[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 203 (Tuesday, October 21, 2014)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 62863-62875]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-24989]
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 82
[EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118; FRL-9918-30-OAR]
RIN 2060-AG12
Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Determination 29 for
Significant New Alternatives Policy Program
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Determination of acceptability.
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SUMMARY: This Determination of Acceptability expands the list of
acceptable substitutes for ozone-depleting substances under the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Significant New Alternatives
Policy (SNAP) program. This action lists as acceptable additional
substitutes for use in the refrigeration and air conditioning, foam
blowing, and fire suppression and explosion protection sectors.
DATES: This determination is effective on October 21, 2014.
ADDRESSES: EPA has established a docket for this action under Docket ID
No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 (continuation of Air Docket A-91-42). All
electronic documents in the docket are listed in the index at
www.regulations.gov. Although listed in the index, some information is
not publicly available, i.e., Confidential Business Information (CBI)
or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute.
Publicly available docket materials are available either electronically
at www.regulations.gov or in hard copy at the EPA Air Docket (Nos. A-
91-42 and EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118), EPA/DC, EPA West, Room 3334, 1301
Constitution Ave. NW., Washington, DC. The Public Reading Room is open
from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal
holidays. The telephone number for the Public Reading Room is (202)
566-1744, and the telephone number for the Air Docket is (202) 566-
1742.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Margaret Sheppard by telephone at
(202) 343-9163, by facsimile at (202) 343-2338, by email at
[email protected], or by mail at U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Mail Code 6205T, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC
20460. Overnight or courier deliveries should be sent to the office
location at 1201 Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20004.
For more information on the agency's process for administering the
SNAP program or criteria for evaluation of substitutes, refer to the
original SNAP rulemaking published in the Federal Register on March 18,
1994 (59 FR 13044). Notices and rulemakings under the SNAP program, as
well as other EPA publications on protection of stratospheric ozone,
are available at EPA's Ozone Depletion Web site at www.epa.gov/ozone/strathome.html including the SNAP portion at www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Listing of New Acceptable Substitutes
A. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
B. Foam Blowing
C. Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection
II. Section 612 Program
A. Statutory Requirements and Authority for the SNAP Program
B. EPA's Regulations Implementing Section 612
C. How the Regulations for the SNAP Program Work
D. Additional Information About the SNAP Program
Appendix A--Summary of Decisions for New Acceptable Substitutes
I. Listing of New Acceptable Substitutes
This action presents EPA's most recent decision to list as
acceptable several substitutes in the refrigeration and air
conditioning, foam blowing, and fire suppression and explosion
protection sectors. New substitutes include trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene in non-mechanical heat transfer, and in flexible
polyurethane foams; CO2 in refrigerated transport; R-450A in
a variety of refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses; methylal and
hydrofluoroolefin (HFO)-1336mzz(Z) in a variety of foam blowing end-
uses; and Powdered Aerosol D in the total flooding end-use. For copies
of the full list of acceptable substitutes for ozone depleting
substances (ODS) in all industrial sectors, visit EPA's Ozone Layer
Protection Web site at www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/lists/index.html.
The sections below discuss each substitute listing in detail.
Appendix A contains tables summarizing today's listing decisions for
these new acceptable substitutes. The statements in the ``Further
Information'' column in the tables provide additional information, but
are not legally binding
[[Page 62864]]
under section 612 of the Clean Air Act (CAA). In addition, the
``Further Information'' may not be a comprehensive list of other legal
obligations you may need to meet when using the substitute. Although
you are not required to follow recommendations in the ``Further
Information'' column of the table to use a substitute consistent with
section 612 of the CAA, some of these statements may refer to
obligations that are enforceable or binding under federal or state
programs other than the SNAP program. In many instances, the
information simply refers to standard operating practices in existing
industry and/or building-code standards. EPA strongly encourages you to
apply the information in this column using these substitutes. Many of
these recommendations, if adopted, would not require significant
changes to existing operating practices.
You can find submissions to EPA for the substitutes listed in this
document, as well as other materials supporting the decisions in this
action in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 at www.regulations.gov.
A. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
1. Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene (SolsticeTM
1233zd(E))
EPA's decision: EPA finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene
acceptable as a substitute for use in new equipment in non-mechanical
heat transfer.\1\
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\1\ Acceptable substitutes for organic Rankine cycle have
typically been included through listings in the non-mechanical heat
transfer end-use. EPA may review organic Rankine cycle applications
separately in the future.
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Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene ((E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene, CAS Reg. No. 102687-65-0) is a chlorofluoroalkene
marketed under the trade names SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) and
SolsticeTM N12 Refrigerant for this end-use.
You may find the redacted submission in Docket item EPA-HQ-OAR-
2003-0118-0285 and under the name, ``9/17/13 Letter to Rebecca von dem
Hagen, EPA re: 1233zd(E)--Refrigeration Sector'' in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-
2003-0118 at www.regulations.gov. EPA has performed an assessment to
examine the health and environmental risks of this substitute. This
assessment is available in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 under the name,
``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Heat Transfer Substitute: Trans-1-
Chloro-3,3,3,-trifluoroprop-1-ene.''
We have previously listed trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene
as a refrigerant for use in new equipment in centrifugal chillers
(August 10, 2012, 77 FR 47768).
Environmental information: SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) has an
ozone depletion potential (ODP) of 0.00024 to 0.00034.2 3
Estimates of this compound's potential to deplete the ozone layer
indicate that even with worst-case estimates of emissions, which assume
that this compound would substitute for all compounds it could replace,
the impact on global atmospheric ozone abundance would be statistically
insignificant.\4\ SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) has a 100-year
integrated global warming potential (100-yr GWP) reported as 1 to 7 and
an atmospheric lifetime of approximately 26 to 31 days or
less.5 6 7 SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) is excluded from
the definition of volatile organic compounds (VOC) under CAA
regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of state
implementation plans (SIPs) to attain and maintain the National Ambient
Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The emissions of this refrigerant will
be limited, given that it is subject to the venting prohibition under
section 608(c)(2) of the CAA and EPA's venting regulations codified at
40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
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\2\ Wang D., Olsen S., Wuebbles D. 2011. ``Preliminary Report:
Analyses of tCFP's Potential Impact on Atmospheric Ozone.''
Department of Atmospheric Sciences. University of Illinois, Urbana,
IL. September 26, 2011.
\3\ Patten and Wuebbles, 2010. ``Atmospheric Lifetimes and Ozone
Depletion Potentials of trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trichloropropylene and
trans-1,2-dichloroethylene in a three-dimensional model.'' Atmos.
Chem. Phys., 10, 10867-10874, 2010.
\4\ Wang et al., 2011. Op. cit.
\5\ Sulbaek Andersen, Nilsson, Neilsen, Johnson, Hurley and
Wallington, ``Atmospheric chemistry of trans-CF3CH=CHCl: Kinetics of
the gas-phase reactions with Cl atoms, OH radicals, and
O3'', Jrnl of Photochemistry and Photobiology A:
Chemistry 199 (2008) 92-97; and Wang D., Olsen S., Wuebbles D.
Undated. ``Three-Dimensional Model Evaluation of the Global Warming
Potentials for tCFP.'' Department of Atmospheric Sciences.
University of Illinois, Urbana, IL. Draft report, undated.
\6\ Wang et al. 2011 and Sulbaek Andersen et al., 2008. Op cit.
