81_FR_9444 81 FR 9407 - Clarification of Requirements for Method 303 Certification Training

81 FR 9407 - Clarification of Requirements for Method 303 Certification Training

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 37 (February 25, 2016)

Page Range9407-9410
FR Document2016-03758

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing revisions to better define the requirements associated with conducting Method 303 training courses. In the ``Rules and Regulations'' section of this issue of the Federal Register, we are approving the revisions to Method 303 as a direct final rule without a prior proposed rule. If we receive no adverse comment, we will not take further action on this proposed rule. Method 303 is an air pollution test method used to determine the presence of visible emissions (VE) from coke ovens. This action adds language that further clarifies the criteria used by the EPA to determine the competency of Method 303 training providers, but does not change the requirements for conducting the test method. These changes will help entities interested in conducting the required training courses by clearly defining the requirements necessary to do so.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 37 (Thursday, February 25, 2016)
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 37 (Thursday, February 25, 2016)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 9407-9410]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-03758]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 63

[EPA-HQ-OAR-2014-0492; FRL-9940-75-OAR]
RIN 2060-AR97


Clarification of Requirements for Method 303 Certification 
Training

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Proposed rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing 
revisions to better define the requirements associated with conducting 
Method 303 training courses. In the ``Rules and Regulations'' section 
of this issue of the Federal Register, we are approving the revisions 
to Method 303 as a direct final rule without a prior proposed rule. If 
we receive no adverse comment, we will not take further action on this 
proposed rule. Method 303 is an air pollution test method used to 
determine the presence of visible emissions (VE) from coke ovens. This 
action adds language that further clarifies the criteria used by the 
EPA to determine the competency of Method 303 training providers, but 
does not change the requirements for conducting the test method. These 
changes will help entities interested in conducting the required 
training courses by clearly defining the requirements necessary to do 
so.

DATES: Written comments must be received by March 28, 2016.

ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-
OAR-2014-0492, to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting 
comments. Once submitted, comments cannot be edited or withdrawn. The 
EPA may publish any comment received to its public docket. Do not 
submit electronically any information you consider to be Confidential 
Business Information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is 
restricted by statute. Multimedia submissions (audio, video, etc.) must 
be accompanied by a written comment. The written comment is considered 
the official comment and should include discussion of all points you 
wish to make. The EPA will generally not consider comments or comment 
contents located outside of the primary submission (i.e., on the Web, 
Cloud, or other file sharing system).
    For additional submission methods, the full EPA public comment 
policy, information about CBI or multimedia

[[Page 9408]]

submissions, and general guidance on making effective comments, please 
visit http://www2.epa.gov/dockets/commenting-epa-dockets.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Kim Garnett, U.S. EPA, Office of 
Air Quality Planning and Standards, Air Quality Assessment Division, 
Measurement Technology Group (Mail Code: E143-02), Research Triangle 
Park, NC 27711; telephone number: (919) 541-1158; fax number: (919) 
541-0516; email address: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Why is the EPA issuing this proposed rule?

    This document proposes to take action on the requirements 
associated with conducting Method 303 training courses. Method 303 is 
an air pollution test method used to determine the presence of visible 
emissions (VE) from coke ovens. We have published a direct final rule 
approving the revisions to Method 303 in the ``Rules and Regulations'' 
section of this issue of the Federal Register because we view this as a 
non-controversial action and anticipate no adverse comment. We have 
explained our reasons for this action in the preamble of the direct 
final rule.
    If we receive no adverse comment, we will not take further action 
on this proposed rule. If we receive adverse comment, we will withdraw 
the direct final rule, and it will not take effect. We would address 
all public comments in any subsequent final rule based on this proposed 
rule.
    We do not intend to institute a second comment period on this 
action. Any parties interested in commenting must do so at this time. 
For further information, please see the information provided in the 
ADDRESSES section of this document.

II. Does this action apply to me?

    This action applies to you if you are a potential provider of 
Method 303 training services, someone seeking training to conduct 
Method 303, or a facility subject to Method 303.
    Method 303 is applicable for the determination of VE from the 
following by-product coke oven battery sources: Charging systems during 
charging; doors, topside port lids, and offtake systems on operating 
coke ovens; and collecting mains. This method is also applicable for 
qualifying observers for visually determining the presence of VE. This 
action adds language that further clarifies the criteria used by the 
EPA to determine the competency of Method 303 training providers, but 
does not change the requirements for conducting the test method.

III. Environmental Justice

    The EPA has determined that this proposed rule will not have 
disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental 
effects on minority or low-income populations because it does not 
affect the level of protection provided to human health or the 
environment. This rulemaking does not relax the control measures on 
sources regulated by the proposed rule and, therefore, will not cause 
emissions increases from these sources.

IV. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory Planning and Review and Executive 
Order 13563: Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review

    This action is not a significant regulatory action and was, 
therefore, not submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 
for review.

B. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)

    This action does not impose an information collection burden under 
the PRA. This action better defines the requirements associated with 
conducting Method 303 training courses and does not impose additional 
regulatory requirements on sources.

C. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)

    I certify that this action will not have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities under the RFA. This 
action will not impose any requirements on small entities. This action 
better defines the requirements associated with conducting Method 303 
training courses and does not impose additional regulatory requirements 
on sources.

D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA)

    This action does not contain an unfunded mandate of $100 million or 
more for as described in UMRA, 2 U.S.C. 1531-1538, and does not 
significantly or uniquely affect small governments. This action imposes 
no enforceable duty on any state, local or tribal governments or the 
private sector. This action adds additional language that clarifies the 
criteria used by the EPA to determine the competency of training 
providers, but does not change the requirements for conducting the test 
method.

