Applying or Implementing Lead (Pb) Standards

On this page:

• Designations: How do we know if an area is not meeting the standards?
• What are state implementation plan (SIP) requirements?
• How do states develop SIPs and start attaining the standards?

Designations: How do we know if an area is not meeting the standards?

Areas within each state are "designated" as either meeting (attaining) lead standards or not meeting them. In some cases, an entire state may attain the standard. Those areas that exceed the standards are known as “nonattainment areas.” Nonattainment areas for lead and the other criteria air pollutants are listed in the Green Book. 

• Green Book: Lead (2008 Standard) Area Information. 
• Lead Designations: information on the process EPA, the states, and the tribes follow to determine whether or not an area is meeting the revised national air quality standards for lead established in 2008.

• 2008 Lead NAAQS Implementation Schedule.
• 2008 National Primary and Secondary Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for Lead (Pb) and Implementation Plans for Lead NAAQS
• 1978 National Primary and Secondary Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for Lead (Pb) and Implementation Plans for Lead NAAQS.

What are state implementation plan (SIP) requirements?

The standards get applied, or implemented, through controlling air pollution from emission sources. Each state is required to develop a plan for how they will control air pollution within their jurisdiction. This plan is called a State Implementation Plan (SIP).

In general, the SIP consists of programs, (air quality monitoring and modeling, and emission inventories and control strategies) and documents (policies and rules) that the state uses to attain and maintain the NAAQS. A state must engage the public, through notices and public hearings, before sending the SIP to EPA for approval. Tribes may develop plans if they choose to do so, otherwise EPA will develop an implementation plan for them.

• Learn more about SIPs and how NAAQS are implemented.
• Redesignation and Clean Data Policy (CDP)
• SIP Status for each State: EPA evaluates the submitted SIPs, then issues a notice, indicating that either the SIP has been approved or needs additional work. Once the SIP has been approved, the state implements its air pollution control strategies to gradually reduce lead pollution.

How do states develop SIPs and start attaining the standards?

The following resources can guide states in developing SIPs and and implementing the lead standards:

• 2008 National Primary and Secondary Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for Lead (Pb) and Implementation Plans for Lead NAAQS
• EPA's Checklist Guide to preparing your SIP: tools include timeframes for submitting parts of the SIP, how to use emissions data to demonstrate progress in reducing lead, and lead permitting.
• Implementation Training and Assistance for State and Local Air Agencies

• Lead (Pb) National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) Implementation Guidance Documents