\7\ Hodnebrog, [Oslash]., Etminan, M., Fuglestvedt, J.S.,
Marston, G., Myhre, G., Nielsen, C.J., Shine, K.P., Wallington,
T.J.: Global Warming Potentials and Radiative Efficiencies of
Halocarbons and Related Compounds: A Comprehensive Review, Reviews
of Geophysics, 51, 300-378, doi:10.1002/rog.20013, 2013.
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Flammability information: SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute include serious eye irritation, skin irritation, and
frostbite. It may cause central nervous system effects such as
drowsiness and dizziness. The substitute could cause asphyxiation if
air is displaced by vapors in a confined space.
The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) has established
a Workplace Environmental Exposure Level (WEEL) of 800 ppm for trans-1-
chloro-3,3,3,-trifluoroprop-1-ene. EPA anticipates that
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) will be used in a manner consistent
with the recommendations specified in the manufacturer's material
safety data sheet (MSDS). EPA anticipates that users will be able to
meet the WEEL and address potential health risks by following
requirements and recommendations in the MSDS and in any other safety
precautions common to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in these end-uses:
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) has an ODP of 0.00024 to 0.00034 and
estimates of its maximum potential impact on the ozone layer indicate a
statistically insignificant impact, comparable to that of other
substitutes in the same end-uses that are considered to be non-ozone-
depleting.\8\ SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)'s ODP is well below those
of ODS in these end-uses, such as chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-113, HCFC-
141b, HCFC-22, and HCFC-123 (with ODPs ranging from 0.01 to 0.8 \9\).
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)'s GWP of 1 to 7 is lower than or
comparable to those of other acceptable substitutes in the same end-
uses, such as HFC-245fa, HFC-134a and HFC-125 (with GWPs ranging from
1,030 to 3,500 \10\). Its GWP is also well below those of CFC-113,
HCFC-141b, HCFC-22, and HCFC-123 (with GWPs ranging from 77 to 4,750).
Flammability risks are low, as discussed above. Toxicity risks can be
minimized by use consistent with the AIHA WEEL standard, the American
Society for Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers
(ASHRAE) Standard 15 and other industry standards, recommendations in
the MSDS, and other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and
air conditioning industry. The potential health effects of
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) are common to many refrigerants,
including many of those already listed as acceptable under SNAP. EPA
thus
[[Page 62865]]
finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene (SolsticeTM
1233zd(E)) acceptable in the end-uses listed above, because the overall
environmental and human health risk posed by trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene is lower than or comparable to the risks posed by
other substitutes found acceptable in the same end-uses.
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\8\ Wang et al., 2011 and Patten and Wuebbles, 2010. Op cit.
\9\ Unless otherwise stated, all ODPs in this document are from
EPA's regulations at appendix A to subpart A of 40 CFR part 82.
\10\ Unless otherwise stated, all GWPs in this document are
from: IPCC, 2007: Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis.
Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of
the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Solomon, S., D. Qin,
M. Manning, Z. Chen, M. Marquis, K.B. Averyt, M.Tignor and H.L.
Miller (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, United
Kingdom and New York, NY, USA. This document is accessible at
www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/ar4/wg1/en/contents.html.
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2. Carbon Dioxide (R-744)
EPA's decision: EPA finds carbon dioxide (R-744) acceptable as a
substitute for use in new equipment in refrigerated transport.
Carbon dioxide is also known as CO2, CAS Reg. No. 124-
38-9, or R-744 when used as a refrigerant.
You may find the redacted submission in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``SNAP Information Notice for
CO2 in Refrigerated Transport received 7/19/13.'' EPA has
performed an assessment to examine the health and environmental risks
of this substitute. This assessment is available in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-
2003-0118 under the name, ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Refrigerated
Transport Substitute: Carbon Dioxide (CO2).''
We have previously listed CO2 as a refrigerant in a
number of other refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses (e.g.,
January 13, 1995, 60 FR 3318; September 30, 2009, 74 FR 50129; June 6,
2012, 77 FR 33315; August 10, 2012, 77 FR 47768).
Environmental information: CO2 has an ODP of zero. The
100-yr GWP of CO2 is 1.
EPA's regulations codified at 40 CFR part 82, subpart F exempt
CO2 refrigerant from the venting prohibition under section
608(c)(2) of the CAA (see 69 FR 11946; March 12, 2004). This section
and EPA's venting regulations prohibit the intentional venting or
release of substitutes for class I or class II ODS during the repair,
maintenance, service or disposal of refrigeration and air conditioning
appliances, unless EPA expressly exempts a particular substitute
refrigerant from the venting prohibition, as for CO2.
CO2 is excluded from the definition of VOC under CAA
regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs
to attain and maintain the NAAQS.
Flammability information: CO2 is not flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute at lower concentrations include loss of concentration,
headache and shortness of breath. The substitute may also irritate the
skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high concentrations,
it may cause central nervous system depression. The substitute could
cause asphyxiation, if air is displaced by vapors in a confined space.
For additional information concerning potential health risks of
CO2, see EPA's final rule under the SNAP program for use of
CO2 as a refrigerant in motor vehicle air conditioning
systems (77 FR 33315; June 6, 2012) and EPA's risk screen in docket
EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118.
To protect against these potential health risks, CO2 has
an 8 hour/day, 40 hour/week permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 5,000
ppm in the workplace required by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA). It also has a 15-minute recommended short-term
exposure limit (STEL) of 30,000 ppm established by the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). EPA recommends
that users follow all requirements and recommendations specified in the
MSDS, in ASHRAE standard 15, and other safety precautions common in the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry. We also recommend that
users of CO2 adhere to NIOSH's STEL and to ASHRAE 15, and we
expect that users will meet OSHA's PEL. EPA anticipates that users will
be able to address potential health risks by complying with the PEL and
by following requirements and recommendations in the MSDS, in ASHRAE
15, and other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and air
conditioning industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in the same end-use: CO2
is not ozone-depleting, comparable to a number of other acceptable non-
ozone-depleting substitutes for these end-uses, including R-404A, R-
407C, R-410A, and HFC-134a, and in contrast to the ODS CFC-12, HCFC-22
and R-502 (with ODPs ranging from 0.04 to 1.0). CO2's GWP of
1 is lower than or comparable to that of other non-ozone-depleting
substitutes in the same refrigeration and air conditioning end-use for
which we are finding it acceptable, such as R-404A, R-407C, R-410A and
HFC-134a (with GWP's ranging from 1,430 to 3,930). Furthermore, the GWP
of CO2 is well below those of ODS used in this end-use,
including CFC-12, HCFC-22 and R-502 (with GWPs ranging from 1,810 to
10,900). Flammability risks are low, as discussed above. Toxicity risks
can be minimized by use consistent with the OSHA PEL, ASHRAE 15, and
other industry standards, recommendations in the MSDS, and other safety
precautions common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
The potential health effects of CO2 are common to many
refrigerants, including many of those already listed as acceptable
under SNAP. EPA thus finds CO2 acceptable in the end-use
listed above, because the overall environment and human health risk
posed by CO2 is lower than or comparable to the risks posed
by other substitutes found acceptable in the same end-use.
