A system for evaluating toxic air pollutants at Los Alamos National Laboratory: A large research and development facility

This paper describes a successful system for evaluating toxic air pollutants at Los Alamos National Laboratory that combines measurements, calculations, and surveys to efficiently evaluate emissions and ambient concentrations. It includes: a short-term intensive monitoring program for metals, acid gases, and organics; an emissions inventory for approximately 1200 sources that is periodically updated; occasional stack testing; an internal inspection program; and review of expected emissions from sources before the start of construction. The prime component of this system is the emission inventory data base or Regulated Air Pollutant System (RAPS). It contains virtually all source-specific information and is primarily used to evaluate compliance with Department of Energy, New Mexico, and federal requirements. Research and development (R&D) facilities, have historically been, and usually still are, below most or all of the air quality regulatory thresholds. However, not knowing emissions nor having any ambient measurements may result in regulators requiring the cessation of R&D activities. Recent legislation such as the 1990 Clean Air Act amendments along with ever-increasing state and local regulations clearly indicate the need for evaluating emissions and ambient concentrations. Greater public scrutiny and increasingly active environmental organizations have also made it imperative for sources to estimate emissions and understandmore » the impacts even if they are not regulated.« less