E. Executive Order 13132: Federalism

    This action does not have federalism implications. It will not have 
substantial direct effects on the states, on the relationship between 
the national government and the states, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government. This 
action clarifies the criteria used by the EPA to determine the 
competency of training providers, but does not change the requirements 
for conducting the test method.

F. Executive Order 13175: Consultation and Coordination With Indian 
Tribal Governments

    This action does not have tribal implications, as specified in 
Executive Order 13175. This action clarifies the criteria used by the 
EPA to determine the competency of training providers, but does not 
change the requirements for conducting the test method. Thus, Executive 
Order 13175 does not apply to this action.

G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children From Environmental 
Health Risks and Safety Risks

    The EPA interprets Executive Order 13045 as applying only to those 
regulatory actions that concern environmental health or safety risks 
that the EPA has reason to believe may disproportionately affect 
children, per the definition of ``covered regulatory action'' in 
section 2-202 of the Executive Order. This action is not subject to 
Executive Order 13045 because it does not concern an environmental 
health risk or safety risk.

H. Executive Order 13211: Actions Concerning Regulations That 
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use

    This action is not subject to Executive Order 13211 because it is 
not a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866.

I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA)

    This rulemaking does not involve technical standards.

J. Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions to Address Environmental 
Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations

    The EPA believes the human health or environmental risk addressed 
by this action will not have potential disproportionately high and 
adverse human health or environmental effects on minority, low-income 
or indigenous populations. The results of this evaluation are contained 
in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of

[[Page 9409]]

the preamble titled ``III. Environmental Justice.''

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 63

    Environmental protection, Air pollution control, Test methods.

    Dated: February 12, 2016.
Gina McCarthy,
Administrator.
    For the reasons stated in the preamble, the EPA proposes to amend 
title 40, chapter I of the Code of Federal Regulations as follows:

PART 63--[AMENDED]

0
1. The authority citation for part 63 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

0
2. In Appendix A, amend Method 303:
0
a. In section 5.0 by revising paragraph 5.2; and
0
b. In section 10.0 by:
0
i. Revising paragraphs 10.1, 10.1.1, 10.1.2, and 10.1.3;
0
ii. Adding paragraphs 10.1.4, 10.1.5, 10.1.6, and 10.1.7; and
0
iii. Revising paragraph 10.2.
    The revisions and additions read as follows.

Appendix A to Part 63--Test Methods

* * * * *

Method 303--Determination Of Visible Emissions From By-Product Coke 
Oven Batteries

* * * * *

5.0 Safety

* * * * *
    5.2 Safety Training. Because coke oven batteries have hazardous 
environments, the training materials and the field training (section 
10.0) shall cover the precautions required to address health and safety 
hazards.
* * * * *

10.0 Calibration and Standardization

* * * * *
    10.1 Certification Procedures. This method requires only the 
determination of whether VE occur and does not require the 
determination of opacity levels; therefore, observer certification 
according to Method 9 in appendix A to part 60 of this chapter is not 
required to obtain certification under this method. However, in order 
to receive Method 303 observer certification, the first-time observer 
(trainee) shall have attended the lecture portion of the Method 9 
certification course. In addition, the trainee shall successfully 
complete the Method 303 training course, satisfy the field observation 
requirement, and demonstrate adequate performance and sufficient 
knowledge of Method 303. The Method 303 training provider and course 
shall be approved by the Administrator and shall consist of classroom 
instruction, field training, and a proficiency test. In order to apply 
for approval as a Method 303 training provider, an applicant must 
submit their credentials and the details of their Method 303 training 
course to Group Leader, Measurement Technology Group (E143-02), Office 
of Air Quality Planning and Standards, U.S. Environmental Protection 
Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711. Those details should include, 
at a minimum:
    (a) A detailed list of the provider's credentials.
    (b) An outline of the classroom and the field portions of the 
class.
    (c) Copies of the written training and lecture materials, to 
include:
    (1) The classroom audio-visual presentation(s).
    (2) A classroom course manual with instructional text and practice 
questions and problems for each of the elements of the Method 303 
inspection (i.e., charging, doors, lids and offtakes, and collecting 
mains). A copy of Method 303 and any related guidance documents should 
be included as appendices.
    (3) A copy of the Method 303 demonstration video, if not using the 
one available on the EPA Web site: http://www3.epa.gov/ttn/emc/methods/method303trainingvideo.mp4.
    (4) Multiple-choice certification tests, with questions sufficient 
to demonstrate knowledge of the method, as follows: One (1) initial 
certification test and three (3) third-year recertification tests (the 
questions on any one recertification test must be at least 25 percent 
different from those on the other recertification tests).
    (5) A field certification checklist and inspection forms for each 
of the elements of the Method 303 inspection (i.e., charging, doors, 
lids and offtakes, and collecting mains).
    (6) The criteria used to determine proficiency.
    (7) The panel members to be utilized (see Section 10.1.3) along 
with their qualifications.
    (8) An example certificate of successful course completion.
    10.1.1 A trainee must verify completion of at least 12 hours of 
field observation prior to attending the Method 303 certification 
course. Trainees shall observe the operation of a coke oven battery as 
it pertains to Method 303, including topside operations, and shall also 
practice conducting Method 303 or similar methods. During the field 
observations, trainees unfamiliar with coke battery operations shall 
receive instruction from an experienced coke oven observer who is 
familiar with Method 303 or similar methods and with the operation of 
coke batteries.
    10.1.2 The classroom instruction shall familiarize the trainees 
with Method 303 through lecture, written training materials, and a 
Method 303 demonstration video. Successful completion of the classroom 
portion of the Method 303 training course shall be demonstrated by a 
perfect score on the initial certification test. Those attending the 
course for third-year recertification must complete one of the 
recertification tests selected at random.
    10.1.3 All trainees must demonstrate proficiency in the application 
of Method 303 to a panel of three certified Method 303 observers, 
including an ability to differentiate coke oven emissions from 
condensing water vapor and smoldering coal. The panel members will be 
EPA, state or local agency personnel, or industry contractors listed in 
59 FR 11960 (March 15, 1994) or qualified as part of the training 
provider approval process of Section 10.1 of this method.
    Each panel member shall have at least 120 days experience in 
reading visible emissions from coke ovens. The visible emissions 
inspections that will satisfy the experience requirement must be 
inspections of coke oven battery fugitive emissions from the emission 
points subject to emission standards under subpart L of this part 
(i.e., coke oven doors, topside port lids, offtake system(s), and 
charging operations), using either Method 303 or predecessor state or 
local test methods. A ``day's experience'' for a particular inspection 
is a day on which one complete inspection was performed for that 
emission point under Method 303 or a predecessor state or local method. 
A ``day's experience'' does not mean 8 or 10 hours performing 
inspections, or any particular time expressed in minutes or hours that 
may have been spent performing them. Thus, it would be possible for an 
individual to qualify as a Method 303 panel member for some emission 
points, but not others (e.g., an individual might satisfy the 
experience requirement for coke oven doors, but not topside port lids). 
Until November 15, 1994, the EPA may waive the certification 
requirement (but not the experience requirement) for panel members. The 
composition of the panel shall be approved by the EPA.
    The panel shall observe the trainee in a series of training runs 
and a series of certification runs. There shall be a minimum of 1 
training run for doors, topside port lids, and offtake systems,

