PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

RULE 4653 ADHESIVES AND SEALANTS (Adopted March 17, 1994; Amended April 13, 

1995; Amended March 19, 1998; Amended December 14, 2000; Amended 

December 20, 2001; Amended September 20, 2007; Amended September 17, 

2009; Amended [Rule adoption date]) 

1.0 Purpose 

The purpose of this rule is to reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) 

from the application of adhesive products, sealant products, and associated solvent 

cleaning operations. 

2.0 Applicability 

 This rule is applicable to any person who supplies, sells, offers for sale, or applies any 

adhesive product, sealant product, or associated solvent, used within the District. 

3.0 Definitions 

The following definitions apply for the purpose of this rule. 

3.1 ABS Welding Adhesive: an adhesive that is intended by the manufacturer to weld 

acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic. ABS is made by reacting monomers 

of acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene and is normally identified with ABS 

marking. 

3.2 Acrylic: a thermoplastic polymer or copolymer of acrylic acid, metharcrylic acid, 

esters of these acids, or acrylonitrile. 

3.3 3.2 Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS): a plastic made by reacting monomers of 

acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene and is normally identified with ABS 

marking. 

3.4 3.3 Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) welding: a process used to weld 

acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene pipe. 

3.5 3.4 Adhesive: a chemical substance intended by the manufacturer to be that is applied 

for the purpose of bonding two surfaces together other than by mechanical means. 

3.6 3.5 Adhesive Primers: a product intended by the manufacturer for application to a 

substrate, prior to the application of an adhesive, to provide a bonding surface. 

3.7 3.6Adhesive Products: adhesives product includes, but is not limited to adhesives,

glues, cements, mastic, and adhesive primers adhesive bonding primers, adhesive 

primers, adhesive primers for plastics, and any other adhesive primer.
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.8 3.7 Aerosol Adhesive or Adhesive Primer: an adhesive or adhesive primer packaged 

as an aerosol product in which the spray mechanism is permanently housed in a 

non-refillable can designed for handheld application without the need for ancillary 

hoses or spray equipment. 

3.9 3.8 Airless Spray: a spray method in which a pump forces the adhesive through an 

atomizing nozzle at high pressure (1,000 to 6,000 psi). 

3.10 9 Air Pollution Control Officer (APCO): as defined in Rule 1020 (Definitions). 

3.11 Appurtenances: an accessory to a stationary structure, whether installed or 

detached. Appurtenances include but are not limited to: bathroom and kitchen 

fixtures; cabinets; concrete forms; doors; elevators; fences; hand railings; 

heating equipment, air conditioning equipment, and other fixed mechanical 

equipment or stationary tools; lampposts; partitions; pipes and piping systems; 

rain gutters and downspouts; stairways, fixed ladders, catwalks, and fire 

escapes; and window screens. 

3.12 10 Application Equipment: a device, including, but not limited to, a spray 

gun, brush, and roller, used to apply adhesives, sealants, coatings, or inks. 

3.13 11 ARB: California Air Resources Board. 

3.14 12 Architectural: pertaining to stationary structures including buildings, 

houses, and mobile homes, and their appurtenances. 

3.15 Architectural Sealant: a sealant intended by the manufacturer to be applied on 

stationary structures, including mobile homes, and their appurtenances. 

3.16 Architectural Sealant Primer–Nonporous: a sealant primer intended by the 

manufacturer to be applied to nonporous material surfaces on stationary structures, 

including mobile homes, and their appurtenances. 

3.17 Architectural Sealant Primer–Porous: a sealant primer intended by the 

manufacturer to be applied to porous material surfaces on stationary structures, 

including mobile homes, and their appurtenances. 

3.18 13 ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials.

3.19 Automotive Glass Primer: an adhesive primer intended by the manufacturer to 

be applied to automotive glass prior to installation of an adhesive/sealant that 

improves adhesion to the pinch weld and blocks ultraviolet light used at a 

facility that is not an automobile or light-duty truck assembly coating facility 

pursuant to District Rule 4602. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.20 14 Bench Scale Project: a project (other than at a research and development 

facility) that is operated on a small scale, such as one capable of being located 

on a laboratory bench top. 

3.21 Carpet Pad Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the manufacturer to be used for 

the installation of a carpet pad (or cushion) beneath a carpet. 

3.22 Cellulosic Plastics: a plastic containing the naturally occurring polymer or 

polysaccharide, cellulose (C6H10O5). Examples include, but are not limited to,

cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose nitrate and cellulose 

propionate. 

3.23 Ceramic Tile: ceramic surfacing unit made from clay or a mixture of clay and 

other materials. 

3.24 15 Ceramic Tile Installation Adhesive: an adhesive that is intended by the 

manufacturer to be used for installation of ceramic tiles. 

3.25 16 CFR: Code of Federal Regulations. 

3.26 17 Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Plastic (CPVC plastic): a polymer of the 

vinyl chloride monomer that contains 67% chlorine and is normally identified with 

a CPVC marking. 

3.27 18 Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride Welding (CPVC welding) Adhesive: an 

adhesive intended by the manufacturer labeled for welding of chlorinated polyvinyl 

chloride plastic, and labeled as such. 

3.28 19 Coating: a material applied onto or impregnated into a substrate for 

protective, decorative, or functional purposes. Such materials include, but are 

not limited to, paints, varnishes, sealers, and stains. 

3.29 20 Contact Adhesive: an adhesive, also known as Contact Bond Adhesive, 

that is intended by the manufacturer designed for application to both surfaces to 

be bonded together, is allowed to dry before the two surfaces are placed in 

contact with each other, forms an immediate bond that is impossible, or 

difficult, to reposition after both adhesive-coated surfaces are placed in contact 

with each other, and does not need sustained pressure or clamping of surfaces 

after the adhesive-coated surfaces have been brought together using sufficient 

momentary pressure to establish full contact between both surfaces. Contact 

adhesive does not include rubber cements that are primarily intended for use on 

paper substrates. Contact adhesive also does not include vulcanizing fluids that 

are designed and labeled for tire repair only. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.30 21 Contact Adhesive-Specialty: a contact adhesives that is intended by the 

manufacturer to be used for the bonding of nonporous substrates to each other, the 

bonding of decorative laminate in post-forming applications, the bonding of 

decorative laminate to metal, melamine-covered board, or curved surfaces, or the 

bonding of any substrate to metal, rubber, rigid plastic, or wood veneer not 

exceeding 1/16 inch in thickness. 

3.31 22 Cove Base: a flooring trim unit, generally made of vinyl or rubber, having 

a concave radius on one edge and a convex radius on the opposite edge that is used 

in forming a junction between the bottom wall course and the floor or to form an 

inside corner. 

3.32 23 Cove Base Installation Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the 

manufacturer to be used for the installation of cove base or wall base on a wall or 

vertical surface at floor level. 

3.33 24 Cured Adhesive, Cured Coating, or Cured Ink: an adhesive, coating, or 

ink that is dry to the touch. 

3.34 25 Cyanoacrylate Adhesive: an adhesive with a cyanoacrylate content of at 

least 95 percent by weight. 

3.35 Dry Wall Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the manufacturer to be used 

during the installation of gypsum dry wall to studs or solid surfaces. 