3. R-450A
EPA's decision: EPA finds R-450A acceptable as a substitute for use
in:
Retail food refrigeration (new and retrofit equipment)
Refrigerated transport (new and retrofit equipment)
Vending machines (retrofit equipment only)
Commercial ice machines (new and retrofit equipment)
Water coolers (new and retrofit equipment)
Cold storage warehouses (new and retrofit equipment)
Industrial process refrigeration (new and retrofit equipment)
Reciprocating, screw and scroll chillers (new and retrofit
equipment)
Centrifugal chillers (new and retrofit equipment)
Household refrigerators and freezers (new and retrofit
equipment)
Industrial process air-conditioning (new and retrofit
equipment)
R-450A, marketed under the trade name Solstice[supreg] N-13, is a
weighted blend of 42 percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2
tetrafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 811-97-2) and 58 percent HFO-1234ze(E),
which is also known as trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (CAS Reg.
No. 29118-24-9).
You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Solstice N-13 (R-450A) SNAP
Information Notice.'' EPA has performed assessments to examine the
health and environmental risks of this substitute. These assessments
are available in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 under the following names:
``Risk Screen on Substitutes for Use in Retail Food
Refrigeration, Vending Machines, and Commercial Ice Machines
Substitute: R-450A''
Risk Screen on Substitutes for Use in Household Refrigerators
and Freezers and Water Coolers Substitute: R-450A''
Risk Screen on Substitutes for Use in Chillers and Industrial
Process Air Conditioning Substitute: R-450A''
Risk Screen on Substitutes for Use in Cold Storage Warehouses
and Industrial Process Refrigeration Substitute: R-450A''
[[Page 62866]]
Risk Screen on Substitutes for Use in Refrigerated Transport
Substitute: R-450A''
Environmental information: R-450A has an ODP of zero. Its
components, HFC-134a and HFO-1234ze(E), have GWPs of 1,430 and 1 to 6
\11\, respectively. If these values are weighted by mass percentage,
then R-450A has a GWP of about 601. The components of R-450A are both
excluded from the definition of VOC under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR
51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain
the NAAQS. The emissions of this refrigerant blend will be limited
given it is subject to the venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2)
of the CAA and EPA's venting regulations codified at 40 CFR
82.154(a)(1),\12\ which limit emissions of refrigerant substitutes.
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\11\ Hodnebrog, [Oslash]., et al., 2013, op cit.; Atmospheric
chemistry of trans-CF3CH=CHF: products and mechanisms of hydroxyl
radical and chlorine atom initiated oxidation'', M.S. Javadi, R.
S[oslash]ndergaard, O.J. Nielsen, M.D., Hurley, and T.J. Wellington,
Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics Discussions 8, 1069-1088, 2008
\12\ For more information, including definitions, see 40 CFR
part 82, subpart F.
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Flammability information: R-450A as formulated and in the worst-
case fractionation formulation is not flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may also
irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many
refrigerants.
The AIHA has established WEELs of 1,000 ppm and 800 ppm as an 8-
hour time-weighted averages (TWAs) for HFC-134a and HFO-1234ze(E), the
components of R-450A. EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet
either of the AIHA WEELs and address potential health risks by
following requirements and recommendations in the MSDS, in ASHRAE 15,
and other safety precautions common to the refrigeration and air
conditioning industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in these end-uses: R-450A has an
ODP of zero, in contrast to the ODS HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and HCFC-123
(with ODPs ranging from 0.01 to 0.6), and comparable to a number of
other acceptable non-ozone-depleting substitutes in these end-uses,
such as HFC-134a and R-404A. R-450A's GWP of about 601 within the range
of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and HCFC-123 (with GWPs ranging from 77 to
2,310), and lower than that of other non-ozone-depleting substitutes in
the same refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, such as HFC-134a
and R-404A (with GWPs of 1,430 and 3,930). Flammability risks are low,
as discussed above. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent
with the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards,
recommendations in the MSDS, and other safety precautions common in the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry. The potential health
effects of R-450A are common to many refrigerants, including many of
those already listed as acceptable under SNAP. EPA thus finds R-450A
acceptable in the end-uses listed above, because the overall
environmental and human health risk posed by R-450A is lower than the
risks posed by other substitutes found acceptable in the same end-uses.
B. Foam Blowing
1. Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene (SolsticeTM
1233zd(E))
EPA's decision: EPA finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene
acceptable as a substitute for use as a blowing agent in flexible
polyurethane foams.
Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene ((E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene, CAS Reg. No. 102687-65-0) is a chlorofluoroalkene
marketed under the trade name SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) for
various foam blowing end-uses.
You may find the redacted submission in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name ``TSCA/SNAP Addendum for trans-1-
chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene in flexible foams.'' EPA has performed
an assessment to examine the health and environmental risks of this
substitute. This assessment is available in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
under the name ``Risk Screen on Substitutes for Use in Flexible
Polyurethane Foams Substitute: Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene''.
We have previously listed trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene
as a foam blowing agent in a number of end-uses (August 10, 2012, 77 FR
47768).
Environmental information: The environmental information for this
substitute is set forth in the `Environmental information' section in
listing A.1.
Flammability information: SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: The toxicity information for this
substitute is set forth in the ``Toxicity and exposure data'' section
in listing A.1.
The AIHA has established a WEEL of 800 ppm for trans-1-chloro-
3,3,3,-trifluoroprop-1-ene. EPA anticipates that SolsticeTM
1233zd(E) will be used in a manner consistent with the recommendations
specified in the manufacturer's MSDS. EPA anticipates that users will
be able to meet the WEEL and address potential health risks by
following requirements and recommendations in the MSDS and in any other
safety precautions common to the foam blowing industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use:
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) has an ODP of 0.00024 to 0.00034 and
estimates of its maximum potential impact on the ozone layer indicate a
statistically insignificant impact, comparable to that of other
substitutes in the same end-uses that are considered to be non-ozone-
depleting.\13\ SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)'s ODP is well below that
of the ODS CFC-11 and HCFC-141b (with ODPs ranging from 0.11 to 1.0).
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)'s GWP of 1 to 7 is lower than or
comparable to that of other acceptable substitutes in the same end use,
such as HFC-134a, HFC-245fa and HFC-152a (with GWPs ranging from 124 to
1,430) and C3-C6 saturated light hydrocarbons \14\ (with GWPs less than
10). Its GWP is also well below those of CFC-11 and HCFC-141b (with
GWPs ranging from 725 to 4,750). Flammability risks are low, as
discussed above. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with
the AIHA WEEL, recommendations in the MSDS, and other safety
precautions common in the foam blowing industry. The potential health
effects of SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) are common to many foam
blowing agents, including many of those already listed as acceptable
under SNAP. EPA thus finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluorop-1-ene
(SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)) acceptable in the end-use listed
above, because the overall environmental and human health risk posed by
trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene is lower than or comparable to
the risks posed by other substitutes found acceptable in the same end-
use.
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\13\ Wang et al., 2011 and Patten and Wuebbles, 2010. Op cit.
\14\ That is, unsaturated hydrocarbons with 3 to 6 carbons, such
as propane, butane, pentane, isopentane, and cyclopentane.
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2. Methylal (Dimethoxymethane)
EPA's decision: EPA finds methylal acceptable as a substitute for
use as a blowing agent in:
[[Page 62867]]
Rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock
Rigid polyurethane appliance
Rigid polyurethane commercial refrigeration and sandwich
panels
Rigid polyurethane slabstock and other
Flexible polyurethane
Integral skin polyurethane
Methylal is also called dimethoxymethane, CAS 109-87-5. It belongs
to a class of chemicals referred to as acetals.
