T-BACT, Toxics-BACT,
etc.);
Lowest Achievable Emission Rate (LAER);
Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT);
Reasonably Available Control Technology (RACT);
Generally Available Control Technology (GACT);
New Source Performance Standards (NSPS);
National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants
(NESHAP); and
Other.
When several regulations apply to emissions from a process at a specific facility,
and one limit must be chosen as the primary emission limit and entered in the Basis
for Limit field, a case-by-case RACT, BACT, or LAER limit takes precedence.
Other regulatory limits should be entered in the Control Method Description/Notes
field.
Control technology ranking data: The ranking of the control
technology chosen, when ranked according to the level of control.
Information includes the number of options considered and the rank of the
option selected.
Cost data: Control costs contained in these fields include:
Cost verified by the permitting agency (yes or no);
Capital cost of control equipment;
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Annual operation and maintenance cost of control equipment;
Year of the dollar used in cost calculations;
Annualized cost; and
Cost effectiveness in dollars per ton.
2.2.1 RBLC Data Base Options
The RBLC Web stores determinations based upon the date that a determination was
entered in the RBLC. The data base options are:
~ Transient/Early Notification Determinations - These facilities represent the most
recent information in the RBLC, but may include determinations for permits which
are not yet issued (still in the review stages), determinations which have necessary
information still missing, or determinations which have not been verified for
corrections and completion by the RBLC staff.
~ RBLC Determinations Added During or After January, 1990 - These
determinations are the most recent information in the RBLC that has been
reviewed and approved for inclusion in the permit data base. Most of them will
contain values for all key fields.
~ Historical RBLC Determinations (added before January 1990) - These older
determinations may not contain values in all the data fields, particularly those fields
recently added to the data base.
~ All RBLC determinations (excluding NSR/under review) — A query of these
determinations will search all completed determinations.
The RBLC offers a separate data base for information on federal and state regulations.
Details about this data base are described in Section 3 of this Volume.
2.3 Searching the RBLC
2.3.1 Planning the Query
Before starting any query, consider the information to be gathered in the query. Review
the description of each option in Section 2.1 to identify these options' specific uses and strengths.
The standard and advanced queries allow the user to build a more sophisticated query, taking into
account multiple search criteria, so that rather than simply browsing all of the listings for a single
process type, search results can be narrowed by pollutant, control device, geographic location, or
industry. However, these query options can return an overwhelming number of determinations if
the query is not specific. We recommend that users familiarize themselves with the search criteria
that are available so that they can search efficiently.
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2.3.2 How To Run a Query
A query allows the user to create a subset of the data base using search criteria. After
selecting one of the four query options on the RBLC Web, specify the search criteria in the input
form and then run by clicking the "Run query now" button. Once the query has located matching
determinations, the results can be viewed on-line or downloaded as a report file. Additional
instructions and query information are available on the query Web pages and through the help
system.
Except for " Query by RBLC Identifier", RBLC query options require the user to select an
RBLC data base based on the time period that entries were first added to the RBLC. These data
time periods are defined in Section 2.2.1 of this volume.
2.3.3 Query by RBLC Identifier
This option is the fastest way to find a permit on the RBLC web. A query by the RBLC
Identifier requires only one input, the RBLC ID. Up to three RBLC identifiers can be used in a
single query. This query will find all valid RBLC IDs in the NSR Early Notification/Under
Review and the RBLC data bases.
The correct format of an RBLC ID is AA-nnnn, where AA is the 2-letter state
abbreviation and nnnn is a 4-digit number that uniquely identifies the permit. Some older permits
use a single letter suffix (e.g., CA-0001.A) to further distinguish among related determinations.
Input for this single letter suffix field is not case sensitive.
2.3.4 Query by Process Type
The Query by Process Type option is designed to provide general information about a
particular type of process, such as natural gas combustion turbines or rotogravure printing.
Numeric process type codes are the primary method of classifying source categories in the RBLC
data base. Appendix C contains a complete listing of the process type codes used in the RBLC.
This option has two steps. First, select a broad process category by clicking on the down
arrow in the main process category drop-down selection list (shown in Figure 2.2). Scroll to the
desired major category, highlight it, and click on the selected item. Click the "Next Step" button
to continue.
The second step for this query option is shown in Figure 2.3. The selections for this step
are:
~ A list of the data base options for the RBLC permit data base. Users can search
entries from the entry period of interest.
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~ A list of specific process type codes. The contents of the list depend on the earlier
selection of a major category. To find all of the determinations with processes in a
major process category, choose the first item in the list ( the .000 code).
Refer to Appendix C to review all of the RBLC process codes. The standard or advanced query
options allow the user to query on the process name.
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determinations that contain processes of a
particular type. You must first make a selection
from the list of main categories.
Please note that NSR early notification
submittals typically do not contain process-
specific information. This query may not find
any matches in the NSR portion, of the
database.
If you need help, click on the question mark at
the top of this (or any other) NSR/RBLC
query page to access cur on-line help
Select a Main Process Category
10 COMBUSTION
Continue with query
Next Step
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Figure 2.2: Query by Process Type Step One
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Query the NSR/RBLC Database by Process Type Code _ZJ
Select a Subset of the Database
Choose the portion of the NSR/KBLC permit
database with the determinations from the time
period you are interested in. Determinations entered
since mid-1992 tend to be more complete than
older ones. MostNSR entries do not contain
process-specific information.
1NSR Early Notification/Under Review Determinations
RBLC Determinations added during or after January, 1990
[Historical Determinations (added before January, 1990)
|All RBLC Determinations (excluding NSR/Under Review)
Choose a specific process code within the selected
main category. To End all processes within a main
process category, choose the .000 code (the first
choice on the list).
Select Specific Code for Process Category 11
11.004 Multiple Fuels Combustion
E
Click die run button to find determinations that meet
your criteria. If you need help, click on the question
mark at the top of this (or any other) NSR/RBLC
query page.
Figure 2.3: Query by Process Type Step Two
SortbyRBLCID C Sort by Facility —
- zl
Run query now
For example, a search for process type 11.000 finds all external combustion processes
from 11.001 to 11.999. However, because this type of query may find a large number of
matching records, it may be more efficient to select a specific process code to refine the query.
Example - Using the right process code
Problem. We want to compare controls for VOC emissions from wire coil coating operations,
but a query for process type code 41.011 (metal coil surface coating) yields only three such
operations listed in the RBLC data base, and two of those were entered in the 1980's. Can we
locate similar operations that might provide usable information?
Solution. Query instead on process type code 41.000, which yields 663 process entries.
Browse these to identify useful related process type codes and control methods, and use the
Standard or Advanced Query forms to build a more specific query.
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After selecting a data base and a process type code, click the "Run query now" button to
execute the query. The results of the query are displayed in a table, sorted by either facility name
or RBLC ID. To examine the results of the query, click on one of the RBLC IDs. View the
information for a facility, and select from the links shown on each screen to view process and
pollutant information. Sections 2.4 and 2.5, Viewing Query Results and Data Base Reports,
describe how to view and download query results.
2.3.5 Standard Query
The standard query option provides more flexibility in examining the permit data base. It
allows queries on data fields other than process type or RBLC ID, and it supports queries based
on multiple data fields. When a data value must be one of a particular set of choices, these
choices are presented in a pick list.
More than one search criteria section can be filled out for the standard query. Try to
select enough criteria to match a manageable number of records, without being so restrictive that
the query finds no matches or the query is so complex that it takes too long to run. Usually, two
to three criteria work well. Be sure not to specify mutually exclusive criteria, such as selecting
North Carolina as the facility location, but a permitting agency in Texas.
