Air

Benzene and PAH emissions

Two toxic emissions produced during cokemaking are benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In Canada, leaks from coke oven operations and byproduct plants are the main sources of these emissions, which can have a harmful effect on human health.

In 1998, the industry, in collaboration with governments and environmental and labour groups, developed voluntary codes of practice to reduce and control emissions of benzene and PAHs.

The codes include emission reduction targets and a comprehensive set of operating practices, consisting of equipment specifications, monitoring techniques, work practices and third-party auditing. Steelmaking companies have invested millions in best available technology for benzene collection and management systems at byproducts plants.

As a result of carrying out these codes of practice, the industry has reduced benzene and PAH emissions per tonne of coke produced by 74 per cent since 1993.

The industry has also worked with the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment to define new Canada-wide standards for benzene.