You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name ``SNAP Information Notice for
methylal received 4/18/14.'' EPA has performed an assessment to examine
the health and environmental risks of this substitute. This assessment
is available in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 under the name ``Risk
Screen on Substitutes for Use in Rigid Polyurethane Appliance Foam;
Commercial and Sandwich Panels; Rigid Polyurethane & Polyisocyanurate
Laminate Boardstock; Rigid Polyurethane Slabstock; Flexible
Polyurethane; Integral Skin Polyurethane Substitute: Methylal
(Dimethoxymethane).'' EPA's review of this substitute is pending for
spray foam.
Environmental information: Methylal has an ODP of zero. The 100-yr
GWP of methylal is less than three. Methylal is a VOC under CAA
regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs
to attain and maintain the NAAQS.
Flammability information: Methylal is flammable. Under the Globally
Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, it is
classified as a Class II flammable liquid and under OSHA's regulations
at 29 CFR 1910.106, it is classified as a Class IB flammable liquid.
Some specific blends of methylal with other blowing agents are
flammable as formulated and should be handled with proper precautions,
as specified by the manufacturer.\15\ EPA recommends that users follow
all requirements and recommendations specified in the MSDS and other
safety precautions for use of flammable blowing agents used in the foam
blowing industry. Use of methylal will require safe handling and
shipping as prescribed by OSHA and the Department of Transportation
(for example, using personal protective equipment and following
requirements for shipping hazardous materials at 49 CFR parts 170
through 173).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\15\ 59 FR at 13084. ``The Agency has determined that because of
the potential for formation and emission of decomposition products
in rigid closed cell foams, notification and review under SNAP is
required for blends of chemical alternatives in foam end-uses that
encompass residential products where chronic consumer exposure could
occur. These end-uses are: polyurethane rigid laminated boardstock,
polystyrene extruded boardstock and billet foams, phenolic foams,
and polyolefin foams.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may also
irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a
confined space.
EPA anticipates that methylal will be used consistent with the
recommendations specified in the manufacturer's MSDS. The American
Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) has
established a threshold limit value (TLV) of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
methylal. NIOSH has a recommended exposure limit (REL) of 1,000 ppm for
methylal on a 10-hour time-weighted average. EPA anticipates that users
will be able to meet workplace exposure limits (TLV and REL) and
address potential health risks by following requirements and
recommendations in the MSDS and in other safety precautions common to
the foam blowing industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in the same end uses: Methylal has
an ODP of zero, comparable to a number of other acceptable non-ozone-
depleting substitutes for these end uses, such as HFC-134a, HFC-245fa,
HFC-152a, and C3-C6 saturated light hydrocarbons, and in contrast to
the ODS CFC-11, HCFC-141b, HCFC-142b and HCFC-22 (with ODPs ranging
from 0.04 to 1.0). Methylal's GWP of less than three is lower than or
comparable to that of other non-ozone-depleting substitutes in the same
foam blowing end uses for which we are finding it acceptable, such as
HFC-134a, HFC-245fa and HFC-152a (with GWPs ranging from 124 to 1,430)
and C3-C6 saturated light hydrocarbons (with GWPs less than 10).
Furthermore, the GWP of methylal is lower than those of CFC-11, HCFC-
141b, HCFC-142b and HCFC-22 (with GWPs ranging from 725 to 4,750). Like
other flammable substitutes in these end uses, such as HFC-365mfc or
C3-C6 saturated light hydrocarbons, flammability risks can be addressed
by following the MSDS and other procedures common in the foam blowing
industry in the end uses listed. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use
consistent with the ACGIH TLV and NIOSH REL, recommendations in the
MSDS, and other safety precautions common in the foam blowing industry.
The potential health effects of methylal are common to many foam
blowing agents, including many of those already listed as acceptable
under SNAP. The EPA thus finds methylal acceptable in the end uses
listed above, because the overall environmental and human health risk
posed by methylal is lower than or comparable to the risks posed by
other substitutes found acceptable in the same end uses.
3. HFO-1336mzz(Z) (Formacel[supreg] 1100)
EPA's decision: EPA finds HFO-1336mzz(Z) acceptable as a substitute
for use as a blowing agent in:
Rigid polyurethane appliance foam
Rigid polyurethane commercial refrigeration and sandwich
panels
Flexible polyurethane
Integral skin polyurethane
Rigid polyurethane slabstock and other
Rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock
Phenolic insulation board and bunstock
HFO-1336mzz(Z) is a hydrofluoroolefin or unsaturated
hydrofluorocarbon. It is also called (Z)-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-
ene or cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene (CAS Reg. No. 692-49-9) and
also goes by the trade names of FEA-1100 or Formacel[supreg] 1100.
You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``SNAP Information Notice for
FEA-1100 as a Foam Blowing Agent Received 8/3/11.'' EPA has performed
an assessment to examine the health and environmental risks of this
substitute. This assessment is available in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
under the name ``Risk Screen on Substitutes for Use in Rigid
Polyurethane Appliance Foam; Rigid Polyurethane and Polyisocyanurate
Laminated Boardstock; Rigid Polyurethane Commercial Refrigeration and
Sandwich Panels; Rigid Polyurethane Slabstock and Other; Flexible
Polyurethane; Integral Skin Polyurethane; and Phenolic Insulation Board
and Bunstock: HFO-1336mzz(Z) (Formacel[supreg] 1100).'' EPA's review of
this substitute is pending for spray foam.
Environmental information: HFO-1336mzz(Z) has an ODP of zero. It
has a 100-yr GWP of about 9.\16\ HFO-
[[Page 62868]]
1336mzz(Z) is a VOC. The manufacturer has petitioned the EPA to exempt
HFO-1336mzz(Z) from the definition of VOC under CAA regulations (see 40
CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and
maintain the NAAQS based on its claim that the chemical exhibits low
photochemical reactivity.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\16\ Atmospheric Chemistry of (Z)-
CF3CH[boxH]CHCF3: OH Radical Reaction Rate
Coefficient and Global Warming Potential; Munkhbayar Baasandorj,
A.R. Ravishankara, and James B. Burkholder. J. Phys. Chem. A, 2011,
115 (38), pp. 10539-10549.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Flammability information: HFO-1336mzz(Z) is not flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute include skin or eye irritation or frostbite. At sufficiently
high concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many foam
blowing agents. The EPA anticipates that HFO-1336mzz(Z) will be used
consistent with the recommendations specified in the MSDS. The
manufacturer recommends an acceptable exposure limit (AEL) for the
workplace of 500 ppm on an 8-hour TWA\17\. The EPA anticipates that
users will be able to meet the manufacturer's AEL and address potential
health risks by following requirements and recommendations in the MSDS
and other safety precautions common to the foam blowing industry.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\17\ As of the time of signature of this document, the WEEL
Committee of the Occupational Alliance for Risk Science had
proposed, but not yet finalized, a WEEL of 500 ppm for HFO-
1336mzz(Z). The proposed documentation may be viewed at
www.tera.org/OARS/HFO-1336mzz-Z%20public%20comments%209-18-14.pdf .