3.36 Elastomeric Adhesive: a rubber or thermoplastic based adhesive intended by the 

manufacturer to be used in the manufacture of life preserving equipment 

including, but not limited to, aircraft float systems, life rafts, and life jackets; or 

other personal or equipment protection products. 

3.37 26 Ethylene Propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) Roof Membrane: a 

prefabricated sheet of elastomeric material composed of ethylene propylenediene 

monomer and that is field applied to a building roof using one layer or 

membrane material. 

3.38 27 EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.39 28 Exempt Compounds: compounds identified as exempt under the definition 

of VOC, in Rule 1020 (Definitions). 

3.40 Fiberglass: fine filaments of glass. 

3.41 29 Flexible Vinyl: a nonrigid polyvinyl chloride plastic with at least five 

percent, by weight of plasticizer content. 

3.42 Foam: a rigid or spongy cellular mass with gas bubbles dispersed throughout. 

3.43 30 Floor Covering Installation: installation of wood flooring, carpet, floor 

tile, or artificial grass. Floor covering installation does not include ceramic tile 

installation or perimeter bonded sheet flooring installation. 

3.44 Glue: a hard gelatin obtained from hides, tendons, cartilage, bones, or other parts 

of animals. 

3.45 31 Grams of VOC per Liter of Adhesive Product, Excluding Water and 

Exempt Compounds: the weight of VOC per combined volume of VOC and 

coating solids, calculated using the following equation: 

Grams of VOC per Liter of 

Adhesive Product, Excluding = Ws - Ww - Wec

Water and Exempt Compounds Vm - Vw - Vec

Where: 

Ws = weight of volatile compounds, in grams 

Ww = weight of water, in grams 

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in grams 

Vm = volume of material, in liters 

Vw = volume of water, in liters 

Vec = volume of exempt compounds, in liters 

3.46 32 Grams of VOC per Liter of Material: the weight of VOC per volume of 

material, calculated using the following equation: 

Grams of VOC per Liter of Material = (Ws - Ww - Wec) / Vm

Where: 

Ws = weight of all volatile compounds, in grams 

Ww = weight of water, in grams 

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in grams 

Vm = volume of the material, in liters 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.47 33 High Precision Optics: optical elements used in electro-optical devices 

which are designed to sense, detect, or transmit light energy, including specific 

wavelengths of light energy and changes in light energy levels. 

3.48 34 High-Volume, Low-Pressure (HVLP) Spray Equipment: equipment used 

to apply materials by means of a spray gun which is designed and intended to be 

operated, and which is operated, between 0.1 and 10.0 psig of air atomizing 

pressure, measured dynamically at the center of the air cap and the air horns. 

3.49 Indoor Carpet Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the manufacturer to be used 

during the installation of a carpet that is in an enclosure and is not exposed to 

ambient weather conditions during normal use. 

3.50 35 Indoor Floor Covering Installation Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the 

manufacturer for use in the installation of wood flooring, carpet, resilient tile, 

vinyl tile, vinyl backed carpet, resilient sheet and roll or artificial grass. 

Adhesives used to install ceramic tile and perimeter bonded sheet flooring with 

vinyl backing onto a non-porous substrate, such as flexible vinyl, are excluded 

from this category. 

3.51 Inkjet Printer Head Assembly Operation: an operation used to manufacture or 

assemble the printer head used on inkjet printers. Inkjet printing is a printing 

method where the liquid ink is transferred at high velocity through a small 

diameter opening(s) to a substrate. 

3.52 36 Laminate: a product made by bonding together two or more layers of 

material. 

 

3.53 37 Liquid Leak: a visible solvent leak from a container at a rate of more 

than three drops per minute, or a visible liquid mist. 

3.54 38 Low-Solids Adhesive Product: an adhesive or adhesive primer that 

contains less than 120 grams of solids per liter of material. 

3.55 39 Maintenance Cleaning: the cleaning of tools, forms, molds, jigs, 

machinery, and equipment (except coating application equipment, ink 

application equipment, or adhesive application equipment), and the cleaning of 

work areas where maintenance or manufacturing occurs. 

3.56 40 Manufacturing Process: the process of making goods or articles by hand 

or by machine. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  	 Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.57 Marine Deck Sealant/Primer: a sealant or sealant primer intended by the 

manufacturer to be applied to wooden marine deck. 

3.58 Medical Device: an instrument, apparatus, implement, machine, contrivance, 

implant, in vitro reagent or other similar article including any component or 

accessory, that is intended for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions 

or in the cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or is intended to 

affect the structure or any function of the body. 

3.59 Medical Equipment Manufacturing: the manufacture of medical devices, 

including, but not limited to, catheters, heart valves, blood cardioplegia 

machines, tracheostomy tubes, blood oxygenators, and cardiatory reservoirs. 

3.60 41 Metal to Urethane/Rubber Molding or Casting Adhesive: an adhesive 

intended by the manufacturer to bond metal to high density or elastomeric 

urethane or molded rubber materials, in a heated molding or casting processes, 

to fabricate products such as rollers for computer printers or other paper 

handling equipment. 

3.61 Modified Bituminous Sealant Primer: a primer that consists of bituminous 

materials, and a high flash solvent used to prepare a surface by (1) improving 

the adhesion and (2) absorbing dust from the surface for adhesive, or flashing 

cement bitumen membrane. 

3.62 Modified Bituminous Material: materials obtained from natural deposit of 

asphalt or residues from the distillation of crude oil petroleum or coal which 

consist mainly of hydrocarbons, and include, but are not limited to, asphalt, tar, 

pitch, and asphalt tile that are soluble in carbon disulfide. 

3.63 42 Motor Vehicle Adhesive: an adhesive, including glass bonding adhesive, 

used at a facility that is not an automobile or light-duty truck assembly coating 

facility pursuant to District Rule 4602, that is intended by the manufacturer to 

be applied for the purpose of bonding two vehicle surfaces together without 

regard to the substrates involved. 

3.64 43 Motor Vehicle Glass Bonding Primer: a primer, used at a facility that is 

not an automobile or light-duty truck assembly coating facility pursuant to 

District Rule 4602, applied to windshield or other glass, or to body openings, to 

prepare the glass or body opening for the application of glass bonding adhesives 

or the installation of adhesive bonded glass. Motor vehicle glass bonding 

primer includes glass bonding/cleaning primers that perform both functions 

(cleaning and priming of the windshield or other glass, or body openings) prior 

to the application of adhesive or the installation of adhesive bonded glass. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  
 Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.65 44 Motor Vehicle Weatherstrip Adhesive: an adhesive, used at a facility 

that is not an automobile or light-duty truck assembly coating facility, applied to 

weatherstripping materials for the purpose of bonding the weatherstrip material 

to the surface of the vehicle. 

3.66 45 Multipurpose Construction: the installation or repair of construction 

materials including, but not limited to, drywall, subfloor, paneling, baseboards, 

fiberglass, ceiling tiles, and ceiling panels. 

3.67 46 Multipurpose Construction Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the 

manufacturer for use in the installation or repair of various construction materials, 

including but not limited to drywall, subfloor, panel, fiberglass reinforced plastic 

(FRP), ceiling tile and acoustical tile. Effective on and after January 1, 2012, 

drywall, subfloor, and panel adhesives are no longer considered Multipurpose 

Construction Adhesive, each would be considered it’s own adhesive category with 

VOC content limits pursuant to Section 5.1 of this rule. 

