[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 144 (Thursday, July 28, 2022)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 45508-45562]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-14665]
[[Page 45507]]
Vol. 87
Thursday,
No. 144
July 28, 2022
Part III
Environmental Protection Agency
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40 CFR Part 82
Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Listing of Substitutes Under the
Significant New Alternatives Policy Program in Refrigeration, Air
Conditioning, and Fire Suppression; Proposed Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 144 / Thursday, July 28, 2022 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 45508]]
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 82
[EPA-HQ-OAR-2021-0836; FRL-6399-01-OAR]
RIN 2060-AT78
Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Listing of Substitutes Under
the Significant New Alternatives Policy Program in Refrigeration, Air
Conditioning, and Fire Suppression
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Proposed rule.
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SUMMARY: Pursuant to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's
Significant New Alternatives Policy program, this action proposes to
list certain substances as acceptable subject to use conditions in the
refrigeration and air conditioning sector for chillers--comfort
cooling, residential dehumidifiers, non-residential dehumidifiers,
residential and light commercial air conditioning and heat pumps, and a
substance as acceptable subject to use conditions and narrowed used
limits in very low temperature refrigeration. Through this action, EPA
is proposing to incorporate by reference standards which establish
requirements for electrical air conditioners, heat pumps, and
dehumidifiers, laboratory equipment containing refrigerant, safe use of
flammable refrigerants, and safe design, construction, installation,
and operation of refrigeration systems. Additionally, this action
proposes to list certain substances as acceptable subject to use
conditions in the fire suppression sector for certain streaming and
total flooding uses. Finally, EPA requests advance comment on potential
approaches to SNAP listing decisions for very short-lived substances
that have ozone depletion potentials similar to those of ozone-
depleting substances scheduled to be phased out.
DATES: Comments must be received on or before September 12, 2022. Any
party requesting a public hearing must notify the contact listed below
under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT by 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time
on August 2, 2022. If a virtual public hearing is held, it will take
place on or before August 12, 2022 and further information will be
provided on EPA's Stratospheric Ozone website at https://www.epa.gov/snap.
ADDRESSES: EPA has established a docket for this action under Docket ID
No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2021-0836. All documents in the docket are listed on the
https://www.regulations.gov website. Although listed in the index, some
information is not publicly available, e.g., Confidential Business
Information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is restricted
by statute. Certain other material, such as copyrighted material, is
not placed on the internet and will be publicly available only in hard
copy form. Publicly available docket materials are available
electronically through https://www.regulations.gov or in hard copy at
the Air and Radiation Docket, EPA/DC, EPA West, Room 3334, 1301
Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460. The Docket Center's hours
of operations are 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday (except Federal
Holidays). For further information on EPA Docket Center services and
the current status, please visit https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Holly Tapani, Stratospheric Protection
Division, Office of Atmospheric Programs (Mail Code 6205T),
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington,
DC 20460; telephone number: 202-564-0679; email address:
[email protected]. Notices and rulemakings under EPA's Significant
New Alternatives Policy program are available on EPA's SNAP website at
https://www.epa.gov/snap/snap-regulations.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. General Information
A. Executive Summary and Background
B. Does this action apply to me?
C. What acronyms and abbreviations are used in the preamble?
II. What is EPA proposing in this action?
A. Chillers--Proposed Listing of HFO-1234yf, R-454A, R-454B, and
R-454C as Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions, for Use in New
Chiller Equipment, and Proposed Listing of HFC-32 and R-452B as
Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions, for Use in New Rotary and
Scroll Chiller Equipment, for Chillers Used in Comfort Cooling,
Including Both Commercial and Industrial Process AC
1. Background on Chillers--Commercial AC and Industrial Process
AC
2. What are the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and
Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) classifications for refrigerant
flammability?
3. What are HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-
454C and how do they compare to other refrigerants in the same end-
use?
4. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
5. What additional information is EPA including in these
proposed listings?
6. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
B. Residential Dehumidifiers--Proposed Listing of HFO-1234yf,
HFC-32, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C as Acceptable, Subject to
Use Conditions, for Use in New Residential Dehumidifiers End-Use
1. Background on Residential Dehumidifiers
2. What are the ASHRAE classifications for refrigerant
flammability?
3. What are HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-
454C and how do they compare to other refrigerants in the same end-
use?
4. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
5. What additional information is EPA including in these
proposed listings?
6. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
C. Non-Residential Dehumidifiers--Proposed Listing HFC-32 as
Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions, for Use in New Non-
Residential Dehumidifiers End-Use
1. Background on Non-Residential Dehumidifiers
2. What are the ASHRAE classifications for refrigerant
flammability?
3. What is HFC-32 and how does it compare to other refrigerants
in the same end-use?
4. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
5. What additional information is EPA including in these
proposed listings?
6. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
D. Residential and Light Commercial AC and Heat Pumps (HPs)--
Proposed Listing of HFC-32 as Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions,
for Use in New Self-Contained Room ACs and HPs End-Use
1. Background on Self-Contained Room ACs and HPs
2. What are the ASHRAE classifications for refrigerant
flammability?
3. What is HFC-32 and how does it compare to other refrigerants
in the same end-use?
4. What use conditions currently apply to this refrigerant in
this end-use category?
5. What use conditions is EPA proposing?
6. How do the proposed use conditions differ from the existing
ones and why is EPA proposing to change the use conditions?
7. What is the acceptability status of HFC-32 in self-contained
room ACs and HPs?
8. What additional information is EPA including in these
proposed listings?
9. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
E. Use Conditions and Further Information for Chillers,
Residential Dehumidifiers, Non-Residential Dehumidifiers, and HFC-32
Self-Contained Room ACs and HPs
1. What use conditions is EPA proposing and why?
2. What additional information is EPA including in these
proposed listings?
3. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
F. Very Low Temperature Refrigeration (VLTR)--Proposed Listing
of R-1150 as
[[Page 45509]]
Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions and Narrowed Use Limits, for
Use in VLTR End-Use
1. Background on VLTR
2. What is EPA's proposed listing decision for R-1150?
3. What is R-1150 and how does it compare to other refrigerants
in the same end-use?
4. What use conditions is EPA proposing?
5. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
6. What narrowed use limits is EPA proposing?
7. Why is EPA proposing these specific narrowed use limits?
8. What additional information is EPA including in these
proposed listings?
9. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
G. Streaming and Total Flooding Fire Suppression--Proposed
Listing of 2-bromo-3,3,3-trifluoropropene (2-BTP) as Acceptable,
Subject to Use Conditions, as a Streaming Agent in Non-Residential
Applications and as a Total Flooding Agent in Normally Unoccupied
Spaces Under 500 ft\3\
1. Background on Streaming and Total Flooding Fire Suppression
2. What is EPA's proposed listing decision for 2-BTP?
3. What is 2-BTP and how does it compare to other fire
suppressants in the same end-uses?
4. What use conditions is EPA proposing?
5. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
6. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
H. Total Flooding Fire Suppression--Proposed Listing of
EXXFIRE[supreg] as Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions, for Use in
Normally Unoccupied Spaces
1. What is EPA's proposed listing decision for EXXFIRE[supreg]?
2. What is EXXFIRE[supreg] and how does it compare to other fire
suppressants in the same end-use?
3. What use conditions is EPA proposing and why?
4. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
I. Total Flooding Fire Suppression--Proposed Listing of Powdered
Aerosol H (Pyroquench-[alpha]TM) as Acceptable, Subject
to Use Conditions, for Use in Normally Unoccupied Spaces
1. What is EPA's proposed listing decision for Powdered Aerosol
H?
2. What is Powdered Aerosol H and how does it compare to other
fire suppressants in the same end-use?
3. What use conditions is EPA proposing and why?
4. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
III. Request for Advance Comment on Potential Approaches to SNAP
Listing Decisions for Certain Very Short-Lived Substances
IV. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory Planning and Review and
Executive Order 13563: Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review
B. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)
C. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)
D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA)
E. Executive Order 13132: Federalism
F. Executive Order 13175: Consultation and Coordination With
Indian Tribal Governments
G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children From
Environmental Health and Safety Risks
H. Executive Order 13211: Actions That Significantly Affect
Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use
I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act
J. Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions To Address
Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income
Populations
V. References
I. General Information
A. Executive Summary and Background
This action proposes to list new alternatives for the refrigeration
and air conditioning (AC) and fire suppression sectors. Specifically,
EPA is:
Listing hydrofluoroolefin (HFO)-1234yf, R-454A, R-454B,
and R-454C as acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use in
chillers used in comfort cooling, including commercial and industrial
process AC;
Listing hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)-32 and R-452B as
acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use in scroll and rotary
chillers used in comfort cooling, including commercial and industrial
process AC;
Listing HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-
454C as acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use in residential
dehumidifiers;
Listing HFC-32 as acceptable, subject to use conditions,
for use in non-residential dehumidifiers;
Listing HFC-32 as acceptable, subject to use conditions,
for use in self-contained room air conditioners (ACs) and heat pumps
(HPs);
Listing R-1150 as acceptable, subject to use conditions
and narrowed use limits, for use in very low temperature refrigeration
(VLTR);
Listing 2-bromo-3,3,3-trifluoropropene (2-BTP) as
acceptable, subject to use conditions, in streaming--for non-
residential use, except home offices and boats--and total flooding--in
normally unoccupied spaces under 500 ft\3\;
Listing of EXXFIRE[supreg] as acceptable, subject to use
conditions, in total flooding--for normally unoccupied areas; and
Listing of Powdered Aerosol H, also known as Pyroquench-
[alpha]TM, as acceptable, subject to use conditions, in
total flooding--for normally unoccupied areas.
EPA is proposing these new listings after its evaluation of human
health and environmental information for these substitutes under the
Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program. The Agency is
proposing action on these new listings in the refrigeration and AC
sector and the fire suppression sector based on the information that
EPA has included in the docket. This proposed action provides
additional flexibility for industry by providing new options in
specific uses.
Additionally, EPA requests advance comment on potential approaches
to SNAP listing decisions for very short-lived substances (VSLS) that
have ozone depletion potentials (ODPs) similar to those of class II
ozone-depleting substances (ODS) that are currently being phased out,
in particular trifluoroiodomethane (CF3I) and blends
containing CF3I. EPA is not proposing to include any
regulatory requirements with respect to such VSLS in this rulemaking.
EPA is not requesting comment on the republication of the first six
entries of the table titled ``Substitutes That Are Acceptable Subject
to Use Conditions''. Those entries are being republished to bring the
table in line with the Office of the Federal Register's general
requirement for orderly codification by: adding entry numbers,
replacing prohibited language, and properly formatting the footnotes.
SNAP Program Background
The SNAP program implements section 612 of the Clean Air Act (CAA).
Several major provisions of section 612 are:
1. Rulemaking
Section 612(c) requires EPA to promulgate rules making it unlawful
to replace any class I (chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), halon, carbon
tetrachloride, methyl chloroform, methyl bromide,
hydrobromofluorocarbon, and chlorobromomethane) or class II
(hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC)) ODS 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
that it finds to be unacceptable for specific uses and to publish a
corresponding list
[[Page 45510]]
of acceptable substitutes for specific uses.
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).
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 a new or existing chemical is introduced into
interstate commerce for significant new use as a substitute for a class
I substance. The producer must also provide the Agency with the
producer's unpublished health and safety studies on such substitutes.
The regulations for the SNAP program are promulgated at 40 Code of
Federal Regulations (CFR) part 82, subpart G, and the Agency's process
for reviewing SNAP submissions is described in regulations at 40 CFR
82.180. Under these rules, the Agency has identified five types of
listing decisions: acceptable; acceptable subject to use conditions;
acceptable subject to narrowed use limits; unacceptable; and pending
(40 CFR 82.180(b)). Use conditions and narrowed use limits are both
considered ``use restrictions,'' as described below. Substitutes that
are deemed acceptable with no use restrictions (no use conditions or
narrowed use limits) can be used for all applications within the
relevant end-uses in the sector. After reviewing a substitute, the
Agency may determine 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'' (40 CFR
82.180(b)(2)). 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. EPA describes these substitutes
as ``acceptable subject to narrowed use limits.'' Under the narrowed
use limit, users intending to adopt these substitutes ``must ascertain
that other alternatives are not technically feasible.'' (40 CFR
82.180(b)(3)).
In making decisions regarding whether a substitute is acceptable or
unacceptable, and whether substitutes present risks that are lower than
or comparable to risks from other substitutes that are currently or
potentially available in the end-uses under consideration, EPA examines
the criteria in 40 CFR 82.180(a)(7): (i) atmospheric effects and
related health and environmental impacts; (ii) general population risks
from ambient exposure to compounds with direct toxicity and to
increased ground-level ozone; (iii) ecosystem risks; (iv) occupational
risks; (v) consumer risks; (vi) flammability; and (vii) cost and
availability of the 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 under SNAP, these
statements are not binding for use of the substitute under the SNAP
program. However, regulatory requirements so listed are binding under
other regulatory programs (e.g., worker protection regulations
promulgated by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(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.
For additional information on the SNAP program, visit the SNAP
website at https://www.epa.gov/snap. The full lists of acceptable
substitutes for ODS in all industrial sectors are available at https://www.epa.gov/snap/snap-substitutes-sector. For more information on the
Agency's process for administering the SNAP program or criteria for
evaluation of substitutes, refer to the initial SNAP rulemaking
published March 18, 1994 (59 FR 13044), codified at 40 CFR part 82,
subpart G. SNAP decisions and the appropriate Federal Register
citations can be found at: https://www.epa.gov/snap/snap-regulations.
Substitutes listed as unacceptable; acceptable, subject to narrowed use
limits; or acceptable, subject to use conditions, are also listed in
the appendices to 40 CFR part 82, subpart G.
B. Does this action apply to me?
The following list identifies regulated entities that may be
affected by this rule and their respective North American Industrial
Classification System (NAICS) codes:
Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning Contractors (NAICS
238220)
All Other Basic Organic Chemical Manufacturing (NAICS 325199)
Pharmaceutical Preparations (e.g., Capsules, Liniments,
Ointments, Tablets) Manufacturing (NAICS 325412)
Air Conditioning and Warm Air Heating Equipment and Commercial
and Industrial Refrigeration Equipment Manufacturing (NAICS 333415)
Household Appliances, Electric Housewares, and Consumer
Electronics Merchant Wholesalers (NAICS 423620)
Refrigeration Equipment and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers
(NAICS 423740)
Recyclable Material Merchant Wholesalers (NAICS 423930)
Appliance Repair and Maintenance (NAICS 811412)
Fire Protection (NAICS 922160)
This list is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather to provide a
guide for readers regarding entities likely to be affected by this
action. To determine whether your facility, company, business, or
organization could be affected by this action, you should carefully
examine the regulations at 40 CFR part 82, subpart G and the revisions
below. If you have questions regarding the applicability of this action
to a particular entity, consult the person listed in the FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT section.
C. What acronyms and abbreviations are used in the preamble?
Below is a list of acronyms and abbreviations used in the preamble
of this document:
2-BTP--2-bromo-3,3,3-trifluoropropene
AC--Air Conditioning or Air Conditioner
ACCA--Air Conditioning Contractors of America
ACGIH--American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
AEL--Acceptable Exposure Limit
AIHA--American Industrial Hygiene Association
AHRI--Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute
ANSI--American National Standards Institute
ASHRAE--American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-
Conditioning Engineers
ASTM--American Society for Testing and Materials
[[Page 45511]]
CAA--Clean Air Act
CAS Reg. No.--Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Identification
Number
CBI--Confidential Business Information
CFC--Chlorofluorocarbon
CFR--Code of Federal Regulations
CO2--Carbon Dioxide
EPA--United States Environmental Protection Agency
FR--Federal Register
GWP--Global Warming Potential
HCFC--Hydrochlorofluorocarbon
HCFO--Hydrochlorofluoroolefin
HFC--Hydrofluorocarbon
HFO--Hydrofluoroolefin
HP--Heat Pump
ICF--ICF International, Inc.
IPCC--Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
LFL--Lower Flammability Limit
LOAEL--Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level
NAAQS--National Ambient Air Quality Standards
NAICS--North American Industrial Classification System
NARA--National Archives and Records Administration
NFPA--National Fire Protection Association
NIOSH--National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
NPRM--Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
ODP--Ozone Depletion Potential
ODS--Ozone Depleting Substances
OMB--United States Office of Management and Budget
OSHA--United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration
PMS--Pantone[supreg] Matching System
ppm--Parts Per Million
PRA--Paperwork Reduction Act
PTAC--Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner
PTHP--Packaged Terminal Heat Pump
RAL--``Reichs-Ausschu[szlig] f[uuml]r Lieferbedingungen und
G[uuml]tesicherung,'' Germany's National Commission for Delivery
Terms and Quality Assurance
RCRA--Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
RFA--Regulatory Flexibility Act
SCBA--Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
SDS--Safety Data Sheet
SIP--State Implementation Plan
SNAP--Significant New Alternatives Policy
TLV-TWA--Threshold Limit Value-Time-Weighted Average
TSCA--Toxic Substances Control Act
TWA--Time Weighted Average
UL--UL, formerly known as Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
UMRA--Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
VOC--Volatile Organic Compound, Volatile Organic Compounds
VSLS--Very Short-Lived Substances
VLTR--Very Low Temperature Refrigeration
WEEL--Workplace Environmental Exposure Limit
WMO--World Meteorological Organization
II. What is EPA proposing in this action?
A. Chillers--Proposed Listing of HFO-1234yf, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C
as Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions, for Use in New Chiller
Equipment, and Proposed Listing of HFC-32 and R-452B as Acceptable,
Subject to Use Conditions, for Use in New Rotary and Scroll Chiller
Equipment, for Chillers Used in Comfort Cooling, Including Both
Commercial and Industrial Process AC
EPA previously listed HFO-1234yf as acceptable subject to use
conditions in motor vehicle AC in light-duty vehicles (74 FR 53445;
October 19, 2009), in heavy-duty pickup trucks and complete heavy-duty
vans (81 FR 86778; December 1, 2016) and in nonroad vehicles and
service fittings for small refrigerant cans (87 FR 26276; May 4, 2022).
EPA previously listed HFC-32 as acceptable subject to use conditions as
a substitute in residential and light commercial AC and HPs (80 FR
19454; April 10, 2015) (86 FR 24444; May 6, 2021) and previously listed
R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C, (hereafter called ``the four
refrigerant blends''), as acceptable subject to use conditions as
substitutes in residential and light commercial AC and HPs (86 FR
24444; May 6, 2021).\1\
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\1\ In this proposed rule, we use the term ``air conditioner''
and ``AC'' to cover equipment that cools air, heats air, or has the
function to do both (typically referred to as a ``heat pump'').
While such equipment might humidify or dehumidify the air, the term
does not include equipment whose purpose is for latent cooling only
(i.e., dehumidifiers), which are a separate end-use under SNAP and
are addressed in section II.B of this proposed rule.
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Today's proposed rulemaking is proposing to find HFC-32, HFO-
1234yf, and the four refrigerant blends acceptable subject to use
conditions as substitutes in certain types of chillers. This proposed
listing for HFO-1234yf, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C applies to all
compressor types of chillers, i.e., centrifugal and positive
displacement (including reciprocating, screw, scroll and rotary)
chillers, while the proposed listing for HFC-32 and R-452B applies to
only scroll and rotary chillers. The proposed listings are for comfort
cooling applications of such chillers under EPA's proposed use
conditions, including but not limited to use in commercial AC and
industrial process AC.
Several use conditions proposed for chillers are identical to those
proposed for other end-uses (residential dehumidifiers, non-residential
dehumidifiers, and residential and light commercial AC and HPs)
proposed in sections II.B, II.C, and II.D. below. Because of this
similarity, EPA discusses the use conditions that would apply to all
three end-uses in section II.E below. For chillers, EPA is also
proposing an additional use condition related to adherence to the
ASHRAE 15-2019 standard. In summary, the common use conditions proposed
are:
(1) New equipment only--These refrigerants may be used only in new
equipment designed specifically and clearly identified for the
refrigerant, i.e., none of these substitutes may be used as a
conversion or ``retrofit'' refrigerant for existing equipment.
(2) UL Standard--These refrigerants may be used only in chillers
that meet all requirements listed in the 3rd edition, dated November 1,
2019, of UL Standard 60335-2-40, ``Household and Similar Electrical
Appliances--Safety--Part 2-40: Particular Requirements for Electrical
Heat Pumps, Air Conditioners and Dehumidifiers'' (hereafter in this
section, ``UL Standard''). If this rule is finalized as proposed, in
cases where the final rule would include requirements different than
those of the 3rd edition of UL Standard 60335-2-40, EPA is proposing
that the appliance would need to meet the requirements of the final
rule in place of the requirements in the UL Standard. See section II.E
below for further discussion on the requirements of this standard that
EPA is proposing to incorporate by reference.
(3) Warning labels--Several warning labels are proposed as use
conditions as detailed in section II.E below. These labels are similar
or verbatim in language to those required by the UL Standard. The
warning labels must be provided in letters no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\
inch) high and must be permanent.
(4) Markings--Equipment must have distinguishing red
(Pantone[supreg] Matching System (PMS) #185 or Reichs-Ausschu[szlig]
f[uuml]r Lieferbedingungen und G[uuml]tesicherung \2\ (RAL) 3020)
color-coded hoses and piping to indicate use of a flammable
refrigerant. The chiller shall have marked service ports, pipes, hoses
and other devices through which the refrigerant is serviced. Markings
shall extend at least 1 inch (25 millimeters) from the servicing port
and shall be replaced if removed.
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\2\ Germany's National Commission for Delivery Terms and Quality
Assurance.
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For chillers, EPA is also proposing a use condition related to
adherence to the ASHRAE 15-2019 standard in addition to those common
proposed use conditions. Specifically, we are proposing that these
refrigerants may only be used in chillers that meet all
[[Page 45512]]
requirements listed in the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard 15-2019 (hereafter ``ASHRAE Standard''). If this
rule is finalized as proposed, in cases where the final rule would
include requirements different than those of ASHRAE Standard 15-
2019,\3\ EPA is proposing that the appliance would need to meet the
requirements of the final rule in place of the requirements in the
ASHRAE Standard. EPA is also proposing that if this rule is finalized
as proposed, in cases where similar requirements of ASHRAE Standard 15
and UL Standard 60335-2-40 differ, the more stringent or conservative
condition shall apply unless superseded by the final rule. This
additional use condition is discussed further in section II.A.4 below.
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\3\ ASHRAE, 2019b. American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/
American Society for Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 15. Safety Standard for Refrigeration
Systems. 2019.
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The regulatory text of the proposed decisions appears in tables at
the end of this document. If finalized as proposed, this text would be
codified in appendix X of 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. The proposed
regulatory text contains listing decisions for the end-uses discussed
above. EPA notes that there may be other legal obligations pertaining
to the manufacture, use, handling, and disposal of the proposed
refrigerants that are not included in the information listed in the
tables (e.g., the CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibition on knowingly
venting or otherwise knowingly releasing or disposing of substitute
refrigerants in the course of maintaining, servicing, repairing or
disposing of an appliance or industrial process refrigeration or
Department of Transportation requirements for transport of flammable
gases). Flammable refrigerants being recovered or otherwise disposed of
from chillers are likely to be hazardous waste under the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) (see 40 CFR parts 260-270).
1. Background on Chillers--Commercial AC and Industrial Process AC
This proposal applies to chillers that are covered by the UL 60335-
2-40 standard ``Household and Similar Electrical Appliances--Safety--
Part 2-40: Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps, Air Conditioners and
Dehumidifiers'' and ASHRAE Standard 15-2019, ``Safety Standard for
Refrigeration Systems.'' EPA understands that the UL Standard applies
to chillers used for comfort cooling.
In the initial rule establishing the SNAP program (59 FR 13044;
March 18, 1994), EPA included within the refrigeration and AC sector
the end-use ``commercial comfort air conditioning'' and then elaborated
on that end-use by saying that ``CFCs are used in several different
types of mechanical commercial comfort AC systems, known as chillers.''
EPA indicated ``that over time, existing cooling capacity [from
chillers] will be either retrofitted or replaced by systems using non-
CFC refrigerants in a vapor compression cycle or by alternative
technologies.'' We also explained in that rule that vapor compression
chillers can be categorized by the type of compressor used, including
centrifugal, rotary, screw, scroll and reciprocating compressors. These
compressor types are also divided into centrifugal and positive
displacement chillers, the latter of which includes those with
reciprocating, screw, scroll or rotary compressors.
Centrifugal chillers are equipment that utilize a centrifugal
compressor in a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle. Centrifugal
chillers are typically used for commercial comfort AC, although other
uses, that we are not proposing here, do exist. Centrifugal chillers
can be found in office buildings, hotels, arenas, convention halls,
airport terminals and other buildings. Centrifugal chillers tend to be
used in larger buildings.
Positive displacement chillers are those that utilize positive
displacement compressors such as reciprocating, screw, scroll or rotary
types. Positive displacement chillers are applied in similar situations
as centrifugal chillers, again primarily for commercial comfort AC,
except that positive displacement chillers tend to be used for smaller
capacity needs such as in mid- and low-rise buildings.
A chiller is a type of equipment using refrigerant that typically
cools water or a brine solution, which is then pumped to fan coil units
or other air handlers to cool the air that is supplied to the occupied
spaces transferring the heat to the water. The heat absorbed by the
water can then be used for heating purposes, and/or can be transferred
directly to the air (``air-cooled''), to a cooling tower or body of
water (``water-cooled''), or through evaporative coolers
(``evaporative-cooled''). A chiller or a group of chillers could
similarly be used for district cooling where the chiller plant cools
water or another fluid that is then pumped to multiple locations being
served such as several different buildings within the same complex.
Chillers may also be used to maintain operating temperatures in various
types of buildings, for example, in data centers, server farms, and
agricultural/food operations. Chillers are used in other applications,
for example, to cool process streams in industrial applications.
Chillers are also used for comfort cooling of operators or climate
control and protecting process equipment in industrial buildings, for
example, in industrial processes when ambient temperatures could
approach 200 [deg]F (93 [deg]C) and corrosive conditions could exist.
The listings proposed today would apply to all types of chillers in
comfort cooling applications.
2. What are the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-
Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) classifications for refrigerant
flammability?
The ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2019 assigns a safety group
classification for each refrigerant which consists of two to three
alphanumeric characters (e.g., A2L or B1). The initial capital letter
indicates the toxicity, and the numeral denotes the flammability.
ASHRAE classifies Class A refrigerants as refrigerants for which
toxicity has not been identified at concentrations less than or equal
to 400 parts per million (ppm) by volume, based on data used to
determine threshold limit value-time-weighted average (TLV-TWA) or
consistent indices. Class B signifies refrigerants for which there is
evidence of toxicity at concentrations below 400 ppm by volume, based
on data used to determine TLV-TWA or consistent indices.
The refrigerants are also assigned a flammability classification of
1, 2, 2L, or 3. Tests for flammability are conducted in accordance with
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) E681 using a spark
ignition source at 140 [deg]F (60 [deg]C) and 14.7 psia (101.3 kPa).\4\
The flammability classification ``1'' is given to refrigerants that,
when tested, show no flame propagation. The flammability classification
``2'' is given to refrigerants that, when tested, exhibit flame
propagation, have a heat of combustion less than 19,000 kJ/kg (8,169
Btu/lb), and have a lower flammability limit (LFL) greater than 0.10
kg/m\3\. The flammability classification ``2L'' is given to
refrigerants that, when tested, exhibit flame propagation, have a heat
of combustion less than 19,000 kJ/kg (8,169 BTU/lb), have an LFL
greater than 0.10 kg/m\3\, and have a maximum burning velocity of 10
cm/s or lower
[[Page 45513]]
when tested in dry air at 73.4 [deg]F (23.0 [deg]C) and 14.7 psi (101.3
kPa). The flammability classification ``3'' is given to refrigerants
that, when tested, exhibit flame propagation and that either have a
heat of combustion of 19,000 kJ/kg (8,169 BTU/lb) or greater or have an
LFL of 0.10 kg/m\3\ or lower.
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\4\ ASHRAE, 2019a. ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2019: Designation and
Safety Classification of Refrigerants.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
For flammability classifications, refrigerant blends are designated
based on the worst case of formulation for flammability and the worst
case of fractionation for flammability determined for the blend.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP28JY22.000
Using these safety group classifications, ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-
2019 categorizes HFO-1234yf, HFC-32 and the four refrigerant blends in
this section of the proposed rulemaking in the A2L Safety Group.
3. What are HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C and
how do they compare to other refrigerants in the same end-use?
HFO-1234yf and HFC-32 are lower flammability refrigerants, and the
four refrigerant blends are lower flammability refrigerant blends, all
with an ASHRAE safety classification of A2L. The respective Chemical
Abstracts Service Registry Identification Numbers (CAS Reg. Nos.) of
HFO-1234yf, HFC-32 and the components of the four refrigerant blends
are listed below.
HFO-1234yf, also known by the trade names ``Solstice[supreg] yf''
and ``Opteon TM YF,'' is also known as 2,3,3,3-
tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (CAS Reg. No. 754-12-1). HFC-32 is also known as
R-32 or difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5). R-452B, also known by
the trade names ``Opteon TM XL 55'' and ``Solstice[supreg]
L41y,'' is a blend consisting of 67 percent by weight HFC-32; seven
percent HFC-125, also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg.
