NESHAPs

NESHAPs: Keeping the Air Clean in Oil & Gas Operations

The oil and gas industry, while vital to modern society, also presents unique challenges when it comes to air quality. To address these challenges and protect public health, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPs). These standards specifically target emissions of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) from various sources within the oil and gas sector, ensuring cleaner air for all.

What are NESHAPs?

NESHAPs are a set of regulations aimed at reducing emissions of HAPs. These pollutants are known or suspected to cause cancer, birth defects, respiratory problems, and other health issues. NESHAPs apply to a wide range of sources within the oil and gas industry, including:

• Oil and natural gas production: This includes activities like well drilling, completion, production, and processing.
• Natural gas processing plants: These facilities process natural gas to remove impurities and extract valuable components.
• Petroleum refineries: These plants refine crude oil into usable products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
• Oil and gas storage and transfer: This encompasses storage tanks, pipelines, and loading and unloading operations.

Key Components of NESHAPs for Oil & Gas:

• Emission Standards: NESHAPs set specific limits for the amount of HAPs that can be released from various sources. These limits vary depending on the type of source and the specific pollutants being addressed.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Operators are required to monitor their emissions and report the results to the EPA. This data helps ensure compliance and track progress in reducing pollution.
• Control Technologies: NESHAPs often require the use of specific control technologies to reduce emissions. These technologies can include things like flares, vapor recovery systems, and leak detection and repair (LDAR) programs.
• Compliance Assurance: The EPA conducts inspections and audits to ensure that facilities are complying with NESHAPs.

Benefits of NESHAPs:

• Improved Air Quality: NESHAPs contribute to cleaner air by reducing emissions of HAPs. This benefits public health by reducing the risk of respiratory problems, cancer, and other health issues.
• Environmental Protection: NESHAPs help protect the environment by reducing air pollution that can harm ecosystems and contribute to climate change.
• Economic Benefits: By reducing emissions and promoting cleaner technologies, NESHAPs can lead to cost savings for the industry and reduced healthcare costs for society.
• Increased Regulatory Certainty: NESHAPs provide a clear framework for compliance, reducing uncertainty and promoting responsible operations.

NESHAPs are a critical part of the EPA's efforts to protect public health and the environment. By setting rigorous standards and requiring continuous improvement, they play a key role in ensuring the sustainable development of the oil and gas industry.

Note: This is a general overview of NESHAPs. The specific requirements and details of these regulations can be complex and vary based on the type of source and the location. It is important to consult official EPA guidance and regulations for detailed information.