Key Takeaways:
- Targeting Hazardous Solvents: SCAQMD is considering amendments to Rule 1171 to prohibit the use of tert-butyl acetate (TBAC) and parachlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF) in solvent-cleaning operations due to their identified carcinogenic properties.
- Exploring Transition Strategies: Proposed strategies include transitioning facilities to compliant alternative solvents or implementing a phased approach with temporary VOC limit adjustments (similar to the framework used in Rule 1168) to eliminate TBAC and PCBTF usage.
- Supply Chain Impacts & Proactive Compliance: With major local suppliers already discontinuing solvent sales, auto body shops are encouraged to review their cleaning formulations, adopt best management practices, and stay engaged with SCAQMD working groups as new rules develop.
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is considering revising Rule 1171, which regulates solvent-cleaning operations in compliance with volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions limits. The goal is to prohibit the use of tert-butyl acetate (TBAC) and parachlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF) due to their identified carcinogenic properties. This recommendation follows the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment’s determination in 2020.
What are the Proposed Changes?
The proposed amendment aims to assess the feasibility of these prohibitions, including potential strategies to reduce emissions from auto body shops. In line with the South Los Angeles Community Emission Reduction Plan, SCAQMD will establish best management practices to reduce emissions from these facilities.
To achieve this, SCAQMD is exploring several options, including:
- Using alternative solvents that comply with current VOC limits.
- Considering alternative solvents that may require increased VOC limits as a phased approach to eliminate TBAC and PCBTF solvents, similar to Rule 1168 in November 2022 for adhesive and sealant applications.
Currently, SCAQMD staff is gathering information about the use of TBAC and PCBTF solvents in solvent-cleaning operations. Initial findings indicate limited usage of PCBTF, and no known cleaning solvents containing TBAC. Facilities are likely already utilizing lower VOC solvents.
The Proposed Solutions for TBAC and PCBTF solvents
Moving forward, SCAQMD plans to identify operations using TBAC or PCBTF solvents and work with the industry to find suitable alternative solvents or cleaning methods. They are actively seeking information from industries, suppliers, and stakeholders to inform their efforts. Additionally, visits to auto body shops are scheduled to observe solvent usage, and VOC limits from other agencies serving similar facilities will be compared.
These steps demonstrate SCAQMD’s commitment to reducing emissions and protecting the environment in the South Coast region.
During a recent SCAQMD working group meeting, Melissa Gamoning, an air quality specialist, mentioned the importance of understanding solvent use and exploring methods to reduce emissions in relation to it. However, there is limited information available, so stakeholders who believe they may be affected by this rule are encouraged to reach out to the SCAQMD.
Pacific Resource Recovery (PRR), a prominent waste hauler and solvent supplier in Los Angeles County, made the decision to stop selling solvent. The last day to place solvent orders with PRR is February 29th.
Stay Up To Date
To learn more about Rule 1171 and access meeting information and related documents, please visit SCAQMD’s proposed rules page. Keep in mind that additional working group meetings will be held, but the specific dates have not yet been announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is SCAQMD targeting TBAC and PCBTF in Rule 1171?
Short Answer: Because state health hazard assessments identified both chemicals as having dangerous carcinogenic properties.
Explanation: Following a 2020 determination by the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, SCAQMD began evaluating prohibition strategies for TBAC and PCBTF. The goal is to eliminate worker exposure and reduce hazardous emissions across solvent-cleaning operations in the South Coast region.
How will these proposed Rule 1171 changes impact auto body shop operations?
Short Answer: Facilities using TBAC or PCBTF will need to transition to safer, lower-VOC alternative cleaning solvents or updated cleaning methods.
Explanation: SCAQMD is establishing best management practices and evaluating alternative solvent formulations. Initial agency findings suggest most shops already use lower-VOC alternatives, but facilities still relying on these specific compounds will need to update their solvent supplies to maintain regulatory compliance.
What should auto body shops do now to prepare for potential rule updates?
Short Answer: Audit current cleaning products, engage with SCAQMD working groups, and confirm supplier availability for compliant alternatives.
Explanation: Because major regional distributors have already begun phasing out sales of certain solvents, shop owners should review their safety data sheets (SDS) to identify any TBAC or PCBTF products. Participating in SCAQMD working groups and coordinating with compliant suppliers ensures a smooth transition before formal prohibitions take effect.
Alfonso Ortiz is the President and Chief Operations Officer of Rely-On, where he provides strategic leadership and oversees the company’s day-to-day operations, driving continued growth and operational excellence. Since joining the company in 2001, he has played an integral role in expanding the business, beginning in sales and administrative support before advancing into executive leadership. Today, Alfonso leads company operations while guiding sales, marketing, and customer relations, ensuring every project reflects Rely-On’s commitment to quality, innovation, and exceptional service.