Techno Bits/Technical Bulletins

In a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking signed September 14, 2001, EPA published proposed rules to regulate several types of nonroad engines, including the type used in some heavy machinery, to help reduce hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides in the environment, in an effort to both improve the health of operators who work around these engines and to reduce haze in national parks.

In this action, EPA is proposing emission standards for several groups of nonroad engines that cause or contribute to air pollution but that have yet to be regulated. These engines include large spark-ignition engines such as those used in forklifts and airport tugs; recreational vehicles using spark-ignition engines such as off-highway motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, and snowmobiles; and recreational marine diesel engines. Nationwide, engines and vehicles in these various categories contribute to ozone, CO, and PM nonattainment. These pollutants cause a range of adverse health effects, especially in terms of respiratory impairment and related illnesses. The proposed standards will help states achieve air quality standards. In addition, the proposed standards will help reduce acute exposure to CO, air toxics, and PM for operators and other people close to the emission source. The proposed standard would reduce CO emissions up to 56 percent and HC and NOx emissions up to nearly 80 percent when fully implemented compared to today's engine groups.

EPA will hold a public hearing in the Washington, DC area on October 24 and a second public hearing on October 30 in Denver, CO. Written comments on this proposal are due to the EPA by December 19, 2001.

Posted - Jan. 11, 2002