Subpart Q: National Emission Standards for Radon Emissions From Department of Energy Facilities
Rule Summary
Subpart Q protects the public and the environment from the emission of radon-222 to the ambient air
ambient airThe air that surrounds us from Department of Energy (DOE) storage or disposal facilities for radium-containing materials. Radon-222 is produced as a radioactive decay productdecay productThe atoms formed and the energy and particles emitted as radioactive material decays to reach a stable form. of radium. The radon-222 emission rate from these facilities to the surrounding (ambient) air must not exceed 20 picocuries per square meter per second.
The DOE administers many facilities, including government-owned, contractor-operated facilities across the country. At least six of these facilities have stockpiles of radium-containing material which can emit radon, making it important to regulate emissions to the atmosphere around the facilities.
Compliance
DOE's compliance with this standard is included in its Federal Facilities Agreements with EPA.
All facilities subject to any NESHAP must meet 40 CFR Part 61, Subpart A: General Provisions.