Search criteria are used to match data base records with the values specified in the query.
In most cases, the data specified will need to be exact matches. Some records (i.e., date of
determination entry, facility identifier, and control efficiency) allow the use of comparison
operators to define a range of potential values. For numbers, the allowable operators are equals,
greater than, or less than. Operators for alphanumeric fields allow you to match any part of the
data, match the beginning characters only, or specify an exact match of every character.
A total of eight data elements can be searched and include:
1)
NSR/RBLC Date Selection
2)
Facility or Industry Identifiers
3)
Facility Location
4)
Permit Information
5)
Plantwide Emissions
6)
Process Information
7)
Pollutant Information
8)
Emissions Abatement Information
Each of these eight data elements that can be searched using the RBLC standard query are
described below, along with instructions on their use.
NSR/RBLC Date Selection
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~ Choose an RBLC data base.
~ Choose an additional date element from the date range pick list:
~ Date added to RBLC
~ Date last modified
~ Date permit issued
Enter a "from" date and/or a "to" date. The query will find dates greater than or equal to
the "from" date and less than or equal to the "to" date.
Example - Query by Date
Problem . To get a summary of determinations entered and modified by a specific agency
during the last three months of the year 1999.
Solution. Choose Date Last Modified, and in the date fields, enter 09/01/99 and 12/31/99. In
the Permit Information section of the query, select the agency's name from the pick list(e.g.,
AZ002 - Maricopa Co. Air Pollution Control, AZ), then run the query.
The RBLC Web is flexible about the format of dates. Dates may be entered in a numeric
mm/dd/yyyy or m/dd/yy format or spelled out, i.e, 'Jan 1, 1998'. If the system cannot recognize
the date as it has been entered, it will prompt the user to go back and enter another date value.
Facility or Industry Identifiers
These selections allow the user to query based on a facility or company name, an RBLC
ID, or by SIC code. Select a facility identifier from the pick list (see the items listed below) and
enter the appropriate value to match.
~ Company name
~ Plant name
~ RBLC Identifier (RBLC ID)
Any of these facility identifiers can be entered as either complete or partial names. Enter
a complete RBLC ID to locate one specific determination. When the search criteria is the RBLC
ID, the query will run faster if the exact match operator is used. Choose one of the following
comparison operators:
~ Containing performs a word search and matches all facilities that contain the
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specified value anywhere in the facility name data element.
~ Beginning with finds only those facilities whose facility name data element begins
with the value specified.
~ Exact match is the most restrictive operator and requires a character by character
match between the value specified and the facility data element.
Comparison operators are particularly useful when searching text fields such as the
facility name. For example, when using the Beginning With operator and specifying THE PA as
the value to match, the result set will include "THE PAPER CLIP FACTORY," "THE PA
ELECTRIC PROJECT," and "THE PASTRY SHOP," but not "PASTEURIZATION INC."
Using the Exact Match operator would probably give you an empty result set. Specifying PA as
the value to match with the Containing operator would find all of these facilities, plus names such
as "PRINCIPAL REPAIRS" and "CONSOLIDATED PAVERS."
For a more general industry-based search, choose from the pick list of SIC codes to
retrieve a broad set of facilities in a particular industry. Many older permits were added to the
data base without a SIC code, so queries may not find all matching records. A list of SIC codes
can be downloaded from the RBLC documents section, available from the RBLC home page.
Facility Location
The data base may be queried by EPA Region; State or U.S. territory; or up to twenty
Class One protected areas in combination with a distance to Class One borders. The latter
combination will find facilities that are near any of the National Parks and other protected areas
that have been selected. Selection options are:
~ Select the EPA Region in which facilities are located; or
~ Enter a state abbreviation (this option will supersede an EPA Region selection); or
~ Select Class One affected boundaries.
Permit Information
The permit information option allows a query based on the permitting agency, a permit
number, or a plant ID code (formatted according to EPA standards). Query options are:
~ Choose a state or local permitting agency from the list provided to obtain a listing
of all determinations entered by a specific agency. Enter the first letter of the state
of interest to scroll to the appropriate agency codes. Appendix B lists all agency
codes used in the RBLC.
~ Enter a permit number to locate one specific determination. Every permitting
agency uses its own format for permit numbers. It can be difficult to exactly match
a permit number. Try using a more general search criteria, and make a note of the
RBLC ID so the permit can be quickly located in the future.
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~ Enter the AIRS facility number/universal plant ID to identify all of the
determinations in the data base that are associated with a specific facility.
However, the AIRS facility number field is not a required field for entries, and it
may not be the most reliable query field.
Plantwide Emissions
Plantwide emissions data are available primarily for NSR early notification entries. These
emissions are a non-required field for data entry, so not all facilities will have this information.
These data may be searched by individual criteria pollutant. Any facilities with emissions reported
greater than zero for the chosen pollutant will be displayed. Alternatively, the user may query on
"Pollutant Name" under the "POLLUTANT INFORMATION" category for additional
information.
Process Information
The data base can be queried by process information by entering a word or phrase that
describes a particular process, selecting from the pick list of process type codes, and/or entering a
Source Classification Code (SCC). Process type codes are the primary method of classifying
source categories in the permit data base, and a query is most likely to be successful if the process
code is specified. Process names and SCCs can be used to narrowly define a broad process
category. Be aware that many older facilities in the data base were entered without SCCs, and a
query on a SCC may not find all matching processes. Detailed process information may not be
available for NSR early notification entries.
~ Enter a partial or complete process name. This search criterion automatically uses
the containing operator and works especially well when combined with one of the
other process data elements. Appendix D lists common process names used in the
RBLC.
~ Choose from the list of process type codes. Enter a number between 1 and 9 to
scroll to the process codes starting with that digit. Appendix C lists all process
codes used in the RBLC.
~ Enter a SCC code. Many older permits were added to the data base without a
SCC code, so the query may not find all matching records. A list of SCC codes
can be downloaded from the RBLC Documents section, available from the RBLC
home page. A higher level SCC (i.e., one with fewer digits) can be used to identify
a less specific process.
Pollutant Information
Pollutant information includes the pollutant name or its Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS)
number, and emission type (i.e. point, area or fugitive). When querying on emission type, it is
strongly recommend that some facility or process-level criteria be included in the query to reduce
2-15
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the size of the query results. Detailed pollutant information may not be available for NSR early
notification entries. Query options are:
~ Specify a pollutant name. Choose from one of the criteria pollutants in the pick
list, or choose 'Specify other' and type the pollutant name. Appendix D of this
User's Manual lists pollutants abbreviations. The RBLC standard is to use the
chemical abbreviation for a pollutant, for example 'CO' for carbon monoxide.
~ Enter a CAS number. This is the recommended method for finding a specific
pollutant because it accounts for any variations in pollutant names. A listing of
CAS numbers is in Appendix D of this volume.
~ Choose from the list of available emission types. This selection works best when
used in combination with other criteria because it matches a large number of data
base entries.
Emissions Abatement Information
Emissions abatement information includes the regulatory program under which the limit
was established, the method used to control emissions, a particular pollution prevention technique
or add-on control that was used to achieve the emissions limit, and/or the percent efficiency of the
control method used. Partial words work best for queries on control description, because they
allow for spelling variations. For control efficiency information, specify a comparison operator.
Emissions abatement information may not be available for NSR early notification entries.
~ Specify the regulatory basis under which limits were established (e.g., BACT-PSD,
or NSPS). Choose from the pick list of the most common values for basis in the
data base, or choose 'Specify other' and type in a value.