No. 354-33-6); and 26 percent HFO-1234yf. R-454A, also known by the
trade name ``OpteonTM XL 40,'' is a blend consisting of 35
percent HFC-32 and 65 percent HFO-1234yf. R-454B, also known by the
trade names ``OpteonTM XL 41'' and ``Puron
AdvanceTM,'' is a blend consisting of 68.9 percent HFC-32
and 31.1 percent HFO-1234yf. R-454C, also known by the trade name
``OpteonTM XL 20,'' is a blend consisting of 21.5 percent
HFC-32 and 78.5 percent HFO-1234yf.
Redacted submissions and supporting documentation for HFO-1234yf,
HFC-32 and the four refrigerant blends are provided in the docket for
this proposed rule (EPA-HQ-OAR-2021-0836) at https://www.regulations.gov. EPA performed an assessment to examine the health
and environmental risks of each of these substitutes. These assessments
are available in the docket for this proposed
rule.5 6 7 8 9 10
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\5\ ICF, 2022a. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and
Industrial Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-
32.
\6\ ICF, 2022b. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and
Industrial Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute:
HFO-123yf.
\7\ ICF, 2022c. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and
Industrial Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-
452B.
\8\ ICF, 2022d. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and
Industrial Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-
454A.
\9\ ICF, 2022e. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and
Industrial Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-
454B.
\10\ ICF, 2022f. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and
Industrial Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-
454C.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Environmental information: HFO-1234yf, HFC-32 and the four
refrigerant blends have ODPs of zero.
HFO-1234yf has a 100-year integrated global warming potential (GWP)
of less than one to four. 11 12 13 HFC-32 has a GWP of 675.
The four refrigerant blends are made up of the components HFC-32, HFC-
125, and HFO-1234yf, which have GWPs of 675, 3,500, and one to four,
respectively.\14\ If these values are weighted by mass percentage, then
R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C have GWPs of about 700, 240, 470,
and 150, respectively.
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\11\ World Meteorological Organization (2018). Burkholder et al.
Appendix A, Table A-1 in Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion:
2018, Global Ozone Research and Monitoring Project, Report No. 58,
World Meteorological Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, http://ozone.unep.org/science/assessment/sap. (WMO, 2018).
\12\ Nielsen et al., 2007. Nielsen, O.J., Javadi, M.S., Sulbaek
Andersen, M.P., Hurley, M.D., Wallington, T.J., Singh, R. 2007.
Atmospheric chemistry of CF3CF=CH2: Kinetics and mechanisms of gas-
phase reactions with Cl atoms, OH radicals, and O3. Chemical Physics
Letters 439, 18-22. Available online at http://www.cogci.dk/network/OJN_174_CF3CF=CH2.pdf.
\13\ Hodnebrog [Oslash];. et al., 2013. 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.
\14\ Unless otherwise specified, GWP values are 100-year values
from Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (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. S. Solomon, D. Qin, M. Manning, Z. Chen, M.
Marquis, K.B. Averyt, M. Tignor and H.L. Miller (eds.). Cambridge
University Press. Cambridge, United Kingdom 996 pp.
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HFC-32, HFO-1234yf, and the other component of one of the four
refrigerant
[[Page 45514]]
blends, HFC-125, are excluded from EPA's regulatory definition of
volatile organic compounds (VOC) (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). That definition
provides that ``any compound of carbon'' which ``participates in
atmospheric photochemical reactions'' is considered a VOC unless
expressly excluded in that provision based on a determination of
``negligible photochemical reactivity.'' Knowingly venting or otherwise
knowingly releasing or disposing of these refrigerants in the course of
maintaining, servicing, repairing or disposing of an appliance or
industrial process refrigeration is prohibited as provided in section
608(c)(2) of the CAA and EPA's regulations at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
Flammability information: HFO-1234yf, HFC-32 and the four
refrigerant blends have lower flammability. All have an ASHRAE
flammability classification of 2L.
Toxicity and exposure data: HFO-1234yf, HFC-32 and the four
refrigerant blends have an ASHRAE toxicity classification of A.
Potential health effects of exposure to these substitutes include
drowsiness or dizziness. The substitutes may also irritate the skin or
eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high concentrations, the
substitutes may cause irregular heartbeat. The substitutes could cause
asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a confined space. These
potential health effects are common to many refrigerants.
The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) has established
Workplace Environmental Exposure Limits (WEELs) of 1,000 ppm as an
eight-hour time-weighted average (8-hr TWA) for HFC-32 and the
component refrigerant HFC-125; the AIHA has established a WEEL of 500
ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFO-1234yf. The manufacturer of R-452B, R-454A,
R-454B, and R-454C recommends AELs, respectively, of 874, 690, 854, and
615 ppm on an 8-hr TWA for these blends. EPA anticipates that users
will be able to meet the AIHA WEELs and manufacturers' AELs and address
potential health risks by following requirements and recommendations in
the manufacturers' safety data sheet (SDS), the use conditions proposed
(including adherence to ASHRAE Standard 15), and other safety
precautions common to the refrigeration and AC industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: HFO-1234yf, HFC-32
and the four refrigerant blends all have an ODP of zero, comparable to
or lower than some of the acceptable substitutes in these end-uses,
such as HFO-1234ze(E) with an ODP of zero. Although HCFC-123 and R-406A
(with components HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b) have been listed acceptable in
this end-use with ODPs of 0.02 and 0.057, respectively, HCFC-123
(unless used, recovered, and recycled) may not be used as a refrigerant
in equipment manufactured on or after January 1, 2020, under 40 CFR
82.15(g)(5)(i).\15\ Similarly, components of R-406A (HCFC-22 and HCFC-
142b) (unless used, recovered, and recycled) may not be used as a
refrigerant for use in chillers manufactured on or after January 1,
2010, under 40 CFR 82.15(g)(2)(i).\16\ Under 40 CFR 82.16, EPA has not
issued any production and consumption allowances for HCFC-22 and HCFC-
142b since 2019.
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\15\ The regulations at 40 CFR 82.15(g)(5)(iii) provide a
limited exception to the prohibition on use in 82.15(g)(5)(i), for
use of HCFC-123 as a refrigerant in equipment manufactured on or
after January 1, 2020 but before January 1, 2021 if the conditions
of 40 CFR 82.15(g)(5)(iii) are met.
\16\ The regulations at 40 CFR 82.15(g)(2)(ii) provide limited
exceptions to the prohibitions in 82.15(g)(2)(i), including for
HCFC-22 ``for use as a refrigerant in appliances manufactured before
January 1, 2012, provided that the components are manufactured prior
to January 1, 2010, and are specified in a building permit or a
contract dated before January 1, 2010, for use on a particular
project.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
HFC-32 and the four refrigerant blends' GWPs, ranging from about
150 to 700, are higher than those of some of the acceptable substitutes
for new centrifugal and positive displacement chillers, including HCFO-
1233zd(E), HFO-1336mzz(Z) and R-515B, with GWPs of 3.7, 9 and 287,
respectively. The GWPs of HFO-1234yf, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C are
lower than some of the acceptable substitutes for new centrifugal and
positive displacement chillers, such as R-450A and R-513A, with GWPs of
approximately 600 and 630, respectively. For scroll and rotary
chillers, HFC-32's and R-452B's GWPs of 675 and about 700 are higher
than the GWPs of those refrigerants. The GWPs of HFC-32 and R-452B are,
however, lower than R-410A, with a GWP of approximately 2,090, which is
the refrigerant that has typically been employed in such systems. EPA
listed R-410A as unacceptable for chillers as of January 1, 2024. Our
initial evaluation is that the characteristics of these two
alternatives meet the technical needs of scroll and rotary chillers
while lower-GWP alternatives do not. For instance, under the Air-
Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute's (AHRI) Low-GWP
Alternative Refrigerants Evaluation Program, manufacturers specifically
chose HFC-32 amongst others to test in scroll chillers \17\ but not in
screw chillers.\18\ EPA understands that the decision to investigate
this refrigerant in scroll chillers was made because it has the higher
volumetric capacity that is needed for this type of compressor. This
thermodynamic property is important to achieve the cooling capacity
needed without increasing equipment sizes, which could lead to weights
exceeding code requirements, for instance, when a chiller on top of an
existing building is replaced with a new one. In contrast, for other
types of compressors, such as centrifugal, reciprocating, and screw,
the higher volumetric capacity is not required; lower-GWP refrigerants,
such as HCFO-1233zd(E), R-450A, and R-513A, with GWPs ranging from less
than one to 630, are available and meet technical needs for those
compressor types.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\17\ For example, test report #46 (https://ahrinet.org/App_Content/ahri/files/RESEARCH/AREP_Final_Reports/AHRI%20Low-GWP%20AREP-Rpt-046.pdf).
\18\ For example, test report #7 (https://ahrinet.org/App_Content/ahri/files/RESEARCH/AREP_Final_Reports/AHRI%20Low-GWP%20AREP-Rpt-024.pdf) and test report #25 (https://ahrinet.org/App_Content/ahri/files/RESEARCH/AREP_Final_Reports/AHRI%20Low-GWP%20AREP-Rpt-025.pdf).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
HFC-32's and the four refrigerant blends' GWPs, ranging from about
150 to 700, are higher than those of some of the acceptable substitutes
for new industrial process AC, including carbon dioxide
(CO2), HFO-1336mzz(Z) and R-515B with GWPs of 1, 9 and 287
respectively. Their GWPs are lower than some of the acceptable
substitutes for new industrial process AC, such as HFC-134a, R-410A,
and R-507A with GWPs of 1,430, 2,090 and 3,990 respectively. HFO-
1234yf's GWP of one to four is comparable to or lower than that of
other acceptable substitutes for new industrial process AC, such as
CO2, HFO-1336mzz(Z) and R-515B with GWPs of 1, 9 and 287,
respectively.
Information regarding the toxicity of other available alternatives
is provided in the listing decisions previously made (see https://www.epa.gov/snap/substitutes-chillers). Toxicity risks of use,
determined by the likelihood of exceeding the exposure limit, of HFO-
1234yf, HFC-32, and the four refrigerant blends in these end-uses are
evaluated in the risk screens referenced above. The toxicity risks of
using HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, and the four refrigerant blends in chillers
and industrial process AC are comparable to or lower than toxicity
risks of other available substitutes in the same end-uses. Toxicity
risks of the
[[Page 45515]]
proposed refrigerants can be minimized by use consistent with ASHRAE
15--which would be required by our proposed use conditions--and other
industry standards, recommendations in the manufacturers' SDS, and
other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and AC industry.
The flammability risk with HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, and the four
refrigerant blends in these end-uses, determined by the likelihood of
exceeding their respective lower flammability limits, are evaluated in
the risk screens referenced above. In conclusion, while these
refrigerants may pose greater flammability risk than other available
substitutes in the same end-uses, this risk can be minimized by use
consistent with ASHRAE 15--which would be required by our proposed use
conditions--and other industry standards such as UL 60335-2-40--which
is also required by our proposed use conditions--as well as
recommendations in the manufacturers' SDS and other safety precautions
common in the refrigeration and AC industry. EPA is proposing use
conditions to reduce the potential risk associated with the
flammability of these alternatives so that they will not pose
significantly greater risk than other acceptable substitutes in this
end-use.
4. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
The UL Standard 60335-2-40 discussed in section II.E indicates that
refrigerant charges greater than a specific amount (called
``m3'' in the UL Standard and based on the refrigerant's
LFL) are beyond its scope and that national standards might apply, such
as for instance ANSI/ASHRAE 15-2019. Hence, EPA is including adherence
to both standards as use conditions for chillers, broadening the
coverage under this proposed rule.
EPA is proposing that ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 15-2019, with all
addenda published to date of this proposal, including addenda a, b, c,
d, e, f, i, j, k, n, o, q, and r apply specifically to chillers. Where
the requirements specified in this proposed rule (if finalized) and
ASHRAE Standard 15 are different, the requirements of this proposed
rule (if finalized) would apply. In cases where similar requirements of
ASHRAE Standard 15 and UL Standard 60335-2-40 differ, EPA proposes that
the more stringent or conservative condition would apply.
A summary of certain aspects of ASHRAE Standard 15 is provided here
for information only. This is not meant to be a full explanation of the
Standard or how it is applied. ASHRAE Standard 15 specifies
requirements for refrigeration systems,\19\ including chillers, based
on the safety group classification of the refrigerant used, the type of
occupancy in the location for which the system is used, and whether
refrigerant-containing parts of the system enter the space or ductwork
and so leakage in the space is deemed ``probable.'' ``High-
Probability'' installations are those such that leaks or failures will
result in refrigerant entering the occupied space. As explained above,
HFO-1234yf, HFC-32 and the four refrigerant blends are all classified
as A2L refrigerants. Occupancies are divided into six classifications:
institutional, public assembly, residential, commercial, large
mercantile, and industrial. Examples of these include jails, theaters,
apartment buildings, office buildings, shopping malls, and chemical
plants, respectively.
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\19\ We note that while the ASHRAE 15-2019 purpose indicates
``refrigeration systems,'' EPA believes this includes applications
that are typically called ``air conditioning.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sections 7.2 and 7.3 of ASHRAE Standard 15 determine the maximum
amount of refrigerant allowed in the system, while section 7.4 provides
an option to locate equipment outdoors or in a machinery room
constructed and maintained under conditions specified in the standard.
Section 7.6 of ASHRAE Standard 15 addresses the refrigerants in this
proposal when used for human comfort in ``high-probability'' systems,
including requirements for nameplates, labels, refrigerant detectors
(under certain conditions), airflow initiation and other actions (if a
rise in refrigerant concentration is detected), and other restrictions.
EPA recognizes that ASHRAE Standard 15 is undergoing revisions and
is typically updated and republished every three years. While this
proposed rule incorporates all addenda published by the date of this
proposal, the 2022 version of the standard may incorporate additional
changes. ASHRAE standards are open for public comment and participation
following ANSI requirements.
5. What additional information is EPA including in these proposed
listings?
EPA is providing additional information related to these proposed
listings. Since this additional information is not part of the
regulatory decision under SNAP, these statements are not binding for
use of the substitute under the SNAP program. See section II.E.2 below
for further discussion on what additional information EPA is including
in these proposed listings. 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.
6. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
EPA is requesting comment on all aspects of the proposed listing
decision above for use of HFC-32 and R-452B in scroll and rotary
chillers. EPA is also requesting comment on the proposal to list HFO-
1234yf, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C acceptable in all chillers. We
request comment on our initial evaluation and our proposal to find HFC-
32 and R-452B acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use only in
scroll and rotary chillers. EPA also seeks specific comments on the use
conditions including the proposed requirements to comply with both the
third edition of UL Standard 60335-2-40 and ASHRAE 15-2019 including
published addenda. With respect to these standards, EPA is requesting
comment on the risk mitigation offered by compliance with the current
version of the standards proposed as use conditions, the nature of
updates proposed for these standards, and the expected timeline for
those updates. EPA is requesting comment on the applicability of UL
Standard 60335-2-40, 3rd Edition to chillers, including which chillers
and under which applications the standard applies, as well as on the
applicability of ASHRAE Standard 15-2019 with the addenda published to
date.
EPA recognizes that these standards are undergoing revision. Both
UL and ASHRAE standards are open for public comment and participation
following ANSI requirements. UL opened for comment a proposed 4th
edition of this standard as an update to the 3rd Edition to which
comments were due March 1, 2022. If the final 4th edition is published
before EPA takes final action on today's proposed listings that would
incorporate the 3rd edition by reference, EPA may incorporate the 4th
Edition by reference into those listings in lieu of the 3rd Edition.
Similarly, ASHRAE has opened for comment a 2022 version of ANSI/ASHRAE
15. If the final 2022 edition of ASHRAE 15 is published before EPA
takes final action on today's proposed listings that would incorporate
the 2019 edition by reference, EPA may incorporate the 2022 edition by
reference into those listings in lieu of the 2019 edition. If either
revised standard becomes final before EPA takes final action on these
[[Page 45516]]
listings, EPA anticipates reopening or extending the public comment
period to provide an opportunity for public comment on incorporating
the final 4th edition of UL 60335-2-40 or the final 2022 edition of
ASHRAE 15 by reference into those listings.
B. Residential Dehumidifiers--Proposed Listing of HFO-1234yf, HFC-32,
R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C as Acceptable, Subject to Use
Conditions, for Use in New Residential Dehumidifiers End-Use
EPA previously listed HFO-1234yf as acceptable subject to use
conditions in motor vehicle AC in light-duty vehicles (74 FR 53445;
October 19, 2009), in heavy-duty pickup trucks and complete heavy-duty
vans (81 FR 86778; December 1, 2016) and in nonroad vehicles and
service fittings for small refrigerant cans (87 FR 26276; May 4, 2022).
EPA previously listed HFC-32 as acceptable subject to use conditions as
a substitute in residential and light commercial AC and HPs (80 FR
19454; April 10, 2015 and 86 FR 24444, May 6, 2021) and previously
listed R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C (hereafter called ``the four
refrigerant blends'') as acceptable subject to use conditions as
substitutes in residential and light commercial AC and HPs (86 FR
24444; May 6, 2021).
Several use conditions proposed for residential dehumidifiers are
common to those proposed for other end-uses in section II.A, above, and
II.C and II.D, below. Because of this similarity, EPA discusses the use
conditions that would apply to all four end-uses in section II.E. For
residential dehumidifiers, those are the only use conditions EPA is
proposing. In summary the use conditions proposed are:
(1) New equipment only--These refrigerants may be used only in new
equipment designed specifically and clearly identified for the
refrigerant, i.e., none of these substitutes may be used as a
conversion or ``retrofit'' refrigerant for existing equipment.
(2) UL Standard--These refrigerants may be used only in residential
dehumidifiers that meet all requirements listed in the 3rd edition,
dated November 1, 2019, of Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Standard
60335-2-40, ``Household and Similar Electrical Appliances--Safety--Part
2-40: Particular Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps, Air
Conditioners and Dehumidifiers'' (UL Standard). If this rule is
finalized as proposed, in cases where the final rule would include
requirements different from those of the 3rd edition of UL Standard
60335-2-40, EPA is proposing that the appliance would need to meet the
requirements of the final rule in place of the requirements in the UL
Standard. See section II.E below for further discussion on the
requirements of this standard that EPA is proposing to incorporate by
reference.
(3) Warning labels--Several warning labels are proposed as use
conditions as detailed in section II.E below. These labels are similar
or verbatim in language to those required by the UL Standard. The
warning labels must be provided in letters no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\
inch) high and must be permanent.
(4) Markings--Equipment must have distinguishing red (PMS #185 or
RAL 3020) color-coded hoses and piping to indicate use of a flammable
refrigerant. The residential dehumidifier shall have marked service
ports, pipes, hoses and other devices through which the refrigerant is
serviced. Markings shall extend at least 1 inch (25mm) from the
servicing port and shall be replaced if removed.
The regulatory text of the proposed decisions appears in tables at
the end of this document. If finalized as proposed, this text would be
codified in appendix X of 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. The proposed
regulatory text contains listing decisions for the end-use discussed
above. EPA notes that there may be other legal obligations pertaining
to the manufacture, use, handling, and disposal of the proposed
refrigerants that are not included in the information listed in the
tables (e.g., the CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibition on knowingly
venting or otherwise knowingly releasing or disposing of substitute
refrigerants in the course of maintaining, servicing, repairing or
disposing of an appliance or industrial process refrigeration, or
Department of Transportation requirements for transport of flammable
gases). Flammable refrigerants being recovered or otherwise disposed of
from residential dehumidifiers are likely to be hazardous waste under
RCRA (see 40 CFR parts 260-270).
1. Background on Residential Dehumidifiers
Residential dehumidifiers are primarily used to remove water vapor
from ambient air or directly from indoor air for comfort or material
preservation purposes in the context of the home.\20\ While AC systems
often combine cooling and dehumidification, this end-use only serves
the latter purpose and is often used in homes for comfort purposes.
This equipment is self-contained and circulates air from a room, passes
it through a cooling coil, and collects condensed water for disposal.
Residential dehumidifiers fall under the scope of the UL 60335-2-40
standard ``Household and Similar Electrical Appliances--Safety--Part 2-
40: Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps, Air Conditioners and
Dehumidifiers.''
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\20\ SNAP regulations (see 40 CFR 82.172) define residential use
as use by a private individual of a chemical substance or any
product containing the chemical substance in or around a permanent
or temporary household, during recreation, or for any personal use
or enjoyment. Use within a household for commercial or medical
applications is not included in this definition, nor is use in
automobiles, watercraft, or aircraft.
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Some dehumidifiers for residential or light commercial use are
integrated with the space air conditioning equipment, for instance via
a separate bypass in the duct through which air is dehumidified, a
dehumidifying heat pipe across the indoor coil, or other types of
energy recovery devices that move sensible and/or latent heat between
air streams (e.g., between incoming air and air vented to the outside).
EPA classifies this application as a component of a residential or
light commercial AC system or HP. As such, EPA has already listed HFC-
32 as acceptable for such uses, subject to the use conditions specified
in SNAP Rule 23 (86 FR 24444; May 6, 2021).
Today's proposal, if finalized, would find HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, and
the four refrigerant blends acceptable, subject to use conditions, in
self-contained residential dehumidifiers. Note that dehumidifiers for
residential or light commercial use that are integrated with air
conditioning equipment (i.e., not self-contained), are not addressed in
this listing because EPA classifies that type of equipment as
residential or light commercial AC and HP.
2. What are the ASHRAE classifications for refrigerant flammability?
HFO-1234yf and HFC-32 are lower flammability refrigerants, and the
four refrigerant blends are lower flammability refrigerant blends, all
with an ASHRAE safety classification of A2L. See section II.A.2 above
for further discussion on ASHRAE classifications.
3. What are HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C and
how do they compare to other refrigerants in the same end-use?
See section II.A.3 above for further discussion on the
environmental, flammability, toxicity, and exposure information for
these refrigerants.
Redacted submissions and supporting documentation for HFO-1234yf,
HFC-32 and the four refrigerant blends are provided in the docket for
this proposed rule (EPA-HQ-OAR-2021-0836) at
[[Page 45517]]
https://www.regulations.gov. EPA performed an assessment to examine the
health and environmental risks of each of these substitutes. These
assessments are available in the docket for this proposed
rule.21 22 23 24 25 26
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\21\ ICF, 2022g. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential
Dehumidifiers (New Equipment); Substitute: HFC-32.
\22\ ICF, 2022h. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential
Dehumidifiers (New Equipment); Substitute: R-452B.
\23\ ICF, 2022i. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential
Dehumidifiers (New Equipment); Substitute: R-454A.
\24\ ICF, 2022j. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential
Dehumidifiers (New Equipment); Substitute: R-454B.
\25\ ICF, 2022k. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential
Dehumidifiers (New Equipment); Substitute: R-454C.
\26\ ICF, 2022l. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential
Dehumidifiers (New Equipment); Substitute: HFO-1234yf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: HFO-1234yf, HFC-32
and the four refrigerant blends all have an ODP of zero, comparable to
or lower than some of the acceptable substitutes in new residential
dehumidifiers, such as HFC-134a, R-410A, and R-513A, with ODPs of zero.
HCFC-22 and R-406A (a blend of HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b) have ODPs of
0.055 and 0.057, respectively, and are listed as acceptable in new
residential dehumidifiers. However, HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b are
controlled substances under Title VI of the CAA and (unless used,
recovered, and recycled) may not be used as a refrigerant in equipment
manufactured on or after January 1, 2010, under 40 CFR
82.15(g)(2)(i).\27\ Under 40 CFR 82.16, EPA has not issued any
production and consumption allowances for HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b (which
is a component of R-406A, along with HCFC-22) since 2019.
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\27\ The regulations at 40 CFR 82.15(g)(2)(ii) provide limited
exceptions to the prohibitions in 82.15(g)(2)(i), including for
HCFC-22 ``for use as a refrigerant in appliances manufactured before
January 1, 2012, provided that the components are manufactured prior
to January 1, 2010, and are specified in a building permit or a
contract dated before January 1, 2010, for use on a particular
project.''
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HFO-1234yf, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C have GWPs ranging up to
about 470, lower than all the acceptable substitutes for new
residential dehumidifiers, including R-513A and R-410A with GWPs of 630
and 2,090, respectively. HFC-32 and R-452B have GWPs of 675 and 700,
respectively, which are lower than some of the other acceptable
substitutes for new residential dehumidifiers, such as HFC-134a, R-
410A, and R-507A with GWPs of 1,430, 2,090 and 3,990 respectively, but
higher than R-513A, with a GWP of about 630.
Information regarding the toxicity of other available alternatives
is provided in the previous listing decisions for new residential
dehumidifiers (https://www.epa.gov/snap/substitutes-residential-dehumidifiers). Toxicity risks of use, determined by the likelihood of
exceeding the exposure limit, of HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, and the four
refrigerant blends in these end-uses are evaluated in the risk screens
referenced above. The toxicity risks of using HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, and
the four refrigerant blends in new residential dehumidifiers are
comparable to or lower than toxicity risks of other available
substitutes in the same end-use. Toxicity risks of the proposed
refrigerants can be mitigated by use consistent with ASHRAE 15 and
other industry standards, recommendations in the manufacturers' SDS,
and other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and AC
industry.
The flammability risk with HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, and the four
refrigerant blends in the new residential dehumidifiers end-use,
determined by the likelihood of exceeding their respective lower
flammability limits, are evaluated in the risk screens referenced in
this section above. While these refrigerants may pose greater
flammability risk than other available substitutes in the new
residential dehumidifiers end-use, this risk can be mitigated by use
consistent with ASHRAE 15 and UL 60335-2-40, required by our proposed
use conditions, as well as recommendations in the manufacturers' SDS
and other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and AC
industry. EPA is proposing use conditions to reduce the potential risk
associated with the flammability of these alternatives so that they
will not pose significantly greater risk than other acceptable
substitutes in the new residential dehumidifiers end-use.
4. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
EPA is proposing to list HFO-1234yf, HFC-32 and the four
refrigerant blends as acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use in
residential dehumidifiers for new equipment. The use conditions
identified in the listing above are explained below in section II.E.1
in greater detail.
5. What additional information is EPA including in these proposed
listings?
EPA is providing additional information related to these proposed
listings. Since this additional information is not part of the
regulatory decision under SNAP, these statements are not binding for
use of the substitute under the SNAP program. See section II.E.2 below
for further discussion on what additional information EPA is including
in these proposed listings. 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.
6. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
EPA is requesting comment on all aspects of the proposed listing
decision in section II.B above, proposing to find HFO-1234yf, HFC-32,
and the four refrigerant blends acceptable, subject to use conditions,
in new residential dehumidifiers. EPA seeks comment on the risk
mitigation offered by the use conditions proposed, including requiring
compliance with the third edition of UL Standard 60335-2-40, except to
the extent the proposed rule conflicts with the UL Standard, in which
case we propose that the conditions specified in the proposed rule
would apply if finalized. We also request comment on whether EPA should
consider other use conditions to further mitigate potential risk from
refrigerants. EPA requests comment on whether residential dehumidifiers
have been designed for the refrigerants proposed and any information on
the safety of such equipment in other countries, and if and how such
experience would translate to safe use in the United States. EPA also
requests comment on our description of different types of dehumidifiers
and how EPA classifies different types in different end-uses.
C. Non-Residential Dehumidifiers--Proposed Listing of HFC-32 as
Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions, for Use in New Non-Residential
Dehumidifiers End-Use
EPA is proposing to list HFC-32 as acceptable, subject to use
conditions for use in new non-residential dehumidifiers. EPA previously
listed HFC-32 as acceptable subject to use conditions as a substitute
in residential and light commercial AC and HPs (80 FR 19454; April 10,
2015 and 86 FR 24444, May 6, 2021).
The use conditions proposed for non-residential dehumidifiers are
the same as those proposed for residential dehumidifiers. The use
conditions are common to those proposed for other end-uses in section
II.A and II.B, above, and II.D, below. Because of this similarity, EPA
discusses the use
[[Page 45518]]
conditions that would apply to all four end-uses in section II.DE. In
summary, the use conditions proposed are:
(1) New equipment only--These refrigerants may be used only in new
equipment designed specifically and clearly identified for the
refrigerant, i.e., none of these substitutes may be used as a
conversion or ``retrofit'' refrigerant for existing equipment.
(2) UL Standard--These refrigerants may be used only in non-
residential dehumidifiers that meet all requirements for dehumidifiers
listed in the 3rd edition, dated November 1, 2019, of Underwriters
Laboratories (UL) Standard 60335-2-40, ``Household and Similar
Electrical Appliances--Safety--Part 2-40: Particular Requirements for
Electrical Heat Pumps, Air Conditioners and Dehumidifiers'' (UL
Standard). If this rule is finalized as proposed, in cases where the
final rule would include requirements different from those of the 3rd
edition of UL Standard 60335-2-40, EPA is proposing that the appliance
would need to meet the requirements of the final rule in place of the
requirements in the UL Standard. See section II.E below for further
discussion on the requirements of this standard that EPA is proposing
to incorporate by reference.
(3) Warning labels--Several warning labels are proposed as use
conditions as detailed in section II.E below. These labels are similar
or verbatim in language to those required by the UL Standard. The
warning labels must be provided in letters no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\
inch) high and must be permanent.
(4) Markings--Equipment must have distinguishing red (PMS #185 or
RAL 3020) color-coded hoses and piping to indicate use of a flammable
refrigerant. The non-residential dehumidifier shall have marked service
ports, pipes, hoses and other devices through which the refrigerant is
serviced. Markings shall extend at least 1 inch (25mm) from the
servicing port and shall be replaced if removed.
