Are Air Toxics Considered in the Review of Permits for New Sources?
There are approximately 26,000 sources currently operating under Air District permits. All new sources and existing sources wishing to make modifications to their operations are subject to a risk screening process. A written screening assessment is prepared for approximately 10 to 15% of these applications. Sources automatically requiring risk assessments are hazardous waste incinerators, commercial hazardous waste treatment facilities, resource recovery operations, and power generation facilities using solid fuels The District has both a risk screening procedure and a risk management procedure for permit applications involving emissions of potentially toxic compounds. Using these procedures, staff works to protect public health in a consistent and clear manner. Projects with emissions with having no significant health impact are not unduly delayed. Projects with a potential to have impacts on public health are readily identified and evaluated further.
