National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Coke Ovens; Pushing, Quenching, and Battery Stacks, and Coke Oven Batteries; Residual Risk and Technology Review, and Periodic Technology Review
Summary
This EPA rule sets strict pollution limits for coke ovens—industrial facilities that process coal into coke used in steel production. The rule aims to protect workers and nearby communities from exposure to toxic air pollutants like benzene and other cancer-causing chemicals released during the coal processing and coke handling steps.
Key Points
- 1Coke oven facilities must meet tougher air pollution standards to reduce emissions of hazardous chemicals during pushing (removing coke from ovens), quenching (cooling coke with water), and other battery stack operations
- 2The rule updates technology requirements, meaning facilities may need to install better equipment or modify existing systems to capture and control pollutants before they reach the air
- 3This regulation protects steel plant workers and people living near coke ovens from long-term health risks including cancer, respiratory disease, and other serious illnesses caused by breathing toxic air
- 4Companies have until October 4, 2025 to submit public comments on the proposed rule before it becomes final
- 5Facilities that don't comply with these standards face penalties and may be required to reduce operations or shut down until they meet EPA requirements
Key Dates
July 8, 2025
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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