~ Choose the control method code that describes the method used to achieve the
emissions abatement. Control method codes are: A (add-on control), P (pollution
prevention), B (both), and N (none). This selection works best when used in
combination with other criteria because it matches a large number of data base
entries.
~ Enter a word or phrase for the particular pollution prevention method or add-on
equipment that was used.
~ Select a control efficiency threshold as a percentage. Thresholds can be specified
as either equals, greater than or less than. Very often, a measure of efficiency is
not provided with the submittal, so a query on this data element may not find many
matching records.
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EXAMPLE: USING THE STANDARD QUERY FORM
Problem: Too many determinations.
The RBLC Web data base is being consulted to identify nitrogen oxide (NOx) control
methods applied to natural gas turbines. A quick query using just the process type code for
natural gas internal combustion and NOx yields 251 determinations, an overwhelming number.
What sort of query options can be used to refine the search?
Solution: Define needs, experiment with options, run several queries.
The study is focusing on just turbines, so using the process name could possibly
reduce the number of determinations in the results. However, using the process type code,
pollutant, and "turbine" in the process name field still yields 172 determinations.
A further limit is that results of this work will be used in the state of California, so that
specifying California determinations should reflect State rules and practices. Using the
location/state option, along with those previously selected, results in 24 determinations, a very
manageable number. Further queries identify those determinations that have add-on controls
(3), pollution prevention (8), or both (12). Further research could identify states with similar
NOx rules, or having identified a likely pollution control method, the standard query or
advanced query could be used to identify all instances of that control method for review.
Once all search criteria for the standard query have been specified, select the method for
sorting the results table. Results can be sorted by facility name or by RBLC ID (see Figure 2.4).
Click on the "Run query now" button to begin the query, or click the "Reset" button to start over
with a blank standard query form.
The results of the query are displayed in a table. Examining the results of the query or
downloading the results to a local PC are discussed in Section 2.4.
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Click the ran button to find
detenakatiotB that meet the criteria
you specified. Click reset if you
want to start over with a blank
form
If you would like assistance on
using the standard query, our on-
line help has more information.
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Figure 2.4: Run Options for Standard Query
2.3.6 Advanced Query
The advanced query option lets the user create search criteria by choosing from pick lists
of data elements, entering desired values, and applying a selection of data operators. Two search
criteria can be combined using 'AND' or 'OR' logical connectors for more selective queries.
Figure 2.5 illustrates the initial part of the advanced query page. Although similar to the standard
query, the advanced query option does not provide sets of allowable values for data elements.
These must be entered by the user. In general, the user should know what information each data
element contains to use this option effectively. Use the on-line help and this document's
discussions of data base elements in Section 2.2, and standard query options in Section 2.3.5,
when running the advanced query. As with other query options, the user must select a RBLC
permit data base.
2-18
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than older ones. Most NSR entries do not contain
process-specific information.
Select a Sublet of the Database
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I Historical RBLC Determinations (added before January, 1990)
(All RBLC Determinations (excluding HSR/Under Review)
Specify your criteria by choosing a data element to
query on, selecting a comparison operator, and
typing the value you are looking for
Specify first criteria
Data Element
Agency Code
Basis for limit
CAS number
Company name
Control method code
Control method description '
Date added to NSR/RBLC
Date last modified
Distance to Class 1 areas
Identifier (NSR/RBLC ID)
Operator
Value
5
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query by combining Choose connecter (optional*
ictor.
r~3
refined query,
nt and an operator, Specify second criteria (optional)
then typing in the desired value.
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Figure 2.5: Advanced Query
Specify the first search criteria by choosing a data element and a comparison operator
from the pick lists. Then type the desired alphanumeric value for the data element in the text box.
Entries are not case sensitive. The searchable data elements are:
~ Agency code;
~ Basis for limit;
~ CAS number;
~ Control method code;
~ Control method description;
~ Date added to RBLC;
~ Date last modified;
~ Distance to Class 1 area;
~ Facility name;
~ Identifier (RBLC ID);
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~ Plant (facility) name;
~ Pollutant name;
~ Process name;
~ Process type code;
~ Region;
SCC code;
~ SIC code; and
~ State.
All three fields: data element, operator, and value, must be entered. At this point, the user
can click the "Run Query Now" button to run the query using only one set of search criteria, or a
second set of search criteria can be added by choosing one the following logical connectors:
~ And finds records that match both of the search criteria.
~ Or finds records that match either one of the search criteria.
If a connector is selected, the second criteria set must be specified by choosing data
elements from the second criteria pick lists, and entering a desired value. Be careful not to specify
mutually exclusive criteria. For example, specifying "State equals NC and State equals FL" will
not find any matching records.
Before clicking the "Run query now" button, choose the results table sorting method,
either by facility name or by RBLC ID. The "Reset form" button can be used to start over with a
blank query form. Query results are displayed in a table, which is discussed in Section 2.4.
2.4 Query Results
The query results for all RBLC query options are displayed as a table of links to additional
information and are organized by RBLC ID or facility name, depending on the selected option.
The table includes RBLC ID, facility name, city, and state, along with other information that
varies depending upon which query options were used (Figure 2.6). Note that the search criteria
used for the query appear towards the top of the page as a reminder. Each row in the table
represents a determination that matched the search criteria. When querying by process type, a
facility may appear with multiple rows, one for each matching process found by the query.
Results can be viewed on-line or saved in any of the RBLC standard output formats, which are
discussed in Section 2.5.
2-20
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Portion of Database: KBLC Determinations added during or after January, 1990
and and state = 'CA' andproctype=15.Q04
and Pollutant Name ='NOX'
R*ser check ALL facilities
HH1 C ID
FACILITY NAME/CITY
PERMIT NIIMBER
& ISSUE DATE
w CA-03I8 O'BEIAN CALIFORNIA COGEN 33, LIMITED
CA
v ¦ ¦ SARGENT CANYON COGENEEATION CCMT ANY
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AC 5666A
n/r>/i99C (act;
AC 5142A
11/19/1990 (
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1 A^A/1 i ( it
Figure 2.6: Results Table for a Standard Query
2.4.1 Navigating the Query Results
Each RBLC Web page has navigation buttons to assist in moving through the Web site,
and links at the bottom of the page include links to the RBLC query option page and the RBLC
Home page. Use these buttons and links rather than the Web browser's navigation buttons, which
may result in inaccurate information because of the way that browsers cache information. If a
query is not successful, return to the query page and respecify the search criteria. Check to make
sure that a misspelled word or an invalid value for a search element is not the problem.
The results table displays a maximum of 150 records at a time. Any reports generated
from the results table will contain only the facilities displayed on the current page. When more
than 150 records are returned by a query, a link to the next 150 records appears just above the
results table. Users can move through pages of results using the Next 150 Facilities and Previous
150 Facilities links. Separate reports have to be generated for each page of the results table.
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2.4.2 Viewing Query Results
Information about each of the determinations is organized by facility, process, and
pollutant. The RBLC ID in the results table links to details about the permitted facility for that
determination. Successively deeper levels of information are viewed by clicking on the navigation
buttons that appear at the top of each subsequent detail page. Refer to Section 2.2 for more
information about facility, process and pollutant level data elements. Pollutant level data is
accessed from its associated process level page. Use the "Query Results" button to return to the
query results table and pick another facility to view.
Facility Level Data
The first page that is displayed when the RBLC ID link is selected is the determination's
facility-level information (see Figure 2.7 for an example). Navigation buttons are available on this
page for viewing query results, plant-wide information, and process information.
