Fugitive emission tracking for a number of key industries is now a focus for the United States and a number of other countries. When a hazardous leak occurs it is important to identify and gauge the amount and type of substance emitted. Officials will gain a better understanding of the challenge posed by greenhouse gases, as they affect global warming.
Fugitive emission takes place when an unexpected leak of a hazardous substance occurs in a system and the discharge is not contained in a vent, stack, or duct. This could be the result of an equipment leak, a problem during maintenance operations, a breakdown in bulk handling or processing, or a problem in an industrial process. The leakage causes harmful gases to enter the environment. Certain compounds are not broken down in the atmosphere and end up entering the stratosphere and destroying the protective ozone layer over time.
In the United States alone, fugitive emission totals for a year are over 300,000 tons. Other countries have similar or worse outputs. In order to reduce the harmful effects to the ozone from the accidental discharge of these substances, strict laws have been implemented to reduce their usage and eventually eliminate them over time. The goal is to reduce the potential for global warming in the near future and to improve air quality.
The EPA has established a set of rules to address the fugitive emission problem. The rules apply to a number of different industries including existing and newly constructed facilities with operations which utilize refrigerant gas in their heating and cooling systems. Industries affected include those involved with chemical manufacturing, pulp and paper mills, electrical services and petroleum.
Those places that produce or use substances known to be harmful are required to monitor for potential fugitive emissions problems. Dangerous compounds are defined by the EPA and include chlorofluorocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons, methyl chloroform, methyl bromide,halons and carbon tetrachloride.
Fugitive emission is of particular concern as it relates to refrigerant gas. This gas contains chlorofluorocarbons and hydrofluorocarbons which are two primary contributors to the weakening of the ozone layer. Numerous industries use refrigerant gas in air conditioning systems, fire protection systems, ventilation and refrigeration and cooling units.
If a fugitive emission takes place, businesses need to track leakage rate and report to the EPA. Full details are required, including the severity of the leak and the repair process completed. New regulations require regular inspections, wherever volatile chemicals are involved.
Whilst the US Clean Air Act established certain thresholds, the new fugitive emission regulations provide a more standard approach. The regulations contain details covering monitoring, tracking and reporting, leak repair and containment and the first reports are due by early 2011. Savvy companies are turning to automated tracking programs and web-based applications to help them conform, and reduce the risk of noncompliance
Tags: Environment, Air Pollution, Air Quality, health and fitness
