Primary Lead Processing: National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP)

Rule Summary

This action promulgates national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (NESHAP) for new and existing primary lead processors pursuant to section 112 of the Clean Air Act (Act) as amended in November 1990. Primary lead processors have been identified by the EPA as significant emitters of lead compounds, and other metal hazardous air pollutants (HAP) including arsenic, antimony, and cadmium. Exposure to lead compounds may result in adverse effects on the blood, central nervous system and kidneys. Chronic exposure to arsenic is associated with skin, bladder, liver and lung cancer and other developmental and reproductive effects. This NESHAP provides protection to the public by requiring all primary lead processors to meet emission standards that reflect the application of maximum achievable control technology (MACT).