If a facility has multiple processes, they are all displayed on a process list page by selecting
the "Process Information" button. Each process in the list is a link to a process detail page that
displays additional information about that process. The process detail page appears immediately if
the facility has only one process.
Process Level Data
The process detail page (Figure 2.8) presents specifics about the process. Use the
navigation buttons at the top of the screen to go back to the process list (if any) to select other
processes for viewing. On process level pages, navigation buttons are available for query results,
facility information, plant-wide information, and pollutant information. Click the "Pollutant
Information" button to move to pollutant level detail.
If a process has multiple pollutants, they are all displayed on a pollutant list page. Each
pollutant in the list is a link to a pollutant detail page that displays additional information about
that pollutant. The pollutant detail page appears immediately if the process has only one
pollutant.
Pollutant Level Data
The pollutant detail page (Figure 2.9) presents specifics about emissions of the particular
pollutant. Use the navigation buttons at the top of the screen to go back to the pollutant list (if
any) to select and view other pollutants. On pollutant level pages, navigation buttons are
available for query results, facility information, plant-wide information, and process information.
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ant information for eachprocess.
Facility Details —
Completed
ID/Company: CA-031S / O"BRIAN CALIFORNIA COGENII, LIMITED
Plant Name:
Contact; DAVID CRAFT
Phone: (408)-443-1135 E-Mail:
Street:
City:
State: CA Zip: County:
Region: 9 SIC: Universal Plant ID:
Agency: CA021 - MONTEREY BAY UNIFIED APCD, CA
Contact: DAVID CRAFT
Phone: (408) 443-1135 E-Mail:
Street:
Figure 2.7: Facility Level Detail Page
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i k. # o ii iiii;1 »!. is 1 -m
bout the pollutants related to this prcrefs-, click or* rkz Izd'jntiztiozk zzotz-.
Process Details
Completed
ID/Compaiiy;CA-0318 / O'BRIAN CALIFORNIA COGEN E, LIMITED
Rant: Name:
Process; TURBINE, GAS GENERATOR SET U/BUCT BURNER
Primary Fuel: NATURAL GAS
Throughput: *10.5 3TO
p r 01-c s s r D d e : i .5 . ~ j -I
SCC Code:
C tm>|)JLi aiic e Vei if i e d? No
Verification Method
Stack Testing: No
Inspections: No
Calculation: No
Other Method: No
Figure 2.8: Process Level Detail Page
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Completed
ID/Company:CA-0318 / O'BBIAN CALIFORNIA COGEN E, LIMITED
Rant Name:
Process: TURBINE, GAS GENEBATOB. SET "W/DIJCT BUBNEB
Pollutant: NOX
CAS number: 10102
Pollution Prevention/Add-on Control Equipment/Both/Ho Controls Feasible: k
P2/Add-on Description:
SCR, DRY TYPE
Ranking Info: Number Considered: 0
Rank Selected: 0
Figure 2.9: Pollutant Level Detail Page
2.5 DATA BASE REPORTS
There are five pre-defined report formats available for RBLC permit data base queries.
These reports can be viewed on-line, or downloaded to a PC.
2.5.1 Generating a Report
Available report formats are listed in a pick list at the bottom of the results page
(Figure 2.10). Both summary and detail formats are available. Summary reports include all of the
facilities displayed in the results table. These reports are fairly short and do not take a long time
to create. Detail reports can be very lengthy depending on the size of the result set. To reduce
run time, facilities can be excluded from reports using the check boxes in the first column next to
each RBLC ID in the results table.
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v .... SLTML A"W CO GEN iJEDEBJiL COLD STORAGE CO'IENEiLATjON) EECLAIM 5 ?711
VERNON, CA 01/15/199-1 (EST)
Select a Report Format
Formatting your report may take a while, especially if your facility has a large number of processes arid pollutants. Hie detail
reports take the longest amount of time because they include the most information. Please be patient after you select "Create
report".
j A _ cess Summary by Facility Name »]
Create report j
Ap o. F: Ft o ce s ? G u rn rn a:y by Fa ¦: 11 :iy N -5 m e
App. G: Contact Summary by Process Code
App. H: Detailed Listing by Identifier
Freefm: Detailed Listing All Fields
Export: ASCII Delimited Text
? Quer/ Onlions | Search EPA | Comnwnt* Contact RB1C Wrtwistet «t
June 14,1999
12%'
Figure 2.10: Download Report Format Selection
As mentioned in the section on viewing query results, any report will contain only the
facilities shown on the current page (a maximum of 150 determinations). No more than 150
determinations may be downloaded at one time. Create one or more reports for facilities on the
current page before proceeding to work with the next group of records.
Choose a format from the list, then click the "Create report" button to generate the report
Formatting a report may take some time, especially for a large number of facilities. The detail
reports take the longest time to generate because they include the most information. All reports
are created as ASCII text.
The following report formats are available:
~ Index of Control Technology Determinations (formerly Appendix F):
Determinations are sorted alphabetically by facility name. This format reports
RBLC ID, facility name, permit date, and process code and description.
~ Control Technology Determinations by Process Type Code (formerly
Appendix G): Process records are sorted by numeric process code. This format
reports RBLC ID, facility name, permitting agency, and name and telephone
number for contact person who is knowledgeable about the determination.
~ Detailed Source Listing (formerly Appendix H): Determinations are sorted by
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RBLC ID. This format reports most of the information in the permit data base for
selected facilities. Because it includes details about all processes and pollutants,
this is a very lengthy report.
~ Freeform - Detailed Listing All Fields: Determinations are sorted by RBLC ID.
This is the optional method for reporting literally all information in the permit data
base for selected facilities. Again, this is a very long report.
~ Export - ASCII Delimited Text: Determinations are sorted by RBLC ID. This
report saves selected data fields in a quoted, comma-delimited format that is
suitable for importing into desktop data bases or spreadsheets. Information
reported includes RBLC ID, facility name, city, state, process code and
description, process throughput, pollutant and emission limit, basis for limit, and a
description of emission abatement method.
2.5.2 Downloading RBLC Information
When the RBLC Web has finished creating the report, either a Save dialog box or the
report itself will be displayed. The exact action depends upon the browser configuration. If the
report appears on the browser, choose the Save As command from the browser File menu to save
the report file. Then, use the back button to return to the results table. Netscape© users must
specify a ".txt" file extension when saving a report. The default extension is ".cfm" which could
cause problems when the file is re-opened. When using other browsers, using a ".txt" file
extension is also recommended if the file will be used with word processing or spreadsheet
software.
The report can also be printed directly from the RBLC Web using the browser print
function.
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SECTION 3:
RBLC REGULATION DATA BASE QUERIES AND DATA STRUCTURE
The RBLC Federal/State Regulations data base contains summaries of federal regulations
enacted in response to the Clean Air Act and Amendments. These rules include Maximum
Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards, National Emission Standards for Hazardous
Air Pollutants (NESHAP), New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), as well as Control
Techniques Guidelines (CTG) which specify requirements for Reasonably Available Control
Technology (RACT).
Registration is not required to use the RBLC Web regulation data base. Click on "RBLC
Data Base Query" from the RBLC home page to query the RBLC data bases. From the data base
query page, select one of the regulation data base options to query or browse the regulation data
base, use the on-line help, or link to additional resources. This section outlines the data base
structure and elements in the regulation data base, searching the regulation data base and usage
options, and shows how to use the three data base query options, and reports.
3.1 Data Base Elements and Structure
The organization of the regulation data base is similar to that of the RBLC's permit
determination data base. Each entry, or rule, in the regulation data base contains three levels:
Regulation,
Process, and
Pollutant data.