[[Page 9410]]

and a minimum of 5 training runs (i.e., 5 charges) for charging. During 
training runs, the panel can advise the trainee on proper procedures. 
There shall be a minimum of 3 certification runs for doors, topside 
port lids, and offtake systems, and a minimum of 15 certification runs 
for charging (i.e., 15 charges). The certification runs shall be 
unassisted. Following the certification test runs, the panel shall 
approve or disapprove certification based on the trainee's performance 
during the certification runs. To obtain certification, the trainee 
shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the panel a high degree of 
proficiency in performing Method 303. To aid in evaluating the 
trainee's performance, a checklist, approved by the EPA, will be used 
by the panel members.
    10.1.4 Those successfully completing the initial certification or 
third-year recertification requirements shall receive a certificate 
showing certification as a Method 303 observer and the beginning and 
ending dates of the certification period.
    10.1.5 The training provider will submit to the EPA or its designee 
the following information for each trainee successfully completing 
initial certification or third-year recertification training: Name, 
employer, address, telephone, cell and/or fax numbers, email address, 
beginning and ending dates of certification, and whether training was 
for 3-year certification or 1-year recertification. This information 
must be submitted within 30 days of the course completion.
    10.1.6 The training provider will maintain the following records, 
to be made available to EPA or its designee on request (within 30 days 
of a request):
    (a) A file for each Method 303 observer containing the signed 
certification checklists, certification forms and test results for 
their initial certification, and any subsequent third-year 
recertifications. Initial certification records must also include 
documentation showing successful completion of the training 
prerequisites. Testing results from any interim recertifications must 
also be included, along with any relevant communications.
    (b) A searchable master electronic database of all persons for whom 
initial certification, third-year recertification or interim 
recertification has been provided. Information contained therein must 
include: The observer's name, employer, address, telephone, cell and 
fax numbers and email address, along with the beginning and ending 
dates for each successfully completed initial, third-year and interim 
recertification.
    10.1.7 Failure by the training provider to submit example training 
course materials and/or requested training records to the Administrator 
may result in suspension of the approval of the provider and course.
    10.2 Observer Certification/Recertification. The coke oven observer 
certification is valid for 1 year. The observer shall recertify 
annually by reviewing the training material, viewing the training video 
and answering all of the questions on the recertification test 
correctly. Every 3 years, an observer shall be required to pass the 
proficiency test in Section 10.1.3 in order to be certified. The years 
between proficiency tests are referred to as interim years.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2016-03758 Filed 2-24-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6560-50-P



                                                                       Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 37 / Thursday, February 25, 2016 / Proposed Rules                                           9407

