The MACT Standards

The goal of the Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards is to ensure that devices are using the most effective technology available for reducing the level of hazardous air pollutants being released by combustion devices.

The requirement that devices meet the MACT standards applies to a variety of combustion devices used to burn hazardous wastes, including the following units:

• Cement kilns
• Lightweight aggregate kilns
• Hydrochloric acid production furnaces
• Certain solid waste incinerators
• Certain boilers

Combustion devices that meet the requirements of the MACT standards are not regulated under the tiered system established by RCRA. Rather, owners and operators of this type of combustion equipment must adhere to the MACT standards under the Clean Air Act. The combustion units must meet strict limits for emissions of dioxins, metals, total chlorine, and other pollutants. Among other things, the units must be monitored for temperature pressure, waste feed, and levels of pollutants in the emissions.

To learn more about RCRA safety standards visit our RCRA Refresher Online Training web page.