The Wise Report
The following information was provided by the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists (TBPG):
On September 18, 2015 the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed to amend the new source performance standards (NSPS) for the oil and natural gas source category by setting standards for both methane and volatile organic compounds (VOC) for certain equipment, processes and activities across this source category.
TBPG’s Appointed Board submitted a comment that Professional Geoscientists are licensed to ensure protection of human health and the environment and that Professional Geoscientist licensure should be considered as an appropriate accreditation for the EPA’s proposed rules regarding the qualifications of an auditor.
This issue was brought to the TBPG’s attention by Mr. Steven Fleming, P.G. The TBPG appreciates that Mr. Fleming identified the issue and worked with TBPG Board Members.
The EPA is accepting comments from the public on their proposed rules until November 17, 2015. Comments can be submitted from the Federal Register website (instructions provided above).
To view the proposal, please go to the Federal Register at: EPA-HQ-OAR-2010-0505-4776
As currently proposed by the EPA, a PE would be considered to be an appropriate auditor for this. A PG would not. Feel free to copy and paste the suggested text, or you may wish to make similar comments.
The TBPG has signed a new reciprocity agreement with the Louisiana Board of Professional Geoscientists.
Henry M. Wise, P.G.
The Wise Report