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comparison to other foam blowing agents: HFO-1336mzz(Z) has an ODP
of zero, comparable to a number of other acceptable non-ozone-depleting
substitutes for these end uses such as HFC-134a, HFC-245fa, HFC-152a,
and C3-C6 saturated light hydrocarbons and in contrast to CFC-11, CFC-
113, HCFC-141b, and HCFC-22 (with ODPs ranging from 0.04 to 1.0). HFO-
1336mzz(Z)'s GWP of about 9 is lower than or comparable to those of
other acceptable substitutes in the same end uses for which we are
finding it acceptable, such as HFC-134a, HFC-245fa, and HFC-152a (with
GWPs ranging from 124 to 1,430), C3-C6 saturated light hydrocarbons
(with GWPs less than 10), and Solstice-1233zd(E) with a GWP of 1 to 7
(see listing B.1 above and 77 FR 47772). Further, the GWP of HFO-
1336mzz(Z) is less than those of CFC-11, CFC-113, HCFC-141b, and HCFC-
22, with GWPs ranging from 725 to 4,750. Flammability risks are low, as
discussed above. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with
the manufacturer's recommended AEL, recommendations in the MSDS, and
other safety precautions common in the foam blowing industry. The
potential health effects of HFO-1336mzz(Z) are common to many foam
blowing agents, including many of those already listed as acceptable
under SNAP. EPA thus finds HFO-1336mzz(Z) acceptable in the end uses
listed above, because the overall environmental and human health risk
posed by HFO-1336mzz(Z) is lower than or comparable to the risks posed
by other substitutes found acceptable in the same end uses.
C. Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection
1. Powdered Aerosol D (Aero-K[supreg], Stat-X[supreg])
EPA's decision: EPA finds Powdered Aerosol D acceptable as a
substitute for total flooding uses.
Powdered Aerosol D is a pyrotechnic particulate aerosol and
explosion suppressant that also is marketed under the trade names of
Aero-K[supreg] and Stat-X[supreg]. This fire suppressant is supplied to
users as a solid housed in a double-walled hermetically-sealed steel
container. When the unit is triggered by heat (300 [deg]C), the product
is pyrotechnically activated to produce gases and aerosol particles
from a mixture of chemicals. EPA previously listed Powdered Aerosol D
as acceptable subject to use conditions (71 FR 56359; September 7,
2006). The use conditions require that Powdered Aerosol D be used only
in areas that are not normally occupied, on the basis of information
supporting its safe use in areas that are not normally occupied. Based
on a review of additional information from the submitter to support the
safe use of Powdered Aerosol D in normally occupied spaces, EPA now
determines that Powdered Aerosol D is also acceptable for use in total
flooding systems for normally occupied spaces. The listing will provide
that Powdered Aerosol D is acceptable for total flooding uses, which
would include both unoccupied and occupied spaces. In a subsequent
rulemaking EPA will remove the previous listing as acceptable subject
to use conditions. In the ``Further Information'' column of the tables
summarizing today's listing decisions and found at the end of this
document, we also state that use of this agent should continue to be in
accordance with the safety guidelines in the latest edition of the
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 2010 Standard for Aerosol
Extinguishing Systems.
You may find the redacted submission in Docket item EPA-HQ-OAR-
2003-0118 at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``8/8/13 letter from
Marc Gross, Fireaway to Rebecca von dem Hagen, EPA and SNAP Information
Notice for Stat-X.'' EPA has performed an assessment to examine the
health and environmental risks of this substitute. This assessment is
available in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 under the name, ``Risk Screen
on Substitutes for Total Flooding Systems in Normally Occupied Spaces--
Substitute: Powdered Aerosol D (Stat-X[supreg]).''
Environmental information: The active ingredients of Powdered
Aerosol D are solids both before and after use; thus, their ODP and GWP
are both zero. The gaseous post-activation products for Powdered
Aerosol D also have zero ODP and GWPs of 25 or less. The solid active
ingredients and particulate post-activation products do not participate
in atmospheric photochemical reactions and are not VOCs. The gaseous
post-activation products are excluded from the definition of VOC under
CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of
SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS.
None of the pre- or post-activation constituents of Powdered
Aerosol D will exist in quantities approaching the respective reporting
quantities under the Clean Water Act for priority or toxic pollutants.
During post-activation clean-up procedures, clean-up residues should be
disposed of in accordance with requirements appropriate for those
materials, as outlined in the agent's MSDS and local, state, and
federal regulations.
Flammability information: Powdered Aerosol D's post-activation
products are nonflammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Exposure to Powdered Aerosol D after
activation may cause temporary, mild irritation of the mucous membrane.
If eye or skin contact occurs, end users should flush eyes with water
or wash skin with soap and water. Exposure to the post-discharge
products is expected to be below the relevant workplace exposure limits
for those compounds. Because it is housed in a hermetically sealed
container, exposure should not occur unless the system is activated.
Information on additional safety recommendations: The discharge of
the aerosol results in a reduction of visibility in the protected space
due to the uniform distribution of the particulate generated. Use
according to the NFPA 2010 Standard will further reduce any safety
risks due to reduced visibility. In addition, EPA recommends that
cross-zone detection systems and
[[Page 62869]]
abort switches located near an exit from the protected space be
employed.
In the ``Further Information'' column of the tables summarizing
today's listing decisions, EPA recommends the following for
establishments manufacturing Powdered Aerosol D and filling containers
to be used in total flooding applications:
--Workers should use appropriate safety and protective equipment (e.g.,
protective gloves, tightly sealed goggles, protective work clothing,
and particulate-removing respirators using NIOSH type N95 or better
filters) consistent with OSHA guidelines.
--A local exhaust system should be installed and operated to provide
adequate ventilation to reduce airborne exposure to Powdered Aerosol D
constituents.
--An eye wash fountain and quick drench facility should be close to the
production area.
--Training for safe handling procedures should be provided to all
employees that would be likely to handle the containers of the agent or
extinguishing units filled with the agent.
--Workers responsible for cleanup should allow particulates to settle
before reentering area and wear appropriate personal protective
equipment.
--All spills should be cleaned up immediately in accordance with good
industrial hygiene practices.
EPA expects that procedures identified in the MSDS for Powdered
Aerosol D and good manufacturing practices will be adhered to, and that
the appropriate safety and personal protective equipment (PPE)
consistent with OSHA guidelines will be used during installation,
servicing, post-discharge clean-up and disposal of total flooding
systems using Powdered Aerosol D. The manufacturer should provide
guidance upon installation of the system regarding the appropriate time
after which workers may re-enter the area for disposal to allow the
maximum settling of all particulates.
Comparison to other substitutes in this end use: Powdered Aerosol D
has zero ODP, both prior to and after activation. In comparison, Halon
1301 has an ODP of 12 and other acceptable substitutes used in this end
use, such as HCFC Blend A, HFC-227ea, and HFC-125 have ODPs of 0.048,
zero and zero. The active ingredients of Powdered Aerosol D have a GWP
of zero prior to activation and the gaseous post-activation products
have a GWP of 25 or less. In comparison, Halon 1301 has a GWP of 7,140
and other acceptable substitutes used in this end use, such as HCFC
Blend A, HFC-227ea, and HFC-125 have GWPs of about 1,550, 3,220, and
3,500, respectively. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent
with the NFPA 2010 standard, recommendations in the MSDS, and other
safety precautions common in the fire suppression industry. The
potential health effects of Powdered Aerosol D are common to many fire
suppressants, including many of those already listed as acceptable
under SNAP. EPA thus finds Powdered Aerosol D acceptable in the total
flooding end-use because it does not pose a greater overall risk to
human health and the environment than other acceptable substitutes in
this end-use.
II. Section 612 Program
A. Statutory Requirements and Authority for the SNAP Program
Section 612 of the CAA requires EPA to develop a program for
evaluating alternatives to ozone-depleting substances. EPA refers to
this program as the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program.