A rule is associated with the type of facility that is the source of the pollutants governed
by the regulation. The type of facility might be a particular type of plant, such as a coke oven or
vinyl chloride manufacturing plant, or a generic operation such as waste transfer. This source is
referred to as the affected facility.
Each affected facility consists of one or more different processes that are regulated by the
rule. Regulations can specify different emission standards for new and existing sources or for
different size sources. Therefore, a rule may contain the same general process but different
emission limits for sources with different capacities or construction dates. Each process, in turn,
consists of information on one or more pollutants and the emission limits required by the
regulation. Each rule for an affected facility must have at least one process and at least one
pollutant.
The EPA maintains a file on each of the three levels (rule/affected facility, process, and
pollutant) in the regulation data base. Unlike the permit data base, the information is not stored in
data bases defined by their date of entry to the RBLC Web. All information is entered and stored
in a single data base.
3-1
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The information that EPA maintains in the data base is listed below. Data elements that
can be used in a query are marked with a (*).
Rule / Affected Facility Information
~ Rule ID*: The unique identification number assigned to each regulation by the
system. The number consists of the letter "R" followed by the State abbreviation
and a four digit number. For federal regulations, the abbreviation is "US", i.e.
RUS-0001 is the first entry made for federal regulations.
~ Affected facility name*: A character field describing the facility, plant, or
operation affected by the regulation.
~ SIC code*: The standard industrial classification (SIC) code for facilities used
throughout the Office of Air and Radiation (OAR) at EPA. A list of valid SIC
codes is available as a drop down list in the query portion of the RBLC web site,
or can be downloaded as a file from the RBLC Documents list.
~ State: Two-character abbreviation for the State in which the regulation applies.
"US" is the abbreviation used for federal rules.
~ EPARegion: EPA region number (1-10) corresponding to the State. Zero (0) is
used as the region for federal rules.
~ Regulatory Basis* : The statutory basis under which the agency issues the
regulation. The choices which may be entered are:
CTG/RACT — Control Technique Guidelines/Reasonably Achievable Control
Technology;
MACT — Maximum Achievable Control Technology;
- NESHAP — National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants;
- NSPS — New Source Performance Standards;
183(e)/BAC — Commercial and Consumer Products standard/Best Available
Control; and
Other.
~ Status of the regulation: A character field describing the legal status of the
regulation (proposed, in effect, etc.).
~ Agency information: Four fields which provide information on the regulatory
agency. The first field is the agency code (see Appendix B); the second is the
agency name (automatically assigned based on the agency code). The third and
fourth fields provide a contact name and phone number for the person at the
3-2
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regulatory agency who can answer questions regarding the regulation.
~ Regulation number* : A number which the regulatory agency assigns to the
regulation. If the rule is issued by EPA, this number would identify the
appropriate part and subpart of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).
~ Background information document (BID): A number which the regulatory
agency assigns to the document that contain technical, cost, and other information
supporting the regulation. A second field is available for the title of the document.
~ Scheduling information: Key dates in the development of the regulation are
stored in the data base, such as the following:
- Date technical support documentation was completed;
- Date public notice was given;
- Date rule was proposed; and
- Date final rule became effective*.
The data base also includes character fields for a reference to the legal publication
in which rules were announced. For federal rules, this is the Federal Register (FR).
~ Notes: Fields that includes explanatory information about the regulation.
~ On-Line File Information: These two fields are for federal regulations only and
list the documents (text of regulation, any supporting documentation, etc.) and
their location if the rule is available for downloading from the OAR Policy and
Guidance web site.
~ Entry date*: Date when the regulation was first entered into the regulation data
base.
~ Last update* : Date when changes were last made to the data base for this
regulation.
Process Information:
~ Process description*: The description of the process being regulated (see
examples in Appendix A, and abbreviations and descriptors for processes in
Appendix D).
~ Process type code*: A numeric code assigned to each process used to
categorize determinations. Codes and their descriptors can be found in Appendix
3-3
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C and in a drop down list in the standard regulation query portion of the RBLC
web site.
~ SCC code*: The source classification code (SCC) for processes used throughout
the Office of Air and Radiation (OAR) at EPA. A list of valid SCC codes can be
downloaded as a file from the RBLC Documents list.
~ Size/capacity and units: Information on the size or capacity of the process unit,
often specified using a range or a capacity threshold. These fields are also used to
indicate construction or modification dates, such as when different standards apply
to process units depending on the date the operation commences.
~ Process notes: This field includes explanatory information specific to the
regulation of this process.
Pollutant Information:
~ Pollutant name*: The name of the pollutant being controlled. Pollutant names
can be found in Appendix D.
~ chemical abstract service (CAS) number* : The Chemical Abstract
Service number for the pollutant. CAS numbers can be found in Appendix
D.
~ Primary emission limit and units: The primary emission limit listed in the
regulation. For rules that do not have numeric limits, the units may refer to the
demonstrated technology descriptions or to the notes.
~ Alternative emission limit and units: If provided in the rule, these numbers
represent any alternative emission limitations which the affected facility may meet.
~ percent efficiency (control efficiency)* : The design efficiency required by
the regulation, often based on a particular type of control equipment and/or
pollution prevention method, and expressed as a percentage.
~ Type of emission controlled* : A one-character field indicating whether the
emission is fugitive (F), point source (P), or area source (A).
~ Demonstrated Technology Description* : A description of the specific add-
on control equipment or pollution prevention techniques used to meet the emission
limits of the regulation. Pollution prevention often includes continuous monitoring
requirements, work practice standards, or operator training and qualification.
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~ Cost data: Control costs for a model facility. The model plant is generally
described in the process notes. Costs contained in the regulation data base
include:
Year of the dollar used in cost calculations;
Capital cost to purchase and install control equipment;
Annualized cost (amortized capital costs plus annual operation and
maintenance (O&M) costs); and
Cost effectiveness in dollars per ton.
3.2 Searching the Regulation Data Base
3.2.1 Planning the Query
The RBLC regulation data base can be searched using three query options as discussed
below. These options allow the user to browse the regulation listings or build sophisticated
queries using multiple search criteria. Users should review the data base elements listed in the
preceding section, and note those that can be used in a query.
3.2.2 How to Run a Query
The three query options available for the RBLC regulation data base are listed and
described directly below in Section 3.2.3. Choose one of these options to begin a query. Query
criteria are selected using the same tools as those in the permit data base query system: pick lists,
buttons, and text fields. After defining criteria, click on the "Run Query Now" button to run the
query.
All RBLC query options present an overview of the query results in a table that lists the
RBLC Rule ID, the regulatory basis, the name of the affected facility and whether the rule is
available on-line. Each option also supports viewing and saving the results in any of the RBLC
standard output formats. See Section 3.3 to learn more about viewing results and generating
reports.
3.2.3 Regulation Data Base Query Options
Choose one of the following three options under " Regulation Data Base Queries" to
locate information in the regulation data base. Then, follow the directions on the screen to define
a query.
~ Scan All Regulations: displays all regulations in the data base in groups of 50,
sorted alphabetically by affected facility.
~ Standard Query: provides a query form with a format similar to that used for the
3-5
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permit data base standard query. Allows users to build a search criteria by
choosing from multiple data elements, such as regulation identifiers, facility type,
pollutants, and control information. Where appropriate, pick lists of allowable
values are provided.
~ Advanced Query: allows users to choose from pick lists of data elements and
enter desired values to build a search criteria. Criteria can be combined for more
selective queries. In general, users should know what each data element contains
to use this option effectively.