                                                 affected by the provisions of this act,                 Management and Budget under                           ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
                                                 rules, or policies of the Department.                   Executive Orders 12866 (58 FR 51735,                  AGENCY
                                                 Also, 15A NCAC 2D .2000                                 October 4, 1993) and 13563 (76 FR 3821,
                                                 Transportation Conformity requires a                    January 21, 2011);                                    40 CFR Part 63
                                                 consultation with all affected partners to                 • Does not impose an information                   [EPA–HQ–OAR–2014–0492; FRL–9940–75–
                                                 be implemented for transportation                       collection burden under the provisions                OAR]
                                                 conformity determinations.                              of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44
                                                 Furthermore, NC DAQ has                                 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.);                                 RIN 2060–AR97
                                                 demonstrated consultation with, and                        • Is certified as not having a                     Clarification of Requirements for
                                                 participation by, affected local entities               significant economic impact on a
                                                 through its work with local political                                                                         Method 303 Certification Training
                                                                                                         substantial number of small entities
                                                 subdivisions during the developing of                   under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5               AGENCY:  Environmental Protection
                                                 its Transportation Conformity SIP,                      U.S.C. 601 et seq.);                                  Agency (EPA).
                                                 Regional Haze Implementation Plan,                         • Does not contain any unfunded                    ACTION: Proposed rule.
                                                 and the 8-Hour Ozone Attainment                         mandate or significantly or uniquely
                                                 Demonstration for the North Carolina                    affect small governments, as described                SUMMARY:   The Environmental Protection
                                                 portion of the Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock                  in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act                   Agency (EPA) is proposing revisions to
                                                 Hill NC–SC nonattainment area.                          of 1995 (Pub. L. 104–4);                              better define the requirements
                                                 Additionally, the NC DAQ organizes                         • Does not have Federalism                         associated with conducting Method 303
                                                 stakeholder meetings to support SIP                     implications as specified in Executive                training courses. In the ‘‘Rules and
                                                 development and rulemakings. EPA has                    Order 13132 (64 FR 43255, August 10,                  Regulations’’ section of this issue of the
                                                 made the preliminary determination                      1999);                                                Federal Register, we are approving the
                                                 that North Carolina’s SIP and practices                    • Is not an economically significant               revisions to Method 303 as a direct final
                                                 adequately demonstrate consultation                     regulatory action based on health or                  rule without a prior proposed rule. If we
                                                 with affected local entities related to the             safety risks subject to Executive Order               receive no adverse comment, we will
                                                 2010 1-hour SO2 NAAQS, when                             13045 (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997);                  not take further action on this proposed
                                                 necessary.                                                 • Is not a significant regulatory action           rule. Method 303 is an air pollution test
                                                 V. Proposed Action                                      subject to Executive Order 13211 (66 FR               method used to determine the presence
                                                                                                         28355, May 22, 2001);                                 of visible emissions (VE) from coke
                                                    EPA is proposing to approve that                                                                           ovens. This action adds language that
                                                 portions of NC DAQ’s infrastructure SIP                    • Is not subject to requirements of
                                                                                                         Section 12(d) of the National                         further clarifies the criteria used by the
                                                 submission, submitted March 18, 2014,                                                                         EPA to determine the competency of
                                                 for the 2010 1-hour SO2 NAAQS, has                      Technology Transfer and Advancement
                                                                                                         Act of 1995 (15 U.S.C. 272 note) because              Method 303 training providers, but does
                                                 met the above described infrastructure                                                                        not change the requirements for
                                                 SIP requirements. The PSD permitting                    application of those requirements would
                                                                                                         be inconsistent with the CAA; and                     conducting the test method. These
                                                 requirements for major sources of                                                                             changes will help entities interested in
                                                 section 110(a)(2)(C) and (J), the                          • Does not provide EPA with the
                                                                                                         discretionary authority to address, as                conducting the required training courses
                                                 interstate transport requirements of                                                                          by clearly defining the requirements
                                                 section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) and (II) (prongs             appropriate, disproportionate human
                                                                                                         health or environmental effects, using                necessary to do so.
                                                 1 through 4), will not be addressed by
                                                                                                         practicable and legally permissible                   DATES: Written comments must be
                                                 EPA at this time. EPA has already taken
                                                 action to approve North Carolina’s                      methods, under Executive Order 12898                  received by March 28, 2016.
                                                 infrastructure SIP submission related to                (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994).                      ADDRESSES: Submit your comments,
                                                 section 110(a)(2)(E)(ii) for the 2010 SO2                  The SIP is not approved to apply on                identified by Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–
                                                 NAAQS. EPA is proposing to approve                      any Indian reservation land or in any                 OAR–2014–0492, to the Federal
                                                 these portions of North Carolina’s                      other area where EPA or an Indian tribe               eRulemaking Portal: http://
                                                 infrastructure SIP submission for the                   has demonstrated that a tribe has                     www.regulations.gov. Follow the online
                                                 2010 1-hour SO2 NAAQS because these                     jurisdiction. In those areas of Indian                instructions for submitting comments.
                                                 aspects of the submission are consistent                country, the rule does not have tribal                Once submitted, comments cannot be
                                                 with section 110 of the CAA.                            implications as specified by Executive                edited or withdrawn. The EPA may
                                                                                                         Order 13175 (65 FR 67249, November 9,                 publish any comment received to its
                                                 VI. Statutory and Executive Order                       2000), nor will it impose substantial                 public docket. Do not submit
                                                 Reviews                                                 direct costs on tribal governments or                 electronically any information you
                                                   Under the CAA, the Administrator is                   preempt tribal law.                                   consider to be Confidential Business
                                                 required to approve a SIP submission                                                                          Information (CBI) or other information
                                                                                                         List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 52
                                                 that complies with the provisions of the                                                                      whose disclosure is restricted by statute.
                                                 Act and applicable Federal regulations.                   Environmental protection, Air                       Multimedia submissions (audio, video,
                                                 See 42 U.S.C. 7410(k); 40 CFR 52.02(a).                 pollution control, Incorporation by                   etc.) must be accompanied by a written
                                                 Thus, in reviewing SIP submissions,                     reference, Intergovernmental relations,               comment. The written comment is
                                                 EPA’s role is to approve state choices,                 Nitrogen dioxide, Ozone, Reporting and                considered the official comment and
                                                 provided that they meet the criteria of                 recordkeeping requirements, Volatile                  should include discussion of all points
rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                 the CAA. Accordingly, this proposed                     organic compounds.                                    you wish to make. The EPA will
                                                 action merely approves state law as                       Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.                   generally not consider comments or
                                                 meeting Federal requirements and does                                                                         comment contents located outside of the
                                                                                                           Dated: February 11, 2016.
                                                 not impose additional requirements                                                                            primary submission (i.e., on the Web,
                                                 beyond those imposed by state law. For                  Heather McTeer Toney,                                 Cloud, or other file sharing system).
                                                 that reason, this proposed action:                      Regional Administrator, Region 4.                        For additional submission methods,
                                                   • Is not a significant regulatory action              [FR Doc. 2016–03897 Filed 2–24–16; 8:45 am]           the full EPA public comment policy,
                                                 subject to review by the Office of                      BILLING CODE 6560–50–P                                information about CBI or multimedia