The regulatory text of the proposed decisions appears in tables at
the end of this document. If finalized as proposed, this text would be
codified in appendix X of 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. The proposed
regulatory text contains listing decisions for the end-use discussed
above. EPA notes that there may be other legal obligations pertaining
to the manufacture, use, handling, and disposal of the proposed
refrigerants that are not included in the information listed in the
tables (e.g., the CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibition on knowingly
venting or otherwise knowingly releasing or disposing of substitute
refrigerants in the course of maintaining, servicing, repairing or
disposing of an appliance or industrial process refrigeration, or
Department of Transportation requirements for transport of flammable
gases). Flammable refrigerants being recovered or otherwise disposed of
from non-residential dehumidifiers are likely to be hazardous waste
under RCRA (see 40 CFR parts 260-270).
1. Background on Non-Residential Dehumidifiers
Today's proposal would create a new SNAP end-use for non-
residential dehumidifiers. As described in section II.B.1 above, while
AC systems often combine cooling and dehumidification, the non-
residential dehumidifier end-use serves only the latter purpose. This
equipment is self-contained and circulates air from a room, passes it
through a cooling coil, and collects condensed water for disposal. Non-
residential dehumidifiers are similar in function to residential
dehumidifiers described in section II.B.1 above, but are used in spaces
not covered by residential use (see definition provided in section
II.B.1 above). These types of non-residential spaces include
commercial, industrial, or agricultural spaces (e.g., grow-rooms for
plants) to provide finely controlled environments with temperature and
humidity monitored carefully to ensure optimal conditions (e.g., plant
growth). Examples of non-residential settings where self-contained
dehumidifiers are used include food production and preparation where
excessive humidity could damage the product or to manage humidity in
greenhouses to protect crops. This type of equipment falls under the
scope of the UL 60335-2-40 standard ``Household and Similar Electrical
Appliances--Safety--Part 2-40: Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps,
Air Conditioners and Dehumidifiers.''
2. What are the ASHRAE classifications for refrigerant flammability?
HFC-32 is a lower flammability refrigerant with an ASHRAE safety
classification of A2L. See section II.A.2 above for further discussion
on ASHRAE classifications.
3. What is HFC-32 and how does it compare to other refrigerants in the
same end-use?
See section II.A.3 above for further discussion on the
environmental, flammability, toxicity and exposure information for HFC-
32.
The redacted submission and supporting documentation for HFC-32 is
provided in the docket for this proposed rule (EPA-HQ-OAR-2021-0836) at
https://www.regulations.gov. EPA performed an assessment to examine the
health and environmental risks of this substitute. This assessment is
available in the docket for this proposed rule.\28\
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\28\ ICF, 2022m. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Non-residential
Dehumidifiers (New Equipment); Substitute: HFC-32.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Because EPA is proposing new non-residential self-contained
dehumidifiers as a new end-use, there are no other listed substitutes
to compare to HFC-32.
4. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
The use conditions identified in the listing above are explained
below in section II.E.1 in greater detail.
5. What additional information is EPA including in these proposed
listings?
EPA is providing additional information related to these proposed
listings. Since this additional information is not part of the
regulatory decision under SNAP, these statements are not binding for
use of the substitute under the SNAP program. See section II.E.2 below
for further discussion on what additional information EPA is including
in these proposed listings. 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.
6. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
EPA is requesting comment on all aspects of the proposed listing
decision in section II.C above, proposing to find HFC-32 acceptable,
subject to use conditions, in non-residential dehumidifiers. EPA seeks
comment on the risk mitigation offered by the use conditions proposed,
including requiring compliance with the third edition of UL Standard
60335-2-40, except to the extent the proposed rule conflicts with the
UL Standard, in which case we propose that the conditions specified in
the proposed rule would apply if finalized. We also request comment on
whether other use conditions would offer needed risk mitigation for the
flammable refrigerants proposed. EPA requests comment on whether non-
residential dehumidifiers have been designed for the refrigerant
proposed, HFC-32, any information on the safety of such equipment in
other countries, and if and how such experience would translate to safe
use in the United States. EPA also requests
[[Page 45519]]
comment on our description of different types of dehumidifiers and how
EPA classifies different types in different end-uses.
D. Residential and Light Commercial AC and Heat Pumps (HPs)--Proposed
Revision of Use Conditions Provided in the Previous Listing of HFC-32
as Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions, for Use in New Self-Contained
Room ACs and HPs
EPA previously listed HFC-32 as acceptable, subject to use
conditions, in new self-contained room ACs and HPs in SNAP Rule 19 (80
FR 19461; April 10, 2015). Today we are proposing to update those use
conditions to be consistent with use conditions applied to other
refrigerants with lower flammability as finalized in SNAP Rule 23 (86
FR 24444; May 6, 2021). The proposed use conditions would be required
on all such equipment manufactured on or after the effective date of
the final rule and would not apply to or affect equipment manufactured
before the effective date of the final action and manufactured in
compliance with the SNAP requirements applicable at the time of
manufacture.
1. Background on Self-Contained Room ACs and HPs
EPA provided an overview of the residential and light commercial AC
and HPs end-use, and the self-contained equipment category within that
end-use, in SNAP Rule 19 (80 FR 19461; April 10, 2015) and the Notice
of Proposed Rulemaking for SNAP Rule 23 (85 FR 35881-35882; June 12,
2020). We believe the descriptions there adequately describe the end-
use category as it exists today.
2. What are the ASHRAE classifications for refrigerant flammability?
See section II.A.2 above for further discussion on ASHRAE
classifications.
3. What is HFC-32 and how does it compare to other refrigerants in the
same end-use?
See section II.A.3 above for further discussion on the
environmental, flammability, toxicity and exposure information for HFC-
32.
A redacted submission and supporting documentation for HFC-32 are
provided in the docket for this proposed rule (EPA-HQ-OAR-2021-0836) at
https://www.regulations.gov. EPA performed an assessment to examine the
health and environmental risks of this substitute, available in the
docket for this proposed rule.\29\
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\29\ ICF, 2022n. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential and
Light Commercial Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps (New Equipment)
Substitute: HFC-32 (Difluoromethane).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: HFC-32 has an ODP
of zero, the same as other acceptable substitutes in this end-use, such
as R-290, HFC-134a, R-410A, and R-513A, with ODPs of zero.
HFC-32 has a GWP of 675, higher than some of the acceptable
substitutes for residential and light commercial air conditioning and
heat pumps, including ammonia absorption, R-290, and R-454B with GWPs
of zero, three, and about 470, respectively. HFC-32's GWP is lower than
some of the acceptable substitutes for residential and light commercial
air conditioning and heat pumps, such as R-452B, HFC-134a, and R-410A,
with GWPs of approximately 700, 1,430, and 2,090, respectively.
Information on the toxicity and flammability risk of HFC-32 in this
end-use category was provided in SNAP Rule 19. In summary, EPA found
the toxicity risks of HFC-32 to be comparable to or lower than other
acceptable alternatives. Although we noted that the flammability risk
of HFC-32 may be greater than that of other available, nonflammable
substitutes in the same end-use, we found that those risks are not
significant even under worst-case assumptions. These risks of HFC-32
are similar to the risks of other flammable refrigerants found
acceptable for this end-use category in SNAP Rule 23 (i.e., R-452B, R-
454A, R-454B, R-454C, and R-457A). We noted there that this risk can be
minimized by use consistent with industry standards such as UL 60335-2-
40--which would be required by our proposed revision to the use
conditions--and other industry standards, such as ASHRAE 15, as well as
recommendations in the manufacturers' SDS and other safety precautions
common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. The updates
to the use conditions proposed maintain the low potential risk
associated with the flammability of this alternative so that it will
not pose significantly greater risk than other acceptable substitutes
in this end-use category.
4. What use conditions currently apply to this refrigerant in this end-
use category?
EPA previously found HFC-32 acceptable, subject to use conditions,
in new residential and light commercial AC for self-contained room AC
units, including packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) units,
packaged terminal heat pumps (PTHPs), window AC and HP units, and
portable AC units, designed for use in a single room in SNAP Rule 19
(80 FR 19454; April 10, 2015). Those requirements are codified in
appendix R of 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. EPA provided information on
the environmental and health properties of HFC-32 and the various
substitutes available at that time for use in this end-use.
Additionally, EPA's risk screen for this refrigerant is available in
the docket for this previous rulemaking (EPA-HQ-OAR-2013-0748).
HFC-32 has an ASHRAE classification of A2L, indicating that it has
low toxicity and lower flammability. The flammability risks are of
potential concern because residential ACs and HPs traditionally used
refrigerants that are not flammable. In the presence of an ignition
source (e.g., static electricity, a spark resulting from a closing
door, or a cigarette), an explosion or a fire could occur if the
concentration of HFC-32 were to exceed the LFL of 144,000 ppm by
volume.
To address flammability, EPA listed HFC-32 as acceptable, subject
to use conditions, in new self-contained room AC units. The current use
conditions address safe use of this flammable refrigerant and include
incorporation by reference of Supplement SA to the 8th edition (August
2, 2012) of UL Standard 484, refrigerant charge size limits based on
cooling capacity and type of equipment, and requirements for markings
and warning labels on equipment using the refrigerant to inform
consumers and technicians of potential flammability hazards. Without
appropriate use conditions, the flammability risk posed by this
refrigerant could be higher than non-flammable refrigerants because
individuals may not be aware that their actions could potentially cause
a fire, and because the refrigerant could be used in existing equipment
that has not been designed specifically to minimize flammability risks.
Our assessment and listing decisions in SNAP Rule 19 (80 FR 19454;
April 10, 2015) found that with the use conditions, the overall risk of
this substitute, including the risk due to flammability, does not
present significantly greater risk in the end-use than other
substitutes that are currently or potentially available for that same
end-use.
5. What updates to the use conditions is EPA proposing?
EPA is proposing to update the use conditions that apply to HFC-32
in new self-contained room ACs and HPs for
[[Page 45520]]
equipment manufactured after the effective date of a final rule based
on this proposal. Several of the updated use conditions proposed for
self-contained room ACs and HPs are common to those proposed for other
end-uses in sections II.A, II.B, and II.C above. Because of this
similarity, EPA discusses the use conditions that would apply to all
four end-uses in section II.E. For HFC-32 in self-contained room ACs
and HPs, these are the only use conditions EPA is proposing. In
summary, with the updates proposed, the use conditions proposed are the
following:
(1) New equipment only--This refrigerant may only be used in new
equipment designed specifically and clearly identified for the
refrigerant, i.e., this substitute may not be used as a conversion or
``retrofit'' refrigerant for existing equipment. This use condition is
the same as what currently exists for HFC-32 in this end-use category.
(2) UL Standard--This refrigerant (i.e., in this case, HFC-32) may
be used only in equipment (i.e., in this case, self-contained room ACs
and HPs) that meet all requirements listed in the 3rd edition, dated
November 1, 2019, of Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Standard 60335-2-
40, ``Household and Similar Electrical Appliances--Safety--Part 2-40:
Particular Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps, Air Conditioners and
Dehumidifiers'' (UL Standard). If this rule is finalized as proposed,
in cases where the final rule would include requirements different than
those of the 3rd edition of UL Standard 60335-2-40, EPA is proposing
that the appliance would need to meet the requirements of the final
rule in place of the requirements in the UL Standard. See section II.E
below for further discussion on the requirements of this standard that
EPA is proposing to incorporate by reference. This change in the use
condition updates the standard to which the equipment must comply from
Supplement SA to the 8th edition, dated August 2, 2012, of UL Standard
484, ``Room Air Conditioners'' to the 3rd edition of UL 60335-2-40.
(3) Warning labels--Several warning labels are proposed as use
conditions as detailed in section II.E below. These labels are similar
or verbatim in language to those required by the UL Standard. The
warning labels must be provided in letters no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\
inch) high and must be permanent. While the font size is the same as in
the use conditions that currently apply, several revisions to the
labels and the language in them have changed and are based on the
updated UL Standard, the 3rd edition of UL 60335-2-40.
(4) Markings--Equipment must have distinguishing red (PMS #185 or
RAL 3020) color-coded hoses and piping to indicate use of a flammable
refrigerant. The equipment shall have marked service ports, pipes,
hoses and other devices through which the refrigerant is serviced.
Markings shall extend at least 1 inch (25mm) from the servicing port
and shall be replaced if removed. This use condition is the same as
what currently exists for HFC-32 in this end-use category.
The regulatory text of the proposed decisions appears in tables at
the end of this document. If finalized as proposed, this text would be
codified by amending appendix R. The amendment would be to indicate
that the use conditions finalized apply to HFC-32 self-contained room
AC units manufactured on or after the effective date of such a final
rule (which we anticipate would be 30 days after publication in the
Federal Register). Equipment manufactured before the effective date of
the final rule would not be affected by this action and would hence be
subject to the use conditions included in appendix R at the time they
were manufactured. The proposed revisions to the current regulatory
text update the use conditions as they apply to the previous listing
decision for HFC-32 in self-contained room ACs and HPs. EPA notes that
there may be other legal obligations pertaining to the manufacture,
use, handling, and disposal of the proposed refrigerants that are not
included in the information listed in the tables (e.g., the CAA section
608(c)(2) prohibition on knowingly venting or otherwise knowingly
releasing or disposing of substitute refrigerants in the course of
maintaining, servicing, repairing or disposing of an appliance or
industrial process refrigeration, or Department of Transportation
requirements for transport of flammable gases). Flammable refrigerants
being recovered or otherwise disposed of from residential and light AC
appliances are likely to be hazardous waste under RCRA (see 40 CFR
parts 260-270).
6. How do the proposed use conditions differ from the existing ones and
why is EPA proposing to change the use conditions?
The updated use conditions EPA is proposing are similar to the ones
that exist today in appendix R of 40 CFR part 82, subpart G for HFC-32
in this end-use category. The proposed requirements that HFC-32 must be
used in new equipment only and must include red markings at service
ports are repeated in this proposed listing. Existing room ACs using
HFC-32 manufactured before the effective date of a final rule to this
proposal would not be affected by these updated use conditions.
Warning labels are required under EPA's current regulations, and
EPA is proposing to continue to require them, although with some
specific language changes. The warning labels EPA is proposing are
identical to those required as use conditions for the use of HFC-32 in
residential and light commercial AC and HPs (excluding self-contained
room ACs and HPs) and for R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, R-454C, and R-457A in
residential and light commercial AC and HPs (including self-contained
room ACs and HPs). EPA finds that using a common set of labels, similar
to those from UL Standard 60335-2-40, will aid in compliance especially
for a manufacturer that uses more than one of these refrigerants or
produces both self-contained room ACs and HPs and other types of
residential and light commercial AC and HPs. The updated labels EPA is
proposing use the opening word ``WARNING'' in lieu of ``DANGER'' or
``CAUTION'' and change ``Risk of Fire or Explosion'' to just ``Risk of
Fire.'' EPA is proposing that the labels must be provided in letters no
less than 6.4 millimeter (\1/4\ inch) high and must be permanent, which
is identical to the current requirement for HFC-32 in self-contained
room ACs and HPs.
EPA is proposing to update the standard incorporated by reference
in the use conditions, replacing the requirement to follow certain
sections of the 2012 version of UL 484 with the proposed requirement to
adhere to the 3rd edition of UL Standard 60335-2-40. UL Standard 60335-
2-40 was developed in an open and consensus-based approach, with the
assistance of experts in the refrigeration and AC industry as well as
experts involved in assessing the safety of products. The revision
cycle for the 3rd edition, including final recirculation, concluded
with its publication on November 1, 2019. The 2019 UL Standard replaces
the previously published version of several standards, including UL
Standard 484, which had already been revised into a ninth edition by
that time. EPA was aware of the continuing progress of UL Standards to
address flammable refrigerants more appropriately. In the 2021 SNAP
Rule (SNAP Rule 23) listing HFC-32 for other categories within the
residential and light commercial AC and HPs end-use, we stated, ``EPA
understands that the standard we relied on in [SNAP] Rule 19 might
`sunset' in the future.
[[Page 45521]]
Therefore, we will continue to evaluate the market for the equipment
addressed in that rule, including HFC-32 in self-contained room ACs,
and whether to establish new or revised use conditions that reference
UL 60335-2-40'' (86 FR 24463; May 6, 2021). Today, we are proposing
such a change knowing that UL is replacing the standard to which such
equipment is certified from UL 484 to the newer UL 60335-2-40 standard.
Updating the UL Standard incorporated as a use condition will
provide more consistency amongst the products within this end-use and
between HFC-32 and the five A2L refrigerants listed as acceptable,
subject to use conditions, for this end-use including self-contained
room ACs and HPs in SNAP Rule 23. This change will allow the industry
to focus on the existing standard. The change will be helpful in
implementing any transitions needed or planned for manufacturers,
installers, and technicians. A manufacturer, who may offer different
products within this end-use with different refrigerants, could use
similar processes, such as in developing and applying the warning
labels required. Installers and technician, likewise, would not need to
reference different standards depending on the type of equipment and
the particular A2L refrigerant being used in that equipment, when
putting in a new piece of equipment or servicing that equipment.
Another revision to the use conditions is charge sizes. In the 2019
SNAP Rule, charge sizes from both UL 484 (8th edition) and those
stipulated by tables within the rule needed to be followed. Rather than
requiring examination of both items and determining which charge size
was lower, the proposed updated use conditions would rely on a single
document, the 3rd edition of UL Standard 60335-2-40.
7. What is the acceptability status of HFC-32 in self-contained room
ACs and HPs?
If finalized as proposed, the use conditions in this action would
apply to new self-contained room ACs and HPs using HFC-32 manufactured
on or after the effective date of the final rule (which we anticipate
would be 30 days after publication in the Federal Register). The final
rule would not apply to or affect equipment manufactured before the
effective date of this action and manufactured in compliance with the
SNAP requirements applicable at the time of manufacture as stipulated
in SNAP Rule 19 and appendix R of 40 CFR part 82, subpart G at that
time. EPA views equipment to be manufactured at the date upon which the
appliance's refrigerant circuit is complete, the appliance can
function, the appliance holds a full refrigerant charge, and the
appliance is ready for use for its intended purposes. For self-
contained room ACs and HPs, this occurs at the factory. If this rule is
finalized as proposed, products manufactured between May 11, 2015, and
the effective date of the final rule would be required to meet the use
conditions in SNAP Rule 19 (which took effect May 11, 2015) and as
listed in appendix R of 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. Such products would
be permitted to be warehoused and sold through normal channels, even if
they are sold or installed after the effective date of the final rule
based on this proposed rule. Self-contained room ACs and HPs using HFC-
32 manufactured on or after the effective date of the final rule based
on this proposed rule would be required to meet the use conditions so
finalized and listed in the revisions to appendix R.
8. What additional information is EPA including in these proposed
listings?
EPA is providing additional information related to these proposed
listings. Since this additional information is not part of the
regulatory decision under SNAP, these statements are not binding for
use of the substitute under the SNAP program. See section II.E.2 below
for further discussion on what additional information EPA is including
in these proposed listings. EPA notes that the additional information
is similar to, but not identical with, the addition information in the
listing for HFC-32 in self-contained room ACs and HPs in SNAP Rule 19.
EPA is proposing additional information consistent with that included
in the other proposed listings for air conditioning equipment in this
rule and consistent with that included in the listings for four A2L
refrigerant blends listed as acceptable subject to use conditions in
self-contained room ACs and HPs in SNAP Rule 23. 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.
9. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
EPA is requesting comment on all aspects of the proposed updates to
the use conditions as discussed in section II.D above. EPA requests
comments on the proposed change in use conditions and if and how such
change would affect the safety of self-contained room ACs and HPs using
HFC-32.
E. Use Conditions and Further Information for Chillers, Residential
Dehumidifiers, Non-Residential Dehumidifiers, and HFC-32 Self-Contained
Room ACs and HPs
1. What use conditions is EPA proposing and why?
As described above, EPA is proposing to list:
HFO-1234yf, R-454A, R-454B and R-454C as acceptable, subject
to use conditions, for use in centrifugal and positive displacement
chillers for new equipment in comfort cooling applications, including
commercial AC and industrial process AC
HFC-32 and R-452B as acceptable, subject to use conditions,
for use in scroll and rotary chillers for new equipment in comfort
cooling applications, including commercial AC and industrial process AC
HFO-1234yf, HFC-32, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C as
acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use in residential
dehumidifiers for new equipment
HFC-32 as acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use in
non-residential dehumidifiers for new equipment
In addition, EPA is proposing to update the use conditions that
apply to the previous listing of:
HFC-32 as acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use
in self-contained room ACs and HPs for new equipment.
These use conditions are summarized in the listings under
subheadings II.A, II.B, and II.C, and the revisions to the use
conditions are summarized under subheading II.D, above, and are
explained here in greater detail. The use conditions EPA proposes
(either as new listings or revisions to a previous listing) include
conditions requiring use of each refrigerant in new equipment, which
can be specifically designed for the refrigerant; use consistent with
the UL 60335-2-40 industry standard, 3rd Edition, including testing,
charge sizes, ventilation, usage space requirements, and certain hazard
warnings and markings; and requirements for warning labels and markings
on equipment to inform consumers and technicians of potential
flammability hazards. The listings with specific use conditions are
intended to allow for the use of these lower flammability refrigerants
in a manner that will ensure they do not pose a greater overall risk to
human health and the environment than other substitutes in these end-
uses.
[[Page 45522]]
New Equipment Only; Not Intended for Use as a Retrofit Alternative
EPA is proposing that these refrigerants may be used only in new
equipment which has been designed to address concerns unique to
flammable refrigerants--i.e., none of these substitutes may be used as
a conversion or ``retrofit'' refrigerant for existing equipment. EPA is
unaware of information on how to address hazards if these flammable
refrigerants were to be used in equipment that was designed for non-
flammable refrigerants. Given the flammable nature of these
refrigerants, the fact that EPA is unaware of information to assess the
risk if such retrofits were allowed, and because the refrigerants were
not submitted to the SNAP program for retrofits, EPA has not reviewed
them for retrofit applications for this proposal and is only proposing
that they may be used in new equipment which can be properly designed
for their use. This proposed use condition would not affect the ability
to service a system using one of these refrigerants once installed,
including the adding of refrigerant or replacing components.
Standards
EPA is proposing that the flammable refrigerants may be used only
in equipment that meets all requirements in UL Standard 60335-2-40, 3rd
Edition.
Those participating in the UL 60335-2-40 consensus standards
process (hereafter ``UL'') have tested equipment for flammability risk
and evaluated the relevant scientific studies. Further, UL has
developed safety standards including requirements for construction and
system design, for markings, and for performance tests concerning
refrigerant leakage, ignition of switching components, surface
temperature of parts, and component strength after being scratched.
Certain aspects of system construction and design, including charge
size, ventilation, and installation space, and greater detail on
markings, are discussed further below in this section. The UL 60335-2-
40 Standard was developed in an open and consensus-based approach, with
the assistance of experts in the AC industry as well as experts
involved in assessing the safety of products. While similar standards
exist from other bodies such as the International Electrotechnical
Commission (IEC), we are proposing to rely on specific UL standards
that are most applicable and recognized by the U.S. market. This
approach is the same as that in our previous rules on flammable
refrigerants (e.g., 76 FR 78832; December 20, 2011 and 80 FR 19454;
April 10, 2015 and 86 FR 24444; May 6, 2021).
A summary of the requirements of UL 60335-2-40 as they affect the
refrigerants and end-use addressed in this section of our proposal
follows. This summary is offered for information only and does not
provide a complete review of the requirements in this standard.
Among the provisions in UL 60335-2-40 are limits on the amount of
refrigerant allowed in each type of appliance based on several factors
explained in that standard. The requirements in UL 60335-2-40 would
reduce the risk to workers and consumers. Annex GG of the standard
provides the charge limits, ventilation requirements and requirements
for secondary circuits. The standard specifies requirements for
installation space of an appliance (i.e., room floor area) and/or
ventilation or other requirements that are determined according to the
refrigerant charge used in the appliance, the installation location and
the type of ventilation of the location or of the appliance. Within
Annex GG, Table GG.1 provides guidance on how to apply the requirements
to allow for safe use of flammable refrigerants. UL 60335-2-40, 3rd
Edition contains provisions for safety mitigation. These mitigation
requirements were developed to ensure the safe use of flammable
refrigerants over a range of appliances. In general, as larger charge
sizes are used, more stringent mitigation requirements are required. In
certain applications refrigerant detection systems (as described in
Annex LL, Refrigerant detection systems for A2L refrigerants) and
refrigerant sensors (as described in Annex MM, Refrigerant sensor
location confirmation tests) such as safety alarms are required. Where
air circulation (i.e., fans) is required in accordance with Annex GG or
Annex 101.DVG, it must be initiated by a separate refrigerant detection
system either as part of the appliance or installed separately. In a
room with no mechanical ventilation, Annex GG provides requirements for
openings to rooms based on several factors, including the charge size
and the room area. The minimum opening is intended to be sufficient so
that natural ventilation would reduce the risk of using a flammable
refrigerant. The standard also includes specific requirements covering
construction, instruction manuals, allowable charge sizes, mechanical
ventilation, safety alarms, and shut off valves for A2L refrigerants.
In addition to Annex GG and Table GG.1 mentioned above, UL 60335-2-
40 has a requirement for the maximum charge for an appliance using an
A2L refrigerant. Additional requirements exist for charge sizes
exceeding three times the LFL.
Table GG.1 of the UL standard indicates that systems with
refrigerant charges exceeding certain amounts are outside the scope of
the standard, stating that ``National standards apply.'' Specifically,
if the refrigeration circuit with the greatest mass of a flammable
refrigerant is more than 260 times the lower flammability limit (in kg/
m\3\), such equipment is outside the scope. For example, HFC-32 has an
LFL of approximately 0.307 kg/m\3\ (0.0192 lb/ft\3\); therefore,
equipment with charge sizes of a single circuit exceeding 79.82 kg
(176.0 lb) would fall outside the scope of the UL Standard. EPA expects
that many chillers could exceed these charge thresholds and therefore
is proposing that an additional safety standard would apply for all
chillers, as discussed in section II.A above. EPA does not expect this
situation to occur for residential dehumidifiers or self-contained room
ACs and HPs because of their smaller charge sizes.
EPA recognizes that this standard is undergoing revision. UL opened
for comment a proposed 4th edition of this standard as an update to the
3rd Edition to which comments were due March 1, 2022. UL standards are
open for public comment and participation following ANSI requirements.
Warning Labels
As a use condition or revision to existing use conditions, EPA is
proposing to require labeling of chillers, residential dehumidifiers,
non-residential dehumidifiers, and HFC-32 self-contained room ACs and
HPs (``equipment'') containing the proposed flammable refrigerants. EPA
is proposing that the following markings, or the equivalent, must be
provided in letters no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch) high and must be
permanent:
i. On the outside of the equipment: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Flammable
Refrigerant Used. To Be Repaired Only By Trained Service Personnel. Do
Not Puncture Refrigerant Tubing''
ii. On the outside of the equipment: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Dispose
of Properly In Accordance With Federal Or Local Regulations. Flammable
Refrigerant Used''
iii. On the inside of the equipment near the compressor: ``WARNING--
Risk of Fire. Flammable Refrigerant Used. Consult Repair Manual/Owner's
Guide Before Attempting to Service
[[Page 45523]]
This Product. All Safety Precautions Must Be Followed''
iv. For any equipment pre-charged at the factory, on the equipment
packaging or on the outside of the equipment: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire
due to Flammable Refrigerant Used. Follow Handling Instructions
Carefully in Compliance with National Regulations''
1. If the equipment is delivered packaged, this label shall be applied
on the packaging
2. If the equipment is not delivered packaged, this label shall be
applied on the outside of the appliance
EPA expects that all residential dehumidifiers and non-residential
dehumidifiers and all self-contained room ACs and HPs would be
packaged, and hence this label would be placed as stipulated in item 1
above. EPA expects that chillers could be provided packaged or not, and
this label would be placed as stipulated in item 1 or 2, respectively.
v. On the equipment near the nameplate:
1. At the top of the marking: ``Minimum installation height, X m (W
ft)''. This marking is only required if the similar marking is required
by the 3rd edition of UL 60335-2-40. The terms ``X'' and ``W'' shall be
replaced by the numeric height as calculated per the UL Standard. Note
that the formatting here is slightly different than the UL Standard;
specifically, the height in Inch-Pound units is placed in parentheses
and the word ``and'' has been replaced by the opening parenthesis.
2. Immediately below v.1. above or at the top of the marking if v.1. is
not required: ``Minimum room area (operating or storage), Y m\2\ (Z
ft\2\)''. The terms ``Y'' and ``Z'' shall be replaced by the numeric
area as calculated per the UL Standard. Note that the formatting here
is slightly different than the UL Standard; specifically, the area in
Inch-Pound units is placed in parentheses and the word ``and'' has been
replaced by the opening parenthesis.
vi. For non-fixed equipment, including residential dehumidifiers, non-
residential dehumidifiers, and self-contained room ACs and HPs, on the
outside of the product: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire or Explosion--Store in
a well-ventilated room without continuously operating flames or other
potential ignition.'' EPA expects that this label would be required on
residential dehumidifiers, non-residential dehumidifiers, and HFC-32
self-contained room ACs (e.g., including portable ACs, window ACs,
PTACs and PTHPs).
vii. For fixed equipment that is ducted, including chillers, near the
nameplate: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire--Auxiliary devices which may be
ignition sources shall not be installed in the ductwork, other than
auxiliary devices listed for use with the specific appliance. See
instructions.'' EPA expects that residential dehumidifiers, non-
residential dehumidifiers, and self-contained ACs and HPs would not be
ducted, but that chillers used for comfort cooling could be.
