Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Update to the Refrigerant Management Requirements Under the Clean Air Act, 82272-82395 [2016-24215]

Agencies

• ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 223 (Friday, November 18, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 82272-82395]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-24215]



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Vol. 81

Friday,

No. 223

November 18, 2016

Part V

Book 2 of 3 Books

Pages 82271-82492





 Environmental Protection Agency





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40 CFR Part 82



Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Update to the Refrigerant Management 
Requirements Under the Clean Air Act; Final Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 81 , No. 223 / Friday, November 18, 2016 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 82272]]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 82

[EPA-HQ-OAR-2015-0453; FRL-9950-28-OAR]
RIN 2060-AS51


Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Update to the Refrigerant 
Management Requirements Under the Clean Air Act

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Clean Air Act prohibits the knowing release of ozone-
depleting and substitute refrigerants during the course of maintaining, 
servicing, repairing, or disposing of appliances or industrial process 
refrigeration. The existing regulations require that persons 
maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of air-conditioning and 
refrigeration equipment containing more than 50 pounds of refrigerant 
observe certain service practices that reduce emissions of ozone-
depleting refrigerant. This rule updates those existing requirements as 
well as extends them, as appropriate, to non-ozone depleting substitute 
refrigerants, such as hydrofluorocarbons. Updates include strengthened 
leak repair requirements, recordkeeping requirements for the disposal 
of appliances containing more than five and less than 50 pounds of 
refrigerant, revisions to the technician certification program, and 
revisions for improved readability and compliance. As a result, this 
action reduces emissions of ozone-depleting substances and gases with 
high global warming potentials.

DATES: This final rule is effective on January 1, 2017. The 
incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the 
regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of 
on January 1, 2017. This rule contains information collection 
activities that have been submitted for approval to the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). 
Under the PRA, comments on the information collection provisions are 
best assured of consideration if the Office of Management and Budget 
(OMB) receives a copy of your comments on or before December 19, 2016.

ADDRESSES: The EPA has established a docket for this action under 
Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2015-0453. All documents in the docket are 
listed on the www.regulations.gov Web site. Although listed in the 
index, some information is not publicly available, e.g., 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 
www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeremy Arling, Stratospheric 
Protection Division, Office of Atmospheric Programs, Mail Code 6205T, 
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20460; telephone number 
(202) 343-9055; email address arling.jeremy@epa.gov. You may also visit 
www.epa.gov/section608 for further information about refrigerant 
management, other Stratospheric Ozone Protection regulations, the 
science of ozone layer depletion, and related topics.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Table of Contents

I. General Information
    A. Does this action apply to me?
    B. What action is the Agency taking?
    C. What is the Agency's authority for taking this action?
    D. What are the incremental costs and benefits of this action?
    E. Judicial Review
II. Background
    A. What are ozone-depleting substances?
    B. What is the National Recycling and Emission Reduction 
Program?
    C. What developments have occurred since EPA first established 
the National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program?
    D. What are the goals of this rule?
    E. What are the major revisions being finalized in this rule?
    F. Enforcement of Subpart F Regulations
    G. Incorporation by Reference
III. EPA's Authority Under the Clean Air Act
    A. Summary of EPA's Authority for the Revisions to Subpart F
    B. Comments and Responses Related to EPA's Authority
IV. The Revisions Finalized in This Rule
    A. Revisions to the Definitions in Sec.  82.152
    B. Revisions to the Venting Prohibition in Sec.  82.154(a)
    C. Revisions to the Refrigerant and Appliance Sales Restrictions 
in Sec.  82.154
    D. Revisions to the Safe Disposal Provisions in Sec.  82.155
    E. Revisions to the Evacuation Requirements in Sec.  82.156
    F. Revisions to the Leak Repair Requirements in Sec.  82.157
    G. Revisions to the Standards for Recovery and/or Recycling 
Equipment in Sec.  82.158
    H. Revisions to the Standards for Equipment Testing 
Organizations in Sec.  82.160
    I. Revisions to the Technician Certification Requirements in 
Sec.  82.161
    J. Revisions to the Technician Certification Program 
Requirements in Sec.  82.161
    K. Revisions to the Reclamation Requirements in Sec.  82.164
    L. Revisions to the Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements in 
Sec.  82.166
    M. Effective and Compliance Dates
V. Possible Future Revisions to Subpart F
VI. Economic Analysis
VII. 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
    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
    K. Congressional Review Act (CRA)