                                            VerDate Sep<11>2014   13:27 Feb 24, 2016   Jkt 238001   PO 00000   Frm 00045   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\25FEP1.SGM   25FEP1


                                                 9408                  Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 37 / Thursday, February 25, 2016 / Proposed Rules

                                                 submissions, and general guidance on                    change the requirements for conducting                direct effects on the states, on the
                                                 making effective comments, please visit                 the test method.                                      relationship between the national
                                                 http://www2.epa.gov/dockets/                                                                                  government and the states, or on the
                                                                                                         III. Environmental Justice
                                                 commenting-epa-dockets.                                                                                       distribution of power and
                                                 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms.
                                                                                                            The EPA has determined that this                   responsibilities among the various
                                                 Kim Garnett, U.S. EPA, Office of Air                    proposed rule will not have                           levels of government. This action
                                                 Quality Planning and Standards, Air                     disproportionately high and adverse                   clarifies the criteria used by the EPA to
                                                 Quality Assessment Division,                            human health or environmental effects                 determine the competency of training
                                                                                                         on minority or low-income populations                 providers, but does not change the
                                                 Measurement Technology Group (Mail
                                                                                                         because it does not affect the level of               requirements for conducting the test
                                                 Code: E143–02), Research Triangle Park,
                                                                                                         protection provided to human health or                method.
                                                 NC 27711; telephone number: (919)
                                                                                                         the environment. This rulemaking does
                                                 541–1158; fax number: (919) 541–0516;                                                                         F. Executive Order 13175: Consultation
                                                                                                         not relax the control measures on
                                                 email address: garnett.kim@epa.gov.                                                                           and Coordination With Indian Tribal
                                                                                                         sources regulated by the proposed rule
                                                 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                              and, therefore, will not cause emissions              Governments
                                                 I. Why is the EPA issuing this proposed                 increases from these sources.                           This action does not have tribal
                                                 rule?                                                   IV. Statutory and Executive Order                     implications, as specified in Executive
                                                    This document proposes to take                       Reviews                                               Order 13175. This action clarifies the
                                                 action on the requirements associated                                                                         criteria used by the EPA to determine
                                                                                                         A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory                  the competency of training providers,
                                                 with conducting Method 303 training                     Planning and Review and Executive
                                                 courses. Method 303 is an air pollution                                                                       but does not change the requirements
                                                                                                         Order 13563: Improving Regulation and                 for conducting the test method. Thus,
                                                 test method used to determine the                       Regulatory Review
                                                 presence of visible emissions (VE) from                                                                       Executive Order 13175 does not apply
                                                 coke ovens. We have published a direct                    This action is not a significant                    to this action.
                                                 final rule approving the revisions to                   regulatory action and was, therefore, not
                                                                                                                                                               G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of
                                                 Method 303 in the ‘‘Rules and                           submitted to the Office of Management
                                                                                                                                                               Children From Environmental Health
                                                 Regulations’’ section of this issue of the              and Budget (OMB) for review.
                                                                                                                                                               Risks and Safety Risks
                                                 Federal Register because we view this                   B. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)
                                                 as a non-controversial action and                                                                               The EPA interprets Executive Order
                                                                                                           This action does not impose an                      13045 as applying only to those
                                                 anticipate no adverse comment. We
                                                                                                         information collection burden under the               regulatory actions that concern
                                                 have explained our reasons for this
                                                                                                         PRA. This action better defines the                   environmental health or safety risks that
                                                 action in the preamble of the direct final
                                                                                                         requirements associated with                          the EPA has reason to believe may
                                                 rule.
                                                                                                         conducting Method 303 training courses                disproportionately affect children, per
                                                    If we receive no adverse comment, we
                                                                                                         and does not impose additional                        the definition of ‘‘covered regulatory
                                                 will not take further action on this
                                                                                                         regulatory requirements on sources.                   action’’ in section 2–202 of the
                                                 proposed rule. If we receive adverse
                                                 comment, we will withdraw the direct                    C. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)                   Executive Order. This action is not
                                                 final rule, and it will not take effect. We                                                                   subject to Executive Order 13045
                                                                                                            I certify that this action will not have
                                                 would address all public comments in                                                                          because it does not concern an
                                                                                                         a significant economic impact on a
                                                 any subsequent final rule based on this                                                                       environmental health risk or safety risk.
                                                                                                         substantial number of small entities
                                                 proposed rule.                                          under the RFA. This action will not                   H. Executive Order 13211: Actions
                                                    We do not intend to institute a second               impose any requirements on small                      Concerning Regulations That
                                                 comment period on this action. Any                      entities. This action better defines the              Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
                                                 parties interested in commenting must                   requirements associated with                          Distribution, or Use
                                                 do so at this time. For further                         conducting Method 303 training courses
                                                 information, please see the information                                                                         This action is not subject to Executive
                                                                                                         and does not impose additional
                                                 provided in the ADDRESSES section of                                                                          Order 13211 because it is not a
                                                                                                         regulatory requirements on sources.
                                                 this document.                                                                                                significant regulatory action under
                                                                                                         D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act                       Executive Order 12866.
                                                 II. Does this action apply to me?                       (UMRA)
                                                                                                                                                               I. National Technology Transfer and
                                                    This action applies to you if you are                   This action does not contain an                    Advancement Act (NTTAA)
                                                 a potential provider of Method 303                      unfunded mandate of $100 million or
                                                 training services, someone seeking                      more for as described in UMRA,                          This rulemaking does not involve
                                                 training to conduct Method 303, or a                    2 U.S.C. 1531–1538, and does not                      technical standards.
                                                 facility subject to Method 303.                         significantly or uniquely affect small                J. Executive Order 12898: Federal
                                                    Method 303 is applicable for the                     governments. This action imposes no                   Actions to Address Environmental
                                                 determination of VE from the following                  enforceable duty on any state, local or               Justice in Minority Populations and
                                                 by-product coke oven battery sources:                   tribal governments or the private sector.             Low-Income Populations
                                                 Charging systems during charging;                       This action adds additional language
                                                 doors, topside port lids, and offtake                   that clarifies the criteria used by the                 The EPA believes the human health or
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                                                 systems on operating coke ovens; and                    EPA to determine the competency of                    environmental risk addressed by this
                                                 collecting mains. This method is also                   training providers, but does not change               action will not have potential
                                                 applicable for qualifying observers for                 the requirements for conducting the test              disproportionately high and adverse
                                                 visually determining the presence of VE.                method.                                               human health or environmental effects
                                                 This action adds language that further                                                                        on minority, low-income or indigenous
                                                 clarifies the criteria used by the EPA to               E. Executive Order 13132: Federalism                  populations. The results of this
                                                 determine the competency of Method                        This action does not have federalism                evaluation are contained in the
                                                 303 training providers, but does not                    implications. It will not have substantial            SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of