The major provisions of section 612 are:
1. Rulemaking
Section 612(c) requires EPA to promulgate rules making it unlawful
to replace any class I substance (e.g., chlorofluorocarbon, halon,
carbon tetrachloride, methyl chloroform, and hydrobromofluorocarbon) or
class II substance (e.g., hydrochlorofluorocarbon) with any substitute
that the Administrator determines may present adverse effects to human
health or the environment where the Administrator has identified an
alternative that (1) reduces the overall risk to human health and the
environment, and (2) is currently or potentially available.
2. Listing of Unacceptable/Acceptable Substitutes
Section 612(c) requires EPA to publish a list of the substitutes
unacceptable for specific uses and to publish a corresponding list of
acceptable alternatives for specific uses. The list of ``acceptable''
substitutes is found at www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/lists and the lists of
``unacceptable,'' ``acceptable subject to use conditions,'' and
``acceptable subject to narrowed use limits'' substitutes are found in
the appendices to 40 CFR part 82, subpart G.
3. Petition Process
Section 612(d) grants the right to any person to petition EPA to
add a substance to, or delete a substance from, the lists published in
accordance with section 612(c). The agency has 90 days to grant or deny
a petition. Where the agency grants the petition, the EPA must publish
the revised lists within an additional six months.
4. 90-Day Notification
Section 612(e) directs EPA to require any person who produces a
chemical substitute for a class I substance to notify the agency not
less than 90 days before new or existing chemicals are introduced into
interstate commerce for significant new uses as substitutes for a class
I substance. The producer must also provide the agency with the
producer's unpublished health and safety studies on such substitutes.
5. Outreach
Section 612(b)(1) states that the Administrator shall seek to
maximize the use of federal research facilities and resources to assist
users of class I and II substances in identifying and developing
alternatives to the use of such substances in key commercial
applications.
6. Clearinghouse
Section 612(b)(4) requires the agency to set up a public
clearinghouse of alternative chemicals, product substitutes, and
alternative manufacturing processes that are available for products and
manufacturing processes which use class I and II substances.
B. EPA's Regulations Implementing Section 612
On March 18, 1994, EPA published the original rulemaking (59 FR
13044) which established the process for administering the SNAP program
and issued EPA's first lists identifying acceptable and unacceptable
substitutes in the major industrial use sectors (subpart G of 40 CFR
part 82). These sectors are the following: Refrigeration and air
conditioning; foam blowing; solvents cleaning; fire suppression and
explosion protection; sterilants; aerosols; adhesives, coatings and
inks; and tobacco expansion. These sectors comprise the principal
industrial sectors that historically consumed the largest volumes of
ODS.
Section 612 of the CAA requires EPA to list as acceptable those
substitutes that do not present a significantly greater risk to human
health and the environment as compared with other substitutes that are
currently or potentially available.
[[Page 62870]]
C. How the Regulations for the SNAP Program Work
Under the SNAP regulations, anyone who plans to market or produce a
substitute to replace a class I substance or class II substance in one
of the eight major industrial use sectors must provide the Agency with
notice and the required health and safety information on the substitute
at least 90 days before introducing it into interstate commerce for
significant new use as an alternative. 40 CFR 82.176(a). While this
requirement typically applies to chemical manufacturers as the person
likely to be planning to introduce the substitute into interstate
commerce,\18\ it may also apply to importers, formulators, equipment
manufacturers, and end-users \19\ when they are responsible for
introducing a substitute into commerce. The 90-day SNAP review process
begins once EPA receives the submission and determines that the
submission includes complete and adequate data. 40 CFR 82.180(a). The
CAA and the SNAP regulations, 40 CFR 82.174(a), prohibit use of a
substitute earlier than 90 days after notice has been provided to the
Agency.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\18\ As defined at 40 CFR 82.104, ``interstate commerce'' means
the distribution or transportation of any product between one state,
territory, possession or the District of Columbia, and another
state, territory, possession or the District of Columbia, or the
sale, use or manufacture of any product in more than one state,
territory, possession or District of Columbia. The entry points for
which a product is introduced into interstate commerce are the
release of a product from the facility in which the product was
manufactured, the entry into a warehouse from which the domestic
manufacturer releases the product for sale or distribution, and at
the site of United States Customs clearance.
\19\ As defined at 40 CFR 82.172, ``end-use'' means processes or
classes of specific applications within major industrial sectors
where a substitute is used to replace an ODS.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The agency has identified four possible decision categories for
substitute submissions: acceptable; acceptable subject to use
conditions; acceptable subject to narrowed use limits; and
unacceptable.\20\ 40 CFR 82.180(b). Use conditions and narrowed use
limits are both considered ``use restrictions'' and are explained
below. Substitutes that are deemed acceptable without use conditions
may be used for all applications within the relevant end-uses within
the sector and without limits under SNAP on how they may be used.
Substitutes that are acceptable subject to use restrictions may be used
only in accordance with those restrictions. Substitutes that are found
to be unacceptable may not be used after the date specified in the
rulemaking adding such substitute to the list of unacceptable
substitutes.\21\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\20\ The SNAP regulations also include ``pending,'' referring to
submissions for which the EPA has not reached a determination, under
this provision.
\21\ As defined at 40 CFR 82.172, ``use'' means any use of a
substitute for a Class I or Class II ozone-depleting compound,
including but not limited to use in a manufacturing process or
product, in consumption by the end-user, or in intermediate uses,
such as formulation or packaging for other subsequent uses. This
definition of use encompasses manufacturing process of products both
for domestic use and for export. Substitutes manufactured within the
United States exclusively for export are subject to SNAP
requirements since the definition of use in the rule includes use in
the manufacturing process, which occurs within the United States.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
After reviewing a substitute, the agency may make a determination
that a substitute is acceptable only if certain conditions in the way
that the substitute is used are met to minimize risks to human health
and the environment. EPA describes such substitutes as ``acceptable
subject to use conditions.'' Entities that use these substitutes
without meeting the associated use conditions are in violation of EPA's
SNAP regulations. 40 CFR 82.174(c).
For some substitutes, the Agency may permit a narrowed range of use
within an end-use or sector. For example, the Agency may limit the use
of a substitute to certain end-uses or specific applications within an
industry sector. The Agency requires a user of a narrowed use
substitute to demonstrate that no other acceptable substitutes are
available for their specific application. The EPA describes these
substitutes as ``acceptable subject to narrowed use limits.'' A person
using a substitute that is acceptable subject to narrowed use limits in
applications and end-uses that are not consistent with the narrowed use
limit is using the substitute in violation of section 612 of the CAA
and EPA's SNAP regulations. 40 CFR 82.174(c).
The section 612 mandate for EPA to prohibit the use of a substitute
that may present risk to human health or the environment where a lower
risk alternative is available or potentially available \22\ provides
EPA with the authority to change the listing status of a particular
substitute if such a change is justified by new information or changed
circumstance.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\22\ In addition to acceptable commercially available
substitutes, the SNAP program may consider potentially available
substitutes. The SNAP program's definition of ``potentially
available '' is ``any alternative for which adequate health, safety,
and environmental data, as required for the SNAP notification
process, exist to make a determination of acceptability, and which
the agency reasonably believes to be technically feasible, even if
not all testing has yet been completed and the alternative is not
yet produced or sold.'' (40 CFR 82.172)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
As described in this document and elsewhere, including the original
SNAP rulemaking published in the Federal Register at 59 FR 13044 on
March 18, 1994, the SNAP program evaluates substitutes within a
comparative risk framework. The SNAP program compares new substitutes
both to the ozone-depleting substances being phased out under the
Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer and the
CAA and to other available or potentially available alternatives for
the same end uses. The environmental and health risk factors that the
SNAP program considers include ozone depletion potential, flammability,
toxicity, occupational and consumer health and safety, as well as
contributions to global warming and other environmental factors.