List of Acronyms

AHRI Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute
ARI Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (now AHRI)
ASHRAE American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-
Conditioning Engineers, Inc.
CAA Clean Air Act
CARB California Air Resources Board
CBI Confidential Business Information
CFC Chlorofluorocarbon
CO2 Carbon Dioxide
GHG Greenhouse Gas
GWP Global Warming Potential
HCFC Hydrochlorofluorocarbon
HFC Hydrofluorocarbon
HFO Hydrofluoroolefin
IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
IPR Industrial Process Refrigeration
MMTCO2eq Million Metric Tons Carbon Dioxide Equivalent
MVAC Motor Vehicle Air Conditioner
NAICS North American Industry Classification System
ODP Ozone depletion potential
ODS Ozone-depleting substance
PFC Perfluorocarbon
RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
RMP Refrigerant Management Program
SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality Management District
SNAP Significant New Alternatives Policy
UL Underwriters Laboratories

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I. General Information

A. Does this action apply to me?

    Categories and entities potentially regulated by this action 
include those who own, operate, maintain, service, repair, recycle, or 
dispose of refrigeration and air-conditioning appliances and 
refrigerants, as well as entities that manufacture or sell 
refrigerants, products and services for the refrigeration and air-
conditioning industry, including motor vehicle air conditioning. 
Regulated entities include, but are not limited to, the following:

                 Table 1--Potentially Affected Entities
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  North American
                                     industry
           Category               classification   Examples of regulated
                                 system  (NAICS)          entities
                                       code
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Industrial Process              111, 11251,        Owners or operators
 Refrigeration (IPR).            11511, 21111,      of refrigeration
                                 2211, 2212,        equipment used in
                                 2213, 311, 3121,   agriculture and crop
                                 3221, 3222,        production, oil and
                                 32311, 32411,      gas extraction, ice
                                 3251, 32512,       rinks, and the
                                 3252, 3253,        manufacture of
                                 32541, 3256,       frozen food, dairy
                                 3259, 3261,        products, food and
                                 3262, 3324,        beverages, ice,
                                 3328, 33324,       petrochemicals,
                                 33341, 33361,      chemicals,
                                 3341, 3344,        machinery, medical
                                 3345, 3346,        equipment, plastics,
                                 3364, 33911,       paper, and
                                 339999.            electronics
Commercial Refrigeration......  42374, 42393,      Owners or operators
                                 42399, 4242,       of refrigerated
                                 4244, 42459,       warehousing and
                                 42469, 42481,      storage facilities,
                                 42493, 4451,       supermarkets,
                                 4452, 45291,       grocery stores,
                                 48422, 4885,       warehouse clubs,
                                 4931, 49312,       supercenters,
                                 72231.             convenience stores,
                                                    and refrigerated
                                                    transport
Comfort Cooling...............  45211, 45299,      Owners or operators
                                 453998, 512,       of air-conditioning
                                 522, 524, 531,     equipment used in
                                 5417, 551, 561,    the following:
                                 6111, 6112,        hospitals, office
                                 6113, 61151,       buildings, colleges
                                 622, 7121,         and universities,
                                 71394, 721, 722,   metropolitan transit
                                 813, 92.           authorities, real
                                                    estate rental &
                                                    leased properties,
                                                    lodging and food
                                                    services, property
                                                    management, schools,
                                                    and public
                                                    administration or
                                                    other public
                                                    institutions
Plumbing, Heating, and Air-     238220, 811111,    Plumbing, heating,
 Conditioning Contractors.       81131, 811412.     and air-conditioning
                                                    contractors, and
                                                    refrigerant recovery
                                                    contractors,
                                                    including automotive
                                                    repair
Manufacturers and Distributors  325120, 441310,    Automotive parts and
 of Small Cans of Refrigerant.   447110.            accessories stores
                                                    and industrial gas
                                                    manufacturers
Reclaimers....................  325120, 423930,    Industrial gas
                                 424690, 562920,    manufacturers,
                                 562212.            recyclable material
                                                    merchant
                                                    wholesalers,
                                                    materials recovery
                                                    facilities, solid
                                                    waste landfills, and
                                                    other chemical and
                                                    allied products
                                                    merchant wholesalers
Disposers and Recyclers of      423990, 562212,    Materials recovery
 Appliances.                     562920.            facilities, solid
                                                    waste landfills, and
                                                    other miscellaneous
                                                    durable goods
                                                    merchant wholesalers
Refrigerant Wholesalers.......  325120, 42,        Industrial gas
                                 424690.            manufacturers, other
                                                    chemical and allied
                                                    products merchant
                                                    wholesalers,
                                                    wholesale trade
Certifying Organizations......  541380...........  Environmental test
                                                    laboratories and
                                                    services
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    This table is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a 
guide for readers regarding the types of entities that could 
potentially be regulated by this action. Other types of entities not 
listed in the table could also be affected. To determine whether your 
facility, company, business organization, or other entity is regulated 
by this action, you should carefully examine the regulations in subpart 
F and this rule. 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.

