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  • How do the different parts of particulate matter (PM) fit together?

    The various parts of PM in the NEI are related as follows. PM10-FIL > PM25-FIL because PM10-FIL includes PM25-FIL PM25-PRI = PM25-FIL + PM-CON This equation only applies at the process level. Because some sources only can report PM2.5 (due to test method differences), this equation does not apply to…

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  • How does PM2.5 relate to PM species such as EC, OC, SO4, NO3, PMFINE, and DIESEL-PM25?

    Primary PM2.5 estimates are speciated into the five PM species in the NEI: elemental (black) carbon (EC), organic carbon (OC), nitrate (NO3), sulfate (SO4), and the remainder of PM25-PRI (PMFINE). Diesel engine PM25-PRI and PM10 emissions are also labeled as DIESEL-PM25 and DIESEL-PM10 for mobile source diesel engines. For all…

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  • What is Vermiculite?

    Vermiculite is the mineralogical name given to hydrated laminar magnesium-aluminum-iron silicate that resembles mica in appearance. All vermiculite ores contain a range of other minerals that were formed along with the vermiculite in the rock. Vermiculite ores from some sources have been found to contain asbestos minerals but asbestos is…

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  • Is my EPA renovator certification accepted in all states and tribal areas?

    Answer: Not necessarily. Whether to accept certification from another jurisdiction is up to the individual state or tribal area. EPA cannot compel states or tribes to adopt programs identical to the Federal program or to establish reciprocity provisions. However, EPA continues to encourage states and tribes that may be considering…

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  • My firm is certified by an authorized state. Does this certification allow my firm to work in EPA-administered jurisdictions?

    No. You must apply for and receive EPA certification before offering, performing, or claiming to perform renovations covered by the RRP Rule in EPA-administered jurisdictions. Question Number: 23002-19752 Find a printable PDF copy of all frequent questions pertaining to lead .

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  • What is included in the emissions “Tiers”?

    The Tiers are assigned by a Source Classification Code (SCC), which has the most detail about the emissions processes that generate the emissions. The full list of SCCs, their associated Tiers, and the SCC descriptions is available online at https://ofmpub.epa.gov/sccwebservices/sccsearch/ .

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  • What are some uses of Vermiculite?

    Vermiculite has been used in various industries for over 80 years. It is used in the construction, agricultural, horticultural and industrial markets. Examples of products that contain vermiculite include potting soil mixes, loose fill insulation, and packing material. For more information, visit the EPA webpage: Protect Your Family from Asbestos-Contaminated…

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  • If I completed renovator training in an authorized state, what do I need to do to work for an EPA certified firm in EPA-administered jurisdictions?

    Answer: There are no additional requirements. To become a certified renovator or certified dust sampling technician, an individual must successfully complete the appropriate course accredited by EPA or by an EPA-authorized state or tribal program. The course completion certificate serves as proof of certification. For a list of states, tribes…

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  • What does an annual emissions value in the NEI represent (one year or multiple years)?

    The NEI provides total annual emissions for a single year.

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  • What are the units of NEI emissions data?

    NEI emissions values represent total annual emissions for the inventory reporting year. Criteria air pollutants and precursors (CAPs) are reported in short tons per year , and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) are reported in lbs per year .

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  • What is the definition of VOC?

    There is a regulatory definition of VOC. It is found in 40 CFR 51.100. CFR - code of federal regulations. The definition relates to the intent and requirements of the Clean Air Act. Excerpt from “Volatile Organic Compounds” Definition per 40 CFR Part 51.100(s): " Volatile organic compounds (VOC) means…

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  • What does "NEC" stand for in the emissions sectors?

    NEC means “not elsewhere classified” and includes SCCs that are not assigned to any of the other specific industrial process sectors. If you look at the SCC code table available at the SCC web site and filter on the Sector name that includes “NEC”, you can see the type of…

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  • Does a home seller have to disclose to a potential buyer that a home contains asbestos? What about vermiculite?

    Federal law does not require the seller to disclose to a buyer that their home contains asbestos or vermiculite. State or local requirements may require disclosure. Contact your state about such requirements. Other Frequent Questions about Asbestos Learn About Asbestos Asbestos and School Buildings Information for Owners and Managers of…

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  • My attic has vermiculite insulation in it. Am I at risk? Should I take it out?

    If you have vermiculite insulation in your home, you should assume this material may be contaminated with asbestos and be aware of steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from exposure to asbestos. The EPA recommends that vermiculite insulation be left undisturbed. Airborne asbestos fibers present a…

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