3.68 47 Non-Absorbent Container: a container made of non-porous material that 

does not allow the migration of solvents through it. 

3.69 48 Non-Atomized Solvent Flow: solvents in the form of a liquid stream 

without the introduction of any propellant. 

3.70 49 Non-Leaking Container: a container without a liquid leak. 

3.71 Non-Membrane Roof Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the manufacturer to be 

used for the installation or repair of non-membrane roofs. This category 

includes plastic or asphalt roof cement, asphalt roof coatings and cold 

application cement. 

3.72 Non-Membrane Roof Sealant: a sealant intended by the manufacturer to be used 

for installation or repair of non-membrane roofs. This category includes plastic 

or asphalt roof cement, asphalt roof coatings, and cold application cement. 

 

3.50 Normal Business Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

3.73 51 Organic Solvent: the same as “Solvent.” 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.74 52 Organic Solvent Cleaning: an activity, or operation, or process, 

(including surface preparation, cleanup, or wipe cleaning), performed outside of 

a degreaser, that uses organic solvent to remove uncured adhesives, uncured 

coatings, uncured inks or other contaminants, including, but not limited to, dirt, 

soil, oil, lubricants, coolants, moisture, fingerprints, and grease, from parts, 

products, tools, machinery, application equipment and general work areas. 

Cleaning spray equipment used for the application of coatings, adhesives, or 

ink, is also considered to be organic solvent cleaning. 

3.75 Outdoor Carpet Adhesive: an adhesive used during the installation of carpet that 

is not in an enclosure and is exposed to ambient weather conditions during 

normal use. 

3.76 53 Outdoor Floor Covering Installation Adhesive: an adhesive intended by 

the manufacturer for use in the installation of floor covering that is not in an 

enclosure and that is exposed to ambient weather conditions during normal use. 

3.77 Panel Installation: the installation of plywood, predecorated hardboard, 

tileboard, fiberglass, reinforced plastic, and similar predecorated or nondecorated panels to studs or solid surfaces. 

3.78 54 Panel Installation Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the manufacturer to 

be formulated or used for the installation of plywood, pre-decorated hardboard 

(or tileboard), fiberglass reinforced plastic, and similar pre-decorated or nondecorated panels to studs or solid surfaces using an adhesive formulated for that 

purpose. 

3.79 Paper-Based Gaskets: a gasket made of paper that forms a mechanical seal in 

the space between two mating surfaces.

3.80 55 Percent VOC by Weight: the ratio of the weight of the VOC to the weight 

of the material, expressed as a percentage. The percent VOC by weight can be 

calculated as follows: 

 % VOC weight = Wv x 100

 W

Where:

Wv = weight of VOCs, in grams

W = weight of material, in grams
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.81 56 Perimeter Bonded Sheet Flooring Installation: the installation of sheet 

flooring with vinyl backing onto a nonporous substrate using an adhesive designed 

to be applied only to a strip of up to four inches wide around the perimeter of the 

sheet flooring. 

3.82 57 Plastic Cement Welding Adhesive: an adhesives also called Plastic Solvent 

Welding Adhesive, intended by the manufacturer for use to dissolve plastic 

surfaces to form a bond between mating surfaces. 

3.83 Plastic Cement Welding Adhesive Primer: an adhesive primer intended by the 

manufacturer to prepare plastic substrates prior to the application of an adhesive 

for bonding or welding. 

3.84 58 Plastic Foam: a foam constructed of plastic material 

3.85 59 Plasticizer: a material, such as a high boiling point organic solvent, that is 

incorporated into an adhesive to increase its flexibility, workability, or 

distensibility. 

3.86 60 Plastics: synthetic materials chemically formed by the polymerization of 

organic (carbon-based) substances. Plastics are usually compounded with 

modifiers, extenders, and/or reinforcers and are capable of being molded, 

extruded, cast into various shapes and films, or drawn into filaments. 

3.61 Porous Materials: materials with surfaces permeable to liquids. Examples of 

porous materials include, but are not limited to paper, and cardboard. For 

purposes of this rule, porous material does not include wood. 

3.87 62 Polyvinyl Chloride Plastic (PVC plastic): a polymer of the chlorinated 

vinyl monomer that contains 57% chlorine. 

3.88 63 Polyvinyl Chloride Welding Adhesive (PVC Welding Adhesive): an 

adhesive intended by the manufacturer for use in the welding of PVC plastic pipe. 

3.89 Porous Material: a material with surfaces permeable to liquids. Examples of 

porous materials include, but are not limited to paper and cardboard. For purposes 

of this rule, porous material does not include wood. 

3.90 64 Pre-formed Rubber Products: any rubber product which has undergone a 

vulcanization process and is in its final state for further use and is not intended to 

be vulcanized any further. 
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   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.91 65 Propellant: any gas, including air, in a pressure container for expelling 

the contents when the pressure is released. 

3.92 66 Reinforced Plastic Composite: a composite material consisting of plastic 

reinforced with fibers. 

3.93 67 Repair Cleaning: a solvent cleaning operation or activity carried out 

during a repair process. 

3.94 68 Repair Process: the process of returning a damaged object or an object 

not operating properly to good condition. 

3.95 69 Research and Development: a facility or portion thereof used to further 

the development of useful materials, devices, systems, or methods, including, 

but not limited to, design, development, and improvement of prototypes and 

processes. Research and development does not include the manufacturing 

process itself. 

3.96 Roadway Sealant: a sealant intended by the manufacturer to be applied to 

streets, highways, and other surfaces, including but not limited to curbs, berms, 

driveways, and parking lots. 

3.9770 Rubber: a natural or manmade rubber substrate, including but not limited to 

styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), polychloroprene (neoprene), butyl rubber, nitrile 

rubber, chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM), and ethylene propylene diene 

terpolymer (EPDM). 

3.98 Rubber Flooring Adhesive: an adhesive that is intended by the manufacturer to be 

used for the installation of flooring material in which both the back and the top 

surface are made of synthetic rubber, and which may be in sheet or tile form. 

3.9971 Rubber Stock Sheets: a cured, uncured or partially cured rubber sheets which are 

not in their final state of intended use. 

3.100 72 Rubber Vulcanization Adhesive/Primer: an adhesive product intended by 

the manufacturer designed to bond rubber to metal, rubber, or polyester or nylon 

fabrics during the following vulcanization processes: 

3.100.1 72.1 Molded vulcanization: the application of heat and pressure to 

uncured rubber in a mold; 

3.100.2 72.2 Sheet-applied Vulcanization: the application of heat after rubber 

stock sheets have been adhered to the walls of tanks, tankers, elbow 

joints, protective earthquake building pads, or rail cars; or the 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

application of heat after one or more layers of rubber stock sheets have 

been built-up to form a rubber product; 

3.100.3 72.3 Cold vulcanization: the chemical reaction of an adhesive with 

rubber stock sheets that are adhered to earthmoving equipment, other 

high impact/abrasion devices, or industrial belting devices, without the 

application of heat or pressure. 

3.101 73 SCAQMD: South Coast Air Quality Management District. 

3.102 74 Scientific Instruments: an instruments (including the components, 

assemblies, and subassemblies used in their manufacture) and associated 

accessories and reagents which are used for the detection, measurement, analysis, 

separation, synthesis, or sequencing of various compounds. 

