The proposed amendments to these rules implement part of the 2001 San Francisco Bay Area Ozone Attainment Plan for the 1-Hour National Ozone Standard. The proposal will require the replacement of organic solvents used in surface preparation and clean up with low volatile organic compound (VOC) formulations. The proposed standards will affect metal and plastic parts coaters, and those who use solvents for wipe cleaning of products and substrates subject to these rules. Metal and plastic product manufacturers, boat yards, machine shops, plating shops and other metal treatment facilities may be affected by the standards.

The proposal will require use of a surface preparation solvent that contains no more than 50 grams per liter (0.42 lbs per gallon) of volatile organic compounds. Certain organic solvents are exempt from the definition of VOC in these rules - acetone, methyl acetate, parachlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF) and the family of volatile, completely methylated siloxanes (VMS) – and can be used for surface preparation. In addition, exemptions are provided for specific surfaces, including electrical and electronic components and optical devices; and for specific operations, such as medical and pharmaceutical operations and research and development operations.

Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code § 21000 et seq.), an initial study for the proposed amendments to Rules 4, 14, 19, 31 and 43 has been conducted, concluding that the proposed amendments would not have significant adverse environmental impacts. Notice is hereby given that the District intends to adopt a negative declaration for the proposed amendments pursuant to Public Resources Code § 21080(c) and CEQA Guidelines 15070 et seq.

This notice, the proposed amendments, the initial study and negative declaration, and a staff report are available on the District’s website at www.baaqmd.gov. Copies of these documents are also available for review at the address below or by calling Lilia Martinez at (415) 749-4664. If you have any questions regarding the proposed amendments, please contact Daniel Belik at (415) 749-4786 or, by e-mail, at dbelik@baaqmd.gov.

Written comments on the proposed amendments or negative declaration must be addressed to Daniel Belik, Bay Area Air Quality Management District, 939 Ellis Street, San Francisco, California, 94109, or to dbelik@baaqmd.gov. Comments will be received during the period from Monday, September 16 until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 7, 2002.