Activities of the South Coast Air Quality Management District impact industry in Southern California and throughout the State. In addition, because SCAQMD has substantial resources, rules may be influential throughout the United States and beyond.

Three rules covering VOC’s and air toxics are scheduled for review later in the year. Those interested in responsible, realistic measures might want to become involved. While the final rules are scheduled to be presented for approval in the Fall, active rule development is happening now.

Details
If you have a facility in the SCAQMD area, or if you are in any way concerned with manufacturing in Southern California, it is prudent to check the SCAQMD website occasionally (www.aqmd.gov). The “Rule and Control Measure Forecast” section is of particular interest in tracking changes.
http://www.aqmd.gov/hb/040521a.html

Rules 1122 (Solvent Degreasing), 1401.1 (New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants for Sources Located Near Sensitive Receptors) and 1402.1 (Control of Toxic Air Contaminants from Existing Sources Located Near Sensitive Receptors) are in-line for possible modification.

Rule 1122 impacts primarily volatile organic compounds (VOC’s); many if not most effective organic cleaning compounds are VOC’s. In fact, many aqueous cleaning agents contain higher than allowable levels of VOC’s.

Rules 1401 and 1402 impact air toxics from an extensive number of compounds for which quantitative risk factors have been assigned by California State toxicologists. “Sensitive Receptors” where levels of acceptable emissions might be lowered include schools, nursery schools, and workers at neighboring businesses.

Our understanding is that, particularly with the air toxics rules, there has already been a fair level of polarized input. We intend to be involved where appropriate; and we will keep you posted.

 

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