The text of the warning labels, above, is exactly the same as that
required in UL 60335-2-40, with the exception of the label identified
in v., which is similar to that in the UL Standard. The major
difference between this proposed requirement and the requirements in
Table 101.DVF.1 of UL 60335-2-40 is that the markings for A2L
refrigerants, including HFO-1234yf, HFC-32 and the four refrigerant
blends, are required to be no less than 3.2 mm (\1/8\ inch) high in the
standard instead of 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch) as EPA is proposing in this
action. EPA believes that it would be difficult to see warning labels
with the minimum lettering height requirement for A2L refrigerants of
\1/8\ inch in the UL Standard. Therefore, as in the requirements in our
previous flammable refrigerants rules (e.g., 76 FR 78832; December 20,
2011 and 80 FR 19454; April 10, 2015 and 86 FR 24444; May 6, 2021), EPA
is proposing that the minimum height for lettering must be \1/4\ inch
as opposed to \1/8\ inch, which will make it easier for technicians,
consumers, retail storeowners, first responders, and those disposing
the appliance to view the warning labels.
Markings
Our understanding of the UL Standard is that red markings, similar
to those EPA has applied as use conditions in past actions for
flammable refrigerants (76 FR 78832; December 20, 2011 and 80 FR 19454;
April 10, 2015 and 86 FR 24444; May 6, 2021), are required by the UL
Standard for A2 and A3 refrigerants but not A2L refrigerants. EPA is
proposing that such markings apply to these A2L refrigerants as well to
establish a common, familiar and standard means of identifying the use
of a flammable refrigerant.
These red markings will help technicians immediately identify the
use of a flammable refrigerant, thereby potentially reducing the risk
of using sparking equipment or otherwise having an ignition source
nearby. The AC and refrigeration industry currently uses red-colored
hoses and piping as means for identifying the use of a flammable
refrigerant based on previous SNAP listings. Likewise, distinguishing
coloring has been used elsewhere to indicate an unusual and potentially
dangerous situation, for example in the use of orange-insulated wires
in hybrid electric vehicles. Currently in SNAP listings, color-coded
hoses or pipes must be used for ethane, HFC-32, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B,
R-454C, R-457A, isobutane, propane, and R-441A in certain types of
equipment where these are listed acceptable, subject to use conditions.
All such tubing must be colored red PMS #185 or RAL 3020 to match the
red band displayed on the container of flammable refrigerants AHRI
Guideline N, ``2017 Guideline for Assignment of Refrigerant Container
Colors.'' The intent of this aspect of the proposal is to provide
adequate notice for technicians and others that a flammable refrigerant
is being used within a particular piece of equipment or appliance.
Another goal is to provide adequate notification of the presence of
flammable refrigerants for personnel disposing of appliances containing
flammable refrigerants. As explained in a previous SNAP rule, one
mechanism to distinguish hoses and pipes is to add a colored plastic
sleeve or cap to the service tube. (80 FR 19465; April 10, 2015). Other
methods, such as a red-colored tape could be used. The colored plastic
sleeve, cap, or tape would have to be forcibly removed in order to
access the service tube and would have to be replaced if removed. This
would signal to the technician that the refrigeration circuit that she/
he was about to access contained a flammable refrigerant, even if all
warning labels were somehow removed. This sleeve, cap or tape would be
of the same red color (PMS #185 or RAL 3020) and could also be boldly
marked with a graphic to indicate the refrigerant was flammable. This
could be a cost-effective alternative to painting or dyeing the hose or
pipe.
EPA is proposing the use of color-coded hoses or piping as a way
for technicians and others to recognize that a flammable refrigerant is
used in the equipment. This would be in addition to the proposed use of
warning labels discussed above. EPA believes having two such warning
methods is reasonable and consistent with other general industry
practices. This approach is the same as that adopted in our previous
rules on flammable refrigerants (e.g., 76 FR 78832; December 20, 2011
and 80 FR 19454; April 10, 2015 and 86 FR 24444; May 6, 2021).
[[Page 45524]]
2. What additional information is EPA including in these proposed
listings?
For chillers, residential, dehumidifiers, non-residential
dehumidifiers, and self-contained room ACs and HPs, EPA is including
recommendations, found in the ``Further Information'' column of the
regulatory text at the end of this document, to protect personnel from
the risks of using flammable refrigerants. Similar to our previous
listings of flammable refrigerants, EPA is including information on the
OSHA requirements at 29 CFR part 1910, proper ventilation, personal
protective equipment, fire extinguishers, use of spark-proof tools and
equipment designed for flammable refrigerants, and training. Since this
additional information is not part of the regulatory decision under
SNAP, these statements are not binding for use of the substitute under
the SNAP program. 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.
3. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
EPA is requesting comment on all aspects of the proposed use
conditions described above and the appropriateness for applying these
use conditions to the listings for chillers, residential dehumidifiers,
and non-residential dehumidifiers, and the revisions to the listing for
self-contained room ACs and HPs described in sections II.A, II.B, II.C,
and II.D, respectively.
EPA is requesting comment on the applicability of UL Standard
60335-2-40, 3rd Edition, to chillers, including for which chillers and
under which applications the standard applies. We likewise are
requesting comment on the applicability of the UL Standard to
residential dehumidifiers, non-residential dehumidifiers, and self-
contained room ACs and HPs.
With regard to UL Standard 60335-2-40, EPA is requesting comment on
the status of the standard, the modifications that are being or have
been incorporated in it, how those modifications would change the risk
associated with the use of these flammable refrigerants in these end-
uses, and the appropriateness of adopting as a use condition the
current (3rd) edition of this standard.
EPA recognizes that this standard is undergoing revision. UL opened
for comment a proposed 4th edition of this standard as an update to the
3rd Edition to which comments were due March 1, 2022. UL standards are
open for public comment and participation following ANSI requirements.
If the final 4th edition is published before EPA takes final action on
today's proposed listings that would incorporate the 3rd edition by
reference, EPA may incorporate the 4th Edition by reference into those
listings in lieu of the 3rd Edition. In that situation, EPA anticipates
reopening or extending the public comment period to provide an
opportunity for public comment on incorporating the final 4th edition
by reference into those listings.
EPA is also requesting comment on requiring labeling, the height of
the lettering, and the likelihood of labels remaining on a product
throughout the lifecycle of the product, including its disposal.
F. Very Low Temperature Refrigeration (VLTR)--Proposed Listing of R-
1150 as Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions and Narrowed Use Limits,
for Use in VLTR End-Use
1. Background on VLTR
The very low temperature refrigeration end-use includes a wide
range of equipment types. VLTR equipment is intended to maintain
temperatures considerably lower than for refrigeration of food (below -
62 [deg]C or -80 [deg]F). Examples of very low temperature
refrigeration equipment include medical freezers and freeze-dryers,
which generally require extremely reliable refrigeration cycles to
maintain low temperatures and must meet stringent technical standards.
In some cases, VLTR equipment may use a refrigeration system with two
stages, each with its own refrigerant loop. This allows a greater range
of temperatures and may reduce the overall refrigerant charge.
For this notice of proposed rulemaking, only equipment designed to
reach temperatures lower than -80 [deg]C (-112 [deg]F) is addressed.
See sections II.E.6 and II.E.7 below for a discussion of the narrowed
use limits describing the reasoning for this temperature requirement.
Examples of equipment covered by this proposed rule in the VLTR end-use
include:
Freeze dryers. This equipment typically includes a two-
stage system, with a VLTR stage being addressed by this proposed rule
and a warmer stage, usually classified as industrial process
refrigeration, not addressed in this proposed rule. The primary
application of this equipment is for freeze drying material in a
laboratory setting.
Cold traps required to operate below -80 [deg]C or -112
[deg]F. This equipment is used during laboratory evaporation to
condense vapors to prevent them from entering and damaging the pump, or
leaking into the environment, ensuring a closed system within the
vacuum pump.
Very low temperature freezers designed to reach
temperatures below -80 [deg]C or -112 [deg]F.
Each of these types of laboratory equipment, including other VLTR
equipment not mentioned that fit within the narrowed use limits
proposed in section II.F.6, would be subject to the listing decision
under this rule for R-1150 if this decision were to become final as
proposed.
2. What is EPA's proposed listing decision for R-1150?
EPA is proposing to list R-1150 as acceptable, subject to use
conditions and narrowed use limits, for use in VLTR equipment,
including freeze-dryers, cold traps, and laboratory freezers. This
proposed listing would apply to all types of VLTR equipment that meet
the requirements of the UL Standard 61010-2-011, 2nd Edition, and for
all applications of such equipment under EPA's proposed use conditions
and narrowed use limits.
3. What is R-1150 and how does it compare with other refrigerants in
the same end-use?
R-1150, also known as ethene or ethylene (CAS Reg. No. 75-85-1), is
an unsaturated hydrocarbon (HC). It is a flammable refrigerant with the
ASHRAE safety classification A3. You may find a copy of the applicants'
submissions, with CBI redacted, providing the required health and
environmental information for this substitute in this end-use in Docket
EPA-HQ-OAR-2021-0836 at www.regulations.gov under the names
``Supporting Materials for Rule 25 Listing of R-1150 in Refrigeration
and Air Conditioning. SNAP Submission Received December 3, 2018'' and
``Supporting Materials for Rule 25 Listing of R-1150 in Refrigeration
and Air Conditioning. SNAP Submission Received January 21, 2021.'' EPA
performed an assessment to examine the health and environmental risks
of this substitute. This assessment is available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-
2021-0836: ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Very Low Temperature
Refrigeration (New Equipment). Substitute: R-1150.'' \30\
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\30\ ICF, 2022o. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Very Low
Temperature Refrigeration (New Equipment); Substitute: R-1150.
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Environmental information: R-1150 has an ODP of zero and a GWP of
four.
In addition to ODP and GWP, EPA evaluated potential impacts of R-
1150
[[Page 45525]]
and other HC refrigerants on local air quality. R-1150 is considered a
VOC and not excluded from EPA's regulatory definition of VOC (see 40
CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and
maintain the NAAQS. As described below, EPA estimates that potential
emissions of HCs do not have a significant impact on local air quality.
This includes R-1150 in VLTR, when used in the refrigeration and AC
sector as substitute refrigerants in end-uses consistent with their
listings under the SNAP program.\31\
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\31\ ICF, 2014. Assessment of the Potential Impact of
Hydrocarbon Refrigerants on Ground Level Ozone Concentrations.
February, 2014.
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In response to the increased market share of HCs, particularly in
VLTR applications, EPA conducted additional analysis of various
scenarios to consider the potential impacts on local air quality if HC
refrigerants were used in further applications.\32\ In particular, use
of R-1150 in very low temperature freezers, including VLTR equipment
with an industrial process refrigeration (IPR) stage using propylene,
and R-1150 in retail food refrigeration systems \33\ were investigated
for ground-level ozone effects. The analysis first considers highly
conservative modeling scenarios where a specific HC would be used
widely across all end-uses in the refrigeration and AC sector. Scenario
1b** estimates propylene's emissions using EPA's Vintaging Model (VM)
and Community Multi-stage Air Quality (CMAQ) model,\34\ and Scenario 1b
estimates R-1150's emissions using the same VM and CMAQ versions as in
Scenario 1b.**
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\32\ Ibid.
\33\ EPA is aware that such refrigeration equipment exists in
Europe. Thus, EPA evaluated R-1150 in retail food refrigeration--
stand-alone units as well as in VLTR and other hydrocarbon
refrigerants, to consider the greatest impact that reasonably could
occur when using increasing amounts of such refrigerants.
\34\ VM IO file_v5.1_10.01.19 and CMAQ 5.2.1 with carbon bond 06
(CB06) mechanism, as cited in ICF, 2022p. Additional Assessment of
the Potential Impact of Hydrocarbon Refrigerants on Ground Level
Ozone Concentrations. May, 2020.
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Additionally, the analysis also considers the more realistic
scenarios (Scenario 2, Scenario 3a, and Scenario 3b) where HCs are
modeled only in the end-uses where the SNAP program has already listed
them as acceptable, or for which SNAP submissions or international
market trends indicate HCs soon could be used. Scenario 2 examines the
likely emissions of lower maximum incremental reactivity (MIR) HCs,
propane, isobutane, and ethane, in the residential and light commercial
AC, residential dehumidifiers, retail refrigeration, and household
refrigeration end-uses. Scenarios 3a and 3b also consider the use of
higher MIR refrigerants propylene and R-1150 in laboratory equipment
(IPR and VLTR end-uses, respectively) and R-1150 in small retail food
refrigeration equipment (e.g., stand-alone units) in addition to the
HCs used in Scenario 2. Scenarios 3a and 3b differentiate based on
whether propylene and R-1150 would be subject to the prohibition under
CAA sections 608(c)(1) and (2) against knowingly venting or otherwise
knowingly releasing or disposing of any refrigerant substitute for
class I or class II substances by any person maintaining, servicing,
repairing, or disposing of appliances or IPR. For further information
on the specific assumptions, see the docket for this rulemaking.\35\
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\35\ ICF, 2022p. Additional Assessment of the Potential Impact
of Hydrocarbon Refrigerants on Ground Level Ozone Concentrations.
May, 2020.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In highly conservative Scenario 1b, examining widespread R-1150
adoption across the refrigeration and AC sector, modeling predicts that
the single 8-hour average ground-level ozone concentration could
increase by 11.7 percent in Los Angeles, which is the area with the
highest level of ground-level ozone pollution in the United States.
However, in the more realistic scenarios 3a and 3b, 8-hour ground-level
ozone concentration in Los Angeles was found to increase by a maximum
of 0.017 percent relative to the NAAQS on the worst modeled day. For
purposes of this SNAP determination, this is not a significant increase
in ground-level ozone. The modeling is also conservative by assuming a
one-for-one substitution of HCs for current refrigerants because an
actual transition would likely introduce less than one kg of HC for
each kg replaced. As a result of this analysis, EPA believes that the
use of R-1150 consistent with the use conditions and narrowed use
limits proposed would not result in significantly greater risk to
people's health or the environment than other alternatives available
for the same use.
Ecosystem effects from R-1150 are expected to be small, as are the
effects of other acceptable substitutes in this end-use. R-1150 is
highly volatile and typically evaporates or partitions to air, rather
than contaminating ground or surface waters, and thus R-1150's effects
on aquatic life are expected to be small. Based on these
considerations, R-1150 is not expected to pose a greater risk of
ecosystem effects than other alternatives for these uses.
Flammability information: ASHRAE Standard 34 classifies R-1150 as a
Class A3 refrigerant.\4\ R-1150 is flammable when its concentration in
the air is in the range of 2.7 percent to 36 percent by volume (27,000
ppm to 360,000 ppm).4 30
Toxicity and exposure data: Exposure to R-1150 may be hazardous if
inhalation, skin contact, or eye contact with the proposed substitute
occurs at sufficiently high levels. The most likely pathway of exposure
is through inhalation, which can cause symptoms of asphyxiation.
Exposures of R-1150 to the skin may cause frostbite. Exposures of R-
1150 to the eyes could cause eye irritation. These potential health
effects are common to many refrigerants.
The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
(ACGIH) has established a TLV of 200 ppm as an 8-hour TWA for R-1150.
EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet the TLV and address
potential health risks by following the use condition limiting charge
sizes to 150 g and the requirements and recommendations in the
manufacturer's SDS, ASHRAE Standard 15, UL Standard 61010-2-011, 2nd
Edition, and other safety precautions common to the refrigeration and
AC industry.3 30
Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: R-1150 has an ODP
of zero, comparable to or less than other listed substitutes in this
end-use with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098. For new VLTR equipment,
R-1150's GWP of four is comparable to that of other acceptable
substitutes such as ethane and CO2, with respective GWPs of
5.5 and one, and lower than other acceptable substitutes such as R-
410A, R-507A, and HFC-23 with respective GWPs of 1,890, 3,990, and
14,800.
R-1150 is a VOC that is more photochemically reactive and more
likely to cause ground-level ozone pollution than acceptable
refrigerants in this end-use. For example, R-1150 has a MIR of 9.07 g-
O3/g-substance, which is higher than propane's MIR of 0.56
g-O3/g-substance or ethane's MIR of 0.28 g-O3/g-
substance.\36\ EPA proposes to address this potential risk through a
narrowed use limit, restricting use of this refrigerant to VLTR
equipment designed to reach temperatures lower than -80 [deg]C (-112
[deg]F). See section
[[Page 45526]]
II.F.6 below for a discussion of the proposed narrowed use limits.
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\36\ In addition to being an acceptable refrigerant in very low
temperature refrigeration, ethane's MIR is one threshold that EPA
considers in deciding whether a compound makes a negligible
contribution to tropospheric ozone formation and should be excluded
from EPA's regulatory definition of VOC (see 40 CFR 51.100(s))
addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Flammability risks of R-1150 are comparable to flammability risks
of other available substitutes in the same end-use, such as ethane,
while R-1150's flammability risks are higher than those of nonflammable
refrigerants such as R-410A, CO2, or HFC-23. Flammability
risks can be addressed by following the proposed use conditions, such
as use only in new equipment that is designed and tested to meet the UL
Standard 61010-2-011. See section II.F.4 below for a discussion of the
proposed use conditions.
Toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than toxicity risks of
other available substitutes in the same end-use. Toxicity risks can be
minimized by use consistent with the TLV issued by the ACGIH, ASHRAE
Standard 15, UL standards, and other industry standards,
recommendations in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions
common in the refrigeration and AC industry.
Although R-1150 presents a higher risk to local air quality than
other available alternatives for this end-use, other alternatives such
as ethane, propane, and most HFOs or HFCs that are less photochemically
reactive than R-1150 are not able to attain temperatures as low as R-
1150 because of their higher boiling points. Thus, EPA is proposing to
list this substitute as acceptable subject to use conditions and
narrowed use limits in VLTR.
4. What use conditions is EPA proposing?
EPA proposes the following use conditions to address flammability
risks of R-1150:
(1) New equipment only--R-1150 may be used only in new equipment
designed specifically and clearly identified for the refrigerant, i.e.,
the substitute shall not be used as a conversion or ``retrofit''
refrigerant for existing equipment.
(2) UL Standard--R-1150 may be used only in laboratory equipment
that meet all requirements listed in the 2nd edition, dated May 13th,
2021, of UL Standard 61010-2-011, ``Safety Requirements for Electrical
Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use--Part 011:
Particular Requirements for Refrigerating Equipment'' (hereafter in
this section, ``UL Standard''). If this rule is finalized as proposed,
in cases where the final rule would include requirements different than
those of the UL Standard, EPA is proposing that the equipment would
need to meet the requirements of the final rule in place of the
requirements in the UL Standard. Requirements of note include:
Warning labels--The following markings, or the equivalent,
must be provided in letters no less than 6.4 millimeter (\1/4\ inch)
high and must be permanent:
i. Attach near the machine compartment: ``DANGER--Risk of Fire or
Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. To Be Repaired Only By Trained
Service Personnel. Do Not Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.''
ii. Attach near the machine compartment: ``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or
Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. Consult Repair Manual/Owner's
Guide Before Attempting To Service This Product. All Safety Precautions
Must be Followed.''
iii. Attach on the exterior of the refrigeration equipment:
``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or Explosion. Dispose of Properly In Accordance
With Federal Or Local Regulations. Flammable Refrigerant Used.''
iv. Attach near all exposed refrigerant tubing: ``CAUTION--Risk of
Fire or Explosion Due To Puncture Of Refrigerant Tubing; Follow
Handling Instructions Carefully. Flammable Refrigerant Used.''
v. Attach on the exterior of the refrigeration equipment: ``This
equipment is intended for use in commercial, industrial, or
institutional occupancies as defined in the Safety Standard for
Refrigeration Systems, ANSI/ASHRAE 15''.
vi. Attach on the exterior of the shipping carton: ``CAUTION--Risk
of Fire or Explosion. Dispose of Properly In Accordance With Federal Or
Local Regulations.''
vii. The instructions shall include the following warnings as
necessary:
a. ``WARNING: Ensure all ventilation openings are not obstructed.''
b. ``WARNING: Do not use mechanical devices or other means to
accelerate the defrosting process, other than those recommended by the
manufacturer.''
c. ``WARNING: Do not damage the refrigerant circuit.''
Markings--Equipment must have distinguishing red (PMS #185
or RAL 3020) color-coded hoses and piping to indicate use of a
flammable refrigerant. The laboratory equipment shall have marked
service ports, pipes, hoses and other devices through which the
refrigerant is serviced. Markings shall extend at least 1 inch (25
millimeter) from the servicing port and shall be replaced if removed.
(3) Charge size--Equipment must use no more than 150 g of R-1150 in
each refrigerant circuit using this refrigerant.
The regulatory text of the proposed decisions appears in tables at
the end of this document. If finalized as proposed, this text would be
codified in appendix X of 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. The proposed
regulatory text contains listing decisions for the end-use discussed
above. EPA notes that there may be other legal obligations pertaining
to the manufacture, use, handling, and disposal of the proposed
refrigerant that are not included in the information listed in the
tables (e.g., the CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibition on knowingly
venting or otherwise knowingly releasing or disposing of substitute
refrigerants in the course of maintaining, servicing, repairing or
disposing of an appliance or industrial process refrigeration, or
Department of Transportation requirements for transport of flammable
gases). Flammable refrigerants being recovered or otherwise disposed of
from VLTR appliances are likely to be hazardous waste under the RCRA
(see 40 CFR parts 260-270).
5. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
EPA is proposing to list R-1150 as acceptable, subject to use
conditions, for use in the VLTR end-use for new equipment reaching
temperatures lower than -80 [deg]C (-112 [deg]F). The use conditions
are identified in the listing under subheading II.F.4, above, and are
explained here in greater detail. The use conditions EPA proposes
include conditions requiring use of R-1150 in new equipment, which can
be specifically designed for the refrigerant; use consistent with the
UL Standard, including testing, charge sizes, ventilation, usage space
requirements, and certain hazard warnings and markings; and limiting
charge size to 150 g of R-1150 per refrigerant circuit. The listings
with specific use conditions are intended to allow for the use of this
flammable refrigerant in a manner that will ensure it does not pose a
greater overall risk to human health and the environment than other
substitutes in this end-use.
New Equipment Only; Not Intended for Use as a Retrofit Alternative
EPA is proposing that R-1150 may be used only in new equipment \37\
which has been designed to address concerns unique to flammable
refrigerants--i.e., this substitute may not be used as a conversion or
``retrofit'' refrigerant for existing equipment. EPA is unaware of
[[Page 45527]]
information on how to address hazards if this flammable refrigerant
were to be used in equipment that was designed for non-flammable
refrigerants. Given the flammable nature of the refrigerant, the fact
that EPA is unaware of information to assess the risk if such retrofits
were allowed, and because the refrigerant was not submitted to the SNAP
program for retrofits, EPA has not reviewed it for retrofit
applications for this proposal and is only proposing that it may be
used in new equipment which can be properly designed for their use.
Therefore, EPA is proposing that R-1150 may only be used in new
equipment that can be properly designed for its use.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\37\ This is intended to mean a completely new refrigeration
circuit containing a new compressor, evaporator, and condenser.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Standards
EPA is proposing that R-1150 may be used only in equipment that
meets all requirements in the UL Standard. This UL Standard indicates
that refrigerant charges greater than 150 g are beyond its scope and
that additional requirements apply, such as for instance ANSI/ASHRAE
15-2019. EPA has only evaluated equipment that fits within the scope of
the UL Standard.
UL has developed safety standards including requirements for
construction and system design, for markings, and for performance tests
concerning refrigerant leakage, ignition of switching components,
surface temperature of parts, and component strength after being
scratched. Certain aspects of system construction and design, including
charge size, ventilation, and installation space, and greater detail on
markings, are discussed further below in this section. The UL Standard
was developed in an open and consensus-based approach, with the
assistance of experts in the laboratory equipment industry as well as
experts involved in assessing the safety of products. While similar
standards exist from other bodies such as the IEC, we are proposing to
rely on a specific UL standard that is most applicable and recognized
by the U.S. market. This approach is the same as that in our previous
rules on flammable refrigerants (e.g., 76 FR 78832, December 20, 2011;
80 FR 19454, April 10, 2015; 86 FR 24444, May 6, 2021).
A summary of the requirements of the UL Standard as they affect R-
1150 and the end-use addressed in this section of our proposal follows.
This summary is offered for information only and does not provide a
complete review of the requirements in this standard. The UL Standard
requires the warning labels on the equipment to contain letters at
least \1/4\ inch high. The label must be permanently affixed to the
equipment. Warning label language requirements are described in section
II.F.4 of this proposed rule. Additionally, red markings, similar to
those EPA has applied as use conditions in past actions for flammable
refrigerants (76 FR 78832, December 20, 2011; 80 FR 19454, April 10,
2015; 86 FR 24444, May 6, 2021), are required by the UL Standard for A2
and A3 refrigerants to establish a common, familiar and standard means
of identifying the use of a flammable refrigerant.
These red markings will help technicians immediately identify the
use of a flammable refrigerant, thereby potentially reducing the risk
of using sparking equipment or otherwise having an ignition source
nearby. The colored plastic sleeve or cap would have to be forcibly
removed in order to access the service port, hose, or pipe. This would
signal to the technician that the refrigeration circuit that she/he was
about to access contained a flammable refrigerant, even if all warning
labels were somehow removed. This sleeve would be of the same red color
(PMS #185 or RAL 3020) and could also be boldly marked with a graphic
to indicate the refrigerant was flammable. The use of a colored plastic
sleeve or cap that is boldly marked with a graphic could be a cost-
effective alternative to painting or dyeing the service port, hose, or
pipe.
Charge Size Limitation
Among the provisions in the UL Standard are limits on the amount of
refrigerant allowed in each appliance. The limitations on refrigerant
charge size for VLTR would be consistent with the UL Standard to reduce
the risk to workers and consumers. EPA is proposing to require a charge
size limit of 150 g for each refrigerant circuit or stage for the
proposed refrigerant. Section 1.1.1 of the UL Standard states, ``This
document details all the requirements when up to 150 g of FLAMMABLE
REFRIGERANT are used per stage of a REFRIGERATING SYSTEM. Additional
requirements beyond the current scope of this document apply if a
REFRIGERANT charge of FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANT exceeds this amount.''
Thus, in order to ensure the standard's provisions apply and
sufficiently address flammability risk, EPA is proposing that each
refrigerant circuit must contain no more than 150 g of R-1150.
In addition to the general requirement that each refrigerant
circuit must contain no more than 150 g of R-1150, the UL Standard has
a requirement for the maximum charge for remote condensing unit using a
flammable refrigerant in Annex DD and Table DD.1. Section DD.2.4 of
Annex DD sets requirements for the minimum associated room area for a
given charge, based on a maximum refrigerant concentration of 0.38 lb/
1000 ft\3\, 5200 ppm, or 6 g/m\3\ for R-1150.
6. What narrowed use limits is EPA proposing?
EPA is proposing the following narrowed use limits for use of R-
1150 in VLTR:
(1) Temperature range--R-1150 may only be used in equipment
designed specifically to reach temperatures lower than -80 [deg]C (-112
[deg]F).
(2) The manufacturers of new very low temperature equipment would
need to demonstrate that other alternatives are not technically
feasible. They must document the results of their evaluation that
showed the other alternatives to be not technically feasible and
maintain that documentation in their files. This documentation, which
does not need to be submitted to EPA unless requested to demonstrate
compliance, ``shall include descriptions of substitutes examined and
rejected, processes or products in which the substitute is needed,
reason for rejection of other alternatives, e.g., performance,
technical or safety standards, and the anticipated date other
substitutes will be available and projected time for switching to other
available substitutes.'' (40 CFR 82.180(b)(3)).
7. Why is EPA proposing these specific narrowed use limits?
The boiling point (b.p.) of a refrigerant determines the coldest
temperature it can reach within its refrigerating capabilities. R-1150
has a b.p. of -104 [deg]C, allowing it to refrigerate as cold as -104
[deg]C. There are a limited number of refrigerants that are capable of
reaching temperatures below -80 [deg]C, such as the ODSs CFC-13 (b.p.,
-81.4 [deg]C) and R-503 (b.p., -88.9 [deg]C), and among the acceptable
refrigerants in this end-use, ethane (b.p., -88.3 [deg]C) and the high
GWP refrigerants HFC-23 (b.p., -84.4 [deg]C), R-508A (b.p., -87.4
[deg]C) and R-508B (b.p., -87.4 [deg]C).\38\ Given the limited
refrigerant options available for equipment designed to reach the sub -
80 [deg]C temperature range, EPA understands there is a need for
listing R-1150. However, EPA proposes that limiting the use of R-1150
to VLTR equipment designed to reach temperatures lower than -80 [deg]C
(-112 [deg]F) is necessary to mitigate local
[[Page 45528]]
air quality concerns discussed in section II.F.3 that could occur with
broad use, given the larger picture of VOC and generation of ground-
level ozone in areas like Los Angeles. If R-1150 were used broadly
across the refrigeration and AC sector, it could have significant
impacts on local air quality. For equipment in this end-use designed to
reach temperatures higher than -80 [deg]C (-112 [deg]F), other
alternatives with lower reactivities are widely available, e.g.,
CO2, ethane, propane, and R-410A. There are sufficient
refrigerant options available to fill the need in VLTR equipment
designed to reach temperatures higher than -80 [deg]C (-112 [deg]F)
without allowing the use of refrigerants as photochemically reactive as
R-1150.