3.103 Sealant: a material with adhesive properties that is intended by the manufacturer 

primarily to fill, seal, or waterproof gaps or joints between two surfaces. Sealants 

include sealant primers and caulks. 

3.104 Sealant Primer: a product intended by the manufacturer to be applied to a 

substrate, prior to the application of a sealant, to enhance the bonding surface. 

3.105 Sealant Product: sealant products include, but are not limited to, sealants and 

sealant primers. 

3.106 75 Sheet Rubber Lining Installation: the process of applying sheet rubber 

liners by hand to metal or plastic substrates to protect the underlying substrate 

from corrosion or abrasion. These operations also include laminating sheet rubber 

to fabric by hand. 

3.107 76 Single-ply Roof Membrane: a prefabricated sheet of rubber, normally 

ethylene-propylenediene terpolymer that is filed applied to a building roof using 

one layer of membrane material. For the purposes of this rule, single-ply roof 

membrane does not include membranes prefabricated from ethylenepropylenediene monomer (EPDM). 

3.108 77 Single-ply Roof Material Membrane Installation: the use of adhesive 

products to apply one layer of roofing membrane. 

3.109 78 Single-ply Roof Membrane Installation and Repair Adhesive: an adhesive 

intended by the manufacturer, and labeled, for use in the installation or repair of 

single-ply roof membrane. Installation includes, as a minimum, attaching the edge 

of the membrane to the edge of the roof and applying flashings to vents, pipes and 

ducts that protrude through the membrane. Repair includes gluing the edges of torn 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

membrane together, attaching a patch over a hole and reapplying flashings to 

vents, pipes or ducts installed through the membrane. 

3.110 79 Single-ply Roof Membrane Adhesive Primer: a primer intended by the 

manufacture labeled for use to clean and promote adhesion of the single-ply roof 

membrane seams or splices prior to bonding, and labeled as such. 

3.111 Single-ply Roof Membrane Sealant: a sealant intended by the manufacturer to be 

used for the installation or repair of single-ply roof membrane to the edge of the 

roof and applying flashings to vents, pipes, or ducts that protrude through the 

membrane. 

3.112 80 Solvent: as defined in Rule 4663 (Organic Solvent Cleaning, Storage, 

and Disposal). 

3.113 81 Solvent Flushing: the use of a solvent to remove uncured adhesives, 

uncured inks, uncured coatings, or contaminants from the internal surfaces and 

passages of equipment by flushing solvent, by a non-atomized solvent flow, 

through the equipment. 

3.114 82 Solvent Welding: the softening of the surfaces of two substrates by wetting 

them with solvents and/or adhesives, and joining them together with a chemical 

and/or physical reaction(s) to form a fused union. 

3.115 83 Staple and Nail Manufacturing Adhesive: an adhesive that is intended by 

the manufacturer to bond industrial staples into a clip or to be applied to industrial 

nails to produce collated nails. 

3.116 84 Stationary Source: as defined in Rule 2201 (New and Modified 

Stationary Source Review Rule). 

3.117 85 Stripping: the use of solvent to remove material such as cured adhesives, 

cured inks, cured or dried paint, cured or dried paint residue or temporary 

protective coating. 

3.118 86 Structural Glazing: a process that includes the application of adhesives to 

bond glass, ceramic, metal, stone, or composite panels to the exterior of a 

building. 

3.119 Structural Wood Member Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the manufacturer to 

be used for the construction of a load – bearing joint in wooden joists, trusses, or 

beams. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.120 Styrene-Acrylonitrile Welding Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the 

manufacturer to weld styrene-acrylonitrile co-polymer plastics. Bonding of 

styrene-acrylonitrile to any other substrate (such as metal) is not included under 

this plastic welding adhesive subcategory. 

3.121 87 Subfloor Installation: the installation of subflooring material over floor 

joists, including the construction of any load bearing joists. Subflooring is covered 

by a finish surface material. 

3.122 88 Surface Preparation: the removal of contaminants from a surface prior 

to the application of coatings, inks, or adhesives or before proceeding to the 

next step of a manufacturing process. 

3.123 89 Surface Preparation Solvent: a VOC containing material used to remove 

dirt, oil, and other contaminants. This surface cleaning is typically done prior to 

the application of an adhesive product. 

3.12490 Thin Metal Laminating Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the 

manufacturer for use in bonding multiple layers of metal to metal or metal to 

plastic on the production of electronic or magnetic components in which the 

thickness of the bond line(s) is less than 0.25 millimeters. 

3.125 91 Thinner: a solvent that is used to dilute coatings to reduce viscosity, 

color strength, and solids, or to modify drying conditions. 

3.126 92 Tire Repair: a process that includes expanding a hole, tear, fissure, or 

blemish in a tire casing by grinding or gouging, applying adhesive and filling the 

hole or crevice with rubber. 

3.127 Tire Retread: the process of tire retreading is where adhesives are applied to the 

back of precured tread rubber and to the casing and cushion rubber. It may also 

be used to seal buffed tire casings to prevent oxidation while the tire is being 

prepared for a new tread. 

3.128 Top and Trim Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the manufacturer to be used for 

installing automotive or marine trim, including, but not limited to headliners, vinyl 

tips, vinyl trims, sunroofs, dash covering, door covering, floor covering, panel 

covering and upholstery. 

3.129 Traffic Marking Tape: a pre-formed reflective tape intended by the manufacturer 

to be applied to public streets, highways, and other surfaces, including but not 

limited to curbs, berms, driveways, and parking lots. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

3.130 Traffic Marking Tape Adhesive Primer: an adhesive primer intended by the 

manufacturer to be applied to surfaces prior to installation of traffic marking tape. 

3.131 Transfer Efficiency: the ratio of the weight or volume of coating solids adhering 

to an object to the total weight or volume, respectively, of coating solids used in 

the application process. 

 

3.93 Ultraviolet Ink: as defined in Rule 4607 (Graphic Arts).

3.132 Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT): a material made from thermoplastic resins, 

fillers, and pigments. 

3.133 94 Volatile Organic Compound (VOC): as defined in Rule 1020 (Definitions). 

3.134 VCT and Asphalt Tile Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the manufacturer for the 

installation of vinyl composite tile or asphalt tile flooring. 

3.135 95 Waste Solvent Material: any solvent which may contain dirt, oil, metal 

particles, sludge, and/or waste products, or wiping material containing VOCs 

including, but not limited to, paper, cloth, sponge, rag, or cotton swab used in 

organic solvent cleaning. 

3.136 96 Waterproof Resorcinol Glue: a two-part, resorcinol-resin-based adhesive 

intended by the manufacturer designed for applications where the bond line must 

be resistant to conditions of continuous immersion in fresh or salt water. 

3.137 97 Wipe Cleaning: a solvent cleaning activity performed by hand rubbing 

an absorbent material such as a rag, paper, sponge, brush, or cotton swab 

containing solvent. 

3.138 Wood Flooring Adhesive: an adhesive intended by the manufacturer to be used 

to install a wood floor surface, including but not limited to, parquet tiles and 

wood planks. 

3.139 Wood Parquet Flooring: a wood flooring in tile form constructed of smaller 

pieces of wood which are joined together in a pattern by the maker to form the 

tile. 

