EPA Finalizes Hazardous Air Pollutant Emission Standards for Chemical Manufacturing Area Sources

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized amendments to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) applicable to Chemical Manufacturing Area Source (CMAS) categories, following a technology review mandated under Section 112(d)(6) of the Clean Air Act. The final rule introduces new Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) requirements targeting equipment leaks and heat exchange systems operating in organic hazardous air pollutant (HAP) service. The rule also adds new compliance standards for pressure relief devices (PRDs) and pressure vessels, which previously lacked specific emission controls under these area source rules. Facilities must now implement monitoring and controls for these components to reduce unplanned HAP releases. Electronic reporting is now mandatory for Notification of Compliance Status (NOCS), performance test reports, and periodic compliance reports, streamlining regulatory oversight. Additionally, continuous performance testing is required for non-flare air pollution control devices (APCDs) to verify ongoing operational effectiveness. Notably, the EPA has chosen not to finalize the proposed separate area source category for chemical manufacturing with ethylene oxide (EtO), nor the associated EtO-specific emission standards, deferring that action to a future rulemaking.

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