The EPA recently revised the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) on February 7, 2024, which is a significant move aimed at protecting public health by reducing air pollution
PM2.5 refers to airborne particles with a diameter of 2.5 micron or smaller. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract, reaching the lungs and even entering the bloodstream. Due to their small size and ability to carry a variety of toxic substances, PM2.5 is linked to a wide range of health issues, including chronic coughing, shortness of breath, cognitive function loss, coordination issues, and increased risk of diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, lung cancer, and potentially Alzheimer’s and premature death.
Under the new rule, the EPA has lowered the primary (health-based) annual average standard for PM2.5 from 12 µg/m³ to 9 µg/m³.
The updated PM2.5 standards have implications for industries, particularly those with significant stack emissions like power plants and manufacturing facilities. These industries may need to adopt or enhance pollution control technologies such as dust collectors and wet scrubbers to comply with the new ambient standards.
We have noticed a growing number of EPA shut- downs based largely around stack emissions. At Nederman MikroPul, we want to ensure that you are ready to easily pass the total and PM2.5 targets for your industry to keep your operations running smoothly and efficiently.
Nederman MikroPul has the tools & expertise you need to ensure that you are up to code.
Contact us today to perform a stack and baghouse assessment to see if you’re ready.