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                                                                        Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 37 / Thursday, February 25, 2016 / Proposed Rules                                           9409

                                                 the preamble titled ‘‘III. Environmental                 sufficient knowledge of Method 303.                   trainees unfamiliar with coke battery
                                                 Justice.’’                                               The Method 303 training provider and                  operations shall receive instruction from
                                                                                                          course shall be approved by the                       an experienced coke oven observer who
                                                 List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 63
                                                                                                          Administrator and shall consist of                    is familiar with Method 303 or similar
                                                   Environmental protection, Air                          classroom instruction, field training,                methods and with the operation of coke
                                                 pollution control, Test methods.                         and a proficiency test. In order to apply             batteries.
                                                   Dated: February 12, 2016.                              for approval as a Method 303 training                    10.1.2 The classroom instruction
                                                 Gina McCarthy,                                           provider, an applicant must submit their              shall familiarize the trainees with
                                                                                                          credentials and the details of their                  Method 303 through lecture, written
                                                 Administrator.
                                                                                                          Method 303 training course to Group                   training materials, and a Method 303
                                                    For the reasons stated in the                                                                               demonstration video. Successful
                                                 preamble, the EPA proposes to amend                      Leader, Measurement Technology
                                                                                                          Group (E143–02), Office of Air Quality                completion of the classroom portion of
                                                 title 40, chapter I of the Code of Federal                                                                     the Method 303 training course shall be
                                                 Regulations as follows:                                  Planning and Standards, U.S.
                                                                                                          Environmental Protection Agency,                      demonstrated by a perfect score on the
                                                 PART 63—[AMENDED]                                        Research Triangle Park, NC 27711.                     initial certification test. Those attending
                                                                                                          Those details should include, at a                    the course for third-year recertification
                                                 ■ 1. The authority citation for part 63                  minimum:                                              must complete one of the recertification
                                                 continues to read as follows:                               (a) A detailed list of the provider’s              tests selected at random.
                                                                                                          credentials.                                             10.1.3 All trainees must demonstrate
                                                     Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.                                                                          proficiency in the application of Method
                                                                                                             (b) An outline of the classroom and
                                                 ■ 2. In Appendix A, amend Method 303:                    the field portions of the class.                      303 to a panel of three certified Method
                                                 ■ a. In section 5.0 by revising paragraph                   (c) Copies of the written training and             303 observers, including an ability to
                                                 5.2; and                                                 lecture materials, to include:                        differentiate coke oven emissions from
                                                 ■ b. In section 10.0 by:                                    (1) The classroom audio-visual                     condensing water vapor and smoldering
                                                 ■ i. Revising paragraphs 10.1, 10.1.1,                   presentation(s).                                      coal. The panel members will be EPA,
                                                 10.1.2, and 10.1.3;                                         (2) A classroom course manual with                 state or local agency personnel, or
                                                 ■ ii. Adding paragraphs 10.1.4, 10.1.5,                  instructional text and practice questions             industry contractors listed in 59 FR
                                                 10.1.6, and 10.1.7; and                                  and problems for each of the elements                 11960 (March 15, 1994) or qualified as
                                                 ■ iii. Revising paragraph 10.2.                          of the Method 303 inspection (i.e.,                   part of the training provider approval
                                                   The revisions and additions read as                    charging, doors, lids and offtakes, and               process of Section 10.1 of this method.
                                                 follows.                                                 collecting mains). A copy of Method 303                  Each panel member shall have at least
                                                                                                          and any related guidance documents                    120 days experience in reading visible
                                                 Appendix A to Part 63—Test Methods
                                                                                                          should be included as appendices.                     emissions from coke ovens. The visible
                                                 *       *     *       *      *                              (3) A copy of the Method 303                       emissions inspections that will satisfy
                                                 Method 303—Determination Of Visible                      demonstration video, if not using the                 the experience requirement must be
                                                 Emissions From By-Product Coke Oven                      one available on the EPA Web site:                    inspections of coke oven battery fugitive
                                                 Batteries                                                http://www3.epa.gov/ttn/emc/methods/                  emissions from the emission points
                                                                                                          method303trainingvideo.mp4.                           subject to emission standards under
                                                 *       *     *       *      *                              (4) Multiple-choice certification tests,           subpart L of this part (i.e., coke oven
                                                 5.0    Safety                                            with questions sufficient to demonstrate              doors, topside port lids, offtake
                                                                                                          knowledge of the method, as follows:                  system(s), and charging operations),
                                                 *    *      *     *    *                                 One (1) initial certification test and                using either Method 303 or predecessor
                                                   5.2 Safety Training. Because coke                      three (3) third-year recertification tests            state or local test methods. A ‘‘day’s
                                                 oven batteries have hazardous                            (the questions on any one recertification             experience’’ for a particular inspection
                                                 environments, the training materials                     test must be at least 25 percent different            is a day on which one complete
                                                 and the field training (section 10.0) shall              from those on the other recertification               inspection was performed for that
                                                 cover the precautions required to                        tests).                                               emission point under Method 303 or a
                                                 address health and safety hazards.                          (5) A field certification checklist and            predecessor state or local method. A
                                                 *    *      *     *    *                                 inspection forms for each of the                      ‘‘day’s experience’’ does not mean 8 or
                                                                                                          elements of the Method 303 inspection                 10 hours performing inspections, or any
                                                 10.0     Calibration and Standardization                                                                       particular time expressed in minutes or
                                                                                                          (i.e., charging, doors, lids and offtakes,
                                                 *     *     *     *     *                                and collecting mains).                                hours that may have been spent
                                                    10.1 Certification Procedures. This                      (6) The criteria used to determine                 performing them. Thus, it would be
                                                 method requires only the determination                   proficiency.                                          possible for an individual to qualify as
                                                 of whether VE occur and does not                            (7) The panel members to be utilized               a Method 303 panel member for some
                                                 require the determination of opacity                     (see Section 10.1.3) along with their                 emission points, but not others (e.g., an
                                                 levels; therefore, observer certification                qualifications.                                       individual might satisfy the experience
                                                 according to Method 9 in appendix A to                      (8) An example certificate of                      requirement for coke oven doors, but
                                                 part 60 of this chapter is not required to               successful course completion.                         not topside port lids). Until November
                                                 obtain certification under this method.                     10.1.1 A trainee must verify                       15, 1994, the EPA may waive the
                                                 However, in order to receive Method                      completion of at least 12 hours of field              certification requirement (but not the
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                                                 303 observer certification, the first-time               observation prior to attending the                    experience requirement) for panel
                                                 observer (trainee) shall have attended                   Method 303 certification course.                      members. The composition of the panel
                                                 the lecture portion of the Method 9                      Trainees shall observe the operation of               shall be approved by the EPA.
                                                 certification course. In addition, the                   a coke oven battery as it pertains to                    The panel shall observe the trainee in
                                                 trainee shall successfully complete the                  Method 303, including topside                         a series of training runs and a series of
                                                 Method 303 training course, satisfy the                  operations, and shall also practice                   certification runs. There shall be a
                                                 field observation requirement, and                       conducting Method 303 or similar                      minimum of 1 training run for doors,
                                                 demonstrate adequate performance and                     methods. During the field observations,               topside port lids, and offtake systems,


