Overview

In May of 2024, the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) finalized its revisions to standards for the Gasoline Distribution Terminals (Subpart R), the NESHAP area source category (Subpart 6B), and the New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for bulk gasoline terminals (Subpart XXa).
Through these updates, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency formally recognized Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) as an approved compliance pathway. As a result, NESHAP 6B, MACT Subpart R, and NSPS XXa are now aligned around a consistent monitoring philosophy.
Following its technology review, the EPA determined that OGI reflects current industry practice and delivers stronger emissions detection performance than legacy monitoring methods.

The Solution

Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) is an EPA-recognized approach to equipment leak detection for gasoline distribution facilities subject to NESHAP Subpart BBBBBB (6B), MACT R, and related rules. Using infrared camera technology, OGI allows operators to visually detect hydrocarbon emissions from valves, pumps, flanges, connectors, and vapor systems without physically probing each component. EPA updates now explicitly allow OGI as a compliance pathway.

Beyond regulatory acceptance, OGI delivers operational value. Area- based surveys reduce inspection time, lower safety exposure, and simplify compliance documentation while meeting EPA expectations for repeatable monitoring. As regulations continue to align around modern leak detection practices, OGI helps facilities meet current requirements and stay prepared for future updates.

Flir Gx320 Camera for Hydrocarbon Leak Detection

The Benefits

Reduction in Operational Burden.

By using OGI, facilities can reduce their monthly AVO inspections to quarterly OGI inspections while also increasing inspection efficiency and lowering operational costs.

Detection of Leaks AVO Inspections Can’t See.

AVO inspections identify leaks you can see, hear or smell. OGI detects hydrocarbon emissions that are otherwise invisible—helping facilities find and fix leaks earlier.

Strategic Compliance Investment.

OGI isn’t about just buying equipment: it’s about adoption of the monitoring approach EPA expects long-term to future proof your business.

Improvements to Safety While Maintaining Compliance.

OGI allows technicians to identify leaks from a distance, reducing the need for lifts, scaffolding and confined space access without sacrificing compliance.

The Total Flir OGI Package

Flir optical gas imagers are more than just cameras—they’re end-to-end solutions that combine advanced on-camera features with certified operator training available through the Infrared Training Center. They’re backed by a U.S-based expert service network ensuring long-term performance, compliance confidence, and uptime well beyond the initial hardware purchase.