N.M. Admin. Code § 19.15.11.8

Current through Register Vol. 35, No. 23, December 10, 2024

Section 19.15.11.8 - REGULATORY THRESHOLD

A. Determination of hydrogen sulfide concentration.

(1) Each person shall determine the hydrogen sulfide concentration in the gaseous mixture within wells, facilities or operations either by testing (using a sample from each well, facility or operation); testing a representative sample; or using process knowledge in lieu of testing. If the person uses a representative sample or process knowledge, the concentration derived from the representative sample or process knowledge shall be reasonably representative of the hydrogen sulfide concentration within the well, facility or operation.

(2) The person shall conduct the tests used to make the determination referred to in Paragraph (1) of Subsection A of 19.15.11.8 NMAC in accordance with applicable ASTM or GPA standards or by another division-approved method.

(3) If the person conducted a test prior to January 31, 2003 that otherwise meets the requirements of Paragraphs (1) and (2) of Subsection A of 19.15.11.8 NMAC, new testing is not required.

(4) If a change or alteration may materially increase the hydrogen sulfide concentration in a well, facility or operation, the person shall make a new determination in accordance with 19.15.11 NMAC.

B. Concentrations determined to be below 100 ppm. If the hydrogen sulfide concentration in a given well, facility or operation is less than 100 ppm, the person is not required to take further actions pursuant to 19.15.11 NMAC.

C. Concentrations determined to be above 100 ppm.

(1) If the person determines the hydrogen sulfide concentration in a given well, facility or operation is 100 ppm or greater, then the person shall calculate the radius of exposure and comply with applicable requirements of 19.15.11 NMAC.

(2) If calculation of the radius of exposure reveals that a potentially hazardous volume is present, the person shall provide results of the hydrogen sulfide concentration determination and the calculation of the radius of exposure to the division. For a well, facility or operation, the person shall accomplish the determination, calculation and submission 19.15.11.8 NMAC requires before operations begin.

D. Recalculation. The person shall calculate the radius of exposure if the hydrogen sulfide concentration in a well, facility or operation increases to 100 ppm or greater. The person shall also recalculate the radius of exposure if the actual volume fraction of hydrogen sulfide increases by a factor of 25 percent in a well, facility or operation that previously had a hydrogen sulfide concentration of 100 ppm or greater. If calculation or recalculation of the radius of exposure reveals that a potentially hazardous volume is present, the person shall provide the results to the division within 60 days.

N.M. Admin. Code § 19.15.11.8

19.15.11.8 NMAC - Rp, 19.15.3.118 NMAC, 12/1/08