Document NeaeLMM6Y2KpeMYy3ZRrZEwEp

OFFICIAL SEPA Update to Scottish CIA RCC 1 June 2023 Not in Scope SEPA Update to Scottish CIA RCC 1 June 2023 Page 1 of 3 Not in Scope F-gases Due to climate change and the GHG potential of Fgases, there is increasing interest in their use. Operators are reminded that any accidental releases of Fgases should be declared in the annual SPRI return. In addition, SEPA is becoming aware of a blackmarket trade in Fgases, please report anything suspicious to your site inspector. SEPA Update to Scottish CIA RCC 1 June 2023 Page 2 of 3 OFFICIAL You may have noted that DSM has paid out a penalty of 75,000 for failing to install a system that would have detected a series of accidental releases of fluorinated greenhouse gas (Fgas). In 2020 the emissions reported under SPRI were over eight times the reporting threshold, considerably higher than previous years. On investigation it was found to be an accidental release from the site. Whilst there is no requirement under the regulations to inform SEPA of an accidental release at the time of the release, operators of equipment that contains Fgases must take precautions to prevent and (since 2006 where above 500 tonnes CO2 equivalent) detect releases. All operators are encouraged to check the compliance of their systems. Fire Fighting Foam Containing Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Changes in legislation means since 1 January 2023, subject to certain conditions being met, firefighting foams containing Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) may only be used where the resulting foam can be completely contained. SEPA has developed guidance in respect of the use, storage and disposal of firefighting foam containing POPs SEPA guidance on the use, storage and disposal of class B firefighting foam containing POPs. Operators are encouraged to critically assess whether they are able to meet the containment criterion. There have been a number of incidents where FFF has been used or released that have demonstrated containment was not effective. All use or release of PFOA containing foam should be reported to your inspector. Further guidance is being prepared with LastFire through the Arctic Council. This will address: what containment means, how to clear existing systems for new foam, and the various issues that are important to make the transition to fluorine free firefighting foam. Not in Scope SEPA Update to Scottish CIA RCC 1 June 2023 Page 3 of 3