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\38\ Engineering ToolBox, (2005). Refrigerants--Physical
Properties. Available online at: https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/refrigerants-d_902.html Accessed October 28, 2021.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. What additional information is EPA including in these proposed
listings?
EPA is providing additional information related to these proposed
listings. Since this additional information is not part of the
regulatory decision under SNAP, these statements are not binding for
use of the substitute under the SNAP program. See section II.E.2 above
for further discussion on what additional information EPA is including
in these proposed listings. 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.
9. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
EPA takes comment on this listing, including the proposed use
conditions and narrowed use limits. In particular, EPA takes comment on
the specific temperature range to which R-1150 should be limited. For
example, R-1150 could instead be listed as acceptable for equipment
designed to attain temperatures of -89 [deg]C (-128.2 [deg]F), lower
than the boiling point of ethane, since ethane could attain
temperatures down to -89 [deg]C and would present lower risk of
potential local air quality impacts because of lower reactivity in the
lower atmosphere than R-1150. EPA also takes comment on whether R-1150
should be listed as unacceptable, given the potential local air quality
impacts.
G. Streaming and Total Flooding Fire Suppression--Proposed Listing of
2-bromo-3,3,3 trifluoropropene (2-BTP) as Acceptable, Subject to Use
Conditions, as a Streaming Agent in Non-Residential Applications and as
a Total Flooding Agent in Normally Unoccupied Spaces Under 500 ft\3\
1. Background on Streaming and Total Flooding Fire Suppression
The fire suppression and explosion protection end-uses addressed in
this action are total flooding and streaming. Total flooding systems,
which historically employed halon 1301 as a fire suppression agent, are
used in both normally occupied and unoccupied areas. In the United
States, approximately 90 percent of installed total flooding systems
protect anticipated hazards from ordinary combustibles (i.e., Class A
fires), while the remaining ten percent protect against applications
involving flammable liquids and gases (i.e., Class B fires).\39\ It is
also estimated that approximately 75 percent of total flooding systems
protect electronics (e.g., computers, telecommunications, process
control areas), while the remaining 25 percent protect other
applications, primarily in civil aviation (e.g., engine nacelles/
auxiliary power units, cargo compartments, lavatory trash receptacles),
military weapons systems (e.g., combat vehicles, machinery spaces on
ships, aircraft engines and tanks), oil/gas and manufacturing
industries (e.g., gas/oil pumping, compressor stations), and maritime
(e.g., machinery space, cargo pump rooms). Streaming applications,
which have historically used halon 1211 as an extinguishing agent,
include portable fire extinguishers designed to protect against
specific hazards.
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\39\ Wickham, 2002. Status of Industry Efforts to Replace Halon
Fire Extinguishing Agents. March 2002.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. What is EPA's proposed listing decisions for 2-BTP?
EPA is proposing to list 2-BTP as acceptable, subject to use
conditions, for use in normally unoccupied spaces under 500 ft\3\ in
total flooding fire suppression systems. In addition, EPA proposes to
list 2-BTP as acceptable, subject to use conditions, as a streaming
agent for use in non-residential applications, except for commercial
home office and personal watercraft. 2-BTP was previously listed as
acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use in engine nacelles and
auxiliary power units on aircraft in total flooding fire suppression
systems and for use in aircraft as a streaming agent (81 FR 86778,
December 1, 2016).
The redacted submission and supporting documentation for 2-BTP are
provided in the docket for this proposed rule (EPA-HQ-OAR-2021-0836) at
https://www.regulations.gov. EPA performed assessments to examine the
health and environmental risks of this substitute during production
operations and the filling of fire extinguishers as well as in the case
of an inadvertent discharge of the system during maintenance activities
on the fire extinguishing system. These assessments are available in
the docket for this proposed rule.40 41
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\40\ ICF, 2022q. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Total Flooding
Systems in Normally Unoccupied Spaces. Substitute: 2-bromo-3,3,3-
trifluoropropene (2-BTP).
\41\ ICF, 2022r. Risk Screen on Substitutes as Streaming Agents
in Non-Residential Applications. Substitute: 2-bromo-3,3,3-
trifluoropropene (2-BTP).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. What is 2-BTP and how does it compare to other fire suppressants in
the same end-uses?
a. Total Flooding
Environmental information: 2-BTP has an ODP of 0.0028 and a GWP of
0.23-0.26. The ODPs of other total flooding agents range from 0 to
0.048 and GWPs of other total flooding alternatives range from 0 to
3,500. 2-BTP is considered a VOC and is not excluded from EPA's
regulatory definition of VOC (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) for the purpose of
addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS.
Flammability information: 2-BTP is nonflammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: EPA assessed potential health risks
from exposure to the proposed substitute as a total flooding agent in
normally unoccupied spaces up to 14.2 m\3\ (500 ft\3\) during
manufacture, installation, and servicing, consistent with the use
description provided by the submitter. According to the SDS, exposure
to 2-BTP following a discharge may be hazardous if inhalation, skin
contact, or eye contact with the proposed substitute occurs at
sufficiently high levels. However, the most likely pathway of exposure
is through inhalation, which may cause central nervous system effects,
such as dizziness, confusion, physical incoordination, drowsiness,
anesthesia, or unconsciousness. The cardiotoxic Lowest Observed Adverse
Effect Level (LOAEL) for this agent is 1.0 percent (10,000 ppm), at
which level exposure may cause increased sensitivity of the heart to
adrenaline, which might cause irregular heartbeats
[[Page 45529]]
and possibly ventricular fibrillation or death.
2-BTP vapors may reduce oxygen available for breathing, causing
asphyxiation in high concentrations. Such vapors pose a potential
hazard if large volumes are trapped in enclosed or low places. In
addition, as noted above, if person(s) are exposed to high
concentrations, the person(s) may experience central nervous system
effects, such as drowsiness and dizziness, which may result in the
person(s) not realizing that he/she is suffocating. These health
effects after exposure are similar for other common fire suppressants.
To assess potential health risks from exposure to the proposed
substitute for personnel during manufacturing, EPA developed an AEL of
2 ppm for 2-BTP based on review of available toxicity studies.\42\ The
AEL represents the maximum 8-hour TWA at which personnel in an
occupational environment can be exposed regularly without adverse
effects. The estimated exposure values provided by the submitter are
greater than the occupational AEL. To effectively mitigate potential
occupational exposure and maintain average exposure levels below the
occupational AEL of 2 ppm, the manufacturing space should be equipped
with specialized engineering controls and well ventilated with a local
exhaust system and low-lying source ventilation. The sampling data
provided by the submitter demonstrate that local exhaust ventilation
greatly reduces exposure concentration inside the fill booth and in the
filling area.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\42\ ICF, 2022q. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Total Flooding
Systems in Normally Unoccupied Spaces. Substitute: 2-bromo-3,3,3-
trifluoropropene (2-BTP).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exposure to the proposed substitute is not likely during
installation or servicing of 2-BTP total flooding systems for normally
unoccupied spaces. The risk of accidental activation of the fire
extinguishing system while personnel are present near the protected
space is highly unlikely if proper procedures are followed. Proper
instructions on system installation and servicing included in manuals
for the 2-BTP systems should be adhered to. In the case of accidental
release, required engineering controls in accordance with the National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 2001 Standard on Clean Agent Fire
Extinguishing Systems to limit personnel exposure to discharges should
be employed with 2-BTP systems.
EPA provides additional information on safe use of this substitute
for establishments manufacturing, installing and maintaining equipment
using this agent in the ``Further Information'' column of the
regulatory listing. EPA recommends that a time delay of 30 to 60
seconds is programmed in accordance with the NFPA 2001 standard.
Although exposure is highly unlikely during installation and
maintenance activities, exposure is possible upon reentry into a space
after a system has been discharged. In the event of an accidental
release, the space should be adequately ventilated. EPA recommends that
personnel wear protective clothing, goggles, gloves, and particulate-
removing respirators with National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH) type N95 or better filters while performing
installation or maintenance, and a self-contained breathing apparatus
(SCBA) while performing clean-up activities to reduce the risk of
exposure. Since this additional information is not part of the
regulatory decision under SNAP, these statements are not binding for
use of the substitute under the SNAP program. 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 this substitute.
2-BTP is not expected to cause a significant risk to human health
in the general population when used in total flooding systems in
normally unoccupied areas. The proposed use in spaces under 500 ft\3\
would require a smaller amount of fire suppressant, reducing potential
exposures to workers and the general public and reducing potential
toxicity risks. Disposal of 2-BTP total flooding systems is subject to
local, state, and federal regulations, which ensure that 2-BTP and
water contaminated with 2-BTP are not to be dumped into sewers, on the
ground, or into any body of water, but rather taken to a wastewater
treatment facility or disposed of properly. 2-BTP is not considered to
be hazardous waste under EPA regulations implementing RCRA at 40 CFR
part 261. EPA provides additional information on safe use of this
substitute for establishments manufacturing, installing and maintaining
equipment using this agent in the ``Further Information'' column of the
proposed regulatory listing. Since this additional information is not
part of the regulatory decision under SNAP, these statements are not
binding for use of the substitute under the SNAP program. 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 this substitute.
Comparison to other fire suppressants: 2-BTP has an ODP of 0.0028,
comparable to or lower than other listed substitutes in this end-use,
with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.048. 2-BTP has a GWP of 0.23-0.26 that
is lower than or comparable to that of other acceptable substitutes for
total flooding agents, with GWPs that range from about zero to 3,500.
2-BTP is considered a VOC and is not excluded from EPA's regulatory
definition of VOC (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of
SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS. Other acceptable fire
suppression agents currently in use in this end-use are also VOC (e.g.,
C6-perfluoroketone), and 2-BTP is anticipated to pose no
greater risk than other alternatives listed as acceptable in this end-
use. Emissions of 2-BTP should be controlled by adhering to standard
industry practices. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent
with the NFPA 2001 standard, recommendations in the SDS, and other
safety precautions common in the fire suppression industry. The
potential toxicity risks due to inhalation exposure are common to many
total flooding agents, including those already listed as acceptable
under SNAP for this same end-use. 2-BTP post-activation products are
nonflammable, as are all other available total flooding agents.
EPA is proposing to find 2-BTP acceptable, subject to use
conditions, as a total flooding agent for use in normally unoccupied
spaces under 500 ft\3\ because the overall environmental and human
health risk posed by the substitute is lower than or comparable to the
overall risk posed by other alternatives listed as acceptable in the
same end-use.
b. Streaming Uses
Environmental information: The environmental information for this
substitute is set forth in the ``Environmental information'' section in
listing II.G.3.a above.
Flammability information: 2-BTP is nonflammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Toxicity and personal protective
equipment (PPE) information is described above under total flooding
applications. EPA evaluated occupational and general population
exposure at manufacture and at end-use to ensure that the use of 2-BTP
as a streaming agent will not pose unacceptable risks to workers or the
general public. For the occupational exposure assessment, EPA has
evaluated
[[Page 45530]]
the risks associated with potential exposures to 2-BTP during
production operations and the filling of fire extinguishers as well as
in the case of an inadvertent discharge of the fire extinguisher during
maintenance activities.
2-BTP is not expected to pose a risk to workers during manufacture
when the engineering controls and PPE requirements as referenced in the
SDS for this proposed substitute are followed. The potential health
risks from exposure to the proposed substitute for personnel during
manufacturing is described above under total flooding applications.
EPA also assessed potential end-use exposure scenario at 7.5-minute
and 15-minute TWA exposures for 2-BTP following potential release of
agent from the handheld extinguisher in confined spaces (e.g.,
electronics and server rooms).\43\ These exposures were then compared
with the cardiotoxic LOAEL for 2-BTP. All but one modeled 7.5-minute
and 15-minute exposures for varying ventilation rates were lower than
the LOAEL of 10,000 ppm for 2-BTP. The estimated exposures were derived
using conservative assumptions (i.e., no mechanical ventilation) and
represent a worst-case scenario with a low probability of occurrence.
Because anticipated exposures could exceed the exposure limit for 2-
BTP, EPA recommends that standard safety techniques to ensure safety
during the use of 2-BTP fire extinguishers be followed in non-
residential locations. 2-BTP handheld extinguishers must follow
required minimum room volumes established by UL 2129, Halocarbon Clean
Agent Fire Extinguishers,\44\ when discharged into a confined space.
This standard prohibits the exceedance of the cardiotoxic LOAEL for any
fire suppressant (i.e., 10,000 ppm or 1.0% for 2-BTP). Therefore, per
UL 2129, a warning label for 2-BTP extinguishers will mitigate use in
confined spaces. Based on the above results, 2-BTP is not expected to
pose significant risk to end users when used as a streaming fire
extinguishing agent in non-residential applications, except for
commercial home office and personal watercraft. EPA provides additional
information on safe use of this substitute for establishments
manufacturing, installing and maintaining equipment using this agent in
the ``Further Information'' column of the regulatory listing. Since
this additional information is not part of the regulatory decision
under SNAP, these statements are not binding for use of the substitute
under the SNAP program. 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
this substitute.
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\43\ ICF, 2022r. Risk Screen on Substitutes as Streaming Agents
in Non-Residential Applications. Substitute: 2-bromo-3,3,3-
trifluoropropene (2-BTP).
\44\ UL, 2017. Standard 2129--Halocarbon Clean Agent Fire
Extinguishers. Edition 3. This document is accessible at: https://www.shopulstandards.com/ProductDetail.aspx?UniqueKey=32182.
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Comparison to other fire suppressants: 2-BTP has an ODP of 0.0028,
comparable to other listed substitutes in this end-use, with ODPs
ranging from zero to 0.022. 2-BTP has a GWP of 0.23-0.26, which for
streaming agents is lower than or comparable to that of other
acceptable substitutes, with GWPs that range from about zero to 3,220.
2-BTP is considered a VOC and is not excluded from EPA's regulatory
definition of VOC (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of
SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS. Other acceptable fire
suppression agents currently in use in this end-use are also VOC (e.g.,
C6-perfluoroketone), and 2-BTP is anticipated to pose no
greater risk than other alternatives listed as acceptable in this end-
use. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with the NFPA 10
Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers, recommendations in the SDS,
and other safety precautions common in the fire suppression industry.
EPA is proposing to find 2-BTP as acceptable, subject to use
conditions, as a streaming agent for use in non-residential
applications, except for commercial home office and personal
watercraft, because the overall environmental and human health risk
posed by the substitute is lower than or comparable to the overall risk
posed by other alternatives listed as acceptable in the same end-use.
4. What use conditions is EPA proposing?
EPA is proposing to list 2-BTP as acceptable, subject to use
conditions, for use in normally unoccupied spaces under 500 ft\3\ in
total flooding fire suppression systems, and as acceptable, subject to
use conditions, as a streaming agent for use in non-residential
applications, except for commercial home offices and personal
watercrafts.
5. Why is EPA proposing these specific use conditions?
EPA is proposing to list 2-BTP as acceptable, subject to use
conditions, for use in normally unoccupied spaces under 500 ft\3\ in
total flooding fire suppression systems. These limitations are
consistent with additional information submitted to EPA. The
limitations correspond to use in small enclosed spaces, such as an
electrical closet. Such spaces would require a smaller amount of fire
suppressant, reducing potential exposures to workers and the general
public and reducing potential toxicity risks.
Additionally, EPA is proposing to list 2-BTP as acceptable subject
to use conditions as a streaming agent for use in non-residential
applications, except for commercial home office and personal
watercrafts. The definition of ``residential use'' in the SNAP
regulations at 40 CFR 82.172 is use by a private individual of a
chemical substance or any product containing the chemical substance in
or around a permanent or temporary household, during recreation, or for
any personal use or enjoyment. Use within a household for commercial or
medical applications is not included in this definition, nor is use in
automobiles, watercraft, or aircraft. Use in a commercial home office
or in personal watercraft could result in exposure to members of the
general public, including sensitive individuals such as children or the
elderly. In addition, air exchange is often lower in a home office or a
personal watercraft than in industrial or other commercial
applications, potentially resulting in higher exposure levels than in
those other non-residential applications. Because of the more sensitive
populations and potentially higher exposures associated with those
applications, EPA is proposing to list 2-BTP for use in non-residential
applications other than commercial home office and personal watercraft.
6. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
EPA is requesting comment on all aspects of the proposed listing
decision, including the proposed use conditions.
H. Total Flooding Fire Suppression--Proposed Listing of EXXFIRE[supreg]
as Acceptable, Subject to Use Conditions, for Use in Normally
Unoccupied Spaces
1. What is EPA's proposed listing decision for EXXFIRE[supreg]?
EPA is proposing to list EXXFIRE[supreg] as acceptable, subject to
use conditions, for use in total flooding fire suppression systems in
normally unoccupied spaces. Prior to activation, the EXXFIRE[supreg]
formulation is in solid form and contained within a hermetically sealed
steel container. Upon detection of a fire, nitrogen gas is released
from the unit.
[[Page 45531]]
The nitrogen gas dilutes the oxygen level within the enclosure, and
consequently suppresses the fire. After activation, only gas components
exit the casing. All solid products remain inside the casing before,
during and after activation. Use of this agent should be in accordance
with the safety guidelines in the latest edition of the NFPA 2001
standard.
The redacted submission and supporting documentation for
EXXFIRE[supreg] are provided in the docket for this proposed rule (EPA-
HQ-OAR-2021-0836) at https://www.regulations.gov. EPA performed an
assessment to examine the health and environmental risks of each of
this substitute. This assessment is available in the docket for this
proposed rule.\45\
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\45\ ICF, 2022s. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Total Flooding
Systems in Normally Unoccupied Spaces; Substitute: EXXFIRE[supreg].
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. What is EXXFIRE[supreg] and how does it compare to other fire
suppressants in the same end-use?
Environmental information: According to the submitter, the active
ingredients for this technology are nonvolatile solids before
activation so the ODP, atmospheric lifetime, and GWP are all zero. The
gaseous post-activation products that are released upon activation of
the fire suppressant with GWPs are carbon monoxide (CO),
CO2, and various hydrocarbons with GWPs ranging from less
than one to 25; however, these compounds are present in trace amounts,
together making up less than 0.5 percent of the total weight of the
post-activation products. The majority of the post-activation
constituents of EXXFIRE[supreg] are either not organic (e.g., nitrogen,
oxygen, water, hydrogen) or are excluded from EPA's regulatory
definition of VOC (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)), addressing the development of
SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS. Some constituents of
EXXFIRE[supreg] are considered VOC and are not excluded from EPA's
regulatory definition of VOC (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)), including a
variety of hydrocarbons; however, these compounds are present in trace
amounts.
Flammability information: EXXFIRE[supreg] post-activation products
are nonflammable, except for certain hydrocarbons that are present in
trace amounts.
Toxicity and exposure data: EPA assessed potential health risks
from exposure . . . . Most post-activation products for EXXFIRE[supreg]
are not expected to result in adverse health effects; however, due to
the potential presence of lithium fluoride, which is acutely toxic upon
inhalation or ingestion and can cause serious skin, eye, and
respiratory tract irritation, the use of this system is only
recommended for use in normally unoccupied spaces. Although expected to
be maintained inside the generator, the potential presence of lithium
fluoride in the post-activation particulate products justifies the
necessity for personnel to wear proper PPE (i.e., particulate-removing
respirator with NIOSH type N95 or better filters) upon reentry into the
space following a discharge of the system to mitigate those risks. The
submitter indicates that the proposed substitute can reduce oxygen
levels to 10 to 12 percent, which can cause a potential asphyxiation
hazard.
EPA evaluated occupational and general population exposure at
manufacture and at end use to ensure that the use of EXXFIRE[supreg]
will not pose unacceptable risks to workers or the general public.
Exposure is possible upon reentry into a space after a system has been
discharged. Protective gloves, tightly sealed goggles, protective work
clothing, and particulate-removing respirators should be worn for
installation and servicing activities, to protect workers in any event
of potential discharge of the proposed substitute, accidental or
otherwise. Filling or servicing operations should be performed in well-
ventilated areas. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent
with the NFPA 2001 standard, recommendations in the SDS, and other
safety precautions common in the fire suppression industry. EPA
provides additional information on safe use of this substitute for
establishments manufacturing, installing and maintaining equipment
using this agent in the ``Further Information'' column of the
regulatory listing. Since this additional information is not part of
the regulatory decision under SNAP, these statements are not binding
for use of the substitute under the SNAP program. 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 this substitute.
Comparison to other fire suppressants: EXXFIRE[supreg] has an ODP
of zero, comparable to other listed substitutes in this end-use, with
ODPs ranging from zero to 0.048. For total flooding agents,
EXXFIRE[supreg] has a GWP of zero prior to activation (and one to 25
for certain post-activation products present in trace amounts), which
is comparable to or lower than that of other acceptable substitutes,
such as HFC-227ea and other HFCs, with GWPs up to 3,500. The majority,
approximately 99.5 percent, of the post-activation constituents of
EXXFIRE[supreg] are either not organic or are excluded from EPA's
regulatory definition of VOC (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)), addressing the
development of SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS. EXXFIRE[supreg]
is anticipated to pose no greater risk than other alternatives listed
as acceptable in this end-use. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use
consistent with the NFPA 2001 standard, recommendations in the SDS, and
other safety precautions common in the fire suppression industry. The
potential toxicity risks due to inhalation exposure are common to many
total flooding agents, including those already listed as acceptable
under SNAP for this same end-use. EXXFIRE[supreg]'s post-activation
products are nonflammable, as are all other available total flooding
agents.
EPA is proposing to list EXXFIRE[supreg] as acceptable, subject to
use conditions, in the end-use listed above because it does not pose
greater overall environmental and human health risk than other
available substitutes in the same end-use.
3. What use conditions is EPA proposing and why?
Consistent with the request by the submitter, the use condition
requires that EXXFIRE[supreg] be used in total flooding fire
suppression systems only in areas that are not normally occupied. EPA
conducted this evaluation for use only in unoccupied spaces, and
information was provided by the submitter in the SNAP application
specific for this type of space based on EPA guidance.\46\
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\46\ EPA, 2004. A Guide to Completing a Risk Screen: Collection
and Use of Risk Screen Data. Fire Suppression Sector. April 2004.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
EPA is requesting comment on all aspects of the proposed listing
decision, including the proposed use conditions.
I. Total Flooding Fire Suppression--Proposed Listing of Powdered
Aerosol H (Pyroquench-[alpha]TM) as Acceptable, Subject to
Use Conditions, for Use in Normally Unoccupied Spaces
1. What is EPA's proposed listing decision for Powdered Aerosol H?
EPA is proposing to list Powdered Aerosol H, also known as
Pyroquench-[alpha]TM, as acceptable, subject to use
conditions, for use in total flooding fire suppression systems in
normally unoccupied spaces. Prior to activation, the Powdered Aerosol H
formulation is
[[Page 45532]]
contained as a solid disk of chemicals in insulated and dual-sealed
casings. In response to heat and lack of oxygen, the formulation
undergoes a chemical reaction; once the Powdered Aerosol H system is
activated, it generates and discharges a homogenous mixture of gas and
particulates into a space containing a fire hazard or directly on the
hazard itself, extinguishing the fire. In the ``Further Information''
column of the tables at the end of this document, we state that use of
this agent should be in accordance with the safety guidelines in the
latest edition of the NFPA 2010 Standard for Fixed Aerosol Fire
Extinguishing Systems.
The redacted submission and supporting documentation for Powdered
Aerosol H are provided in the docket for this proposed rule (EPA-HQ-
OAR-2021-0836) at https://www.regulations.gov. EPA performed an
assessment to examine the health and environmental risks of each of
this substitute. This assessment is available in the docket for this
proposed rule.\47\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\47\ ICF, 2022t. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Total Flooding
Systems in Normally Unoccupied Spaces; Substitute: Pyroquench-
[alpha]TM.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. What is Powdered Aerosol H and how does it compare to other fire
suppressants in the same end-use?
Environmental information: According to the submitter, the active
ingredients for this technology are nonvolatile solids before
activation so the ODP, atmospheric lifetime, and GWP are all zero. The
gaseous post-activation products that are released upon activation of
the fire suppressant with GWPs are nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
and CO2, with GWPs of 120 and one, respectively. The post-
activation constituents of Powdered Aerosol H are excluded from EPA's
regulatory definition of VOC (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)), addressing the
development of SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS.
Flammability information: Powdered Aerosol H post-activation
products are nonflammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: EPA assessed potential health risks
from exposure to the proposed substitute as a total flooding agent in
normally unoccupied spaces. Because the pre-activation components of
the fire suppressant are prepared in tablets that are non-reactive and
do not crumble or flake, there is no concern with regard to inhalation
or ingestion of the pre-activation compounds. The discharge of the
powdered aerosol after activation results in temporary reduced
visibility in the protected space due to the uniform distribution of
the particulate generated and may cause ocular, dermal, and respiratory
irritation. EPA recommends that workers should not enter the space
following discharge until all particles have settled and the gases
released by the total flooding system have dissipated. Use according to
the NFPA 2010 Standard will reduce any safety risks due to reduced
visibility. The use of proper PPE, such as protective clothing, gloves,
goggles, and particulate-removing respirators, during manufacturing, at
installation, maintenance, and clean-up, minimizes personnel exposure
from inhalation of the substitute. EPA provides additional information
on safe use of this substitute for establishments manufacturing,
installing and maintaining equipment using this agent in the ``Further
Information'' column of the regulatory listing. Since this additional
information is not part of the regulatory decision under SNAP, these
statements are not binding for use of the substitute under the SNAP
program. 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 this substitute.
EPA expects that procedures identified in the SDS for Powdered
Aerosol H and good manufacturing practices will be adhered to, and that
the appropriate safety and personal PPE consistent with OSHA guidelines
will be used during installation, servicing, post-discharge clean-up
and disposal of total flooding systems using Powdered Aerosol H. The
manufacturer guidance upon installation of the system provides the
appropriate time after which workers may re-enter the area for disposal
to allow the maximum settling of all particulates.
Comparison to other fire suppressants: The post-activation products
of Powdered Aerosol H have an ODP of zero, comparable to or lower than
other listed substitutes in this end-use, with ODPs ranging from zero
to 0.048. For total flooding agents, Powdered Aerosol H's GWP of zero
prior to activation (and one to 120 for certain post-activation
products) is comparable to or lower than that of other acceptable
substitutes, such as HFC-227ea and other HFCs, with GWPs up to 3,500.
Other acceptable substitutes in this end-use have comparable GWPs
ranging from zero to one, such as water, inert gases, and other
powdered aerosol fire suppressants. Toxicity risks can be minimized by
use consistent with the NFPA 2010 standard, recommendations in the SDS,
and other safety precautions common in the fire suppression industry.
The potential toxicity risks due to inhalation exposure are common to
many total flooding agents, including those already listed as
acceptable under SNAP for this same end-use. Powdered Aerosol H's post-
activation products are nonflammable, as are all other available total
flooding agents.
EPA is proposing to list Powdered Aerosol H as acceptable, subject
to use conditions, in the end-use listed above because it does not pose
greater overall environmental and human health risk than other
available substitutes in the same end-use.
3. What use conditions is EPA proposing and why?
Consistent with the submitter's request, EPA proposes the use
condition that Powdered Aerosol H be used in total flooding fire
suppression systems only in areas that are not normally occupied. EPA
conducted this evaluation for use only in unoccupied spaces, and
information was provided by the submitter in the SNAP application
specific for this type of space based on EPA guidance.\48\
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\48\ EPA, 2004. A Guide to Completing a Risk Screen: Collection
and Use of Risk Screen Data. Fire Suppression Sector. April, 2004.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. On which topics is EPA specifically requesting comment?
EPA is requesting comment on all aspects of the proposed listing
decision, including the proposed use conditions.
III. Request for Advance Comment on Potential Approaches to SNAP
Listing Decisions for Certain Very Short-Lived Substances
In making decisions regarding whether a substitute is acceptable or
unacceptable, and whether substitutes present risks that are lower than
or comparable to risks from other substitutes that are currently or
potentially available in the end-uses under consideration, EPA examines
the criteria in 40 CFR 82.180(a)(7) which includes (i) atmospheric
effects and related health and environmental impacts; (ii) general
population risks from ambient exposure to compounds with direct
toxicity and to increased ground-level ozone; (iii) ecosystem risks;
(iv) occupational risks; (v) consumer risks; (vi) flammability; and
(vii) cost and availability of the substitute. The ability of a
chemical to destroy ozone is represented quantitatively by its ODP,
which is the ratio of the amount of ozone that would be destroyed by
the emission of a given mass of that chemical to the amount of
[[Page 45533]]
ozone destroyed by emission of the same mass of CFC-11. In order for a
chemical to deplete stratospheric ozone, it must be transported from
the troposphere, where almost all emissions occur, to the stratosphere,
where release of its halogen atoms can trigger catalytic ozone
destruction.
Most class I and class II ODS are fairly stable in the troposphere
and persist long enough to become well-mixed in the troposphere and
then be transported into the stratosphere. Because of their longer
tropospheric lifetimes and tropospheric mixing, the ability of these
chemicals to deplete stratospheric ozone depends little on where on the
surface of the Earth or during which season the chemicals are released,
and so the ability of a particular chemical to destroy ozone can
reasonably be represented by a single ODP value that is constant over
space and time. However, some alternatives that contain chlorine,
bromine, and/or iodine are more reactive and have shorter atmospheric
lifetimes. Halogenated substances with atmospheric lifetimes shorter
than about six months are called very short-lived substances (VSLS).
Given the shorter atmospheric lifetimes of VSLS, the location of
emissions can significantly impact the amount of ozone depletion that
results. Emissions at locations where atmospheric conditions quickly
move VSLS to the stratosphere will result in more ozone depletion.