3.140 Wood Plank Flooring: a wood flooring in plank form constructed of solid or 

laminated wood. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

4.0 Exemptions 

4.1 The provisions of this rule shall not apply to:

4.1.1 A stationary source that uses 20 gallons or less of adhesives products in a 

calendar year shall not be subject to Sections 5.1.1, 5.1.2, 5.1.3, and to the 

adhesives portion of Sections 5.1.5 and 5.2 through 5.6. Commercial and 

industrial operations exempted by this section shall maintain monthly 

records documenting the type and quantity of adhesive products and 

solvents used and provide the records to the District upon request. 

4.1.2 The use of adhesive products or sealant products containing less than 20 

grams VOC per liter. 

4.1.3 Effective through December 31, 2010, the testing and evaluation of 

adhesives in research laboratories, analytical laboratories, or quality 

assurance laboratories. Laboratory operators shall maintain monthly 

records documenting the type and quantity of adhesive products used and 

provide the records to the District upon request. Effective on and after 

January 1, 2011, laboratory operators shall comply with the requirements 

of Section 4.2. 

4.1.4 Effective through December 31, 2010, the The use of adhesives in tire 

repair provided the label states “for tire repair use only.” 

4.1.5 Effective through December 31, 2010, the use of adhesives that are sold or 

supplied with 8 fluid oz. or less of adhesive in non-reusable containers. 

Effective on and after January 1, 2011, operators shall comply with the 

applicable requirements of Section 4.2.

4.1.6 The use of aerosol spray adhesive products. 

4.1.7 Household adhesive products subject to Article 2, Consumer Products, 

Sections 94507 - 94517, Title 17, California Code of Regulations. 

4.1.8 Adhesive products which are subject to the VOC limit requirements of 

Rule 4605 (Aerospace Assembly and Component Coating Operations), 

Rule 4607 (Graphic Arts), and Rule 4681 (Rubber Tire Manufacturing). 

Effective on and after January 1, 2011, adhesive products subject to the 

VOC limit requirements of Rule 4605 (Aerospace Assembly and 

Component Coating Operations) will be subject to work practices required 

pursuant to Sections 5.3, 5.5.5, and 5.7. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  	 Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

4.1.9 Contact adhesives that are subject to the Consumer Product Safety 

Commission regulations in 16 CFR, Part 1302, that have a flash point 

greater than 20°F as determined pursuant to those regulations, and that 

are sold in packages that contain 128 fluid ounces or less. 

4.1.10 Stripping of cured adhesives, except the stripping of such materials from 

spray application equipment. 

4.1.11 A stationary source that uses 20 gallons or less of sealant products in a 

calendar year shall not be subject to Section 5.1.4, and to the sealant 

portion of Sections 5.1.5 and 5.2 through 5.6. Commercial and industrial 

operations exempted by this section shall maintain monthly records 

documenting the type and quantity of sealant products and solvents used 

and provide the records to the District upon request.

4.1.12 Except for the work practices required pursuant to Section 5.3, and 5.6,

the provisions of this rule shall not apply to the testing and evaluation of 

sealant products in research laboratories, analytical laboratories, or 

quality assurance laboratories. Laboratory operators claiming exemption 

under this section shall maintain monthly records documenting the type, 

quantity, and VOC content of sealant products used, the amount and 

VOC content of solvents. Records shall be retained in accordance with 

provisions of Section 6.1.5. 

4.2 Effective on and after January 1, 2011, the provisions of this rule, except for the 

work practices required pursuant to Sections 5.3, and 5.6, and 5.7, the 

provisions of this rule shall not apply to: 

4.2.1 The testing and evaluation of adhesives in research laboratories, analytical 

laboratories, or quality assurance laboratories. Laboratory operators shall 

maintain monthly records documenting the type and quantity of adhesive 

products used and provide the records to the District upon request. 

4.2.2 The use of adhesives that are sold or supplied with 8 fluid oz. or less of 

adhesive in non-reusable containers. 

4.2.3 The use of aerosol adhesive or aerosol adhesive primer products. 

4.2.45 Adhesive products used in assembly, repair, or manufacture of underseabased weapon systems. 

4.2.56 Adhesive products used in medical equipment manufacturing operations. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  
 Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

4.2.67 Cyanoacrylate adhesive application processes. 

4.2.78 Processes using polyester bonding putties to assemble fiberglass parts at 

fiberglass boat manufacturing facilities and at other reinforced plastic 

composite manufacturing facilities. 

4.3 Except for the records required in Section 6.1.3, the prohibition of sale in 

Section 5.7 5.8 shall not apply to the following: 

4.3.1 Adhesive products and sealant products shipped, supplied, or sold 

exclusively to persons outside the District for use outside the District. 

4.3.2 Adhesive products and sealant products sold to any person who complies 

with the requirements of Section 5.4. 

4.4 The VOC content limits of Table 6 3 shall not apply to the following 

applications: 

4.4.1 Cleaning of solar cells, laser hardware, scientific instruments, or high 

precision optics. 

4.4.2 Cleaning in laboratory tests and analyses, or bench scale or research 

and development projects. 

4.4.3 Cleaning of clutch assemblies where rubber is bonded to metal by 

means of an adhesive. 

4.4.4 Cleaning of paper-based gaskets. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

5.0 Requirements 

5.1 Adhesive and Sealant VOC Content Limits 

5.1.1 The VOC content of adhesive products used for specific applications shall 

not exceed the following limits, expressed as grams of VOC per liter of 

adhesive product, excluding water and exempt compounds, or grams of 

VOC per liter of material for low-solids adhesive products, as applied: 

Table 1 - VOC Content Limits for Adhesive Products 

(Effective through December 31, 2011)

VOC Limit 

Effective through 

December 31, 

2010. 

VOC Limit 

Effective on and 

after January 1, 

2011. 

Applications 

[Grams Per Liter] [Grams Per Liter]

Multipurpose Construction 200 200 

Floor Covering Installation 150 150 

Ceramic Tile Installation 130 130 

Perimeter Bonded Sheet Flooring Installation 660 660 

Single-Ply Roof Material Installation 250 250 

Structural Glazing 100 100 

ABS Welding Adhesive 400 400 

CPVC Welding Adhesive 490 490 

PVC Welding Adhesive 510 500 510

Other Plastic Cement Welding Adhesive 450 450 

Plastic Cement Welding Adhesive Primer 650 650 

Adhesive Primers 250 250 

Staple and Nail Manufacturing 640 640 

Contact Adhesive 250 250 

Contact Adhesive – Specialty 250 250 

Rubber Vulcanization Adhesive/Primer 850 850 

Waterproof Resorcinol Glue 170 170 

Tire Repair Retread N/A 100 

Cove Base Installation 250 150 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

Table 2 - VOC Content Limits for Adhesive Products

(Effective on and after January 1, 2012)

Applications VOC limit

(Grams Per Liter) 

Architectural Adhesive Products:

Multipurpose Construction 70

Ceramic Tile Adhesive 65

Cove Base Installation 50

Dry Wall and/or Panel Adhesive 50

Flooring Adhesives:

 Floor Covering Installation 150

 Ceramic Floor Tile Installation 65

 Indoor Carpet Adhesive 50

 Carpet Pad Adhesive 50

 Outdoor Carpet Adhesive 150

 Rubber Flooring Adhesive 60

 Perimeter Bonded Sheet Flooring Installation 660

 Subfloor Adhesive 50

 VCT and Asphalt Tile Adhesive 50

 Wood Flooring Adhesive 100

Roofing Adhesives: 

 Single-Ply Roof Material Installation 250

 Non-Membrane Roof Adhesive 300

Structural Glazing 100

Structural Wood Member Adhesive 140

Miscellaneous Adhesives:

Contact Adhesive 80

Contact Adhesive – Specialty 250

Rubber Vulcanization Adhesive/Primer 850

Tire Retread 100

Motor Vehicle Adhesive 250

Motor Vehicle Weatherstrip Adhesive 750

Traffic Marking Tape Adhesive/ Primer 150

Top and Trim Adhesive 540

Waterproof Resorcinol Glue 170

Staple and Nail Manufacturing 640

Thin Metal Laminating Adhesive 780

Elastomeric Adhesive 750

Flexible Vinyl Adhesive 250
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

Table 2 - VOC Content Limits for Adhesive Products continued

(Effective on and after January 1, 2012)

Applications

VOC Limit

(Grams per Liter) 

Plastic Welding Products

 ABS Welding Adhesive 325

 Cellulosic Plastic Welding Adhesive 100

 CPVC Welding Adhesive 490

 PVC Welding Adhesive 510

 Styrene-Acrylonitrile Welding Adhesive 100

 Plastic Cement Welding Adhesive Primer 400

 Other Plastic Cement Welding Adhesive 250

Adhesive Primers:

Automotive Glass Primer 700

Adhesive Primer 250

5.1.2 The VOC content of adhesive products, except as provided in Section 

5.1.1, shall not exceed the following limits, expressed as grams of VOC 

per liter of adhesive product, excluding water and exempt compounds, or 

grams of VOC per liter of material for low-solids adhesive products, as 

applied: 

Table 3 2 - VOC Content Limits for Adhesive Products 

Material Bonded 

VOC Limit 

Effective through 

December 31, 

2010. 

[Grams Per Liter] 

VOC Limit 

Effective on and 

after January 1, 

2011. 

[Grams Per Liter]

VOC Limit 

Effective on and 

after January 1, 

2012. 

[Grams Per Liter]

Metal to Metal 30 30 30

Porous Materials 120 120 50

Plastic Foam 120 120 50

Wood 30 30 30

Pre-formed Rubber 

Products 250 250 250

Reinforced Plastic 

Composite 250 200 200

Fiberglass - - 80

All other Substrates 250 250 250
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

5.1.3 The higher of the two limits from Table 3 2 applies to the bonding of two 

dissimilar substrates. 

5.1.4 The VOC content of sealant products used for specific applications shall 

not exceed the following limits, expressed as grams of VOC per liter of 

sealant product, excluding water and exempt compounds, or grams of 

VOC per liter of material for low-solids sealant products, as applied:

Table 4- VOC Content Limits for Sealants

Sealant

VOC Limit Effective on 

and after January 1, 2012. 

[Grams Per Liter]

Architectural 250

Marine Deck 760

Non-membrane Roof 300

Roadway 250

Single-Ply Roof Membrane 450

Other Sealants 420

 

Table 5- VOC Content Limits for Sealant Primers

Sealant Primer

VOC Limit Effective on 

and after January 1, 2012. 

[Grams Per Liter]

Architectural Non Porous 250

Architectural Porous 775

Modified Bituminous 500

Marine Deck 760

Other Sealant Primers 750

5.1.5 5.1.4 In lieu of complying with the applicable requirements of Sections 

5.1.1 through 5.1.4 5.1.3, an operator may control VOC emissions from 

adhesive product or sealant product application coating operations with a 

VOC emission control device that meets the requirements of Section 5.4. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

5.2 Adhesive and Sealant Application Equipment 

An operator shall use only the following equipment to apply adhesives and 

sealants: 

5.2.1 Electrostatic Application 

5.2.2 Flow Coater 

5.2.3 Roll Coater 

5.2.4 Dip Coater 

5.2.5 Hand Application Methods 

5.2.6 Airless Spray 

5.2.7 HVLP Spray 

5.2.7.1 HVLP spray equipment shall be operated in accordance with 

the manufacturer's recommendations. 

5.2.7.2 For HVLP spray guns manufactured prior to January 1, 1996, 

the end user shall demonstrate that the gun meets HVLP spray 

equipment standards. Satisfactory proof will be either in the 

form of manufacturer's published technical material or by a 

demonstration using a certified air pressure tip gauge, 

measuring the air atomizing pressure dynamically at the center 

of the air cap and at the air horns. 

5.2.7.3 A person shall not sell or offer for sale for use within the 

District any HVLP spray gun without a permanent marking 

denoting the maximum inlet air pressure in psig at which the 

gun will operate within the parameters specified in Section 3.0. 

5.2.8 Any other application method that demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the 

APCO and EPA, a coating transfer efficiency equivalent to or greater 

than the efficiency achieved by an HVLP spray gun. of at least 65 

percent (≥65%) as measured using a test method in Section 6.3.6. 

5.2.9 Air-atomized spray may only be used for the application of contact 

adhesives or specialty contact adhesives. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

5.2.10 In lieu of complying with the applicable requirements in Sections 5.2.1 

through 5.2.9, an operator may control emissions from coating 

application equipment with an APCO-approved VOC emission control 

system that controls the emissions from the source operation and that 

meets the requirements of Section 5.4. 

5.3 Work Practices for Adhesives Products and Sealant Products

 Effective on and after January 1, 2011, the The operator shall implement the 

following work practices when participating in adhesive-related activities. : 

Effective on and after January 1, 2012, the operator shall implement the work 

practices pursuant to Section 5.3.1 through 5.3.4 when participating in sealantrelated activities. 

5.3.1 An operator shall store or dispose of adhesive products, sealant products, 

catalysts, thinners, fresh or spent solvents, and waste solvent materials 

such as cloth, paper, etc., in closed, non-absorbent and non-leaking 

containers. The containers shall remain closed at all times except when 

depositing or removing the contents of the containers or when the container 

is empty. The containers used for disposal of adhesive materials, solvents, 

or any unused VOC containing materials shall be self-closing. 

 Store all VOC-containing adhesives, adhesive primers, and process

related waste materials in closed containers.

5.3.2 Ensure that mixing and storage containers for used VOC-containing 

adhesive products and sealant products adhesives, adhesive primers, and 

process-related waste materials are kept closed at all times except when 

depositing or removing these materials. 

5.3.3 Minimize spills of VOC-containing adhesive products, and sealant 

products, adhesives, adhesive primers, and process-related waste 

materials. 

5.3.4 Convey VOC-containing adhesive products, sealant products, adhesives, 

adhesive primers, and process-related waste materials from one location 

to another in closed containers or pipes. 

5.4 VOC Emission Control System Requirements 

5.4.1 In lieu of the applicable requirements of Section 5.1, 5.2, or 5.5, an 

operator may install and maintain a VOC emission control system that 

meets all of the requirements of Sections 5.4.2 through 5.4.4. 

5.4.2 The VOC emission control system shall be approved by the APCO. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

5.4.3 The VOC emission control system shall be operated with an overall capture 

and control efficiency of at least 85 percent by weight, as determined in 

accordance with Section 6.3. 

