Highlights on Draft Air Quality Regulations, 2008

This regulation is referred to as “The Environmental Management and Coordination (Air Quality) Regulations, 2008”. The objective is to provide for prevention, control and abatement of air pollution to ensure clean and healthy ambient air. It provides for the establishment of emission standards for various sources such as mobile sources (e.g. motor vehicles) and stationary sources (e.g. industries) as outlined in the Environmental Management and Coordination Act, 1999.  It also covers any other air pollution source as may be determined by the Minister in consultation with the Authority. Emission limits for various areas and facilities have been set. The regulations provide the procedure for designating controlled areas, and the objectives of air quality management plans for these areas.

Exemptions
The following operations (provided they are not used for disposal of refuse), are exempt from these regulations:
(a) Back-burning to control or suppress wildfires;
(b) Fire fighting rehearsals or drills conducted by the Fire Service Agencies;
(c) Traditional and cultural burning of savanna grasslands;
(d) Burning for purposes of public health protection;


Controlling Emissions
The emissions shall be controlled using specified equipment. These air pollution control systems are available locally and internationally from dealers. Cases of malfunctioning air pollution control systems should be reported to NEMA within 24 hours for NEMA to warn the public. Corrective measures should be taken to NEMA’s satisfaction within 14 days after the occurrence. The regulations define the methods of test for vehicular emissions and the inspection period for motor vehicles. Private cars will be inspected every two years, and the PSV and commercial vehicles will be inspected annually. The motor vehicle inspection Unit will identify private vehicular emission testing workshops
 
NB:The emission standards for mobile sources are stipulated under KS 1515