Leather Tanning and Finishing Effluent Guidelines
The EPA promulgated the Leather Tanning and Finishing Effluent Guidelines and Standards (40 CFR Part 425) in 1974, and amended the regulation in 1977, 1982, 1988 and 1996. The regulatory requirements are incorporated into NPDES permits for direct dischargersA point source that discharges pollutants to waters of the United States, such as streams, lakes, or oceans., and permits or other control mechanisms for indirect dischargersA facility that discharges pollutants to a publicly owned treatment works (municipal sewage treatment plant). (see Pretreatment Program).
Pollutants and Subcategories
Regulated Pollutants
The regulated pollutants vary by subcategory, and include:
- biochemical oxygen demand
- chromium
- pH (abnormally high or low)
- oil & grease
- suspended solids
- sulfide
Regulation Subcategories
- Hair Pulp, Chrome Tan, Retan-Wet Finish (Subpart A)
- Hair Save, Chrome Tan, Retan-Wet Finish (Subpart B)
- Hair Save or Pulp, Non-Chrome Tan, Retan-Wet Finish (Subpart C)
- Retan-Wet Finish-Sides (Subpart D)
- No Beamhouse (Subpart E)
- Through-the-Blue (Subpart F)
- Shearling (Subpart G)
- Pigskin (Subpart H)
- Retan-Wet Finish-Splits (Subpart I)
Related Information
Guidance Document
Rulemaking History
- Direct Final Rule (July 8, 1996)
- Final Rule (March 21, 1988)
- Supplemental Development Document (February 1988)
- Final Rule (November 23, 1982)
- Development Document (November 1982)
- Final Rule (March 23, 1977)
- Final Rule (April 9, 1974)
Additional Information
For additional information regarding the Leather Tanning and Finishing Effluent Guidelines, please contact Doruntinë Rexhepi (rexhepi.doruntine@epa.gov) or 202-566-2532.