API RP 50:1995(R2013) pdf download.Natural Gas Processing Plant Practices for Protection of the Environment
It is important that environmental issues relating to pro- cesses and equipment be given high priority in the initial planning or modification of natural gas processing plants. The selection of certain processes or equipment can have a significant impact on emissions and waste generation, thereby affecting permitting, regulatory compliance, moni- toring, and disposal. This publication is intended to assist gas plant operators in understanding their environmental responsibilities. It is intended to be used primarily by environmental, engineer- ing, and operations personnel and management involved in building, maintaining, modifying, and operating gas pro- cessing plants. There are numerous federal, state, and local environ- mental statutes, rules, and regulations that deal directly or indirectly with environmental issues that may impact gas processing plant operations. Site-specific permits, notifica- tion, and documentation may be required.
1 Scope
Operations within the scope of this standard include nat- ural gas processing and associated gas compression facili- ties. The publication coverage begins with initial plant planning, permitting, and construction and ends with plant closure and site restoration procedures. General guidelines are provided to be used at gas plant locations to develop site- specific environmental programs. This standard does not address safety or operational is- sues except where environmental, safety, and operational is- sues are intertwined. Process design and equipment selection are not addressed in detail. This publication does not specif- ically address requirements of process safety management (refer to 29 CFR Part 1910.119) that must be considered in gas plant design and operations.
4 Regulatory Compliance
4.1 INTRODUCTION
Compliance with environmental laws, regulations, and permit requirements is an integral part of gas plant opera- tions. However, interpretation of the environmental require- ments is often difficult and complex. In many instances, federal, state, and local regulations must be addressed. Issues are further complicated when existing laws or regulations are amended or new laws and regulations are created. Gas plant operators must be aware of the environmental requirements in order to develop the necessary compliance procedures. In addition, operators should be aware of the need to consult with their respective environmental, construction, engineer- ing, or other groups, as necessary, to discuss environmental issues related to plant design, operation, or modification (equipment design, process changes, and so forth).
4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL AGENCIES
Many of the environmental requirements impacting plant operations are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Additionally, each state has its own agency (for example, Department of Environmental Quality) to ad- minister and enforce state environmental regulations. Upon approval by EPA, state agencies can administer and enforce specified portions of the EPA regulations. EPA-approved state regulations must be at least as stringent as the corre- sponding EPA (federal) regulations.
API RP 50:1995(R2013) pdf download
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