B. What action is the Agency taking?

    The regulations in 40 CFR part 82, subpart F (subpart F) that are 
in effect before this final action takes effect (often referred to in 
this notice as the ``prior'' or ``previous'' regulations) require that 
persons servicing, maintaining, repairing, or disposing of air-
conditioning and refrigeration equipment observe certain service 
practices that reduce emissions of ozone-depleting refrigerant. 
Specifically, these provisions include: Restricting the servicing of 
appliances and the sale of refrigerant to certified technicians; 
specifying the proper evacuation levels before opening an appliance; 
requiring the use of certified refrigerant recovery and/or recycling 
equipment; requiring the maintenance and repair of appliances that meet 
size and leak rate thresholds; requiring that refrigerant be removed 
from appliances prior to disposal; requiring that appliances have a 
servicing aperture or process stub to facilitate refrigerant recovery; 
requiring that refrigerant reclaimers be certified in order to reclaim 
and sell used refrigerant; and establishing standards for technician 
certification programs, recovery equipment, and quality of reclaimed 
refrigerant.
    This rule updates the prior refrigerant management requirements in 
subpart F that apply to ozone-depleting refrigerants. It also extends 
those requirements, as appropriate, to non-ozone depleting substitute 
refrigerants that are not exempt from the venting prohibition, 
including but not limited to hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), in order to 
interpret, explain, and enforce the venting prohibition.

C. What is the Agency's authority for taking this action?

    Section 608 of the CAA provides EPA authority for these revisions 
to the regulations found at 40 CFR part 82, subpart F. EPA's authority 
for this rulemaking is supplemented by section 301(a), which provides 
authority to ``prescribe such regulations as are necessary to carry out 
[the EPA Administrator's] functions under this Act,'' and section 114, 
which provides authority for the EPA Administrator to require 
recordkeeping and reporting in carrying out any provision of the CAA 
(with certain exceptions that do not apply here). More detail on EPA's 
authority for this action is provided in subsequent sections.

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D. What are the incremental costs and benefits of this action?