3.2.3.1 Scan All Regulations
Choose the scan option to easily view the entire regulation data base. All entries to the
data base are displayed in a table of fifty entries per page and entries can be selected for
download. Results are sorted alphabetically by affected facility name.
3.2.3.2 Standard Query
The standard query option offers flexibility in examining the regulation data base. It
allows queries on several data fields (process code or pollutant for example), and it supports
combining data fields for more selective queries.
The initial part of the Standard Query option displays links to groups of related query
fields, (e.g., regulation identification or process information). These links can be used to move
directly to those fields, or the user can scroll through the page. Search criteria are defined by
filling out the appropriate sections of the form.
Figure 3.1 shows part of the standard query input form for the regulation identification
section. Brief instructions for each group of data elements appears below each group's input
fields.
3-6
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Too can narrow your Regulation Maafaieadoc,
Enter- the from date, to date,
J , 'S T 1,.. ,4 "1 ~ 'i
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Figure 3.1: Regulation Data Base Standard Query
Some data elements can be matched in one of several ways. These elements are presented
in the query form with a comparison operator and a value field for entering matching text or
numbers. For example, the allowable operators for numbers are equals, greater than, or less than.
Operators for alphanumeric fields allow a match of any part of the data, beginning characters
only, or an exact match of every character.
One or more of the search criteria fields can be filled out for the standard query. Try to
select enough criteria to match a manageable number of records, without being so restrictive that
the query finds no matches or being so complex that the query takes a long time to run. Usually,
two to three criteria work well. Be sure not to specify mutually exclusive criteria.
Five groups of data elements can be queried by the RBLC standard query:
1) Date Selection;
2) Regulation Identification;
3) Process Information;
3-7
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4) Pollutant Information; and
5) Emission Abatement.
These groups are discussed below.
Dates
~ Choose a date element from the date range pick list:
~ Date added to RBLC
~ Date last modified
~ Date rule is effective
Enter a "from" date and/or a "to" date to define the date range. The query will
find dates greater than or equal to the "from" date and less than or equal to the
"to" date.
Dates may be entered in a numeric mm/dd/yyyy format or spelled out, i.e, 'Jan 1, 1998'.
If the system cannot recognize the date as it has been entered, it will prompt the user to go back
and enter another date value.
Be aware that a query on the data element "date rule is effective" will not find proposed
rules and guidance documents.
Regulation Identifiers
~ Select an identifier from the pick list (see below) and enter the desired value to
match, using comparison operators to find entries containing, beginning with, or
exactly matching the entered text. Regulation identifiers are:
~ Affected facility
~ Rule Identifier (Rule ID)
~ Rule number
Enter an RBLC Rule ID or rule number in the value field to locate one specific
regulation. The format for Rule IDs is "RAA-NNNN", similar to the format for
RBLC IDs with "R" added as a prefix (see the description of Rule ID in Section
3.1). The format for rule number varies. CTG entries do not have rule numbers.
Most federal rules take the form "40 CFR Part nn Subpart aaa". If the appropriate
part and subpart of the CFR in which a rule was published are known, use the rule
number.
~ Choose from the pick list of SIC codes to retrieve a set of facilities in a particular
3-8
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industry. A list of SIC codes can be downloaded from the RBLC documents
section, available from the RBLC home page.
~ Select a regulatory basis from the pick list to retrieve all rules enacted under a
particular federal statute.
The comparison operators used when querying a regulation identifier are:
~ Containing - performs a word search and matches all affected facilities that contain
the specified value anywhere in the selected data element. This is the
recommended comparison operator for all regulation identifiers except Rule ID.
~ Beginning with - finds only those affected facilities whose facility name begins with
the value specified.
~ Exact match - is the most restrictive operator and requires a character by character
match between the value specified and the facility data element. This is the
recommended comparison operator for matching Rule ID.
Process Information
~ Enter a partial or complete process name. This search criterion automatically uses
the "containing" operator and works especially well when combined with one of
the other process data elements. Appendix D lists common process names used in
the RBLC.
~ Choose a process type code from the pick list. Enter a number between 1 and 9
to scroll to that part of the process code list. Appendix C lists allowable process
codes. A higher level process type code (i.e., "NN.000") can be used to identify a
larger group of related process types.
~ Enter a SCC code. Many older permits were added to the data base without a
SCC code, so the query may not find all matching records. A list of SCC codes
can be downloaded from the RBLC Documents section, available from the RBLC
Web.
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Pollutant Information
~ Specify a pollutant name. Choose from one of the criteria pollutants in the pick
list, or choose 'Specify other' and type the pollutant name abbreviation. Appendix
D of this User's Manual lists pollutant abbreviations. The RBLC standard is to use
the chemical abbreviation for a pollutant name, for example 'CO' for carbon
monoxide.
~ Enter the appropriate CAS number. This is the recommended method for finding a
specific pollutant because it accounts for any variations in pollutant names. A
listing of CAS numbers is in Appendix D of this volume.
~ Choose from the list of available emission types (point, area, or fugitive). This
selection works best when used in combination with other criteria because it
matches a large number of data base entries.
Emissions Abatement Information
~ Enter a word or phrase for the demonstrated technology description, i.e., the
pollution prevention or add-on equipment control method to be used in the query.
~ Specify a control efficiency threshold as a percentage. Very often, a measure of
efficiency is not specified with the regulation, so a query on this data element may
not find many matching records.
When the search criteria are complete, scroll to the bottom of the page and choose the
results table sorting method. The results table can be sorted either by affected facility name or by
Rule ID. Click the "Run query now" button to begin the query. Click the "Reset form" button to
start over with a blank standard query form.
An overview of the results of the query are displayed in a table. Examining the results of
the query or downloading the results are discussed in Section 3.3.
3.2.3.3 Advanced Query
The advanced query option lets the user create search criteria by choosing from pick lists
of data elements, entering desired values, and applying a selection of data operators. Two search
criteria can be combined using 'AND' or 'OR' logical connectors for more selective queries.
Figure 3.2 illustrates the initial part of the advanced query page. Although similar to the standard
query, the advanced query option does not provide sets of allowable values for data elements.
These must be entered by the user. In general, the user should know what information each data
element contains to use this option effectively. Use the on-line help and this document's
discussions of data base elements in Section 3.1, and standard query options in Section 3.2.3.2,
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when running the advanced query.
ifv : »'ii l^n.'ry nt Uttl l Pf-ijuMiu;**- ¦ *1t<-fHpinrff
DA.r..ln^A«r 4 JrT«« iAJ A»Ai«v • 11
» .1v y lltlji
Specify your criteria by choosing
'ata Element
Choose a sort order, and cEck the run button to ,h.*-1 r «,+¦ 4-V. <-. 4- «*-. .-v £" *-ts< .i / r
Figure 3.2: Regulation Data Base Advanced Query
Specify the first search criteria by choosing a data element and a comparison operator
from the pick lists. Then type the desired value for the data element in the text box. Entries are
not case sensitive. The searchable data elements are:
~ Affected facility;
~ CAS number;
~ Control efficiency;
~ Control method description (demonstrated technology description);
~ Date added to RBLC;
~ Date last modified;
~ Date rule is effective;
~ Emission type;
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~ Identifier (RBLC Rule ID);
~ Pollutant name;
~ Process name;
~ Process type code;
~ Regulatory basis;
~ Rule number;
~ SCC code; and
~ SIC code.