5.4.4 In no case shall compliance through the use of a VOC emission control 

system result in VOC emissions in excess of the VOC emissions which 

would result from compliance with the applicable requirements of Sections 

5.1, 5.2, or 5.5. 

5.4.5 The minimum required overall capture and control efficiency of a VOC 

emission control system at which an equivalent or greater level of VOC 

reduction will be achieved shall be calculated by using the following 

equation: 

( )

( ) x 100-1 VOC / D

-1 VOC / D

 x 

VOC

VOC CE = -1

LWc c

LWn, n,

LWn,

LWc































 Max Max

Max

Where: 

CE = Minimum Required Overall Capture and Control 

Efficiency, percent 

VOCLWc = VOC Limit, less water and less exempt compounds 

VOCLWn,Max = Maximum VOC content of noncompliant adhesive 

product used in conjunction with a control device, 

less water and less exempt compounds 

Dn,Max = Density of solvent, reducer, or thinner contained in 

the noncompliant adhesive product, containing the 

maximum VOC content 

Dc = Density of corresponding solvent, reducer, or 

thinner used in the compliant adhesive products 

5.5 Organic Solvent Cleaning Requirements 

 

5.5.1 An operator shall not use organic solvents for cleaning operations 

associated with adhesive products that exceed the VOC content limits 

specified in Table 6. 3, in accordance with the corresponding effective 

date. Effective on and after January 1, 2012 an operator shall not use 

organic solvents for cleaning operations associated with sealant products 

that exceed the VOC content limits specified in Table 6. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

Table 6 3– VOC Limits for Organic Solvents Used in Cleaning Operations 

Type of Solvent Cleaning Operation VOC Content Limit 

Grams of VOC/liter of 

material (lb/gal) 

A. Product Cleaning During 

Manufacturing Process or Surface 

Preparation for Adhesive Application 

1. General 25 (0.21) 

2. Surface Preparation Prior to 

Rubber Vulcanization Process 

850 (7.1) 

B. Repair and Maintenance Cleaning 25 (0.21) 

C. Cleaning of Adhesive Application 

Equipment 25 (0.21) 

5.5.2 In lieu of complying with the requirements in Table 6 3, an operator may 

control VOC emissions from cleaning operations with an APCO-approved 

VOC emission control system that meets the requirements of Section 5.4. 

5.5.3 An operator performing Table 6 3 Category A.2 cleaning using solvent 

with VOC content greater than 25 g/L and the cleaning is takes place 

outside the control of an APCO-approved VOC emission control system 

shall meet the requirements of Sections 5.5.4 through 5.5.6 in addition to 

the meeting the applicable VOC content limit of Table 6 3. 

5.5.4 Cleaning activities that use solvents shall be performed by one or more 

of the following methods: 

5.5.4.1 Wipe cleaning; or 

5.5.4.2 Application of solvent from hand-held spray containers from 

which solvents are dispensed without a propellant-induced 

force; or 

5.5.4.3 Non-atomized solvent flow method in which the cleaning 

solvent is collected in a container or a collection system which 

is closed except for solvent collection openings and, if 

necessary, openings to avoid excessive pressure build-up inside 

the container; or 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  	 Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

5.5.4.4 Solvent flushing method in which the cleaning solvent is 

discharged into a container that is closed except for solvent 

collection openings and, if necessary, openings to avoid 

excessive pressure build-up inside the container. The 

discharged solvent from the equipment must be collected into 

containers without atomizing into the open air. The solvent 

may be flushed through the system by air or hydraulic pressure, 

or by pumping. 

5.5.5 Solvent shall not be atomized into the open air unless it is vented to a 

VOC emission control system that complies with Section 5.4 5.3. This 

provision shall not apply to the cleaning of nozzle tips of automated 

spray equipment systems, except for robotic systems, and cleaning with 

spray bottles or containers described in Section 5.5.4.2. 

5.5.6 An operator shall not use VOC-containing materials to clean spray 

equipment used for the application of coatings, adhesives, or ink, unless 

an enclosed system or equipment that is proven to be equally effective at 

controlling emissions is used for cleaning. If an enclosed system is used, 

it must totally enclose spray guns, cups, nozzles, bowls, and other parts 

during washing, rinsing and draining procedures, and it must be used 

according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and must be closed 

when not in use. 

5.5.7 In lieu of complying with the applicable requirements of Sections 5.5.4 

through 5.5.6, an operator shall install and maintain a VOC emission 

control system that meets the requirements of Section 5.4 to control 

emissions from the solvent cleaning operation. 

5.6 Solvent Storage and Disposal Requirements

An operator shall store or dispose of coatings, adhesives, catalysts, thinners, 

cleaning materials, fresh or spent solvents, and waste solvent materials such as 

cloth, paper, etc., in closed, non-absorbent and non-leaking containers. The 

containers shall remain closed at all times except when depositing or removing the 

contents of the containers or when the container is empty. The containers used for 

disposal of adhesive materials, solvents, or any unused VOC containing materials 

shall be self-closing. 

5.6 5.7 Work Practices for Solvent Cleaning

 Effective on and after January 1, 2010, the The operator shall implement the 

following work practices when participating in organic solvent cleaning 

activities: 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  
 Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

 5.6.1 5.7.1 Minimize spills of VOC-containing cleaning materials. 

5.6.2 5.7.2 Convey VOC-containing cleaning materials from one location to 

another in closed containers or pipes. 

5.6.3 5.7.3 Minimize VOC emission from cleaning of application, storage, 

mixing, and conveying equipment by ensuring that equipment cleaning is 

performed without atomizing the cleaning solvent and all spent solvent is 

captured in closed containers. 

5.6.4 An operator shall store or dispose of cleaning materials, fresh or spent 

solvents, and waste solvent materials such as cloth, paper, etc., in closed, 

non-absorbent and non-leaking containers. The containers shall remain 

closed at all times except when depositing or removing the contents of the 

containers or when the container is empty. The containers used for 

disposal of adhesive materials, solvents, or any unused VOC containing 

materials shall be self-closing. 

5.7 5.8 Prohibition of Sale 

Except as provided in Section 4.3, no person shall supply, sell, or offer for sale 

any adhesive product or sealant product that does not meet the limits as specified in 

Section 5.1 or 5.4. 

5.8 Sell-Through of Adhesives and Sealants

5.8.1 An adhesive product or sealant product manufactured prior to the effective 

date specified for that product in Section 5.1, may be sold, supplied, or 

offered for sale for up to 12 months after the specified effective date. 

5.8.2 An adhesive product or sealant product manufactured prior to the effective 

date specified for that product in Section 5.1 may be applied up to 24 

months after the specified effective date.

5.8.3 Sections 5.8.1 and 5.8.2 only apply to those adhesive products or sealant 

products which are labeled to display the date or date code indicating when 

the product was manufactured and that complied with the standards in 

effect at the time the product was manufactured.
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

5.9 Prohibition of Specification

 No person shall solicit, require for use, or specify the application of any adhesive 

products or sealant products, if such use or application results in a violation of the 

provisions of this Rule. This prohibition shall apply to all written or oral contracts.

6.0 Administrative Requirements 

6.1 Recordkeeping 

6.1.1 Coatings Records: An operator subject to Section 5.1 or 5.5 shall maintain 

the following records: 

6.1.1.1 Daily records of the type and quantity of all adhesives, primers, 

and solvents used in each operation.

