When the Flange Leakage Detection and Repair requirements were developed, it is estimated that petroleum refineries could reduce emissions from equipment leaks by 63% by implementing a facility's Leakage Detection and Repair program. Additionally, it is estimated that chemical facilities could reduce VOC emissions by 56% by implementing such a program.

Emissions reductions from implementing a Leak Detection and Repair program potentially reduce product losses, increase safety for workers and operators, decrease the exposure of the surrounding community, reduce emissions fees, and help facilities avoid enforcement actions.

1. Reducing Product Losses

In the petrochemical industry, saleable products are lost whenever emissions escape from process equipment. The lost product generally translates into lost revenue.

2. Increasing Safety for Facility Workers and Operators

Many of the compounds emitted from refineries and chemical facilities may pose a hazard to exposed workers and operators. Reducing emissions from leaking equipment has the direct benefit of reducing occupational exposure to hazardous compounds.

3. Decreasing Exposure for the Surrounding Community

In addition to workers and operators at a facility, the population of a surrounding community can be affected by severe, long-term exposure to toxic air pollutants as a result of leaking equipment. Although most of the community exposure may be episodic, chronic health effects can result from long-term exposure to emissions from leaking equipment that is either not identified as leaking or not repaired.

4. Potentially Reducing Emission Fees

To fund permitting programs, some states and local air pollution districts charge annual fees that are based on total facility emissions. A facility with an effective program for reducing leaking equipment can potentially decrease the amount of these annual fees.

5. Avoiding Enforcement Actions

In setting Compliance and Enforcement National Priorities for Air Toxics, U.S Environmental Protection Agency has identified Leak Detection programs as a national focus. Therefore, facilities can expect an increased number and frequency of compliance inspections and a closer review of compliance reports submitted to permitting authorities in an effort by the Agency to assess Leak Detection programs and identify potential Leak problems. A facility with an effective Leakage Detection program decreases the chances of being targeted for enforcement actions and avoids the costs and penalties associated with rule violations.