Environmental and human health exposures can vary significantly
depending on the particular application of a substitute--and over time,
information applicable to a substitute can change. This approach does
not imply fundamental tradeoffs with respect to different types of
risk, either to the environment or to human health. EPA recognizes that
during the two-decade long history of the SNAP program, new
alternatives and new information about alternatives have emerged. To
the extent possible, EPA considers new information and improved
understanding of the risk factors for the environment and human health
in the context of the available or potentially available alternatives
for a given use.
The agency publishes its SNAP program decisions in the Federal
Register. EPA uses notice-and-comment rulemaking to place any
alternative on the list of prohibited substitutes, to list a substitute
as acceptable only subject to use conditions or narrowed use limits, or
to remove a substitute from either the list of prohibited or acceptable
substitutes.
In contrast, EPA publishes ``notices of acceptability'' or
``determinations of acceptability,'' to notify the public of
substitutes that are deemed acceptable with no restrictions. As
described in the preamble to the rule initially implementing the SNAP
program (59 FR 13044; March 18, 1994), EPA does not believe that
rulemaking procedures are necessary to list alternatives that are
acceptable without restrictions because such listings neither impose
any sanction nor prevent anyone from using a substitute.
Many SNAP listings include ``comments'' or ``further information''
to provide additional information on substitutes. Since this additional
information is not part of the regulatory decision, these statements
are not binding for use of the substitute under
[[Page 62871]]
the SNAP program. However, regulatory requirements so listed are
binding under other regulatory programs (e.g., worker protection
regulations promulgated by OSHA). The ``further information''
classification does not necessarily include all other legal obligations
pertaining to the use of the substitute. While the items listed are not
legally binding under the SNAP program, EPA encourages users of
substitutes to apply all statements in the ``further information''
column in their use of these substitutes. In many instances, the
information simply refers to sound operating practices that have
already been identified in existing industry and/or building codes or
standards. Thus many of the statements, if adopted, would not require
the affected user to make significant changes in existing operating
practices.
D. Additional Information about the SNAP Program
For copies of the comprehensive SNAP lists of substitutes or
additional information on SNAP, refer to the EPA's Ozone Depletion Web
site at: www.epa.gov/ozone/snap. For more information on the agency's
process for administering the SNAP program or criteria for evaluation
of substitutes, refer to the SNAP final rulemaking published March 18,
1994 (59 FR 13044), codified at 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. A complete
chronology of SNAP decisions and the appropriate citations are found
at: www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/chron.html.
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 82
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Air pollution control, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: October 15, 2014.
Sarah Dunham,
Director, Office of Atmospheric Programs.
Appendix A: Summary of Acceptable Decisions
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Further information \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Centrifugal chillers (retrofit and R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year
new). [supreg] N-13). global warming potential
(GWP) of approximately
604. This substitute is
a blend of HFC-134a,
which is also known as
1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2), and
HFO-1234ze(E), which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The American Industrial
Hygiene Association
(AIHA) has established
workplace environmental
exposure limits (WEELs)
of 1,000 ppm and 800 ppm
(8-hr TWA) for HFC-134a
and HFO-1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reciprocating, screw and scroll R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
chillers (retrofit and new). [supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Industrial process refrigeration R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
(retrofit and new). [supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Industrial process air R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
conditioning (retrofit and new). [supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cold storage warehouses (retrofit R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
and new). [supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
[[Page 62872]]
The AIHA has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Refrigerated transport (new only). Carbon dioxide (CO2 Acceptable................ The Occupational Safety
or R-744). and Health
Administration (OSHA)
has established a
required 8 hour/day, 40
hour/week permissible
exposure limit (PEL) for
CO2 of 5,000 ppm. The
National Institute for
Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) has
established a 15-minute
recommended short-term
exposure limit (STEL) of
30,000 ppm.
CO2 is nonflammable.
EPA recommends that users
follow all requirements
and recommendations
specified in American
Society for Heating,
Refrigerating and Air-
Conditioning Engineers
(ASHRAE) standard 15.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Refrigerated transport (retrofit R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
and new). [supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retail food refrigeration R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
(retrofit and new). [supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
This decision applies to
all types of equipment
in this sector,
including remote
systems, condensing
units, and stand-alone
equipment.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vending machines (retrofit only).. R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
[supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commercial ice machines (retrofit R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
and new). [supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Water coolers (retrofit and new).. R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
[supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 62873]]
Household refrigerators and R-450A (Solstice Acceptable................ R-450A has a 100-year GWP
freezers (retrofit and new). [supreg] N-13). of approximately 604.
This substitute is a
blend of HFC-134a, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2) and
HFO-1234ze(E) which is
also known as trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-
1-ene (CAS Reg. No.
29118-24-9).
This blend is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
a WEELs of 1,000 ppm and
800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFC-134a and HFO-
1234ze(E).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-mechanical heat transfer (new Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3- Acceptable................ Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
only). trifluoroprop-1-ene trifluoroprop-1-ene (CAS
(SolsticeTM Reg. No. 102687-65-0)
1233zd(E)). has an ODP of
approximately 0.00024 to
0.00034. It has a 100-
year GWP of 1 to 7.
This compound is
nonflammable.
The AIHA has established
a WEEL of 800 ppm (8-hr
TWA) for trans-1-chloro-
3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Observe recommendations in the manufacturer's MSDS and guidance for all listed refrigerants.
Foam Blowing Agents
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Further information\1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rigid polyurethane and Methylal Acceptable................ Methylal (CAS Reg. No.
polyisocyanurate laminated (dimethoxymethane). 109-87-5) has a 100-yr
boardstock. global warming potential
(GWP) of less than
three. This substitute
is flammable and meets
the definition of a
flammable Class IB fluid
under the Occupational
Safety and Health
Administration's
(OSHA's) regulations at
29 CFR 1910.106.
The American Conference
of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists
(ACGIH) has established
a Threshold Limit Value
(TLV) of 1,000 ppm (8-hr
time-weighted average
(TWA)) for methylal
(dimethoxymethane).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
HFO-1336mzz(Z) ((Z)- Acceptable................ HFO-1336mzz(Z) (CAS Reg.
1,1,1,4,4,4- No. 692-49-9) has no
hexafluorobut-2-ene, ozone depletion
Formacel[supreg] potential (ODP) and a
1100). 100-year GWP of roughly
9.
This compound is
nonflammable.
The manufacturer
recommends an acceptable
exposure limit of 500
ppm over an 8-hour TWA
for HFO-1336mzz(Z).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rigid polyurethane appliance...... Methylal Acceptable................ Methylal (CAS Reg. No.
(dimethoxymethane). 109-87-5) has a 100-yr
GWP of less than three.
This substitute is
flammable and meets the
definition of a
flammable Class IB fluid
under OSHA's regulations
at 29 CFR 1910.106.
The ACGIH has established
a TLV of 1,000 ppm (8-hr
TWA) for methylal
(dimethoxymethane).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
HFO-1336mzz(Z) ((Z)- Acceptable................ HFO-1336mzz(Z) (CAS Reg.
1,1,1,4,4,4- No. 692-49-9) has no
hexafluorobut-2-ene, ozone depletion
Formacel[supreg] potential (ODP) and a
1100). 100-year GWP of roughly
9.
This compound is
nonflammable.