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                                                 9410                  Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 37 / Thursday, February 25, 2016 / Proposed Rules

                                                 and a minimum of 5 training runs (i.e.,                    10.1.7 Failure by the training                        3. June 15, 2016, 1:30 p.m. to 4:30
                                                 5 charges) for charging. During training                provider to submit example training                   p.m. EST, Washington, DC.
                                                 runs, the panel can advise the trainee on               course materials and/or requested                        See the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
                                                 proper procedures. There shall be a                     training records to the Administrator                 section for additional relevant dates.
                                                 minimum of 3 certification runs for                     may result in suspension of the                       ADDRESSES: Expressions of interest may
                                                 doors, topside port lids, and offtake                   approval of the provider and course.                  be submitted by any of the following
                                                 systems, and a minimum of 15                               10.2 Observer Certification/                       methods:
                                                 certification runs for charging (i.e., 15               Recertification. The coke oven observer                  Email: lscrulemaking@lsc.gov. Include
                                                 charges). The certification runs shall be               certification is valid for 1 year. The                ‘‘1630/PAMM Workshops’’ in the
                                                 unassisted. Following the certification                 observer shall recertify annually by                  subject line of the message.
                                                 test runs, the panel shall approve or                   reviewing the training material, viewing                 Fax: 202–337–6519.
                                                 disapprove certification based on the                   the training video and answering all of                  Mail: Stefanie K. Davis, Assistant
                                                 trainee’s performance during the                        the questions on the recertification test             General Counsel, Legal Services
                                                 certification runs. To obtain                           correctly. Every 3 years, an observer                 Corporation, 3333 K St. NW.,
                                                 certification, the trainee shall                        shall be required to pass the proficiency             Washington, DC 20007.
                                                 demonstrate to the satisfaction of the                  test in Section 10.1.3 in order to be                    Hand Delivery/Courier: Stefanie K.
                                                 panel a high degree of proficiency in                   certified. The years between proficiency              Davis, Assistant General Counsel, Legal
                                                 performing Method 303. To aid in                        tests are referred to as interim years.               Services Corporation, 3333 K St. NW.,
                                                 evaluating the trainee’s performance, a                                                                       Washington, DC 20007.
                                                                                                         *      *     *    *      *                               Instructions: All submissions must
                                                 checklist, approved by the EPA, will be                 [FR Doc. 2016–03758 Filed 2–24–16; 8:45 am]
                                                 used by the panel members.                                                                                    include the subject ‘‘1630/PAMM
                                                                                                         BILLING CODE 6560–50–P                                Workshops. For detailed instructions on
                                                    10.1.4 Those successfully
                                                 completing the initial certification or                                                                       submitting expressions of interest in
                                                 third-year recertification requirements                                                                       participating as a panelist in the
                                                 shall receive a certificate showing                     LEGAL SERVICES CORPORATION                            Workshops or on submitting comments
                                                 certification as a Method 303 observer                                                                        about the topics to be discussed in the
                                                 and the beginning and ending dates of                   45 CFR Part 1630                                      Workshops, please see Sections VI. and
                                                 the certification period.                                                                                     VII. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
                                                    10.1.5 The training provider will                    Cost Standards and Procedures;                        section.
                                                 submit to the EPA or its designee the                   Property Acquisition and Management                   FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                 following information for each trainee                  Manual                                                Stefanie K. Davis, Assistant General
                                                 successfully completing initial                                                                               Counsel, Legal Services Corporation,
                                                                                                         AGENCY:   Legal Services Corporation.
                                                 certification or third-year recertification                                                                   3333 K St. NW., Washington, DC 20007;
                                                 training: Name, employer, address,                      ACTION:  Notice of rulemaking                         (202) 295–1563 (phone); 202–337–6519
                                                 telephone, cell and/or fax numbers,                     workshops, request for expressions of                 (fax); or sdavis@lsc.gov.