6.1.1.1 6.1.1.2 Records of the VOC content, in grams VOC per 

liter, of all adhesive materials used and or stored at the stationary 

source. 

6.1.1.2 6.1.1.3 Records of the VOC content of all solvents used and 

stored at the stationary source. 

6.1.1.3 Effective on and after January 1, 2012, records of the VOC

content, in grams VOC per liter, of all sealant materials used and

stored at a stationary source. 

6.1.2 VOC Emission Control System Records 

An operator using a VOC emission control device as a means of complying 

with this rule shall maintain daily records of key system operating 

parameters which will demonstrate continuous operation and compliance of 

the emission control system during periods of emission-producing 

activities. Key system operating parameters are those necessary to ensure 

compliance with VOC limits. The parameters may include, but are not 

limited to, temperatures, pressures, and flow rates. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

6.1.3 Prohibition of Sale Exemption Records 

An operator A person who claims exemption under Section 4.3 4.2 shall 

maintain records for all adhesive products and sealant products sold that do 

not meet the limits as specified in Section 5.1. The records shall include 

the following information: 

6.1.3.1 Type, quantity, and VOC content, in grams per liter, of the 

adhesive products or sealant products sold. 

6.1.3.2 Name, address, and telephone number of the persons to whom 

the adhesive products or sealant products are sold. 

6.1.4 Solvent Cleaning Records 

An operator subject to Section 5.5 shall also comply with the following 

recordkeeping requirements: 

6.1.4.1 Keep a copy of the manufacturer’s product data sheet or 

material safety data sheet of the solvents used for organic 

solvent cleaning activities. 

6.1.4.2 Maintain a current list of solvents that are being used for 

organic solvent cleaning activities. The list shall include the 

following information: 

6.1.4.2.1 The name of the solvent and its manufacturer’s 

name. 

6.1.4.2.2 The VOC content of the solvent expressed in 

grams/liter or lb/gallon. 

6.1.4.2.3 When the solvent is a mixture of different materials 

that are blended by the operator, the mix ratio of the 

batch shall be recorded and the VOC content of the 

batch shall be calculated and recorded in order to 

determine compliance with the specified limits of 

VOC content, as applied. 

6.1.4.2.4 The type of cleaning activity for each solvent that is 

being used in accordance with the applicable 

cleaning category specified in Table 6 3 of this rule. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

6.1.4.2.5 The quantity of solvents used for cleaning operations 

shall be kept on a daily basis. 

6.1.5 Records Retention: The operator shall retain the records specified in 

Sections 6.1.1 through 6.1.4, as applicable, on site for a period of five 

years, make the records available on site during normal business hours to 

the APCO, ARB, or EPA, and submit the records to the APCO, ARB, 

or EPA upon request. 

6.2 Labeling Requirements 

 Adhesive products and solvents subject to this rule shall be labeled pursuant to 

Sections 6.2.1 through 6.2.3 as appropriate. Effective on and after January 1, 

2012, sealant products subject to this rule shall be labeled pursuant to Sections 

6.2.1 through 6.2.3 as appropriate. 

6.2.1 VOC Content: Each container of adhesive product and sealant product 

subject to this rule shall display the maximum VOC content of the adhesive 

product or sealant product as applied. VOC content shall be displayed as 

grams of VOC per liter of adhesive product or sealant product, excluding 

water and exempt compounds, or grams of VOC per liter of material for 

low-solids adhesive products. Each container of solvent subject to this rule 

shall display the maximum VOC content (in grams of VOC per liter of 

material) as supplied. 

6.2.2 Thinning Recommendations: Each container of adhesive product or sealant 

product subject to this rule shall display a statement of the manufacturer's 

recommendations regarding thinning, reducing, or mixing of the adhesive 

product with any other VOC containing material. Mixing 

recommendations shall specify a ratio which results in a compliant, as 

applied, adhesive product, or sealant product. 

6.2.3 Manufacturers of any solvents subject to this rule shall indicate on the 

solvent container, or on a separate product data sheet or material safety 

data sheet, the name of the solvent, manufacturer's name, the VOC 

content, and density of the solvent, as supplied. The VOC content shall 

be expressed in units of gm/liter or lb/gallon. 

6.3 Test Methods 

The analysis of solvents, adhesive products, sealant products, and control 

efficiency shall be determined by the following methods: 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

6.3.1 The VOC and solids content of adhesive products, sealant products, and 

solvents shall be determined using EPA Method 24 or other test method 

approved by ARB, EPA, and the APCO. 

6.3.2 The capture efficiency for a VOC emission control system’s collection 

device(s) shall be determined according to EPA’s technical document, 

“Guidelines for Determining Capture Efficiency,” January 9, 1995 and 40 

CFR 51, Appendix M, Methods 204-204F, as applicable, or any other 

method approved by EPA, ARB, and the APCO. 

6.3.3 The control efficiency of a VOC emission control system’s control 

device(s) shall be determined using EPA Methods 2, 2A, or 2D for 

measuring flow rates and EPA Methods 25, 25A, or 25B for measuring 

total gaseous organic concentrations at the inlet and outlet of the control 

device. EPA Test Method 18 or ARB Method 422 (Determination of 

Volatile Organic Compounds in Emissions from Stationary Sources) 

shall be used to determine the emissions of exempt compounds. 

 

6.3.4 For VOC emission control systems that consist of a single VOC emission 

collection device connected to a single VOC emission control device, the 

overall capture and control efficiency shall be calculated by using the 

following equation: 

CECAPTURE AND CONTROL = [ CECAPTURE x CECONTROL ] / 100 % 

Where: 

CECAPTURE AND CONTROL = Overall Capture and Control Efficiency, in 

percent 

CECAPTURE = Capture Efficiency of the collection device, in 

percent, as determined in Section 6.3.2 

CECONTROL = Control Efficiency of the control device, in 

percent, as determined in Section 6.3.3 

6.3.5 Determination of Solvent Losses from Spray Gun Cleaning Systems 

The passive and active solvent losses from spray gun cleaning systems 

shall be determined by using SCAQMD “General Test Method for 

Determining Solvent Losses from Spray Gun Cleaning Systems” dated 

October 3, 1989. The test solvent for this determination shall be lacquer 

thinner with a minimum vapor pressure of 105 mm Hg at 20oC. The 

minimum temperature shall be 15oC. 
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

   Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

6.3.6 Transfer Efficiency 

Transfer efficiency shall be determined by one of the following: 

6.3.6.1 SCAQMD method “Spray Equipment Transfer Efficiency Test 

Procedure for Equipment User, May 24, 1989, or 

6.3.6.2 Any other test method for transfer efficiency for which written 

approval of the EPA and the APCO has been obtained.

6.4 Multiple Test Methods 

When more than one test method or set of test methods is specified for any 

testing, a violation of any requirement of this rule established by any one of the 

specified test methods or set of test methods shall constitute a violation of this 

rule. 

6.5 Version of Test Methods

All ASTM test methods referenced in Section 6.0 are the most recently EPAapproved version that appears in the CFR as Materials Approved for 

Incorporation by Reference.
 PROPOSED September 16, 2010 

  Proposed Amendments to Rule 4653

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