    The revisions in this rule require certain businesses to take 
actions that have associated costs, such as conducting leak 
inspections, repairing leaks, and keeping records. Total annual 
incremental compliance costs associated with this rule are estimated to 
be $24.5 million per year in 2014 dollars using a 7 percent discount 
rate. Costs were modeled for a single typical year in which all the 
requirements were in effect, based on the appliance distribution 
modeled for 2015. Total annual operating savings associated with 
reduced refrigerant use are estimated to be $44 million; thus 
incremental compliance costs and refrigerant savings combined are 
estimated to be approximately $19.5 million per year. A detailed 
description of the comments received on the proposed analysis can be 
found in Section VI of this preamble as well as the response to 
comments document found in the docket. A full description of the 
technical analysis can be found in the document Analysis of the 
Economic Impact and Benefits of Final Revisions to the National 
Recycling and Emission Reduction Program in the docket.
    EPA estimates that this rule will prevent damage to the 
stratospheric ozone layer by reducing emissions of ozone-depleting 
refrigerants by approximately 114 metric tons per year, weighted by the 
ozone-depletion potential (ODP) of the gases emitted. Avoided emissions 
of ozone-depleting refrigerants and non-ozone depleting substitutes 
will also reduce climate impacts because most of these refrigerants are 
potent greenhouse gases. Weighted by their global warming potentials 
(GWP) \1\, EPA estimates that the revisions will prevent annual 
emissions of greenhouse gases equivalent to 7.3 million metric tons of 
carbon dioxide (MMTCO2eq). The reductions in emissions of 
GHGs and ODS have benefits for human health and the environment because 
of the threats these substances pose to human health and the 
environment. Such threats are discussed further in Section II.D of this 
notice.
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    \1\ Unless otherwise stated, GWPs stated in this document are 
100-year integrated GWPs, relative to a GWP of 1 for carbon dioxide, 
as reported in IPCC, 2007. Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science 
Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment 
Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Solomon, 
S., D. Qin, M. Manning, Z. Chen, M. Marquis, K.B. Averyt, M. Tignor 
and H.L. Miller (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 
United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA. This document is accessible at 
www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/ar4/wg1/en/contents.html. For 
blends of multiple compounds, we are weighting the GWP of each 
component by mass percentage in the blend.

                                  Table 2--Annual GHG and ODS Emissions Avoided
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          GHG emissions avoided (MTCO2eq)         ODS  emissions
                                                 ------------------------------------------------  avoided  (ODP-
                 Rule component                                                                    weighted  MT)
                                                        HFC             ODS            Total     ---------------
                                                                                                        ODS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leak Repair and Inspection                        ..............  ..............  ..............  ..............
Comfort Cooling.................................       1,425,000       2,487,000       3,912,000              78
Commercial Refrigeration........................       1,246,000       1,077,000       2,323,000              30
IPR.............................................         275,000         169,000         444,000               5
Reporting & Recordkeeping                         ..............  ..............  ..............  ..............
Self-sealing Valves on Small Cans                        657,000  ..............         657,000  ..............
                                                 ---------------------------------------------------------------
    Total.......................................       3,603,000       3,733,000       7,336,000             114
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals may not sum due to independent rounding.

    Details of the methods used to estimate the benefits are discussed 
in Section VI of this notice and the Analysis of the Economic Impact 
and Benefits of Final Revisions to the National Recycling and Emission 
Reduction Program in the docket.

E. Judicial Review

    Under CAA section 307(b)(1), judicial review of this final action 
is available only by filing a petition for review in the U.S. Court of 
Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit by January 17, 2017. This 
final action is a nationally applicable regulation and has nationwide 
scope and effect because it makes revisions to the EPA's regulations 
for the National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program found at 40 
CFR part 82, subpart F, which are nationally applicable regulations 
that have nationwide scope and effect. Under CAA section 307(d)(7)(B), 
only an objection to this final action that was raised with reasonable 
specificity during the period for public comment can be raised during 
judicial review. This section also provides a mechanism for EPA to 
convene a proceeding for reconsideration, ``[i]f the person raising an 
objection can demonstrate to [EPA] that it was impracticable to raise 
such objection within [the period for public comment] or if the grounds 
for such objection arose after the period for public comment (but 
within the time specified for judicial review) and if such objection is 
of central relevance to the outcome of this rule.'' Any person seeking 
to make such a demonstration to us should submit a Petition for 
Reconsideration to the Office of the Administrator, Environmental 
Protection Agency, Room 3000, William Jefferson Clinton Building, 1200 
Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460, with a copy to the person 
listed in the preceding FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section, and 
the Associate General Counsel for the Air and Radiation Law Office, 
Office of General Counsel (Mail Code 2344-A), Environmental Protection 
Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460.

