Regulation 8, Rule 16 sets standards for batch and conveyorized operations involving vaporized, heated and cold solvent cleaning performed in containers of cleaning solution. The rule sets standards for equipment used in solvent cleaning and for operators performing solvent cleaning tasks. The proposed amendments will require the use of low volatile organic compound (VOC) content cleaning solution for repair and maintenance cleaning. The amendments provide certain exemptions from the standards, such as for cleaning of aerospace components, medical devices, optics and electrical components and for research and development operations. The amendments also provide definitions, compliance options, recordkeeping requirements and reference test methods.

Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code § 21000 et seq.), an initial study for the proposed amendments to Regulation 8, Rule 16 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 M. K. Carol Lee at (415) 749-4689, or, by e-mail, at clee@baaqmd.gov.

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