Results from recent tests show that Bullseye Glass Co.'s upgraded emissions control “baghouse” effectively capture emissions of chromium from the Southeast Portland facility's glass-making furnaces.
After a thorough review of source tests and modeling data, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has determined that chromium emissions at certain usage rates at the facility, located at 3722 SE 21st Ave. in Portland, are well below the required levels established by the Oregon's Colored Art Glass Manufacturer Rules that are protective of public health. DEQ has approved Bullseye's request to set restricted usage rates.
In October 2016, in response to data collected in 2015 near the facility that showed acutely hazardous levels of metals in the air around the facility, the Oregon Environmental Quality Commission adopted new rules for glass-making facilities in Oregon to ensure that air emissions from these facilities do not cause unsafe levels of certain hazardous air pollutants.
The rules prohibit the largest colored art glass manufacturers, such as like Bullseye, from using raw materials containing chromium until DEQ establishes maxiumum allowable chromium usage rates. To set usage rate limits, DEQ required Bullseye to complete source tests that measure emission levels and to perform modeling of potential air dispersions of chromium.
DEQ has concluded that Bullseye's baghouse is effective at reducing emissions of chromium and has established the following maximum allowable chromium usage rates: 358 pounds per day and 14,202 pounds per year. At the approved restricted usage levels, airborne concentrations are not expected to produce short- or long-term health effects in people. DEQ will continue to work with the Oregon Health Authority to monitor and analyze data to ensure concentrations remain below acute health safety standards.
Monitoring and reporting rules remain in effect
DEQ requires Bullseye to submit weekly emissions reports, including records of the facility's baghouse operating parameters. Bullseye must continue using supplemental emissions controls known as a bag leak detection system. DEQ will conduct unannounced inspections to verify proper operation and maintanence of the baghouse.
Source: Oregon DEQ