II. Background

A. What are ozone-depleting substances?

    The stratospheric ozone layer protects life on Earth from the sun's 
harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. ODS are generally man-made 
chemicals that, when transported by winds into the stratosphere, 
release chlorine or bromine and damage that protective ozone layer. ODS 
are used as refrigerants, solvents, foam blowing

[[Page 82275]]

agents, aerosol propellants, fire suppression agents, and in other 
smaller applications. The Clean Air Act divides ODS into two 
categories: Class I and class II substances. The production of new 
class I ODS, which includes chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), methyl 
chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, halons, and other compounds has been 
banned for over a decade. The production of new class II substances, 
which are all hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), will be phased down 
99.5 percent by 2020.
    The initial concern about the ozone layer in the 1970s led to a ban 
on the use of CFCs as aerosol propellants in several countries, 
including the United States. In 1985, the Vienna Convention on the 
Protection of the Ozone Layer was adopted to formalize international 
cooperation on this issue. Additional efforts resulted in the adoption 
of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 
1987. Today, all Parties to the Montreal Protocol have agreed to phase 
out the production and consumption of ODS controlled by the Protocol.

B. What is the National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program?

    Section 608 of the CAA bears the title ``National Recycling and 
Emissions Reduction Program.'' Under the structure of section 608, this 
program has three main components. First, section 608(a) requires EPA 
to establish standards and requirements regarding use and disposal of 
class I and II substances, including a comprehensive refrigerant 
management program to limit emissions of ozone-depleting refrigerants. 
This program is to include regulations that reduce the use and 
emissions of class I and II substances to the lowest achievable level 
and that maximize the recapture and recycling of such substances. The 
second component, section 608(b), requires that the regulations issued 
pursuant to subsection (a) contain requirements for the safe disposal 
of class I and class II substances. The third component, section 
608(c), prohibits the knowing venting, release, or disposal of ozone-
depleting refrigerants and their substitutes during the maintenance, 
service, repair, or disposal of air-conditioning and refrigeration 
appliances or IPR. This prohibition is also referred to as the 
``venting prohibition'' in this action. Section 608 is described in 
greater detail in Section III.
    EPA first issued regulations under section 608 of the CAA on May 
14, 1993 (58 FR 28660, ``1993 Rule''), to establish the national 
refrigerant management program for ozone-depleting refrigerants 
recovered during the maintenance, service, repair, and disposal of air-
conditioning and refrigeration appliances. These regulations were 
intended to substantially reduce the use and emissions of ozone-
depleting refrigerants.
    The regulations first established in the 1993 Rule require that 
persons servicing air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment 
containing an ozone-depleting refrigerant observe certain practices 
that reduce emissions. They also established requirements for 
refrigerant recovery equipment, reclaimer certification, and technician 
certification, and restricted the sale of refrigerant so that only 
certified technicians could purchase it. In addition, they required the 
removal of ODS from appliances prior to disposal, and that all air-
conditioning and refrigeration equipment using an ODS be provided with 
a servicing aperture or process stub to facilitate refrigerant 
recovery.
    The 1993 Rule also established a requirement to repair leaking 
appliances containing 50 or more pounds of ODS refrigerant. The rule 