All three fields: data element, operator, and value, must be entered. At this point, the user
can click the "Run Query Now" button to run the query using only one set of search criteria, or a
second set of search criteria can be added by choosing one the following logical connectors:
~ AND finds records that match both of the search criteria.
~ OR finds records that match either one of the search criteria.
If a connector is selected, the second criteria set must be specified by choosing data
elements from the second criteria pick lists, and entering a desired value, as described above. Be
careful not to specify mutually exclusive criteria. For example, specifying "Pollutant equals CO
AND CAS number equals 10102-44-0 (the CAS number for N02)" will not find any matching
records.
Before clicking the "Run query now" button, choose the results table sorting method,
either by facility name or by RBLC ID. The "Reset form" button can be used to start over with a
blank query form. Query results are displayed in a table, which is discussed in Section 3.4.
3.3 Query Results
The results for all RBLC query options are displayed as a table with links to additional
information and are organized by RBLC Rule ID or affected facility name, depending on the
selected option (Figure 3.3). Each row in the table represents a regulation for one affected
facility. The table displays Rule ID, affected facility, regulatory basis, and whether the regulation
text or any supporting technical document is available on-line. When a standard or advanced
query have been run, the search criteria used for the query appear towards the top of the page.
Results can be viewed on-line or saved in any of the RBLC standard output formats, which are
discussed in Section 3.3.2 below.
3.3.1 Navigating the Query Results
The RBLC Web regulation data base pages have navigation buttons to assist in moving
through query results pages, and links at the bottom of the page to the RBLC query option page
and the RBLC Home page. Use these buttons when they are available rather than the Web
browser's navigation buttons, which may result in inaccurate information because of the way that
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browsers cache information. If a query is not successful, use the navigation button " Query
Results" to return to the query page and respecify the search criteria. Check to make sure that a
misspelled word or an invalid value for a search element is not the problem.
Edit View ravc'rites jools Help
) ] lit .;,X-i5ar:h ......J >^jHisbory
- x
•: LciCk '
. !¦
- i ¦' K
J
Matching Regulations (1 - 50) for Search Criteria:
Ri=— Check ALL affected facilities
RULE ID BASIS
i^ius^oios ;mact
AFFECTED FACILITY
[NEXT 50 RECORDS!
ONIENiE?
AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING AND REWORK
! P 'RUS-0144 CTG - RACT AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING AND REWORK
Tes
:Yes
If? RUS-0035 NSPS
AMMONIUM SULFATE MANUFACTURE
:No
1 P 'RUS-0158 183{E)/BAC
ARCHITECTURAL & INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE COATINGS
Tes
I P RUS-0025 NESHAP
ARSENIC TRIOXEDE & METALLIC AS PROD- FACILITIES
;No
! P RUS-0078 NSPS
ASPHALT PROCESSING & ASPHALT ROOFING MANUFACTURE
No
iP RUS-0015 NSPS
AUTO/LD TRUCK SURFACE CO AUNG OPERATIONS
No
IP RTJS-0160 :183(E)/BAC
AUTOMOBILE KEFINISH COATINGS
Tes
1 P RUS-0142 CTG - RACT AUTOMOBILE/LIGHT-DUTY TRUCK SURFACE COATING
No
1 P RUS-0084 NSPS
BASIC OXYGEN PROCESS FURNACES AFTER 6/11/73
No
! P RUS-0073 NSPS
BASIC OXYGEN PROCESS STEEL FAC. (AFTER 1/20/83)
;No
I P RUS-0122 CTG — RACT BATCH PROCESSES
'Yes
! P 'RUS-0021 INESHAP
BENZENE STORAGE VESSELS
No
1 P RUS-0Q2O KESHAP
BERYLLIUM PROCESSING FACILITIES
iNo
d
Figure 3.3: Results Table for Regulation Data Base
The results table displays a maximum of 50 records at a time. Reports generated from the
results table will contain only the facilities displayed on the current page. When more than 50
records are returned by a query, a link to the next 50 records appears above the results table. To
work with the next or the previous group of records, click on this link.
3.3.2 Viewing Query Results
Information about each of the regulations in the RBLC Web is organized into affected
facility, process, and pollutant pages. Click on a Rule ID in the results table to access these
pages. For each regulation, there is one regulation details page, one or more process details
pages and one or more pollutant details pages. When there is more than one process, the process
details pages are summarized on a list page, which will provide links to the individual details
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pages. Successively deeper levels of information are viewed by clicking on these links. Use the
navigation buttons to return to previous pages, including the query results table.
The first page displayed after clicking on a Rule ID in the results table will present process
level information, either the single process for the affected facility, or a list of processes.
Pollutant information pages are accessed through the emitting process' details page.
Use the "View Regulation Details" button on the process list or process details pages to
view information about the type of facility governed by the regulation and the regulation itself
(Figure 3.4). Section 3.1 lists and describes this information as separate data elements. Use the
"Process Information" to return to the process list.
_ B X
•1- vit avc.rii.e-j Tool:- Heip
• j j _J ' j"-i"Lrtcs JH-.' r:
i -J
-SEPA
:P il--:; \*w.
Ag-^t-n
IIIIIB M KlItft*&V
.-J
To leant more. about the processes associated with this facility, click the Process IttFonnation btittoo above. Xbs
can then view pollutant infonttatien for each process.
Regulation Details
2J
ID/Name: RUS-0109 AEROSPACE MANUFACTUIONG AND REWORK
SIC: 3720,3760*
State: US
Status: IM EFFECT
Entered: 01/2 6/1995
Basis: MACT
Region: 0
Last Changed: 05/14/199E
Agency: OTOD2 EPA REGION I
Contact: Clean Air Technology Center
Phone: (919) 541-0800
Rule Humtoer: 40 CFR PART 63 SUBPART GG
BID: EPA-453 / P.-94-03 6A&B
BID Tille:
1) -036A - NESHAP FOR SOURCE CATEGORIES: AEROSPACE MFG AND REWORK - BKGD INFO FOR PROPOSED STANDARDS. 2) 036B -
HAP EMISSIONS FROM AEROSPACE MFG AND REWORK OPERATIONS - BKGD INFO FOR PROMULGATED STANDARD'S.
Figure 3.4: Regulation Details Page
The process details page presents specifics about the process (Figure 3.5). Use the
"Process Information" button to go back to the process list to select other processes for viewing.
Click the " Pollutant Information" button to move down to the next level of detail. Click the
"Regulation Details" button to review detailed information about the regulation.
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The pollutants for a process are displayed on a pollutant list page. Each pollutant name in
the list is a link to a pollutant detail page that displays additional information about that pollutant
(Figure 3.6). Use the "Pollutant Information" button to go back to the pollutant list.
_ & X.
i ' p.
J
¦S-EPA
Utiftsd Srttt
For info tin iifiiMi about ifie p.»l!iifi«»ts related to this process, click on the Polls! ajit boston above.
Process Details
AIT. Facility: AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING AND REWORK
ID: RUS-0109
Process: HAND-WIPE CLEANING OPERATIC*,'?.
Size/Capacity:
Process Cade: 41.001
see Code: 4-02-024-02
Process Motes:
SOLVENTS CONTAINING NO HAP OR VOC ARE EXEMPTED FROM HOUSEKEEPING, COMPOSITION, AND VAPOR PRESSURE.
REQUIREMENTS. COSTS FOR SMALL COMMERCIAL OEM FACILITY.