Conversely, emissions from locations where atmospheric conditions
result in VSLS moving more slowly to the stratosphere result in less
ozone depletion. If there are different ODPs calculated for different
regions, the reported consensus value in WMO (2018) is the upper limit
of those values. While not the only source of information used by the
Agency, EPA regards the quadrennial report of the Montreal Protocol's
Scientific Assessment Panel as the premier source for information
concerning stratospheric ozone science. Appendix A of the Scientific
Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 2018 (WMO, 2018) contains a compilation
of metrics, including ODPs, for ODS, ODS alternatives, and related
species, based on best available data. The international scientific
community considers these ODPs to be consensus ODPs.
Given the United States is a party to the Montreal Protocol with
196 other countries, we recognize the importance of a globally
consistent approach to considering ODPs. A globally consistent approach
to assessing risk of alternatives is also important because SNAP
listing decisions are often used by other countries as a signal that
the alternative is safe. Thus, considerations under the SNAP program
about the ozone depletion risk of a particular chemical have been based
on an ODP that is the consensus of the scientific community.
Under the SNAP program EPA has found alternatives with ODPs to be
unacceptable. However, having a non-zero ODP does not necessarily make
a substance unacceptable in all contexts. We have previously listed
alternatives with an ODP, including listing class II substances as
alternatives to class I substances--noting that many of those class II
substances have subsequently been listed as unacceptable and were also
listed as chemicals to be phased out under the Montreal Protocol and
the Clean Air Act. We have also listed alternatives with an ODP as
acceptable, subject to use restrictions. In a few cases, particularly
where the ODP is several orders of magnitude below that of the class II
substances, we have listed the alternative as acceptable without any
use restrictions. In other words, a substitute with a measurable ODP
could be determined to reduce overall risks to human health and the
environment, compared with other currently or potentially available
alternatives. For example, the SNAP program listed a number of class II
ODS as acceptable as substitutes to class I ODS and changed the status
to unacceptable when alternatives with lower ODPs became available.
The SNAP program has made some acceptability determinations
regarding VSLS in the past. Two examples are given below:
In 1995, EPA listed the VSLS trifluoroiodomethane
(CF3I) as acceptable with use restrictions for specialized
total flooding fire suppression applications, noting that its ODP was
then estimated to be 0.008-0.01, lower than some class II ODS listed as
acceptable fire suppressants in the same end-use at that time.\49\
Given the limited applications where this chemical was found to be
acceptable, it has not been widely used. More recent studies have found
CF3I emissions in different regions have an ODP ranging from
0.0034 (Europe) to 0.094 (S. Asia).50 51 These studies were
considered by WMO in their 2018 report, which lists an ODP of <0.09 for
CF3I.
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\49\ 60 FR 31092, June 13, 1995.
\50\ Brioude et al. (2010). Variations in ozone depletion
potentials of very short-lived substances with season and emission
region, Geophys. Res. Lett., 37, L19804, doi:10.1029/2010GL044856,
2010.
\51\ Youn et al. (2010). Potential impact of iodinated
replacement compounds CF3I and CH3I on
atmospheric ozone: A three-dimensional modeling study, Atmos. Chem.
Phys., 10, 10,129-10,144,doi:10.5194/acp-10-10129-2010, 2010.
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In 2012, SNAP listed HCFO-1233zd(E), a VSLS with a WMO-
listed ODP of <0.0004 (WMO, 2018), as acceptable for use as a blowing
agent in polyurethane foams (77 FR 47768; August 10, 2012). This VSLS
has an ODP orders of magnitude below the class II substances it can
replace and has become more widely used in part because of its very low
ODP and GWP.
EPA's SNAP program has received a submission to find the blend R-
466A acceptable in certain end uses in the refrigeration and AC sector.
This blend contains CF3I, which is listed by the World
Meteorological Organization (WMO, 2018) as having an ODP of < 0.09.
This is significantly higher than the ODPs of some HCFCs subject to
phaseout, e.g., HCFC-22 has an ODP of 0.055 and HCFC-123 has an ODP of
0.02.\52\ While EPA has at times listed substitutes that have non-zero
ODPs, including VSLS, as acceptable under the SNAP program, EPA has
also at times listed substitutes with ODPs as unacceptable. While EPA
is not proposing any action on the substitute R-466A in this proposal,
we note that broad use of R-466A, containing CF3I, for air
conditioning end-uses could lead to large amounts of emissions on an
ODP-weighted basis. If R-466A were to penetrate the AC market to the
extent that it substituted for 10 percent of the R-410A estimated to be
used annually in the United States in 2022, this would mean consumption
of over 200 ODP-weighted tons using the consensus ODP values of 0.09
for CF3I and 0.036 for R-466A. For comparison, the U.S. cap
on HCFC consumption is currently 75 ODP-weighted tons annually. While
HCFO-1233zd(E) is also a VSLS with potential for widespread use, the
WMO-listed ODP of <0.0004 for HCFO-1233zd(E) is two orders of magnitude
less than that of CF3I and EPA's Vintaging Model estimates
annual U.S. consumption at less than 5 ODP-weighted tons.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\52\ N.B. There are limitations on the use of HCFC-123 as
detailed in section II.A.3 above.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Agency is seeking advance comment on how EPA should address
VSLS within the SNAP program to inform potential future listing
decisions. EPA is specifically requesting comment on the following
questions:
Should EPA consider finding a VSLS with a WMO-listed ODP
that is similar to the ODP of substances that have been phased out
under the CAA Title VI to be unacceptable under SNAP?
[[Page 45534]]
Should EPA take a more conservative approach when
determining whether VSLS with ODPs similar to class II substances are
acceptable alternatives under SNAP given these substances are not
listed as class II substances under the CAA and therefore are not
scheduled to be phased out?
How should the Agency consider submissions of VSLS with
ODPs similar to class II ODS, or blends containing such VSLS, as
alternatives in light of the reality that SNAP listings are used by
other countries to determine whether an alternative may be acceptable?
IV. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory Planning and Review and Executive
Order 13563: Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review
This action is not a significant regulatory action and was
therefore not submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
for review.
B. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)
This action does not impose any new information collection burden
under the PRA. OMB has previously approved the information collection
activities contained in the existing regulations and has assigned OMB
control number 2060-0226. The approved Information Collection Request
includes five types of respondent reporting and recordkeeping
activities pursuant to SNAP regulations: submission of a SNAP petition,
filing a Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)/SNAP Addendum,
notification for test marketing activity, recordkeeping for substitutes
acceptable subject to use restrictions, and recordkeeping for small
volume uses. This action does not impose an information collection
burden under the PRA.
C. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)
I certify that this action will not have a significant economic
impact on a substantial number of small entities under the RFA. In
making this determination, EPA concludes that the impact of concern for
this rule is any significant adverse economic impact on small entities
and that the agency is certifying that this rule will not have a
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities
because the rule has no net burden on the small entities subject to the
rule. This action proposes to add the additional options under SNAP of
using HFC-32, HFO-1234yf, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, R-454C, R-1150, 2-
BTP, EXXFIRE[supreg], and Powdered Aerosol H in the specified end-uses,
but does not mandate such use. Users who choose to avail themselves of
this flexibility for R-1150 must make a reasonable effort to ascertain
that other substitutes or alternatives are not technically feasible and
must document and keep records of the results of such investigations.
Because equipment for HFC-32, HFO-1234yf, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, R-
454C is not manufactured yet in the U.S. for the chillers, residential
dehumidifiers, and non-residential dehumidifiers end-uses, no change in
business practice is required to meet the use conditions, resulting in
no adverse impact compared with the absence of this rule. Similarly, R-
1150, 2-BTP, EXXFIRE[supreg], and Powdered Aerosol H are proposed to be
listed as acceptable with use conditions consistent with industry
standards and with the intended uses described by the submitters, also
requiring no change in business practices and resulting in no adverse
impact compared with the absence of this rule. The new use conditions
for HFC-32 in self-contained room ACs and HPs were requested by
industry and are consistent with the most recent, updated standard;
these would allow for greater consistency in business practices for
different types of equipment using the same refrigerant. Equipment for
HFC-32 already manufactured prior to the effective date of a final rule
would not be required to be changed. Self-contained room ACs and HPs
using HFC-32 have been subject to similar use conditions, and thus the
updated requirements would result in no adverse impact compared with
the absence of this rule. Thus, if the rule were finalized as proposed,
it would not impose new costs on small entities. We have therefore
concluded that this action will have no net regulatory burden for all
directly regulated small entities.
D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA)
This action does not contain any unfunded mandate as described in
UMRA, 2 U.S.C. 1531-1538, and does not significantly or uniquely affect
small governments. The action imposes no enforceable duty on any state,
local or tribal governments or the private sector.
E. Executive Order 13132: Federalism
This action does not have federalism implications. It will not have
substantial direct effects on the states, on the relationship between
the national government and the states, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
F. Executive Order 13175: Consultation and Coordination With Indian
Tribal Governments
This action does not have tribal implications as specified in
Executive Order 13175. It will not have substantial direct effects on
tribal governments, on the relationship between the Federal government
and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities
between the Federal government and Indian tribes, as specified in
Executive Order 13175. Thus, Executive Order 13175 does not apply to
this action. EPA periodically updates tribal officials on air
regulations through the monthly meetings of the National Tribal Air
Association and will share information on this rulemaking through this
and other fora.
G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children From Environmental
Health and Safety Risks
This action is not subject to Executive Order 13045 because the
rule is not economically significant as defined in Executive Order
12866, and because EPA does not believe the environmental health or
safety risks addressed by this action present a disproportionate risk
to children. While EPA has not conducted a separate analysis of risks
to infants and children associated with this rule, the rule does
contain use conditions that would reduce exposure risks to the general
population, with the reduction of exposure being most important to the
most sensitive individuals. This action's health and risk assessments
are contained in the comparisons of toxicity for the various
substitutes, as well as in the risk screens for the substitutes that
are listed in this proposed rule. The risk screens are in the docket
for this rulemaking.
H. Executive Order 13211: Actions That Significantly Affect Energy
Supply, Distribution, or Use
This action is not subject to Executive Order 13211, because it is
not a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866.
I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act and 1 CFR Part 51
This action involves technical standards. EPA uses and incorporates
by reference portions of the 2019 UL Standard 60335-2-40, which
establishes requirements for the evaluation of residential AC equipment
and safe use of flammable refrigerants, among other things.
Additionally, EPA uses and incorporates by reference portions of the
2021 UL Standard 61010-2-011, which establishes requirements for the
evaluation of
[[Page 45535]]
laboratory equipment. These standards are discussed in greater detail
in sections II.D.1 and II.E.4 of this preamble.
The 2019 UL Standard 60335-2-40 and 2021 UL Standard 61010-2-011
are available at http://www.shopulstandards.com/ProductDetail.aspx?UniqueKey=36463 and may be purchased by mail at:
COMM 2000, 151 Eastern Avenue, Bensenville, IL 60106; email:
[email protected]; Telephone: 1-888-853-3503 in the U.S. or
Canada (other countries dial 1-415-352-2178); internet address: http://ulstandards.ul.com/ or www.comm-2000.com. The cost of each of the 2019
UL Standard 60335-2-40 and 2021 UL Standard 61010-2-011 is $440 for an
electronic copy and $550 for hard copy. UL also offers a subscription
service to the Standards Certification Customer Library that allows
unlimited access to their standards and related documents. The cost of
obtaining this standard is not a significant financial burden for
equipment manufacturers and purchase is not necessary for those
selling, installing, and servicing the equipment. Therefore, EPA
concludes that the UL standard incorporated by reference is reasonably
available.
EPA is also incorporating by reference ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 15-
2019, Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems, in the use conditions
for six refrigerants listed for use in chillers. This standard is
available at https://www.ashrae.org/resources-publications/bookstore/standards-15-34 and may be purchased by mail at: 6300 Interfirst Drive,
Ann Arbor, MI 48108; by telephone: 1-800-527-4723 in the U.S. or
Canada; internet address: http://www.techstreet.com/ashrae/ashrae_standards.html?ashrae_auth_token=. The cost of ASHRAE Standard
15-2019 is $159.00 for an electronic copy or hard copy. The cost of
obtaining this standard is not a significant financial burden for
equipment manufacturers or for those selling, installing and servicing
the equipment. Therefore, EPA concludes that the ASHRAE standard
proposed to be incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
EPA has already incorporated the following standards into appendix
R: UL 471 (November 24, 2010); UL 484 (December 21, 2007, with changes
through August 3, 2012).; UL 541 (December 30, 2011); and UL 60335-2-24
(April 28, 2017).
J. Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions To Address Environmental
Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations
A regulatory action may involve potential environmental justice
concerns if it could: (1) Create new disproportionate impacts on people
of color, communities of low-income, and/or indigenous peoples; (2)
exacerbate existing disproportionate impacts on people of color,
communities of low-income, and/or indigenous peoples; or (3) present
opportunities to address existing disproportionate impacts on people of
color, communities of low-income, and/or indigenous peoples through the
action under development.
EPA believes that this action does not create disproportionately
high and adverse human health or environmental effects on people of
color, communities of low-income and/or indigenous peoples, as
specified in Executive Order 12898 (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994) and
may help reduce any existing disproportionate impacts. The proposed
listings for HFC-32, HFO-1234yf, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, R-454C, R-
1150, 2-BTP, EXXFIRE[supreg], and Powdered Aerosol H in the end-uses
addressed in this action would provide additional lower-GWP and ODP or
comparable alternatives in their respective end-uses. By providing
lower-GWP and ODP or comparable alternatives for these end-uses, this
proposed rule is also anticipated to reduce the use and eventual
emissions of potent GHGs in this end-use, which could help to reduce
the effects of climate change, including the public health and welfare
effects on people of color, communities of low-income and/or indigenous
peoples. This action's health and environmental risk assessments are
contained in the comparison of health and environmental risks for HFC-
32, HFO-1234yf, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, R-454C, R-1150, 2-BTP,
EXXFIRE[supreg], and Powdered Aerosol H, as well as in the risk screens
that are available in the docket for this rulemaking. EPA's analysis
indicates that other environmental impacts and human health impacts of
HFC-32, HFO-1234yf, R-452B, R-454A, R-454B, R-454C, R-1150, 2-BTP,
EXXFIRE[supreg], and Powdered Aerosol H are comparable to or less than
those of other substitutes that are listed as acceptable for the same
end-use. Based on these considerations, EPA expects that the effects on
people of color, communities of low-income and/or indigenous peoples
would not be disproportionately high and adverse.
V. References
Unless specified otherwise, all documents are available
electronically through the Federal Docket Management System at
regulations.gov, Docket number EPA-HQ-OAR-2021-0836.
ASHRAE, 2019a. ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2019: Designation and Safety
Classification of Refrigerants.
ASHRAE, 2019b. ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 15-2019: Safety Standard for
Refrigeration Systems. 2019.
Brioude et al., 2010. Brioude, J., R.W. Portmann, J.S. Daniel, O.R.
Cooper, G.J. Frost, K.H. Rosenlof, C. Granier, A.R. Ravishankara,
S.A. Montzka, and A. Stohl, Variations in ozone depletion potentials
of very short-lived substances with season and emission region,
Geophys. Res. Lett., 37, L19804, doi:10.1029/2010GL044856, 2010.
Hodnebrog, et al., 2013. Hodnebrog, [Oslash]., Etminan, M.,
Fuglestvedt, J.S., Marston, G., Myhre, G., Nielsen, C.J., Shine,
K.P., and Wallington, T.J. (2013). Global Warming Potentials and
Radiative Efficiencies of Halocarbons and Related Compounds: A
Comprehensive Review, Reviews of Geophysics, 51, 300-378. Available
online at doi.org/10.1002/rog.20013.
EPA, 2004. A Guide to Completing a Risk Screen: Collection and Use
of Risk Screen Data. Fire Suppression Sector. April, 2004.
ICF, 2014. Assessment of the Potential Impact of Hydrocarbon
Refrigerants on Ground Level Ozone Concentrations. February, 2014.
ICF, 2022a. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and Industrial
Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-32.
ICF, 2022b. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and Industrial
Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: HFO-123yf.
ICF, 2022c. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and Industrial
Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-452B.
ICF, 2022d. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and Industrial
Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-454A.
ICF, 2022e. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and Industrial
Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-454B.
ICF, 2022f. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Chillers and Industrial
Process Air Conditioning (New Equipment); Substitute: R-454C.
ICF, 2022g. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential Dehumidifiers
(New Equipment); Substitute: HFC-32.
ICF, 2022h. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential Dehumidifiers
(New Equipment); Substitute: R-452B.
ICF, 2022i. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential Dehumidifiers
(New Equipment); Substitute: R-454A.
ICF, 2022j. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential Dehumidifiers
(New Equipment); Substitute: R-454B.
[[Page 45536]]
ICF, 2022k. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential Dehumidifiers
(New Equipment); Substitute: R-454C.
ICF, 2022l. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential Dehumidifiers
(New Equipment); Substitute: HFO-1234yf
ICF, 2022m. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Non-residential
Dehumidifiers (New Equipment); Substitute: HFC-32.
ICF, 2022n. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Residential and Light
Commercial Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps (New Equipment);
Substitute: HFC-32 (Difluoromethane).
ICF, 2022o. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Very Low Temperature
Refrigeration (New Equipment); Substitute: R-1150.
ICF, 2022p. Additional Assessment of the Potential Impact of
Hydrocarbon Refrigerants on Ground Level Ozone Concentrations. May,
2020.
ICF, 2022q. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Total Flooding Systems in
Normally Unoccupied Spaces. Substitute: 2-bromo-3,3,3-
trifluoropropene (2-BTP).
ICF, 2022r. Risk Screen on Substitutes as Streaming Agents in Non-
Residential Applications. Substitute: 2-bromo-3,3,3-trifluoropropene
(2-BTP).
ICF, 2022s. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Total Flooding Systems in
Normally Unoccupied Spaces; Substitute: EXXFIRE[supreg].
ICF, 2022t. Risk Screen on Substitutes in Total Flooding Systems in
Normally Unoccupied Spaces; Substitute: Pyroquench-
[alpha]TM.
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., Qin, D.,
Manning, M., Chen, Z., Marquis, M., Averyt, K.B., Tignor, M., and
Miller, H.L. (eds.). Cambridge University Press. Cambridge, United
Kingdom and New York, NY, USA. Available online at: www.ipcc.ch/
publications_and_data/ar4/wg1/en/contents.html.
National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). 2018. NFPA 10: Standard for
Portable Fire Extinguishers.
National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). 2018. NFPA 2001: Standard on
Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems.
National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). 2018. NFPA 2010. Standard
for Fixed Aerosol Fire Extinguishing Systems.
Nielsen et al., 2007. Nielsen, O.J., Javadi, M.S., Sulbaek Andersen,
M.P., Hurley, M.D., Wallington, T.J., Singh, R. (2007). Atmospheric
chemistry of CF3CF=CH2: Kinetics and mechanisms of gas-phase
reactions with Cl atoms, OH radicals, and O3. Chemical Physics
Letters 439, 18-22. Available online at http://www.lexissecuritiesmosaic.com/gateway/FedReg/network_OJN_174_CF3CF=CH2.pdf.
UL 2129, 2017. UL Standard 2129--Halocarbon Clean Agent Fire
Extinguishers. Edition 3.
UL 60335-2-40, 2019. Household And Similar Electrical Appliances--
Safety--Part 2-40: Particular Requirements for Electrical Heat
Pumps, Air-Conditioners and Dehumidifiers. Third Edition. November
1, 2019.
UL Standard 61010-2-011, 2021. Safety Requirements for Electrical
Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use--Part 011:
Particular Requirements for Refrigerating Equipment. Second edition.
May 13, 2021.
Wickham, 2002. Status of Industry Efforts to Replace Halon Fire
Extinguishing Agents. March 2002. Available online at: https://www.epa.gov/snap/status-industry-efforts-replace-halon-fire-extinguishing-agents.
World Meteorological Organization (WMO), 2018. Burkholder et al.
Appendix A, Table A-1 in Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion:
2018, Global Ozone Research and Monitoring Project, Report No. 58,
World Meteorological Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, http://ozone.unep.org/science/assessment/sap.
Youn et al. (2010). Youn, D., K.O. Patten, D.J. Wuebbles, H. Lee,
and C.-W. So, Potential impact of iodinated replacement compounds
CF3I and CH3I on atmospheric ozone: A three-
dimensional modeling study, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 10, 10,129-10,144,
doi:10.5194/acp-10-10129-2010, 2010.
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 82
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Air pollution control, Incorporation by reference, Stratospheric ozone
layer.
Michael S. Regan,
Administrator.
For the reasons set forth in the preamble, EPA proposes to amend 40
CFR part 82 as follows:
PART 82--PROTECTION OF STRATOSPHERIC OZONE
0
1. The authority citation for part 82 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7414, 7601, 7671-7671q.
Subpart G-Significant New Alternatives Policy Program
0
2. Amend appendix R to subpart G of part 82 by:
0
a. Revising the heading for appendix R to subpart G of part 82;
0
b. Revising the table titled ``Substitutes That Are Acceptable Subject
to Use Conditions''; and
0
c. Removing the two undesignated paragraphs immediately preceding table
A.
The revisions read as follows:
Appendix R to Subpart G of Part 82--Substitutes Subject to Use
Restrictions Listed in the December 20, 2011, Final Rule, Effective
February 21, 2012, and in the April 10, 2015 Final Rule, Effective May
11, 2015, and in the [Date of Publication of the Final Rule in the
Federal Register] Final Rule, Effective [Date 30 Days After Date of
Publication of the Final Rule in the Federal Register]
[[Page 45537]]
Substitutes That Are Acceptable Subject to Use Conditions
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Use conditions Further information
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Household refrigerators, Isobutane (R- Acceptable As of September 7, 2018: These refrigerants may be Applicable OSHA requirements at
freezers, and combination 600a) Propane subject to use used only in new equipment designed specifically 29 CFR part 1910 must be
refrigerators and freezers (R-290) R-441A. conditions. and clearly identified for the refrigerant (i.e., followed, including those at
(New equipment only). none of these substitutes may be used as a 29 CFR 1910.106 (flammable and
conversion or ``retrofit'' refrigerant for combustible liquids), 1910.110
existing equipment designed for a different (storage and handling of
refrigerant) liquefied petroleum gases),
These refrigerants may be used only in a 1910.157 (portable fire
refrigerator or freezer, or combination extinguishers), and 1910.1000
refrigerator and freezer, that meets all (toxic and hazardous
requirements listed in UL 60335-2-24 1 2 6 substances).
Proper ventilation should be
maintained at all times during
the manufacture and storage of
equipment containing
hydrocarbon refrigerants
through adherence to good
manufacturing practices as per
29 CFR 1910.106. If
refrigerant levels in the air
surrounding the equipment rise
above one-fourth of the lower
flammability limit, the space
should be evacuated and re-
entry should occur only after
the space has been properly
ventilated.
Technicians and equipment
manufacturers should wear
appropriate personal
protective equipment,
including chemical goggles and
protective gloves, when
handling these refrigerants.
Special care should be taken
to avoid contact with the skin
since these refrigerants, like
many refrigerants, can cause
freeze burns on the skin.
A Class B dry powder type fire
extinguisher should be kept
nearby.
Technicians should only use
spark-proof tools when working
on refrigerators and freezers
with these refrigerants.
Any recovery equipment used
should be designed for
flammable refrigerants. Any
refrigerant releases should be
in a well-ventilated area,
such as outside of a building.
Only technicians specifically
trained in handling flammable
refrigerants should service
refrigerators and freezers
containing these refrigerants.
Technicians should gain an
understanding of minimizing
the risk of fire and the steps
to use flammable refrigerants
safely.
[[Page 45538]]
2. Retail food refrigerators Isobutane (R- Acceptable As provided in clauses SB6.1.2 to SB6.1.5 of UL Room occupants should evacuate
and freezers (stand-alone 600a) Propane subject to use 471,1 2 3 the following markings must be attached the space immediately
units only) (New equipment (R-290) R-441A. conditions. at the locations provided and must be permanent: following the accidental
only). (a) On or near any evaporators that can be release of this refrigerant.
contacted by the consumer: ``DANGER--Risk of Fire If a service port is added then
or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. Do Not retail food refrigerators and
Use Mechanical Devices To Defrost Refrigerator. Do freezers using these
Not Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.'' refrigerants should have
(b) Near the machine compartment: ``DANGER--Risk of service aperture fittings that
Fire or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. To differ from fittings used in
Be Repaired Only By Trained Service Personnel. Do equipment or containers using
Not Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.'' non-flammable refrigerant.
(c) Near the machine compartment: ``CAUTION--Risk ``Differ'' means that either
of Fire or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. the diameter differs by at
Consult Repair Manual/Owner's Guide Before least 1/16 inch or the thread
Attempting To Service This Product. All Safety direction is reversed (i.e.,
Precautions Must be Followed.'' right-handed vs. left-handed).
(d) On the exterior of the refrigerator: ``CAUTION-- These different fittings
Risk of Fire or Explosion. Dispose of Properly In should be permanently affixed
Accordance With Federal Or Local Regulations. to the unit at the point of
Flammable Refrigerant Used.'' service and maintained until
(e) Near any and all exposed refrigerant tubing: the end-of-life of the unit,
``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or Explosion Due To and should not be accessed
Puncture Of Refrigerant Tubing; Follow Handling with an adaptor.
Instructions Carefully. Flammable Refrigerant
Used.''
All of these markings must be in letters no less
than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch) high.
The refrigerator or freezer must have red,
Pantone[supreg] Matching System (PMS) #185 marked
pipes, hoses, and other devices through which the
refrigerant is serviced, typically known as the
service port, to indicate the use of a flammable
refrigerant. This color must be present at all
service ports and where service puncturing or
otherwise creating an opening from the refrigerant
circuit to the atmosphere might be expected (e.g.,
process tubes). The color mark must extend at
least 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) from the compressor
and must be replaced if removed.
[[Page 45539]]
3. Very low temperature Ethane (R-170).. Acceptable This refrigerant may be used only in new equipment Applicable OSHA requirements at
refrigeration Non-mechanical subject to use specifically designed and clearly identified for 29 CFR part 1910 must be
heat transfer (New equipment conditions. the refrigerant (i.e., the substitute may not be followed, including those at
only). used as a conversion or ``retrofit'' refrigerant 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
for existing equipment designed for other and 1910.106 (flammable and
refrigerants). combustible liquids), 1910.110
This refrigerant may only be used in equipment that (storage and handling of
meets all requirements in Supplement SB to, UL liquefied petroleum gases),
471.1 32 3 In cases where listing 3 or 4 of this 1910.157 (portable fire
table includes requirements more stringent than extinguishers), and 1910.1000
those of UL 471, the appliance must meet the (toxic and hazardous
requirements of listing 3 or 4 of this table in substances).
place of the requirements in UL 471. Proper ventilation should be
The charge size for the equipment must not exceed maintained at all times during
150 g (5.29 oz) in each circuit. the manufacture and storage of
equipment containing
hydrocarbon refrigerants
through adherence to good
manufacturing practices as per
29 CFR 1910.106. If
refrigerant levels in the air
surrounding the equipment rise
above one-fourth of the lower
flammability limit, the space
should be evacuated and re-
entry should occur only after
the space has been properly
ventilated.
Technicians and equipment
manufacturers should wear
appropriate personal
protective equipment,
including chemical goggles and
protective gloves, when
handling ethane. Special care
should be taken to avoid
contact with the skin since
ethane, like many
refrigerants, can cause freeze
burns on the skin.
A Class B dry powder type fire
extinguisher should be kept
nearby.
Technicians should only use
spark-proof tools when working
on equipment with flammable
refrigerants.
Any recovery equipment used
should be designed for
flammable refrigerants.
Any refrigerant releases should
be in a well-ventilated area,
such as outside of a building.
Only technicians specifically
trained in handling flammable
refrigerants should service
equipment containing ethane.
Technicians should gain an
understanding of minimizing
the risk of fire and the steps
to use flammable refrigerants
safely.
[[Page 45540]]
4. Very low temperature Ethane (R-170).. Ethane (R-170).. As provided in clauses SB6.1.2 to SB6.1.5 of UL Room occupants should evacuate
refrigeration. Non-mechanical 471,1 2 3 the following markings must be attached the space immediately
heat transfer (New equipment at the locations provided and must be permanent: following the accidental
only). (a) On or near any evaporators that can be release of this refrigerant.
contacted by the consumer: ``DANGER--Risk of Fire If a service port is added then
or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. Do Not refrigeration equipment using
Use Mechanical Devices To Defrost Refrigerator. Do this refrigerant should have
Not Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.'' service aperture fittings that
(b) Near the machine compartment: ``DANGER--Risk of differ from fittings used in
Fire or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. To equipment or containers using
Be Repaired Only By Trained Service Personnel. Do non-flammable refrigerant.
Not Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.'' ``Differ'' means that either
(c) Near the machine compartment: ``CAUTION--Risk the diameter differs by at
of Fire or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. least \1/16\ inch or the
Consult Repair Manual/Owner's Guide Before thread direction is reversed
Attempting To Service This Product. All Safety (i.e., right-handed vs. left-
Precautions Must be Followed.'' handed). These different
(d) On the exterior of the refrigerator: ``CAUTION-- fittings should be permanently
Risk of Fire or Explosion. Dispose of Properly In affixed to the unit at the
Accordance With Federal Or Local Regulations. point of service and
Flammable Refrigerant Used.'' maintained until the end-of-
(e) Near any and all exposed refrigerant tubing: life of the unit, and should
``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or Explosion Due To not be accessed with an
Puncture Of Refrigerant Tubing; Follow Handling adaptor.