set an annual leak rate of 35 percent for commercial refrigeration 
appliances and IPR and 15 percent for comfort cooling appliances. If 
the applicable leak rate was exceeded, the appliance must be repaired 
within 30 days.
    EPA revised these regulations through subsequent rulemakings 
published on August 19, 1994 (59 FR 42950), November 9, 1994 (59 FR 
55912), August 8, 1995 (60 FR 40420), July 24, 2003 (68 FR 43786), 
March 12, 2004 (69 FR 11946), January 11, 2005 (70 FR 1972), May 23, 
2014 (79 FR 29682), and April 10, 2015 (80 FR 19453). EPA also issued 
proposed rules to revise the regulations in subpart F on June 11, 1998 
(63 FR 32044), elements of which were not finalized, and on December 
15, 2010 (75 FR 78558), which was also not finalized. EPA is 
withdrawing and therefore not finalizing the 2010 proposed rule. 
Instead, EPA re-proposed elements of both the 1998 and the 2010 
proposed rules in the notice of proposed rulemaking (80 FR 19453) for 
this rule.
    The August 19, 1994, rule amended specific definitions, required 
practices, and reporting and recordkeeping requirements, as well as 
adopted industry standards for reclaimed ODS refrigerants.
    The November 9, 1994, rule clarified the conditions under which 
technician certification programs were grandfathered, allowing 
technicians who had participated in voluntary technician training and 
certification programs prior to the publication of the 1993 Rule to 
receive formal certification. The rule also clarified the scope of the 
technician certification requirement and provided a limited exemption 
from certification requirements for apprentices.
    The August 8, 1995, rule responded to a settlement agreement 
between EPA and the Chemical Manufacturers Association to give 
additional flexibility to repair or retrofit IPR appliances containing 
ODS. EPA allowed owners or operators additional time beyond 30 days to 
complete repairs and more than one year to retrofit appliances where 
certain conditions applied (i.e., federally owned equipment located in 
areas subject to radiological contamination, unavailability of 
necessary parts for IPR, or instances where adherence to local, state, 
or federal laws hinder immediate repairs for IPR). EPA also clarified 
that purged refrigerants that have been captured and destroyed can be 
excluded from the leak rate calculations.
    The July 24, 2003, rule finalized portions of a proposed rulemaking 
(61 FR 7858; February 29, 1996) that amended the recordkeeping aspects 
of the section 608 technician certification program, refined aspects of 
the refrigerant sales restriction, adopted updated versions of ARI 
Standards 700 \2\ and 740 \3\, amended several definitions, and set 
forth procedures for the revocation and/or suspension of approval to 
certify technicians and refrigerant recovery and/or recycling equipment 
and revocation and/or suspension procedures for certification as a 
refrigerant reclaimer.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute Standard 
700, Specification for Fluorocarbons and Other Refrigerants, 
contains standards for the reclamation of used refrigerants.
    \3\ The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute Standard 
740, Performance Rating of Refrigerant Recovery Equipment and 
Recovery/Recycling Equipment, contains standards for the equipment 
used to recover refrigerant from air-conditioning and refrigeration 
appliances.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The March 12, 2004, rule exempted from the venting prohibition 
under section 608(c)(2) specific non-ozone depleting substances that 
the Agency found did not pose a threat to the environment (69 FR 
11946). Notably, EPA did not exempt HFC or perfluorocarbon (PFC) 
refrigerants from the venting prohibition. The rule clarified that 
regulations affecting the handling and sales of ozone-depleting 
refrigerants apply to blends that contain an ODS.
    The January 11, 2005, rule clarified that the leak repair 
requirements also apply to blends that contain an ODS (70

