Toxic Emissions Mitigation Regulations

Factors Contributing to Toxic Emissions

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The EPA has established several regulations to control toxic air emissions in petroleum refineries, including benzene. These measures require refineries to monitor emissions at critical sources within their facilities and along their fencelines.

Benzene, a known human carcinogen, poses significant health risks, making its emission reduction a public health priority.

The National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) aim to cut hazardous air pollutants, including benzene, by 53,000 tons annually.

Under the updated monitoring rules, refineries must track benzene emissions and take corrective action if emissions exceed the EPA’s established threshold.

By the end of 2023, only six out of 109 U.S. refineries surpassed this threshold, demonstrating the effectiveness of these regulations.

Factors contributing to benzene emissions in refineries:

Storage tanks: Leaks from storage tanks containing crude oil or refined products can release benzene into the atmosphere.

Process equipment leaks: Leaks from pipes, valves, and other equipment during the refining process can also release benzene.

Wastewater treatment: Improper management of wastewater can lead to benzene emissions.

Efforts to reduce benzene emissions:

Install mechanical mitigation solutions to seal off leaking pipes.

Replace seals and gaskets: Replacing worn components on pumps, valves, and flanges to minimize leaks.

Improved maintenance practices: Regularly inspecting and repairing leaks on storage tanks and process equipment.

Vapor recovery systems: Installing systems to capture and recover vapors released during loading and unloading operations.

Process modifications: Implementing changes to refining processes to minimize benzene production.