In extreme, unusual, and unforeseen circumstances (for example, a natural disaster or a refinery fire) that are clearly outside the control of the refiner or importer and that could not have been avoided by the exercise of prudence, diligence, and due care, EPA may permit a refinery or importer to exceed the allowable average benzene levels specified in Sec. 80.1230(a) or (b), as applicable, if--
(a) It is in the public interest to do so;
(b) The refiner or importer exercised prudent planning and was not able to avoid the violation and has taken all reasonable steps to minimize the extent of the nonconformity;
(c) The refiner or importer can show how the requirements at Sec. 80.1230(a) or (b), as applicable, will be achieved as expeditiously as possible;
(d) The refiner or importer agrees to make up any air quality detriment associated with the nonconformity, where practicable; and
(e) The refiner or importer pays to the U.S. Treasury an amount equal to the economic benefit of the nonconformity minus the amount expended making up the air quality detriment pursuant to paragraph (d) of this section.
Small Refiner Provisions