[[Page 82276]]

FR 1927). The rule amended the required practices and associated 
reporting/recordkeeping requirements and clarified certain leak repair 
requirements.
    On December 15, 2010 (75 FR 78558, ``proposed 2010 Leak Repair 
Rule''), EPA proposed to create a streamlined set of leak repair 
requirements that are applicable to all types of appliances containing 
50 or more pounds of ozone-depleting refrigerant. The rule also 
proposed to reduce the leak repair rates. EPA did not finalize that 
rule and EPA has withdrawn that proposal through this rulemaking, 
although, as noted above, EPA also re-proposed elements of that 
proposal in the notice of proposed rulemaking for this rule.
    Finally, on May 23, 2014 (79 FR 29682), and April 10, 2015 (80 FR 
19453), EPA expanded the list of substitute refrigerants that EPA has 
exempted from the CAA venting prohibition to include certain 
hydrocarbons in specific end-uses.

C. What developments have occurred since EPA first established the 
National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program?

1. Phaseout of CFCs and HCFCs
    In 1993, when EPA established the refrigerant management 
requirements of subpart F, CFCs and HCFCs were the most commonly used 
refrigerants, depending on the specific application. Just six months 
prior, in November 1992, the Parties to the Montreal Protocol 
accelerated the phaseout schedule for CFCs through the Copenhagen 
Amendment, so that there would be a complete phaseout by 1996. The 
Copenhagen Amendment also established a phaseout schedule for HCFCs. 
The schedule for HCFCs was later amended and now calls for a 35 percent 
reduction in production and consumption from each Article 2 Party's 
(developed country's) cap by 2004, followed by a 75 percent reduction 
by 2010, a 90 percent reduction by 2015, a 99.5 percent reduction by 
2020, and a total phaseout by 2030. From 2020 to 2030, production and 
consumption at only 0.5 percent of baseline is allowed solely for 
servicing existing air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment.
    The United States chose to implement the Montreal Protocol phaseout 
schedule on a chemical-by-chemical basis. In 1993, as authorized by 
section 606 of the CAA, EPA established a phaseout schedule that 
eliminated HCFC-141b first and would greatly restrict HCFC-142b and 
HCFC-22 next, due to their high ozone depletion potentials (ODPs), 
followed by restrictions on all other HCFCs, and ultimately a complete 
phaseout (58 FR 15014, March 18, 1993, and 58 FR 65018, December 10, 
1993). EPA continues to issue allowances for the production and 
consumption of HCFCs that have not yet been phased out. The allowance 
levels reflect not only phaseout schedules but also use restrictions 
under section 605(a) of the CAA. The phaseout schedule and allowance 
levels can be found at 40 CFR part 82, subpart A.
    EPA established the refrigerant management program shortly before 
the CFC phaseout. Similarly, today's rule to update those regulations 
closely precedes the phaseout of HCFCs. In 2020, production and 
consumption of HCFCs will be limited to 0.5% of baseline, and may not 
include HCFC-22, the most commonly used HCFC refrigerant. The reasons 
for encouraging a viable CFC recycling program support the same 
approach for HCFCs. The 1993 Rule discussed a 1990 advance notice of 
proposed rulemaking regarding a national CFC recycling program. As the 
1993 Rule discussed, that 1990 notice emphasized that recycling is 
important because it would allow the continued use of equipment 
requiring CFCs for service past the year in which CFC production is 
phased out, thereby eliminating or deferring the cost of early 
retirement or retrofit of such equipment. Because of the continued use 
of these substances in existing equipment, recycling can serve as a 
useful bridge to alternative products while minimizing disruption of 
the current capital stock of equipment. (58 FR 28661).
    More than twenty years later, with the experience gained through 
the phaseout of CFCs, reducing emissions of HCFCs and maximizing their 
recovery and reclamation remains just as important for ensuring the 
continued viability of the current stock of equipment. The transition 
out of CFC and now HCFC refrigerants is one reason that it is important 
to update the refrigerant management regulations in subpart F.
2. Development of Non-ODS Alternatives
    The universe of available refrigerants has expanded dramatically 
since EPA first established the refrigerant management regulations in 
subpart F. Under the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program 
(CAA section 612), EPA identifies substitutes that pose lower overall 
risks to human health and the environment and must prohibit the use of 
substitutes for which there are other available or potentially 
available alternatives posing lower overall risk to human health and 
the environment for the same use. Thus, EPA's SNAP program does not 
provide a static list of alternatives. Instead, the SNAP list evolves 
as EPA makes decisions informed by our overall understanding of the 
environmental and human health impacts as well as our current knowledge 
about available substitutes. Under SNAP, EPA has reviewed over 400 
substitutes in the refrigeration and air-conditioning; fire 
suppression; foam blowing; solvent cleaning; aerosols; adhesives, 
coatings, and inks; sterilants; and tobacco expansion sectors. To date, 
SNAP has issued 31 notices and 20 rulemakings listing alternatives as 
acceptable, acceptable subject to use conditions, acceptable subject to 
narrowed use limits, or unacceptable for those various end-uses.
    For example, on April 10, 2015, the SNAP Program listed as 
acceptable, subject to use conditions, three hydrocarbons, one 
hydrocarbon blend, and HFC-32 as substitute refrigerants in a number of 
refrigeration and air-conditioning end-uses (80 FR 19454). The SNAP 
program has also recently listed a number of additional refrigerant 
options, including blends of hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) and HFCs that 
have lower global warming potentials (GWPs) (October 21, 2014, 79 FR 
62863; July 20, 2015, 80 FR 42870). EPA anticipates that industry will 
continue to develop safer alternatives and that EPA will continue to 
review information concerning additional refrigerant options and 
determine the appropriate action needed to safeguard human health and 
the environment.
    Due to the change in the suite of acceptable refrigerants available 
for some end-uses, EPA anticipates that the relative amounts of 
different refrigerants in stocks in the United States will change, and 
thus that the universe of refrigerants subject to the refrigerant 
management program will continue to evolve. The diversity of 
refrigerants and the potential for cross-contamination are two reasons 
why it is important to clarify how all refrigerants, including non-
exempt substitute refrigerants, should be handled under the refrigerant 
management regulations in subpart F.
3. Increased Attention to HFCs as Climate Pollutants
    Domestic and international efforts to protect the ozone layer have 
also helped to protect the global climate, because in addition to 
damaging ozone in the stratosphere, CFCs and HCFCs are also potent 
GHGs. HFCs, which are the predominant class of compounds being used as 
replacements for ODS, also can