EPA Home j OAR Home | OAOPS Home | TTH Home | CATC Home | H3R/RBI.C Home | Search EPA | Comments Cant-act RBLC Webmaster
http://test_uri/regs/procdetl.cfm November 21,1997
Figure 3.5: Process Details Page
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riassK
fl X
Hie Edit; Vi-v-.v ^OvOir.es ~-'c!s H^ip
¦ r-' B fj'. !• - j .'] :; j ^ S':r "::f h _J F n -- > il ,rs A HisU"
'V^- f™:.
•{...A... 2 >
mSamM
¦H
CBrk on the Polluter JLnfonnstion button to rmirii w the list of poSJatanrs for rtas process or click an the Process
Ltfoimatiou button to serum to the list of processes.
Poll lit ant Details
u
Aff. Facility: AEROSPACE MANTJFACTUEMG AND REWORK
ID; RUS-0109
Process: COATING, TOPCOAT & PRIMER - GENERAL AVIATION
Pollutant: ORGAHIC HAP CAS Humber;
tmx s s i on L ijiu t s :
Primary; 4.5 LB/GAL ICS
Basis: HACT
Alteraate:
% Efficiency;
Emission Type: F
Demonstrated Technology for Standard:
LOW ORGANIC COATINGS.
zl
Figure 3.6: Pollutant Details Page
3.3.3 Generating Data Base Reports
There are two pre-defined report formats available for RBLC regulation data base queries.
These reports can be viewed on-line, or downloaded to a PC. The report formats are listed in a
pick list at the bottom of the results page (Figure 3.7). Choose a report format from the list, and
click the create button to generate the report. Formatting a report may take some time, especially
for a large number of affected facilities. All reports are created as ASCII text.
Formatting time for reports can be reduced by selecting specific facilities using the check
box in the first column next to each Rule ID in the results table. Initially all affected facilities are
checked and will be included in the detail reports. Use the check box next to an affected facility
to de-select the facility. Click the reset button to re-select all affected facilities.
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Hie Edi': ^ie'--. Pyrites Jtols Heip
¦ijCa.:!, ¦ ) j _?} jjisi:.:- _JTa writes ^iiistory _',- ,_J * j -J \fi_
-1 ;:!;y-:.:vv: IIL^L' r Lbj>2H Lb VJLJM I L <£ :.'Jt'JL IJ.--AJH.fc :-JL:Ai^'IL' ft jrl'Ii1- ill1! ¦._¦ IN.
S? lRUS-0059 INSPS FOSSIL-FUEL FIB-ED STEAM GENERATORS AFTER 8/17/71 No
F IBUS-0123 ;CTG - RACT: GASOLINE BULK PLANTS Wo
v lRUS-0094 IMACT [GASOLINE DISTRIBUTION (STAGE I) FACILITIES [Yes
17 IruS-0061 [NSPS [GLASS MANUFACTURING PLANTS :No
P iRUS-0019 IMESHAP :GLASS MELTING FURNACE THAT USES COMMERCIAL ARSENIC No
P" iRUS-0032 INSPS [GRAIN ELEVATORS No
__ ______
F IBJJS-0101 [MACT [HALOGENATED SOLVENT CLEANING ;Yes
lRUS-0113' IMACT [HAZARD WASTE TSDF: TANKS," SFC IMPOUND & CONTAINERS " iNo
Select a Report Format
Formatting your report may take a wide, especially if your regulations have a large number of processes and pollutants. Hie
detail reports take the longest amount of tone because they include the most information. Please be patient after you select
"Create report".
| App. H: Detailed Listing by Identifier Create report
Apt.' H Dfcia led Lislinu by deniifier
JFreefm; Detailed Listing All Fields [
EPA Home | OAR Home | OAOPSHome | TTH Home | CATC Home | MSRRBIC Home | SegchEPA | Comments Contact RBLC Webmaster
tetp://rbicserrer/rblcweb/regs/rgeasres.cfm May j, 1998
Figure 3.7: Report Format Options
The following report formats are available:
~ Detailed Listing by Rule ID (formerly Appendix H): reports most of the
information in the regulation data base. Because it includes details about all
processes and pollutants for selected affected facilities, this is a very lengthy
report.
~ Freeform - Detailed Listing All Fields: optional method for reporting literally all
information in the regulation data base for selected affected facilities. Again, this is
a very long report.
Because the results table displays a maximum of 50 records at a time, reports that are
created will contain only the affected facilities shown on the current page. A maximum of 50
regulations can be downloaded at one time. Use the links on the results table to move to other
sets of 50 records.
When the RBLC Web has finished creating the report, either a Save dialog box or the report itself
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will be displayed. The exact action depends upon the browser configuration. If the report
appears on the browser, choose the Save As command from the browser File menu to save the
report file. Then, use the back button to return to the results table. Netscape© users must specify
a ".txt" file extension when saving a report. The default extension is ".cfm" which could cause
problems when the file is re-opened. When using other browsers, using a ".txt" file extension is
also recommended if the file will be used with word processing or spreadsheet software.
The report can also be printed directly from the RBLC Web using the browser print
function.
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TECHNICAL REPORT DATA
(Please read Instructions on the reverse before completing.)
1. REPORT NO.
EPA 456/B-01-001A
2.
3. RECIPIENT'S ACCESSION NO.
4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE
User's Manual for the RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse
(RBLC) Web, Volume 1 - Web Basics
5. REPORT DATE
June 2 0 01
6. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION CODE
7. AUTHOR(S)
Joseph E. Steigerwald
8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NO.
9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS
Clean Air Technology Center
ITG, ITPID, OAQPS
U.S. EPA
RTP, NC 27711
10. PROGRAM ELEMENT NO.
11. CONTRACT/GRANT NO.
68-D-98-172
12. SPONSORING AGENCY NAME AND ADDRESS
Director, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards
Office of Air and Radiation
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
13. TYPE OF REPORT AND PERIOD COVERED
Final
14. SPONSORING AGENCY CODE
EPA/200/04
15. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES
16. ABSTRACT
The Clean Air Act as amended in 1977 prescribes several technology-based limitations
affecting new or modified air pollution sources: 1) new source performance standards (NSPS),
2) best available control technology (BACT), and 3) lowest achievable emission rate (LAER).
The basic purposes of the RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse are 1) to provide State and
local air pollution control agencies with current information on case-by-case control tech-
nology determinations that are made nationwide and 2) promote communication, cooperation,
and sharing of control technology information among the permitting agencies. This document
details how the RBLC site on the World Wide Web is organized and operates. It includes
information on how to do a data base query, generate a custom report, and enter/edit infor-
mation into the RBLC (if authorized) .
The RBLC has now moved to the Web. The RBLC Web address is:
h 11 p://www.epa.gov/11 n/c a t c /
Clicking on the RBLC logo on this page allows access to all of the information in the RBLC
including interactive queries, customized reports, and downloadable copies of this and other
RBLC documents.
Volume 1 includes RBLC background and overview information and information on
searching the RBLC Permit and Regulation data bases.
17. KEY WORDS AND DOCUMENT ANALYSIS
a. DESCRIPTORS
b. IDENTIFIERS/OPEN ENDEDTERMS
c. COSATI Field Group
Best Available Control Technology
Lowest Achievable Emission Rate
Control Technology Center
New Source Review
Reasonable Achievable Control Technology
Air Pollution
Control
18. DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT
Release Unlimited, Available from NTIS
5285 Port Royal Rd .
Springfield, VA 22161
19. SECURITY CLASS (ThisReport)
Unclassi fied
21. NO. OF PAGES
20. SECURITY CLASS (ThisPage)
Unclassified
22. PRICE
EPA Form 2220-1 (Rev. 4-77) PREVIOUS EDITION IS OBSOLETE
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