Guidance

Permitting of air separation units

If you comply with the requirements in this regulatory position statement (RPS) you can operate air separation units without an environmental permit.

This publication was withdrawn on

An explanation on how you can operate air separation units without an environmental permit is given in note 4.2.2 in Regulatory Guidance Note No. 2: Understanding the meaning of regulated facility, Appendix 1 – Interpretation of Schedule 1 to the Regulations.

Applies to England

Documents

[Withdrawn] Permitting of air separation units (ASUs): RPS 032

Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Details

Many installations covered by the Integrated Prevention and Pollution Control (IPPC) Directive need to use process gases – typically nitrogen for inerting/dilution, but also other inert gases, oxygen and carbon dioxide. Where demand for these gases cannot be met by bottled supplies, it may be provided by dedicated air separation units (ASUs) using pressure swing absorption, cryogenic or membrane separation units.

ASUs can be found on a variety of installations including food & drink, chemical and metal works.

You will not need to apply for an environmental permit for ASUs that are directly associated to an IPPC-listed activity if you meet the requirements set out in this guidance.

Updates to this page

Published 27 March 2014

Sign up for emails or print this page