Instructions Carefully. Flammable Refrigerant Example of non-mechanical heat
Used.'' transfer using this
All of these markings must be in letters no less refrigerant would be use in a
than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch) high. secondary loop of a
The refrigeration equipment must have red, thermosiphon.
Pantone[supreg] Matching System (PMS) #185 marked
pipes, hoses, and other devices through which the
refrigerant is serviced, typically known as the
service port, to indicate the use of a flammable
refrigerant. This color must be present at all
service ports and where service puncturing or
otherwise creating an opening from the refrigerant
circuit to the atmosphere might be expected (e.g.,
process tubes). The color mark must extend at
least 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) from the compressor
and must be replaced if removed.
[[Page 45541]]
5. Vending Machines (New Isobutane (R- Acceptable These refrigerants may be used only in new Applicable OSHA requirements at
equipment only). 600a) Propane subject to use equipment specifically designed and clearly 29 CFR part 1910 must be
(R-290) R-441A. conditions. identified for the refrigerants (i.e., none of followed, including those at
these substitutes may be used as a conversion or 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
``retrofit'' refrigerant for existing equipment and 1910.106 (flammable and
designed for other refrigerants). Detaching and combustible liquids), 1910.110
replacing the old refrigeration circuit from the (storage and handling of
outer casing of the equipment with a new one liquefied petroleum gases),
containing a new evaporator, condenser, and 1910.157 (portable fire
refrigerant tubing within the old casing is extinguishers), and 1910.1000
considered ``new'' equipment and not a retrofit of (toxic and hazardous
the old, existing equipment. substances).
These substitutes may only be used in equipment Proper ventilation should be
that meets all requirements in Supplement SA to UL maintained at all times during
541.1 2 5 In cases where listing 5 or 6 of this the manufacture and storage of
table includes requirements more stringent than equipment containing
those of UL 541, the appliance must meet the hydrocarbon refrigerants
requirements of listing 5 or 6 of this table in through adherence to good
place of the requirements in UL 541. The charge manufacturing practices as per
size for vending machines must not exceed 150 g 29 CFR 1910.106. If
(5.29 oz) in each circuit. refrigerant levels in the air
surrounding the equipment rise
above one-fourth of the lower
flammability limit, the space
should be evacuated and re-
entry should occur only after
the space has been properly
ventilated.
Technicians and equipment
manufacturers should wear
appropriate personal
protective equipment,
including chemical goggles and
protective gloves, when
handling these refrigerants.
Special care should be taken
to avoid contact with the skin
since these refrigerants, like
many refrigerants, can cause
freeze burns on the skin.
A Class B dry powder type fire
extinguisher should be kept
nearby.
Technicians should only use
spark-proof tools when working
on refrigeration equipment
with flammable refrigerants.
Any recovery equipment used
should be designed for
flammable refrigerants.
Any refrigerant releases should
be in a well-ventilated area,
such as outside of a building.
Only technicians specifically
trained in handling flammable
refrigerants should service
refrigeration equipment
containing these refrigerants.
Technicians should gain an
understanding of minimizing
the risk of fire and the steps
to use flammable refrigerants
safely.
[[Page 45542]]
6. Vending Machines (New Isobutane (R- Acceptable As provided in clauses SA6.1.2 to SA6.1.5 of UL Room occupants should evacuate
equipment only). 600a) Propane subject to use 541,1 2 5 the following markings must be attached the space immediately
(R-290) R-441A. conditions. at the locations provided and must be permanent: following the accidental
(a) On or near any evaporators that can be release of this refrigerant.
contacted by the consumer: ``DANGER--Risk of Fire If a service port is added then
or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. Do Not refrigeration equipment using
Use Mechanical Devices To Defrost Refrigerator. Do this refrigerant should have
Not Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.'' service aperture fittings that
(b) Near the machine compartment: ``DANGER--Risk of differ from fittings used in
Fire or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. To equipment or containers using
Be Repaired Only By Trained Service Personnel. Do non-flammable refrigerant.
Not Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.'' ``Differ'' means that either
(c) Near the machine compartment: ``CAUTION--Risk the diameter differs by at
of Fire or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. least \1/16\ inch or the
Consult Repair Manual/Owner's Guide Before thread direction is reversed
Attempting To Service This Product. All Safety (i.e., right-handed vs. left-
Precautions Must be Followed.'' handed). These different
(d) On the exterior of the refrigerator: ``CAUTION-- fittings should be permanently
Risk of Fire or Explosion. Dispose of Properly In affixed to the unit at the
Accordance With Federal Or Local Regulations. point of service and
Flammable Refrigerant Used.'' maintained until the end-of-
(e) Near any and all exposed refrigerant tubing: life of the unit, and should
``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or Explosion Due To not be accessed with an
Puncture Of Refrigerant Tubing; Follow Handling adaptor.
Instructions Carefully. Flammable Refrigerant
Used.'' All of these markings must be in letters
no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch) high
The refrigeration equipment must have red,
Pantone[supreg] Matching System (PMS) #185 marked
pipes, hoses, and other devices through which the
refrigerant is serviced, typically known as the
service port, to indicate the use of a flammable
refrigerant. This color must be present at all
service ports and where service puncturing or
otherwise creating an opening from the refrigerant
circuit to the atmosphere might be expected (e.g.,
process tubes). The color mark must extend at
least 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) from the compressor
and must be replaced if removed.
[[Page 45543]]
7. Residential and light- Propane (R-290) Acceptable These refrigerants may be used only in new Applicable OSHA requirements at
commercial air conditioning R-441A. subject to use equipment specifically designed and clearly 29 CFR part 1910 must be
and heat pumps--self- conditions. identified for the refrigerants (i.e., none of followed, including those at
contained room air these substitutes may be used as a conversion or 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
conditioners only (New ``retrofit'' refrigerant for existing equipment and 1910.106 (flammable and
equipment only). designed for other refrigerants). combustible liquids), 1910.110
These refrigerants may only be used in equipment (storage and handling of
that meets all requirements in Supplement SA and liquefied petroleum gases),
Appendices B through F of UL 484.1 2 4 In cases 1910.157 (portable fire
where listing 7 or 8 includes requirements more extinguishers), and 1910.1000
stringent than those of UL 484, the appliance must (toxic and hazardous
meet the requirements of listing 7 or 8 of this substances).
table in place of the requirements in UL 484. Proper ventilation should be
The charge size for the entire air conditioner must maintained at all times during
not exceed the maximum refrigerant mass determined the manufacture and storage of
according to Appendix F of UL 484 for the room equipment containing
size where the air conditioner is used. The charge hydrocarbon refrigerants
size for these three refrigerants must in no case through adherence to good
exceed 1,000 g (35.3 oz or 2.21 lbs) of propane or manufacturing practices as per
1,000 g (35.3 oz or 2.21 lb) of R-441A. For 29 CFR 1910.106. If
portable air conditioners, the charge size must in refrigerant levels in the air
no case exceed 300 g (10.6 oz or 0.66 lbs) of surrounding the equipment rise
propane or 330 g (11.6 oz or 0.72 lb) of R-441A. above one-fourth of the lower
The manufacturer must design a charge size for the flammability limit, the space
entire air conditioner that does not exceed the should be evacuated and re-
amount specified for the unit's cooling capacity, entry should occur only after
as specified in table A, B, C, D, or E of this the space has been properly
appendix R. ventilated.
Technicians and equipment
manufacturers should wear
appropriate personal
protective equipment,
including chemical goggles and
protective gloves, when
handling these refrigerants.
Special care should be taken
to avoid contact with the skin
since these refrigerants, like
many refrigerants, can cause
freeze burns on the skin.
A Class B dry powder type fire
extinguisher should be kept
nearby.
Technicians should only use
spark-proof tools when working
on air conditioning equipment
with flammable refrigerants.
Any recovery equipment used
should be designed for
flammable refrigerants.
Any refrigerant releases should
be in a well-ventilated area,
such as outside of a building.
Only technicians specifically
trained in handling flammable
refrigerants should service
refrigeration equipment
containing these refrigerants.
Technicians should gain an
understanding of minimizing
the risk of fire and the steps
to use flammable refrigerants
safely.
[[Page 45544]]
8. Residential and light- Propane (R-290)R- Acceptable As provided in clauses SA6.1.2 to SA6.1.5 of UL Room occupants should evacuate
commercial air conditioning 441A. subject to use 484,1 2 4 the following markings must be attached the space immediately
and heat pumps--self- conditions. at the locations provided and must be permanent: following the accidental
contained room air (a) On the outside of the air conditioner: release of this refrigerant.
conditioners only (New ``DANGER--Risk of Fire or Explosion. Flammable If a service port is added then
equipment only). Refrigerant Used. To Be Repaired Only By Trained air conditioning equipment
Service Personnel. Do Not Puncture Refrigerant using this refrigerant should
Tubing.'' have service aperture fittings
(b) On the outside of the air conditioner: that differ from fittings used
``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or Explosion. Dispose of in equipment or containers
Properly In Accordance With Federal Or Local using non-flammable
Regulations. Flammable Refrigerant Used.'' refrigerant. ``Differ'' means
(c) On the inside of the air conditioner near the that either the diameter
compressor: ``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or Explosion. differs by at least 1/16 inch
Flammable Refrigerant Used. Consult Repair Manual/ or the thread direction is
Owner's Guide Before Attempting To Service This reversed (i.e., right-handed
Product. All Safety Precautions Must be vs. left-handed). These
Followed.'' different fittings should be
(d) On the outside of each portable air permanently affixed to the
conditioner: ``WARNING: Appliance shall be unit at the point of service
installed, operated and stored in a room with a and maintained until the end-
floor area larger the ``X'' m\2\ (Y ft\2\).'' The of-life of the unit, and
value ``X'' on the label must be determined using should not be accessed with an
the minimum room size in m\2\ calculated using adaptor.
Appendix F of UL 484. For R-441A, use a lower Air conditioning equipment in
flammability limit of 0.041 kg/m\3\ in this category includes:
calculations in Appendix F of UL 484. Window air conditioning units.
All of these markings must be in letters no less Portable room air conditioners.
than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch) high. Packaged terminal air
The air conditioning equipment must have red, conditioners and heat pumps.
Pantone[supreg] Matching System (PMS) #185 marked
pipes, hoses, and other devices through which the
refrigerant is serviced, typically known as the
service port, to indicate the use of a flammable
refrigerant. This color must be present at all
service ports and where service puncturing or
otherwise creating an opening from the refrigerant
circuit to the atmosphere might be expected (e.g.,
process tubes). The color mark must extend at
least 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) from the compressor
and must be replaced if removed.
[[Page 45545]]
9. Residential and light- HFC-32.......... Acceptable These refrigerants may be used only in new Applicable OSHA requirements at
commercial air conditioning subject to use equipment specifically designed and clearly 29 CFR part 1910 must be
and heat pumps--self- conditions. identified for the refrigerants (i.e., none of followed, including those at
contained room air these substitutes may be used as a conversion or 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
conditioners only.(New ``retrofit'' refrigerant for existing equipment and 1910.106 (flammable and
equipment only) manufactured designed for other refrigerants). combustible liquids), 1910.110
on or after May 10, 2015 and These refrigerants may only be used in equipment (storage and handling of
up to but not including [Date that meets all requirements in Supplement SA and liquefied petroleum gases),
30 days after date of Appendices B through F of UL 484.1 2 4 In cases 1910.157 (portable fire
publication of the final rule where listing 9 or 10 of this table includes extinguishers), and 1910.1000
in the Federal Register]. requirements more stringent than those of UL 484, (toxic and hazardous
the appliance must meet the requirements of substances).
listing 9 or 10 of this table in place of the Proper ventilation should be
requirements in UL 484. maintained at all times during
The charge size for the entire air conditioner must the manufacture and storage of
not exceed the maximum refrigerant mass determined equipment containing
according to Appendix F of UL 484 for the room hydrocarbon refrigerants
size where the air conditioner is used. The charge through adherence to good
size for these three refrigerants must in no case manufacturing practices as per
exceed 1,000 g (35.3 oz or 2.21 lbs) of propane or 29 CFR 1910.106. If
1,000 g (35.3 oz or 2.21 lb) of R-441A. For refrigerant levels in the air
portable air conditioners, the charge size must in surrounding the equipment rise
no case exceed 300 g (10.6 oz or 0.66 lbs) of above one-fourth of the lower
propane or 330 g (11.6 oz or 0.72 lb) of R-441A. flammability limit, the space
The manufacturer must design a charge size for the should be evacuated and re-
entire air conditioner that does not exceed the entry should occur only after
amount specified for the unit's cooling capacity, the space has been properly
as specified in table A, B, C, D, or E of this ventilated.
appendix. Technicians and equipment
manufacturers should wear
appropriate personal
protective equipment,
including chemical goggles and
protective gloves, when
handling these refrigerants.
Special care should be taken
to avoid contact with the skin
since these refrigerants, like
many refrigerants, can cause
freeze burns on the skin.
A Class B dry powder type fire
extinguisher should be kept
nearby.
Technicians should only use
spark-proof tools when working
on air conditioning equipment
with flammable refrigerants.
Any recovery equipment used
should be designed for
flammable refrigerants.
Any refrigerant releases should
be in a well-ventilated area,
such as outside of a building.
Only technicians specifically
trained in handling flammable
refrigerants should service
refrigeration equipment
containing these refrigerants.
Technicians should gain an
understanding of minimizing
the risk of fire and the steps
to use flammable refrigerants
safely.
[[Page 45546]]
10. Residential and light- HFC-32.......... Acceptable As provided in clauses SA6.1.2 to SA6.1.5 of UL Room occupants should evacuate
commercial air conditioning subject to use 484,1 2 4 the following markings must be attached the space immediately
and heat pumps--self- conditions. at the locations provided and must be permanent: following the accidental
contained room air (a) On the outside of the air conditioner: release of this refrigerant.
conditioners only. (New ``DANGER--Risk of Fire or Explosion. Flammable If a service port is added then
equipment only) manufactured Refrigerant Used. To Be Repaired Only By Trained air conditioning equipment
on or after May 10, 2015 and Service Personnel. Do Not Puncture Refrigerant using this refrigerant should
up to but not including [Date Tubing.'' have service aperture fittings
30 days after date of (b) On the outside of the air conditioner: that differ from fittings used
publication of the final rule ``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or Explosion. Dispose of in equipment or containers
in the Federal Register]. Properly In Accordance With Federal Or Local using non-flammable
Regulations. Flammable Refrigerant Used.'' refrigerant. ``Differ'' means
(c) On the inside of the air conditioner near the that either the diameter
compressor: ``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or Explosion. differs by at least 1/16 inch
Flammable Refrigerant Used. Consult Repair Manual/ or the thread direction is
Owner's Guide Before Attempting To Service This reversed (i.e., right-handed
Product. All Safety Precautions Must be vs. left-handed). These
Followed.'' different fittings should be
(d) On the outside of each portable air permanently affixed to the
conditioner: ``WARNING: Appliance shall be unit at the point of service
installed, operated and stored in a room with a and maintained until the end-
floor area larger the ``X'' m\2\ (Y ft\2\).'' The of-life of the unit, and
value ``X'' on the label must be determined using should not be accessed with an
the minimum room size in m\2\ calculated using adaptor.
Appendix F of UL 484. For R-441A, use a lower Air conditioning equipment in
flammability limit of 0.041 kg/m\3\ in this category includes:
calculations in Appendix F of UL 484. Window air conditioning units.
All of these markings must be in letters no less Portable room air conditioners.
than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch) high. Packaged terminal air
The air conditioning equipment must have red, conditioners and heat pumps.
Pantone[supreg] Matching System (PMS) #185 marked
pipes, hoses, and other devices through which the
refrigerant is serviced, typically known as the
service port, to indicate the use of a flammable
refrigerant. This color must be present at all
service ports and where service puncturing or
otherwise creating an opening from the refrigerant
circuit to the atmosphere might be expected (e.g.,
process tubes). The color mark must extend at
least 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) from the compressor
and must be replaced if removed.
11. Residential and light- HFC-32.......... Acceptable This refrigerant may be used only in new equipment
commercial air conditioning Subject to Use specifically designed and clearly identified for
and heat pumps--self- Conditions. the refrigerant (i.e., this substitute may not be
contained room air used as a conversion or ``retrofit'' refrigerant
conditioners only. (New for existing equipment designed for other
equipment only) manufactured refrigerants).
on or after [Date 30 days
after of publication of the
final rule in the Federal
Register].
[[Page 45547]]
...................................................
This substitute may only be used in air
conditioning equipment that meets all requirements
in the UL 60335-2-40.1 2 7 In cases where this
listing 11 includes requirements more stringent
than those of UL 60335-2-40, the appliance must
meet the requirements of this listing 11 in place
of the requirements in UL 60335-2-40.
The following markings must be attached at the
locations provided and must be permanent:
(a) On the outside of the equipment: ``WARNING--
Risk of Fire. Flammable Refrigerant Used. To Be
Repaired Only By Trained Service Personnel. Do Not
Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.''
(b) On the outside of the equipment: ``WARNING--
Risk of Fire. Dispose of Properly In Accordance
With Federal Or Local Regulations. Flammable
Refrigerant Used.''
(c) On the inside of the equipment near the
compressor: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Flammable
Refrigerant Used. Consult Repair Manual/Owner's
Guide Before Attempting to Service This Product.
All Safety Precautions Must be Followed.''
(d) For any equipment pre-charged at the factory,
on the equipment packaging or on the outside of
the equipment: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire due to
Flammable Refrigerant Used. Follow Handling
Instructions Carefully in Compliance with National
Regulations''
a. If the equipment is delivered packaged, this
label shall be applied on the packaging.
[[Page 45548]]
................................................... Applicable OSHA requirements at
b. If the equipment is not delivered packaged, this 29 CFR part 1910 must be
label shall be applied on the outside of the followed, including those at
equipment near the control panel or nameplate. 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
(e) On the equipment near the nameplate: and 1910.106 (flammable and
a. At the top of the marking: ``Minimum combustible liquids), 1910.110
Installation height, X m (W ft)''. This marking is (storage and handling of
only required if required by the UL 60335-2-40. liquefied petroleum gases),
The terms ``X'' and ``W'' shall be replaced by the and 1910.1000 (toxic and
numeric height as calculated per UL 60335-2-40. hazardous substances).
Note that the formatting here is slightly Proper ventilation should be
different than UL 60335-2-40; specifically, the maintained at all times during
height in Inch-Pound units is placed in the manufacture and storage of
parentheses and the word ``and'' has been replaced equipment containing flammable
by the opening parenthesis. refrigerants through adherence
b. Immediately below marking (a) of this listing to good manufacturing
11or at the top of the marking if marking (a) is practices as per 29 CFR
not required: ``Minimum room area (operating or 1910.106. If refrigerant
storage), Y m\2\ (Z ft\2\)''. The terms ``Y'' and levels in the air surrounding
``Z'' shall be replaced by the numeric area as the equipment rise above one-
calculated per UL 60335-2-40. Note that the fourth of the lower
formatting here is slightly different than UL flammability limit, the space
60335-2-40; specifically, the area in Inch-Pound should be evacuated, and
units is placed in parentheses and the word reentry should occur only
``and'' has been replaced by the opening after the space has been
parenthesis. properly ventilated.
(f) For non-fixed equipment, on the outside of the Technicians and equipment
product: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire or Explosion-- manufacturers should wear
Store in a well-ventilated room without appropriate personal
continuously operating flames or other potential protective equipment,
ignition.'' including chemical goggles and
(g) All of these markings must be in letters no protective gloves, when
less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch) high. handling flammable
The equipment must have red Pantone Matching System refrigerants. Special care
(PMS) #185 or RAL 3020 marked service ports, should be taken to avoid
pipes, hoses, or other devices through which the contact with the skin which,
refrigerant passes, to indicate the use of a like many refrigerants, can
flammable refrigerant. This color must be applied cause freeze burns on the
at all service ports and other parts of the system skin.
where service puncturing or other actions creating A class B dry powder type fire
an opening from the refrigerant circuit to the extinguisher should be kept
atmosphere might be expected and must extend a nearby.
minimum of one (1) inch (25mm) in both directions Technicians should only use
from such locations and shall be replaced if spark-proof tools when working
removed. on air conditioning equipment
with flammable refrigerants.
Any recovery equipment used
should be designed for
flammable refrigerants. Only
technicians specifically
trained in handling flammable
refrigerants should service
refrigeration equipment
containing this refrigerant.
Technicians should gain an
understanding of minimizing
the risk of fire and the steps
to use flammable refrigerants
safely.
Room occupants should evacuate
the space immediately
following the accidental
release of this refrigerant.
Personnel commissioning,
maintaining, repairing,
decommissioning and disposing
of appliances with this
refrigerant should obtain
training and follow practices
consistent with Annex HH of UL
60335-2-40.2 7
CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibits
knowingly venting or otherwise
knowingly releasing or
disposing of substitute
refrigerants in the course of
maintaining, servicing,
repairing or disposing of an
appliance or industrial
process refrigeration.
Department of Transportation
requirements for transport of
flammable gases must be
followed.
Flammable refrigerants being
recovered or otherwise
disposed of from residential
and light commercial air
conditioning appliances are
likely to be hazardous waste
under the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act
(RCRA) (see 40 CFR parts 260
through 270).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference (5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51). You may inspect a copy at the
U.S. EPA or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the U.S. EPA at: EPA Docket Center, WJC West Building, Room 3334, 1301
Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004, www.epa.gov/dockets, (202) 202-1744. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email
[email protected], or visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
\2\ You may obtain the material from: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) COMM 2000; 151 Eastern Avenue; Bensenville, IL 60106; email: 2000.com">orders@comm-2000.com; phone: 1-888-853-3503 in the U.S. or Canada (other countries +1-415-352-2168); website: https://ulstandards.ul.com/ or www.comm-2000.com.
\3\ UL 471. Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers. 10th edition. Supplement SB: Requirements for Refrigerators and Freezers Employing a Flammable
Refrigerant in the Refrigerating System. November 24, 2010.
\4\ UL 484. Room Air Conditioners. 8th edition. Supplement SA: Requirements for Room Air Conditioners Employing a Flammable Refrigerant in the
Refrigerating System and Appendices B through F. December 21, 2007, with changes through August 3, 2012.
[[Page 45549]]
\5\ UL 541. Refrigerated Vending Machines. 7th edition. Supplement SA: Requirements for Refrigerated Venders Employing a Flammable Refrigerant in the
Refrigerating System. December 30, 2011.
\6\ UL 60335-2-24. Standard for Safety: Requirements for Household and Similar Electrical Appliances--Safety--Part 2-24: Particular Requirements for
Refrigerating Appliances, Ice-Cream Appliances and Ice-Makers, Second edition, dated April 28, 2017.
\7\ UL 60335-2-40, Standard for Household And Similar Electrical Appliances--Safety--Part 2-40: Particular Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps, Air-
Conditioners and Dehumidifiers, 3rd edition, Dated November 1, 2019.
[[Page 45550]]
* * * * *
0
3. Add appendix X to subpart G of part 82 to read as follows:
Appendix X to Subpart G of Part 82--Substitutes Listed in the [Date of
Publication of the Final Rule in the Federal Register] Final Rule--
Effective [Date 30 Days After Date of Publication of the Final Rule in
the Federal Register]
[[Page 45551]]
Refrigerants--Substitutes Acceptable Subject to Narrowed Use Limits
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Narrowed use limits Further information
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Very low temperature R-1150................ Acceptable Subject Temperature range--R-1150
refrigeration (new only). to Use Conditions may only be used in equipment
and Narrowed Use designed specifically to reach
Limits. temperatures lower than -80 [deg]C
(-112 [deg]F).
The manufacturers of new
very low temperature equipment
would need to demonstrate that
other alternatives are not
technically feasible. They must
document the results of their
evaluation that showed the other
alternatives to be not technically
feasible and maintain that
documentation in their files. This
documentation, which does not need
to be submitted to EPA unless
requested to demonstrate
compliance, ``shall include
descriptions of substitutes
examined and rejected, processes
or products in which the
substitute is needed, reason for
rejection of other alternatives,
e.g., performance, technical or
safety standards, and the
anticipated date other substitutes
will be available and projected
time for switching to other
available substitutes.'' ( Sec.
82.180(b)(3)).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Refrigerants--Substitutes Acceptable Subject to Use Conditions
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Use conditions Further information
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Centrifugal Chillers for HFO-1234yf, Acceptable These refrigerants may be used only in Applicable OSHA requirements at 29 CFR
comfort cooling and R-454A,........... Subject to Use new equipment specifically designed and part 1910 must be followed, including
Industrial Process Air R-454B,........... Conditions. clearly identified for the refrigerant those at 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
Conditioning Positive R-454C............ (i.e., none of these substitutes may be and 1910.106 (flammable and combustible
Displacement Chillers for used as a conversion or ``retrofit'' liquids), 1910.110 (storage and
comfort cooling and refrigerant for existing equipment handling of liquefied petroleum gases),
Industrial Process Air designed for other refrigerants). and 1910.1000 (toxic and hazardous
Conditioning. These substitutes may only be used in air substances).
conditioning equipment that meets all Proper ventilation should be maintained
requirements in UL 60335-2-40.1 3 5 In at all times during the manufacture and
cases where this listing 1 includes storage of equipment containing
requirements more stringent than those flammable refrigerants through
of UL 60335-2-40, the appliance must adherence to good manufacturing
meet the requirements of this listing 1 practices as per 29 CFR 1910.106. If
in place of the requirements in the UL refrigerant levels in the air
60335-2-40. surrounding the equipment rise above
These refrigerants may be used in one-fourth of the lower flammability
chillers if and only if such chiller limit, the space should be evacuated,
meets all requirements listed in ASHRAE and reentry should occur only after the
15-2019.1 2 4 In cases where this space has been properly ventilated.
listing 1 includes requirements Technicians and equipment manufacturers
different than those of ASHRAE 15-2019, should wear appropriate personal
the appliance must meet the requirements protective equipment, including
of this listing 1 in place of the chemical goggles and protective gloves,
requirements in ASHRAE 15-2019. Where when handling flammable refrigerants.
similar requirements of ASHRAE 15-2019 Special care should be taken to avoid
and UL 60335-2-40 differ, the more contact with the skin which, like many
stringent or conservative condition refrigerants, can cause freeze burns on
shall apply unless superseded by this the skin.
listing 1.
[[Page 45552]]
The following markings must be attached A class B dry powder type fire
at the locations provided and must be extinguisher should be kept nearby.
permanent: Technicians should only use spark-proof
(a) On the outside of the equipment: tools when working on air conditioning
``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Flammable equipment with flammable refrigerants.
Refrigerant Used. To Be Repaired Only By Any recovery equipment used should be
Trained Service Personnel. Do Not designed for flammable refrigerants.
Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.''. Only technicians specifically trained
(b) On the outside of the equipment: in handling flammable refrigerants
``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Dispose of should service refrigeration equipment
Properly In Accordance With Federal Or containing this refrigerant.
Local Regulations. Flammable Refrigerant Technicians should gain an
Used.''. understanding of minimizing the risk of
(c) On the inside of the equipment near fire and the steps to use flammable
the compressor: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire. refrigerants safely.
Flammable Refrigerant Used. Consult Room occupants should evacuate the space
Repair Manual/Owner's Guide Before immediately following the accidental
Attempting to Service This Product. All release of this refrigerant.
Safety Precautions Must be Followed.''. Personnel commissioning, maintaining,
(d) For any equipment pre-charged at the repairing, decommissioning and
factory, on the equipment packaging or disposing of appliances with this
on the outside of the equipment: refrigerant should obtain training and
``WARNING--Risk of Fire due to Flammable follow practices consistent with Annex
Refrigerant Used. Follow Handling HH of UL 60335-2-40, 3rd edition.3 5
Instructions Carefully in Compliance CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibits
with National Regulations''. knowingly venting or otherwise
a. If the equipment is delivered knowingly releasing or disposing of
packaged, this label shall be applied on substitute refrigerants in the course
the packaging. of maintaining, servicing, repairing or
b. If the equipment is not delivered disposing of an appliance or industrial
packaged, this label shall be applied on process refrigeration.
the outside of the equipment near the Department of Transportation
control panel or nameplate. requirements for transport of flammable
(e) On the equipment near the nameplate:. gases must be followed.
a. At the top of the marking: ``Minimum Flammable refrigerants being recovered
Installation Height, X m (W ft)''. This or otherwise disposed of from
marking is only required if required by residential and light commercial air
UL 60335-2-40. The terms ``X'' and ``W'' conditioning appliances are likely to
shall be replaced by the numeric height be hazardous waste under the Resource
as calculated per UL 60335-2-40. Note Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
that the formatting here is slightly (see 40 CFR parts 260 through 270).
different than UL 60335-2-40;
specifically, the height in Inch-Pound
units is placed in parentheses and the
word ``and'' has been replaced by the
opening parenthesis.
b. Immediately below marking (a) of this
listing 1or at the top of the marking if
marking (a) is not required: ``Minimum
room area (operating or storage), Y m\2\
(Z ft\2\)''. The terms ``Y'' and ``Z''
shall be replaced by the numeric area as
calculated per UL 60335-2-40. Note that
the formatting here is slightly
different than UL 60335-2-40;
specifically, the area in Inch-Pound
units is placed in parentheses and the
word ``and'' has been replaced by the
opening parenthesis.