The manufacturer
recommends an acceptable
exposure limit of 500
ppm over an 8-hour TWA
for HFO-1336mzz(Z).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rigid polyurethane commercial Methylal Acceptable................ Methylal (CAS Reg. No.
refrigeration and sandwich panels. (dimethoxymethane). 109-87-5) has a 100-yr
GWP of less than three.
This substitute is
flammable and meets the
definition of a
flammable Class IB fluid
under OSHA's regulations
at 29 CFR 1910.106.
The ACGIH has established
a TLV of 1,000 ppm (8-hr
TWA) for methylal
(dimethoxymethane).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
HFO-1336mzz(Z) ((Z)- Acceptable................ HFO-1336mzz(Z) (CAS Reg.
1,1,1,4,4,4- No. 692-49-9) has no ODP
hexafluorobut-2-ene, and a 100-year GWP of
Formacel[supreg] roughly 9.
1100).
This compound is
nonflammable.
The manufacturer
recommends an acceptable
exposure limit of 500
ppm over an 8-hour TWA
for HFO-1336mzz(Z).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 62874]]
Rigid polyurethane slabstock and Methylal Acceptable................ Methylal (CAS Reg. No.
other. (dimethoxymethane). 109-87-5) has a 100-yr
GWP of less than three.
This substitute is
flammable and meets the
definition of a
flammable Class IB fluid
under OSHA's regulations
at 29 CFR 1910.106.
The ACGIH has established
a TLV of 1,000 ppm (8-hr
TWA) for methylal
(dimethoxymethane).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
HFO-1336mzz(Z) ((Z)- Acceptable................ HFO-1336mzz(Z) (CAS Reg.
1,1,1,4,4,4- No. 692-49-9) has no ODP
hexafluorobut-2-ene, and a 100-year GWP of
Formacel[supreg] roughly 9.
1100).
This compound is
nonflammable.
The manufacturer
recommends an acceptable
exposure limit of 500
ppm over an 8-hour TWA
for HFO-1336mzz(Z).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Flexible polyurethane............. Methylal Acceptable................ Methylal (CAS Reg. No.
(dimethoxymethane). 109-87-5) has a 100-yr
GWP of less than three.
This compound is
flammable and meets the
definition of a
flammable Class IB fluid
under OSHA's regulations
at 29 CFR 1910.106.
The ACGIH has established
a TLV of 1,000 ppm (8-hr
TWA) for methylal
(dimethoxymethane).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
HFO-1336mzz(Z) ((Z)- Acceptable................ HFO-1336mzz(Z) (CAS Reg.
1,1,1,4,4,4- No. 692-49-9) has no ODP
hexafluorobut-2-ene, and a 100-yr GWP of
Formacel[supreg] roughly 9.
1100). This compound is
nonflammable.
The manufacturer
recommends an acceptable
exposure limit of 500
ppm over an 8-hour TWA
for HFO-1336mzz(Z).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3- Acceptable................ Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene trifluoroprop-1-ene (CAS
(SolsticeTM Reg. No. 102687-65-0)
1233zd(E)). has an ODP of
approximately 0.00024 to
0.00034. It has a 100-
year GWP of 1 to 7.
This compound is
nonflammable.
The American Industrial
Hygiene Association has
established a workplace
environmental exposure
limit of 800 ppm (8-hr
TWA) for trans-1-chloro-
3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Integral skin polyurethane........ Methylal Acceptable................ Methylal (CAS Reg. No.
(dimethoxymethane). 109-87-5) has a 100-yr
GWP of less than three.
This substitute is
flammable and meets the
definition of a
flammable Class IB fluid
under OSHA's regulations
at 29 CFR 1910.106.
The ACGIH has established
a TLV of 1,000 ppm (8-hr
TWA) for methylal
(dimethoxymethane).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
HFO-1336mzz(Z) ((Z)- Acceptable................ HFO-1336mzz(Z) (CAS Reg.
1,1,1,4,4,4- No. 692-49-9) has no ODP
hexafluorobut-2-ene, and a 100-yr GWP of
Formacel[supreg] roughly 9.
1100). This compound is
nonflammable.
The manufacturer
recommends an acceptable
exposure limit of 500
ppm over an 8-hour TWA
for HFO-1336mzz(Z).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phenolic insulation board and HFO-1336mzz(Z) ((Z)- Acceptable................ HFO-1336mzz(Z) (CAS Reg.
bunstock. 1,1,1,4,4,4- No. 692-49-9) has no ODP
hexafluorobut-2-ene, and a 100-year GWP of
Formacel[supreg] roughly 9.
1100). This compound is
nonflammable.
The manufacturer
recommends an acceptable
exposure limit of 500
ppm over an 8-hour TWA
for HFO-1336mzz(Z).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Observe recommendations in the manufacturer's MSDS and manufacturer's guidance for using all listed foam
blowing agents.
Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Further information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total flooding (occupied and Powdered Aerosol D Acceptable................ Use of this agent should
unoccupied areas). (Aero-K[supreg], be in accordance with
Stat-X[supreg]). the safety guidelines in
the latest edition of
the National Fire
Protection Association
2010 standard for
Aerosol Extinguishing
Systems.
For establishments
manufacturing the agent
or filling, installing,
or servicing containers
or systems to be used in
total flooding
applications, EPA
recommends the
following:
[[Page 62875]]
--the appropriate
safety and personal
protective equipment
(PPE) (e.g.,
protective gloves,
tightly sealed
goggles, protective
work clothing, and
particulate-removing
respirators with
National Institute
for Occupational
Safety and Health
type N95 or better
filters) consistent
with Occupational
Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA)
guidelines should be
used during
manufacture,
installation,
servicing, and
disposal of total
flooding systems
using the agent;
--adequate ventilation
should be in place to
reduce airborne
exposure to
constituents of
agent;
--an eye wash fountain
and quick drench
facility should be
close to the
production area;
--training for safe
handling procedures
should be provided to
all employees that
would be likely to
handle containers of
the agent or
extinguishing units
filled with the
agent;
--workers responsible
for clean up should
allow for maximum
settling of all
particulates before
reentering area and
wear appropriate
personal protective
equipment; and
--all spills should be
cleaned up
immediately in
accordance with good
industrial hygiene
practices.
As required by the
manufacturer, units
installed in normally
occupied spaces will be
equipped with features
such as a system-isolate
switch and cross-zone
detection system to
reduce risk of
accidental activation of
an agent generator while
persons are present in
the protected space.
Also required by the
manufacturer is warning
of pending discharge and
delay in release to
ensure egress prior to
activation of the agent
to reduce the risk of
exposure.
See additional comments
1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. The EPA recommends that users consult Section VIII of the OSHA Technical Manual for information on selecting
the appropriate types of personal protective equipment for all listed fire suppression agents. The EPA has no
intention of duplicating or displacing OSHA coverage related to the use of personal protective equipment
(e.g., respiratory protection), fire protection, hazard communication, worker training or any other
occupational safety and health standard with respect to halon substitutes.
2. Use of all listed fire suppression agents should conform to relevant OSHA requirements, including 29 CFR part
1910, subpart L, sections 1910.160 and 1910.162.
3. Per OSHA requirements, protective gear (SCBA) should be available in the event personnel should reenter the
area.
4. Discharge testing should be strictly limited to that which is essential to meet safety or performance
requirements.
5. The agent should be recovered from the fire protection system in conjunction with testing or servicing, and
recycled for later use or destroyed.
[FR Doc. 2014-24989 Filed 10-20-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P