ECAs Introduction to Annual Standards 2016

In 2011, the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) introduced for the first time air standards with annual averaging periods to be used when applying for an Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA).? All of the new annual standards will take effect on July 1, 2016.

We recommend companies assess their facility air emissions against the new standards (should they apply) well in advance of 2016 in order to determine if their facility remains in compliance with the new standards.? The new annual standards are much lower than the traditional 24-hour standards.? It has been our experience that these low standards can cause compliance concerns and required additional work in order show compliance. Starting your assessment now will leave you with plenty of time to explore all options in order to ensure compliance.

For more detailed information on how these new standards may directly affect you, contact Dr. Lucas Neil at 905 890 6957 ext. 111 or by email at (lneil[at]airzoneone.com).

For more detailed information on these specific substances please see below.

Chromium Compounds (Hexavalent)

Chromium and chromium compounds are mainly used in the metallurgical, refractory, and chemical industries.? Historically, Cr(VI) has been regarded as an organ-specific respiratory carcinogen.? Effects include respiratory irritation and atrophy, altered lung function and systemic effects (e.g. renal and liver toxicity, immune system effects).

1,3-Butadiene

1,3-butadiene is produced in significant quantities from industrial sources associated with the manufacturing of various chemical products, particularly rubber and plastics. A number of agencies including Health Canada and Environment Canada classified 1,3-butadiene as likely carcinogenic to humans.

Benzene

Benzene is a major petroleum derivative used to synthesize a significant number of high-use petrochemicals.? Major anthropogenic sources of benzene include automobile exhaust, point-source emissions from petroleum refineries and processing units, and fugitive emissions.? Through a wide range of studies, it has been determined that benzene is carcinogenic in humans and animals.

Nickel and Nickel Compounds

Elemental nickel is mainly used in the production of stainless steel and other nickel alloys. Since lung and nasal cancer are the most significant toxic effects associated with nickel compounds, the standard has focussed on PM10 (particulate matter less than 10 ?m in size). In addition, soluble nickel species are key contributors to non-cancer respiratory effects.

Benzo(a)pyrene (as a surrogate for PAHs)

Benzo(a)pyrene (B[a]P) is the most common, and most widely studied, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) species and serves as an indicator of the relative potency of other PAHs.? B[a]P and other PAHs are generally formed during incomplete combustion of organic material and fossil fuels in connection with industrial and other human activities. The carcinogenic effects associated with PAH exposure have been widely reported in the literature (i.e. increased levels of lung and other cancers from occupational exposure).

Uranium and Uranium Compounds (in particulate matter that is less than 10 ?m in diameter)

Uranium is a naturally occurring element that is present at low levels in the environment. Other sources of exposure to uranium are from uranium ore processing and refining. Uranium can be harmful to human health as a chemical and as a radioactive isotope. Effects are primarily associated with respiratory and renal toxicity; the latter effect is the most sensitive observed endpoint associated with uranium.

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