What Are Fugitive Emissions? 

Any gaseous or particulate contaminant entering the atmosphere which could not reasonably pass through a stack, chimney vent, or other functionally equivalent opening designed to direct or control its flow.

The term, fugitive emission, as used in air quality control, generally refers to any emission escaping from regulated processes (sources) other than via the designed release point (smokestack, etc.). The point source for a fugitive emission is simply called "a leak." These leaks and emissions are most often associated with the equipment necessary for the movement of process fluids and gasses.

VOC VHAP Emission That Comes From Equipment Leaks Instead Of Stacks. In Other Words, Any Volatile Organic Compound Entering The Atmosphere Which Could Not Reasonably Pass-Through A Stack, Chimney, Vent, Or Other Functionally Equivalent Opening Designed To Direct Or Control Its Flow.