Why is the Vapor Recovery Construction/Operating Permit necessary?
To prevent the release of gasoline vapors during refueling of motor vehicles. These vapors include Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and known carcinogenic compounds, such as Toluene. VOCs react with air in the presence of ultraviolet light and other chemicals to form ground level, or tropospheric, ozone. While ozone in the stratosphere is beneficial to the welfare of life on the earth, ground level (tropospheric) ozone presents a health hazard. In addition to properly installing the vapor recovery system, the permit holder must maintain, periodically test and certify the facility to ensure that it prevents VOC emissions to the environment.