                                                 email address, beginning and ending                     interest in participating in the                      SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                 dates of certification, and whether                     rulemaking workshops, initiation of
                                                 training was for 3-year certification or 1-             open comment period.                                  I. Background
                                                 year recertification. This information                                                                           On July 16, 2015, LSC management
                                                                                                         SUMMARY:    The Operations and                        (Management) presented the Committee
                                                 must be submitted within 30 days of the
                                                                                                         Regulations Committee (Committee) of                  with a Justification Memorandum
                                                 course completion.
                                                    10.1.6 The training provider will                    the Board of Directors for the Legal                  recommending publication of an
                                                 maintain the following records, to be                   Services Corporation (LSC) is                         advance notice of proposed rulemaking
                                                 made available to EPA or its designee on                conducting three rulemaking workshops                 (ANPRM) to seek public comment on
                                                 request (within 30 days of a request):                  (Workshops) and is requesting public                  possible revisions to 45 CFR part 1630—
                                                    (a) A file for each Method 303                       comments on revising LSC’s Cost                       Cost Standards and Procedures, and
                                                 observer containing the signed                          Standards and Procedures rule, 45 CFR                 LSC’s Property Acquisition and
                                                 certification checklists, certification                 part 1630, and LSC’s Property                         Management Manual (PAMM).
                                                 forms and test results for their initial                Acquisition and Management Manual                     Management stated that collecting input
                                                 certification, and any subsequent third-                (PAMM). The discussions in the                        from LSC funding recipients through an
                                                 year recertifications. Initial certification            Workshops and the other comments                      ANPRM would aid LSC significantly in
                                                 records must also include                               received will be considered in                        determining the scope of the rulemaking
                                                 documentation showing successful                        connection with rulemaking by LSC.                    and in developing a more accurate
                                                 completion of the training prerequisites.               LSC is soliciting expressions of interest             understanding of the potential costs and
                                                 Testing results from any interim                        in participating as a panelist in the                 benefits of certain revisions. The
                                                 recertifications must also be included,                 Workshops from LSC grantees and other                 Committee voted to recommend that the
                                                 along with any relevant                                 interested stakeholders with relevant                 Board approve Management’s
                                                 communications.                                         experience, such as other funders of                  recommendation and authorize LSC to
                                                    (b) A searchable master electronic                   civil legal aid programs.                             open rulemaking for Part 1630 and the
                                                 database of all persons for whom initial                DATES: Expressions of interest in                     PAMM. On July 18, 2015, the LSC Board
                                                 certification, third-year recertification or            participating in the Rulemaking                       authorized rulemaking and approved
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                                                 interim recertification has been                        Workshops for Part 1630 and the PAMM                  the preparation of an ANPRM to revise
                                                 provided. Information contained therein                 must be received by 5:30 p.m. EST on                  Part 1630 and the PAMM. On October
                                                 must include: The observer’s name,                      March 17, 2016. The dates of the                      9, 2015, LSC published an ANPRM
                                                 employer, address, telephone, cell and                  Workshops are:                                        seeking public comment on the
                                                 fax numbers and email address, along                      1. April 20, 2016, 1:30 p.m. to 4:30                proposed changes to Part 1630 and the
                                                 with the beginning and ending dates for                 p.m. EST, Washington, DC.                             PAMM. 80 FR 61142, Oct. 9, 2015. The
                                                 each successfully completed initial,                      2. May 18, 2016, 1:30 p.m. to 4:30                  comment period closed on December 8,
                                                 third-year and interim recertification.                 p.m. EST, Washington, DC.                             2015.


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Document Created: 2018-02-02 14:35:14
Document Modified: 2018-02-02 14:35:14
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionProposed rule.
DatesWritten comments must be received by March 28, 2016.
ContactMs. Kim Garnett, U.S. EPA, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Air Quality Assessment Division, Measurement Technology Group (Mail Code: E143-02), Research Triangle Park, NC 27711; telephone number: (919) 541-1158; fax number: (919)
FR Citation81 FR 9407 
RIN Number2060-AR97
CFR AssociatedEnvironmental Protection; Air Pollution Control and Test Methods

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