(f) For non-fixed equipment, on the
outside of the product: ``WARNING--
Risk of Fire or Explosion--Store in a
well-ventilated room without
continuously operating flames or
other potential ignition.''.
(g) For fixed equipment that is ducted,
including chillers, near the nameplate:
``WARNING--Risk of Fire--Auxiliary
devices which may be ignition sources
shall not be installed in the ductwork,
other than auxiliary devices listed for
use with the specific appliance. See
instructions.''.
(h) All of these markings must be in
letters no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\
inch) high.
The equipment must have red Pantone
Matching System (PMS) #185 or RAL 3020
marked service ports, pipes, hoses, or
other devices through which the
refrigerant passes, to indicate the use
of a flammable refrigerant. This color
must be applied at all service ports and
other parts of the system where service
puncturing or other actions creating an
opening from the refrigerant circuit to
the atmosphere might be expected and
must extend a minimum of one (1) inch
(25mm) in both directions from such
locations and shall be replaced if
removed.
[[Page 45553]]
2. Positive Displacement HFC-32, R-452B.... Acceptable These refrigerants may be used only in Applicable OSHA requirements at 29 CFR
chillers for comfort cooling Subject to Use new equipment specifically designed and part 1910 must be followed, including
using a rotary or scroll Conditions. clearly identified for the refrigerant those at 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
compressor and Industrial (i.e., none of these substitutes may be and 1910.106 (flammable and combustible
Process Air Conditioning used as a conversion or ``retrofit'' liquids), 1910.110 (storage and
using a chiller with a refrigerant for existing equipment handling of liquefied petroleum gases),
rotary or scroll compressor. designed for other refrigerants). and 1910.1000 (toxic and hazardous
These substitutes may only be used in air substances).
conditioning equipment that meets all Proper ventilation should be maintained
requirements in UL 60335-2-40.1 2 3 In at all times during the manufacture and
cases where this listing 2 includes storage of equipment containing
requirements more stringent than those flammable refrigerants through
of UL 60335-2-40, the appliance must adherence to good manufacturing
meet the requirements of this listing 2 practices as per 29 CFR 1910.106. If
in place of the requirements in UL 60335- refrigerant levels in the air
2-40. surrounding the equipment rise above
These refrigerants may be used in one-fourth of the lower flammability
chillers if and only if such chiller limit, the space should be evacuated,
meets all requirements listed in ASHRAE and reentry should occur only after the
15-2019.\1\ In cases where this listing space has been properly ventilated.
2 includes requirements different than Technicians and equipment manufacturers
those of ASHRAE 15-2019, the appliance should wear appropriate personal
must meet the requirements of this protective equipment, including
listing 2 in place of the requirements chemical goggles and protective gloves,
in ASHRAE 15-2019. Where similar when handling flammable refrigerants.
requirements of ASHRAE 15-2019 and UL Special care should be taken to avoid
60335-2-40 differ, the more stringent or contact with the skin which, like many
conservative condition shall apply refrigerants, can cause freeze burns on
unless superseded by this listing. the skin.
The following markings must be attached A class B dry powder type fire
at the locations provided and must be extinguisher should be kept nearby.
permanent: Technicians should only use spark-proof
(a) On the outside of the equipment: tools when working on air conditioning
``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Flammable equipment with flammable refrigerants.
Refrigerant Used. To Be Repaired Only By Any recovery equipment used should be
Trained Service Personnel. Do Not designed for flammable refrigerants.
Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.''. Only technicians specifically trained
(b) On the outside of the equipment: in handling flammable refrigerants
``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Dispose of should service refrigeration equipment
Properly In Accordance With Federal Or containing this refrigerant.
Local Regulations. Flammable Refrigerant Technicians should gain an
Used.''. understanding of minimizing the risk of
(c) On the inside of the equipment near fire and the steps to use flammable
the compressor: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire. refrigerants safely.
Flammable Refrigerant Used. Consult Room occupants should evacuate the space
Repair Manual/Owner's Guide Before immediately following the accidental
Attempting to Service This Product. All release of this refrigerant.
Safety Precautions Must be Followed.''. Personnel commissioning, maintaining,
(d) For any equipment pre-charged at the repairing, decommissioning and
factory, on the equipment packaging or disposing of appliances with this
on the outside of the equipment: refrigerant should obtain training and
``WARNING--Risk of Fire due to Flammable follow practices consistent with Annex
Refrigerant Used. Follow Handling HH of UL 60355-2-40.3 5
Instructions Carefully in Compliance CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibits
with National Regulations''. knowingly venting or otherwise
a. If the equipment is delivered knowingly releasing or disposing of
packaged, this label shall be applied on substitute refrigerants in the course
the packaging. of maintaining, servicing, repairing or
b. If the equipment is not delivered disposing of an appliance or industrial
packaged, this label shall be applied on process refrigeration.
the outside of the equipment near the Department of Transportation
control panel or nameplate. requirements for transport of flammable
gases must be followed.
Flammable refrigerants being recovered
or otherwise disposed of from
residential and light commercial air
conditioning appliances are likely to
be hazardous waste under the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
(see 40 CFR parts 260 through 270).
[[Page 45554]]
(e) On the equipment near the
nameplate:.
a. At the top of the marking: ``Minimum
Installation height, X m (W ft)''. This
marking is only required if required by
UL 60335-2-40. The terms ``X'' and ``W''
shall be replaced by the numeric height
as calculated per UL 60335-2-40. Note
that the formatting here is slightly
different than UL 60335-2-40;
specifically, the height in Inch-Pound
units is placed in parentheses and the
word ``and'' has been replaced by the
opening parenthesis.
b. Immediately below marking (a) or at
the top of the marking if marking (a) is
not required: ``Minimum room area
(operating or storage), Y m\2\ (Z
ft\2\)''. The terms ``Y'' and ``Z''
shall be replaced by the numeric area as
calculated per UL 60335-2-40. Note that
the formatting here is slightly
different than UL 60335-2-40;
specifically, the area in Inch-Pound
units is placed in parentheses and the
word ``and'' has been replaced by the
opening parenthesis.
(f) For non-fixed equipment, on the
outside of the product: ``WARNING--Risk
of Fire or Explosion--Store in a well-
ventilated room without continuously
operating flames or other potential
ignition.''.
(g) For fixed equipment that is ducted,
including chillers, near the nameplate:
``WARNING--Risk of Fire--Auxiliary
devices which may be ignition sources
shall not be installed in the ductwork,
other than auxiliary devices listed for
use with the specific appliance. See
instructions.''.
(h) All of these markings must be in
letters no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch)
high.
The equipment must have red Pantone
Matching System (PMS) #185 or RAL 3020
marked service ports, pipes, hoses, or
other devices through which the
refrigerant passes, to indicate the use
of a flammable refrigerant. This color
must be applied at all service ports and
other parts of the system where service
puncturing or other actions creating an
opening from the refrigerant circuit to
the atmosphere might be expected and
must extend a minimum of one (1) inch
(25mm) in both directions from such
locations and shall be replaced if
removed.
[[Page 45555]]
3. Residential Dehumidifiers. HFO-1234yf, HFC- Acceptable These refrigerants may be used only in Applicable OSHA requirements at 29 CFR
32, Subject to Use new equipment specifically designed and part 1910 must be followed, including
R-452B,........... Conditions. clearly identified for the refrigerant those at 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
R-454A,........... (i.e., none of these substitutes may be and 1910.106 (flammable and combustible
R-454B, and....... used as a conversion or ``retrofit'' liquids), 1910.110 (storage and
R-454C............ refrigerant for existing equipment handling of liquefied petroleum gases),
designed for other refrigerants). and 1910.1000 (toxic and hazardous
These substitutes may only be used in substances).
dehumidifier equipment that meets all Proper ventilation should be maintained
requirements in UL 60335-2-40.1 3 5 In at all times during the manufacture and
cases where this listing 3 includes storage of equipment containing
requirements more stringent than those flammable refrigerants through
of UL 60335-2-40, the appliance must adherence to good manufacturing
meet the requirements of this listing 3 practices as per 29 CFR 1910.106. If
in place of the requirements in UL 60335- refrigerant levels in the air
2-40. surrounding the equipment rise above
The following markings must be attached one-fourth of the lower flammability
at the locations provided and must be limit, the space should be evacuated,
permanent:. and reentry should occur only after the
(a) On the outside of the equipment: space has been properly ventilated.
``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Flammable Technicians and equipment manufacturers
Refrigerant Used. To Be Repaired Only By should wear appropriate personal
Trained Service Personnel. Do Not protective equipment, including
Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.''. chemical goggles and protective gloves,
(b) On the outside of the equipment: when handling flammable refrigerants.
``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Dispose of Special care should be taken to avoid
Properly In Accordance With Federal Or contact with the skin which, like many
Local Regulations. Flammable Refrigerant refrigerants, can cause freeze burns on
Used.''. the skin.
(c) On the inside of the equipment near A class B dry powder type fire
the compressor: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire. extinguisher should be kept nearby.
Flammable Refrigerant Used. Consult Technicians should only use spark-proof
Repair Manual/Owner's Guide Before tools when working on air conditioning
Attempting to Service This Product. All equipment with flammable refrigerants.
Safety Precautions Must be Followed.''. Any recovery equipment used should be
(d) For any equipment pre-charged at the designed for flammable refrigerants.
factory, on the equipment packaging or Only technicians specifically trained
on the outside of the equipment: in handling flammable refrigerants
``WARNING--Risk of Fire due to Flammable should service refrigeration equipment
Refrigerant Used. Follow Handling containing this refrigerant.
Instructions Carefully in Compliance Technicians should gain an
with National Regulations''. understanding of minimizing the risk of
a. If the equipment is delivered fire and the steps to use flammable
packaged, this label shall be applied on refrigerants safely.
the packaging. Room occupants should evacuate the space
b. If the equipment is not delivered immediately following the accidental
packaged, this label shall be applied on release of this refrigerant.
the outside of the equipment near the Personnel commissioning, maintaining,
control panel or nameplate. repairing, decommissioning and
(e) On the equipment near the nameplate:. disposing of appliances with this
a. At the top of the marking: ``Minimum refrigerant should obtain training and
Installation Height, X m (W ft)''. This follow practices consistent with Annex
marking is only required if required by HH of UL 60335-2-40.3 5
UL 60335-2-40. The terms ``X'' and ``W'' CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibits
shall be replaced by the numeric height knowingly venting or otherwise
as calculated per UL 60335-2-40. Note knowingly releasing or disposing of
that the formatting here is slightly substitute refrigerants in the course
different than UL 60335-2-40; of maintaining, servicing, repairing or
specifically, the height in Inch-Pound disposing of an appliance or industrial
units is placed in parentheses and the process refrigeration.
word ``and'' has been replaced by the Department of Transportation
opening parenthesis. requirements for transport of flammable
b. Immediately below marking (a) of this gases must be followed.
listing 3or at the top of the marking if Flammable refrigerants being recovered
marking (a) is not required: ``Minimum or otherwise disposed of from
room area (operating or storage), Y m\2\ residential and light commercial air
(Z ft\2\)''. The terms ``Y'' and ``Z'' conditioning appliances are likely to
shall be replaced by the numeric area as be hazardous waste under the Resource
calculated per UL 60335-2-40. Note that Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
the formatting here is slightly (see 40 CFR parts 260 through 270).
different than UL 60335-2-40;
specifically, the area in Inch-Pound
units is placed in parentheses and the
word ``and'' has been replaced by the
opening parenthesis.
(f) On the outside of the product:
``WARNING--Risk of Fire or Explosion--
Store in a well-ventilated room without
continuously operating flames or other
potential ignition.''.
(g) All of these markings must be in
letters no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch)
high.
The equipment must have red Pantone
Matching System (PMS) #185 or RAL 3020
marked service ports, pipes, hoses, or
other devices through which the
refrigerant passes, to indicate the use
of a flammable refrigerant. This color
must be applied at all service ports and
other parts of the system where service
puncturing or other actions creating an
opening from the refrigerant circuit to
the atmosphere might be expected and
must extend a minimum of one (1) inch
(25mm) in both directions from such
locations and shall be replaced if
removed.
[[Page 45556]]
4. Non-residential HFC-32............ Acceptable This refrigerant may be used only in new
Dehumidifiers. Subject to Use equipment specifically designed and
Conditions. clearly identified for the refrigerant
(i.e., this substitute may not be used
as a conversion or ``retrofit''
refrigerant for existing equipment
designed for other refrigerants).
This substitute may only be used in Applicable OSHA requirements at 29 CFR
dehumidifier equipment that meets all part 1910 must be followed, including
requirements in UL 60335-2-40.1 3 5 In those at 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
cases where this listing 4 includes and 1910.106 (flammable and combustible
requirements more stringent than those liquids), 1910.110 (storage and
of UL 60335-2-40, the appliance must handling of liquefied petroleum gases),
meet the requirements of this listing 4 and 1910.1000 (toxic and hazardous
in place of the requirements in UL 60335- substances).
2-40. Proper ventilation should be maintained
The following markings must be attached at all times during the manufacture and
at the locations provided and must be storage of equipment containing
permanent:. flammable refrigerants through
(a) On the outside of the equipment: adherence to good manufacturing
``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Flammable practices as per 29 CFR 1910.106. If
Refrigerant Used. To Be Repaired Only By refrigerant levels in the air
Trained Service Personnel. Do Not surrounding the equipment rise above
Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.''. one-fourth of the lower flammability
(b) On the outside of the equipment: limit, the space should be evacuated,
``WARNING--Risk of Fire. Dispose of and reentry should occur only after the
Properly In Accordance With Federal Or space has been properly ventilated.
Local Regulations. Flammable Refrigerant Technicians and equipment manufacturers
Used.''. should wear appropriate personal
(c) On the inside of the equipment near protective equipment, including
the compressor: ``WARNING--Risk of Fire. chemical goggles and protective gloves,
Flammable Refrigerant Used. Consult when handling flammable refrigerants.
Repair Manual/Owner's Guide Before Special care should be taken to avoid
Attempting to Service This Product. All contact with the skin which, like many
Safety Precautions Must be Followed.''. refrigerants, can cause freeze burns on
(d) For any equipment pre-charged at the the skin.
factory, on the equipment packaging or A class B dry powder type fire
on the outside of the equipment: extinguisher should be kept nearby.
``WARNING--Risk of Fire due to Flammable Technicians should only use spark-proof
Refrigerant Used. Follow Handling tools when working on air conditioning
Instructions Carefully in Compliance equipment with flammable refrigerants.
with National Regulations''. Any recovery equipment used should be
a. If the equipment is delivered designed for flammable refrigerants.
packaged, this label shall be applied on Only technicians specifically trained
the packaging. in handling flammable refrigerants
b. If the equipment is not delivered should service refrigeration equipment
packaged, this label shall be applied on containing this refrigerant.
the outside of the equipment near the Technicians should gain an
control panel or nameplate. understanding of minimizing the risk of
(e) On the equipment near the nameplate:. fire and the steps to use flammable
refrigerants safely.
Room occupants should evacuate the space
immediately following the accidental
release of this refrigerant.
Personnel commissioning, maintaining,
repairing, decommissioning and
disposing of appliances with this
refrigerant should obtain training and
follow practices consistent with Annex
HH of UL 6035-2-40.3 5
CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibits
knowingly venting or otherwise
knowingly releasing or disposing of
substitute refrigerants in the course
of maintaining, servicing, repairing or
disposing of an appliance or industrial
process refrigeration.
Department of Transportation
requirements for transport of flammable
gases must be followed.
Flammable refrigerants being recovered
or otherwise disposed of from
residential and light commercial air
conditioning appliances are likely to
be hazardous waste under the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
(see 40 CFR parts 260 through 270).
[[Page 45557]]
a. At the top of the marking:
``Minimum Installation Height, X m
(W ft)''. This marking is only
required if required by UL 60335-2-
40. The terms ``X'' and ``W'' shall
be replaced by the numeric height
as calculated per UL 60335-2-40.
Note that the formatting here is
slightly different than UL 60335-2-
40; specifically, the height in
Inch-Pound units is placed in
parentheses and the word ``and''
has been replaced by the opening
parenthesis.
b. Immediately below marking (a) of this
listing 4 or at the top of the marking
if marking (a) is not required:
``Minimum room area (operating or
storage), Y m\2\ (Z ft\2\)''. The terms
``Y'' and ``Z'' shall be replaced by the
numeric area as calculated per UL 60335-
2-40. Note that the formatting here is
slightly different than UL 60335-2-40;
specifically, the area in Inch-Pound
units is placed in parentheses and the
word ``and'' has been replaced by the
opening parenthesis.
(f) On the outside of the product:
``WARNING--Risk of Fire or Explosion--
Store in a well-ventilated room without
continuously operating flames or other
potential ignition.''.
(g) All of these markings must be in
letters no less than 6.4 mm (\1/4\ inch)
high.
The equipment must have red Pantone
Matching System (PMS) #185 or RAL 3020
marked service ports, pipes, hoses, or
other devices through which the
refrigerant passes, to indicate the use
of a flammable refrigerant. This color
must be applied at all service ports and
other parts of the system where service
puncturing or other actions creating an
opening from the refrigerant circuit to
the atmosphere might be expected and
must extend a minimum of one (1) inch
(25mm) in both directions from such
locations and shall be replaced if
removed.
[[Page 45558]]
5. Very Low Temperature R-1150............ Acceptable R-1150 may be used only in new equipment Applicable OSHA requirements at 29 CFR
Refrigeration. Subject to Use specifically designed and clearly part 1910 must be followed, including
Conditions. identified for the refrigerant (i.e., those at 29 CFR 1910.94 (ventilation)
none of these substitutes may be used as and 1910.106 (flammable and combustible
a conversion or ``retrofit'' refrigerant liquids), 1910.110 (storage and
for existing equipment designed for handling of liquefied petroleum gases),
other refrigerants). and 1910.1000 (toxic and hazardous
R-1150 may only be used in laboratory substances).
equipment that meet all requirements in Proper ventilation should be maintained
UL 61010-2-011.1 3 6 In cases where this at all times during the manufacture and
listing 5 includes requirements more storage of equipment containing
stringent than those of UL 61010-2-011, flammable refrigerants through
the appliance must meet the requirements adherence to good manufacturing
of this listing 5 in place of the practices as per 29 CFR 1910.106. If
requirements in UL 61010-2-011. refrigerant levels in the air
Requirements of note include:............ surrounding the equipment rise above
(a) Warning labels--The following one-fourth of the lower flammability
markings, or the equivalent, must be limit, the space should be evacuated,
provided in letters no less than 6.4 mm and reentry should occur only after the
(\1/4\ inch) high and must be permanent:. space has been properly ventilated.
(b) Attach near the machine compartment: Technicians and equipment manufacturers
``DANGER--Risk of Fire or Explosion. should wear appropriate personal
Flammable Refrigerant Used. To Be protective equipment, including
Repaired Only By Trained Service chemical goggles and protective gloves,
Personnel. Do Not Puncture Refrigerant when handling flammable refrigerants.
Tubing''. Special care should be taken to avoid
(c) Attach near the machine compartment: contact with the skin which, like many
``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or Explosion. refrigerants, can cause freeze burns on
Flammable Refrigerant Used. Consult the skin.
Repair Manual/Owner's Guide Before A class B dry powder type fire
Attempting To Service This Product. All extinguisher should be kept nearby.
Safety Precautions Must be Followed.''. Technicians should only use spark-proof
(d) Attach on the exterior of the tools when working on air conditioning
refrigeration equipment: ``CAUTION--Risk equipment with flammable refrigerants.
of Fire or Explosion. Dispose of Any recovery equipment used should be
Properly In Accordance With Federal Or designed for flammable refrigerants.
Local Regulations. Flammable Refrigerant Only technicians specifically trained
Used.''. in handling flammable refrigerants
(e) Attach near all exposed refrigerant should service refrigeration equipment
tubing: ``CAUTION--Risk of Fire or containing this refrigerant.
Explosion Due To Puncture Of Refrigerant Technicians should gain an
Tubing; Follow Handling Instructions understanding of minimizing the risk of
Carefully. Flammable Refrigerant Used.''. fire and the steps to use flammable
(f) Attach on the exterior of the refrigerants safely.
refrigeration equipment: ``This Room occupants should evacuate the space
equipment is intended for use in immediately following the accidental
commercial, industrial, or institutional release of this refrigerant.
occupancies as defined in the Safety Personnel commissioning, maintaining,
Standard for Refrigeration Systems, ANSI/ repairing, decommissioning and
ASHRAE 15''. disposing of appliances with this
(g) Attach on the exterior of the refrigerant should obtain training and
shipping carton: ``CAUTION--Risk of Fire follow practices consistent with Annex
or Explosion. Dispose of Properly In HH of UL 60335-2-40.3 5
Accordance With Federal Or Local CAA section 608(c)(2) prohibits
Regulations.''. knowingly venting or otherwise
(h) The instructions shall include the knowingly releasing or disposing of
following warnings as necessary:. substitute refrigerants in the course
a. ``WARNING: Ensure all ventilation of maintaining, servicing, repairing or
openings are not obstructed.''. disposing of an appliance or industrial
process refrigeration.
Department of Transportation
requirements for transport of flammable
gases must be followed.
Flammable refrigerants being recovered
or otherwise disposed of from
residential and light commercial air
conditioning appliances are likely to
be hazardous waste under the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
(see 40 CFR parts 260 through 270).
b. ``WARNING: Do not use mechanical
devices or other means to
accelerate the defrosting process,
other than those recommended by the
manufacturer.''.
c. ``WARNING: Do not damage the
refrigerant circuit.''.
Equipment must have distinguishing red
(Pantone[supreg] Matching System (PMS)
#185 or RAL 3020) color-coded hoses and
piping to indicate use of a flammable
refrigerant. The laboratory equipment
shall have marked service ports, pipes,
hoses and other devices through which
the refrigerant is serviced. Markings
shall extend at least 1 inch (25mm) from
the servicing port and shall be replaced
if removed.
Equipment must use no more than 150 g of
R-1150 in each refrigerant circuit using
this refrigerant.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference (5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51). You may inspect a copy at the
U.S. EPA or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the U.S. EPA at: EPA Docket Center, WJC West Building, Room 3334, 1301
Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004, www.epa.gov/dockets, (202) 202-1744. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email
[email protected], or visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
[[Page 45559]]
\2\ You may obtain this material from: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), 180 Technology Parkway NW,
Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30092; phone: 404-636-8400; website: www.ashrae.org.
\3\ You may obtain this material from: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) COMM 2000; 151 Eastern Avenue; Bensenville, IL 60106; phone: 415-352-2168;
email: 2000.com">orders@comm-2000.com; website: https://ulstandards.ul.com/ or www.comm-2000.com.
\4\ ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 15-2019. Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems, including all addenda published as of July 28, 2022.
\5\ UL 60335-2-40, Standard for Household And Similar Electrical Appliances--Safety--Part 2-40: Particular Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps, Air-
Conditioners and Dehumidifiers, 3rd edition, Dated November 1, 2019.
\6\ UL 61010-2-011, Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use--Part 011: Particular Requirements for
Refrigerating Equipment, 2nd edition, dated May 13th, 2021.
Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection Agents--Acceptable Subject to Use Conditions
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Use conditions Further information
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Total Flooding................ 2-BTP................. Acceptable Subject Acceptable only for use in normally This fire suppressant has a
to Use Conditions. unoccupied spaces under 500 ft\3\. relatively low GWP of 0.23-0.26
and a short atmospheric lifetime
of approximately seven days.
This agent is subject to a TSCA
section 5(a)(2) SNUR.
For establishments manufacturing,
installing and maintaining
equipment using this agent, EPA
recommends the following:
This agent should be used
in accordance with the safety
guidelines in the latest edition
of NFPA 2001, Standard on Clean
Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems;
\1\
In the case that 2-BTP is
inhaled, person(s) should be
immediately removed and exposed
to fresh air; if breathing is
difficult, person(s) should seek
medical attention;
Eye wash and quick drench
facilities should be available.
In case of ocular exposure,
person(s) should immediately
flush the eyes, including under
the eyelids, with fresh water and
move to a non-contaminated area;
Exposed persons should
remove all contaminated clothing
and footwear to avoid irritation;
and medical attention should be
sought if irritation develops or
persists;
Although unlikely, in
case of ingestion of 2-BTP, the
person(s) should consult a
physician immediately;
Manufacturing space
should be equipped with
specialized engineering controls
and well ventilated with a local
exhaust system and low-lying
source ventilation to effectively
mitigate potential occupational
exposure; regular testing and
monitoring of the workplace
atmosphere should be conducted;
Employees responsible for
chemical processing should wear
the appropriate PPE, such as
protective gloves, tightly sealed
goggles, protective work
clothing, and suitable
respiratory protection in case of
accidental release or
insufficient ventilation;
All spills should be
cleaned up immediately in
accordance with good industrial
hygiene practices; and
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.
Safety features that are
typical of total flooding systems
such as predischarge alarms, time
delays, and system abort switches
should be provided, as directed
by applicable OSHA regulations
and NFPA standards.\1\ Use of
this agent should also conform to
relevant OSHA requirements,
including 29 CFR 1910.160 and
1910.162.
See notes 1 through 5 to this
table.
[[Page 45560]]
2. Streaming..................... 2-BTP................. Acceptable, Subject Acceptable only for use in non- This fire suppressant has a
to Use Conditions. residential applications, except relatively low GWP of 0.23-0.26
for commercial home office and and a short atmospheric lifetime
personal watercraft. of approximately seven days.
This agent is subject to a TSCA
section 5(a)(2) SNUR.
For establishments manufacturing,
installing and maintaining
equipment using this agent, EPA
recommends the following:
This agent should be used
in accordance with the safety
guidelines in the latest edition
of NFPA 10, Standard for Portable
Fire Extinguishers; \1\
In the case that 2-BTP is
inhaled, person(s) should be
immediately removed and exposed
to fresh air; if breathing is
difficult, person(s) should seek
medical attention;
Eye wash and quick drench
facilities should be available.
In case of ocular exposure,
person(s) should immediately
flush the eyes, including under
the eyelids, with fresh water and
move to a non-contaminated area;
Exposed persons should
remove all contaminated clothing
and footwear to avoid irritation;
and medical attention should be
sought if irritation develops or
persists;
Although unlikely, in
case of ingestion of 2-BTP, the
person(s) should consult a
physician immediately;
Manufacturing space
should be equipped with
specialized engineering controls
and well ventilated with a local
exhaust system and low-lying
source ventilation to effectively
mitigate potential occupational
exposure; regular testing and
monitoring of the workplace
atmosphere should be conducted;
Employees responsible for
chemical processing should wear
the appropriate PPE, such as
protective gloves, tightly sealed
goggles, protective work
clothing, and suitable
respiratory protection in case of
accidental release or
insufficient ventilation;
All spills should be
cleaned up immediately in
accordance with good industrial
hygiene practices; and
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.
See notes 1 through 5 to this
table.
[[Page 45561]]
3. Total Flooding................ EXXFIRE[supreg]....... Acceptable Subject Acceptable only for use in normally Use of this agent should be in
to Use Conditions. unoccupied spaces. accordance with the safety
guidelines in the latest edition
of the NFPA 2001, Standard on
Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing
Systems.\1\
For establishments manufacturing,
installing and maintaining
equipment using this agent, EPA
recommends the following:
In the case that
EXXFIRE[supreg] is inhaled,
person(s) should be immediately
removed and exposed to fresh air.
Eye wash and quick drench
facilities should be available.
In case of ocular exposure,
person(s) should immediately
flush the eyes with water for a
minimum of 15 minutes.
In the case of dermal
exposure, the SDS recommends that
person(s) should remove large
grain particles, rinse with water
for a minimum of 15 minutes, and
remove all contaminated clothing.
Manufacturing space
should be equipped with
engineering controls,
specifically an adequate exhaust
ventilation system, to
effectively mitigate potential
occupational exposure.
Employees responsible for
chemical processing should wear
the appropriate personnel
protective equipment (PPE), such
as protective gloves, tightly
sealed goggles, protective work
clothing, and suitable
respiratory protection in case of
accidental release or
insufficient ventilation.
All spills should be
cleaned up immediately in
accordance with good industrial
hygiene practices.
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.
Safety features that are
typical of total flooding systems
such as predischarge alarms, time
delays, and system abort switches
should be provided, as directed
by applicable OSHA regulations
and NFPA standards.\1\
See notes 1 through 5 to this
table.
4. Total Flooding................ Powdered Aerosol H.... Acceptable Subject Acceptable only for use in normally Use of this agent should be in
to Use Conditions. unoccupied spaces. accordance with the safety
guidelines in the latest edition
of NFPA 2010, Standard for Fixed
Aerosol Fire Extinguishing
Systems.\1\
For establishments manufacturing,
installing, and maintaining
equipment using this agent, EPA
recommends the following:
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 H 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.
See notes 1 through 5 to this
table.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards are available from www.nfpa.org.
Note 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).
Note 2: Use of all listed fire suppression agents should conform to relevant OSHA requirements, including 29 CFR 1910.160 and 1910.162.
Note 3: Per OSHA requirements, protective gear (SCBA) should be available in the event personnel should reenter the area.
Note 4: Discharge testing should be strictly limited to that which is essential to meet safety or performance requirements.
Note 5: The agent should be recovered from the fire protection system in conjunction with testing or servicing and recycled for later use or destroyed.
[[Page 45562]]
[FR Doc. 2022-14665 Filed 7-27-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P