[[Page 82277]]

have high GWPs. As their use has increased, concern has grown over the 
environmental damage caused by heat trapped in the atmosphere by HFCs.
    On December 7, 2009, (74 FR 66496) the Administrator issued an 
Endangerment Finding regarding GHGs under section 202(a) of the CAA. As 
part of this finding, EPA concluded that the current and projected 
concentrations of six key well-mixed GHGs in the atmosphere--carbon 
dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide 
(N2O), HFCs, PFCs, and sulfur hexafluoride 
(SF6)--endanger both the health and welfare of current and 
future generations. While this finding was made specifically for the 
purposes of section 202(a) of the CAA, EPA is cognizant of the global 
climate risks generally discussed in the finding in its work to reduce 
emissions of HFCs and other GHGs.
i. Climate Action Plan
    In June 2013, the President announced the Climate Action Plan.\4\ 
Among the many actions called for, the Climate Action Plan outlined a 
set of measures to address HFCs. The Climate Action Plan states: ``to 
reduce emissions of HFCs, the United States can and will lead both 
through international diplomacy as well as domestic actions.'' Part of 
this international diplomacy is the proposed Amendment to the Montreal 
Protocol discussed below. The Climate Action Plan also directed EPA to 
use its authority through the SNAP program ``to encourage private 
sector investment in low-emissions technology by identifying and 
approving climate-friendly chemicals while prohibiting certain uses of 
the most harmful chemical alternatives.'' In July 2015, EPA finalized a 
rule that revised the listing status for certain substitutes previously 
listed as acceptable under the SNAP program (80 FR 42870). That rule 
revised the status of certain HFCs and HCFCs for various end-uses in 
the aerosols, refrigeration and air-conditioning, and foam blowing 
sectors. EPA made these revisions based on information showing that 
other substitutes are available for the same uses that pose lower risk 
overall to human health and the environment. A copy of the Climate 
Action Plan is available in the docket to this rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ The President's Climate Action Plan, 2013, https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/image/president27sclimateactionplan.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The President's Climate Action Plan also calls on the federal 
government to reduce emissions of HFCs by purchasing alternatives 
whenever feasible and transitioning to equipment that uses safer and 
more sustainable alternatives to HFCs. To implement the Climate Action 
Plan, the Department of Defense, General Services Administration, and 
National Aeronautics and Space Administration recently amended the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation to encourage the purchase of 
alternatives to high GWP HFCs (81 FR 30429; May 16, 2016). This rule is 
designed to promote the use of safer chemical alternatives to HFCs by 
service and vendor contractors. To help agencies monitor progress, the 
amendment requires contractors to keep records of and report on the 
amounts of HFCs added or removed during the routine maintenance, 
repair, or disposal of appliances with a full charge of 50 or more 
pounds of HFC or HFC blend refrigerant.
    Minimizing the emissions and maximizing the recovery and reuse of 
ODS and HFC refrigerants are consistent with the Climate Action Plan. 
EPA estimates that the revisions finalized in this action will prevent 
annual emissions of refrigerant equivalent to 7.3 MMTCO2eq. 
Of this amount, 3.6 MMTCO2eq are due to HFCs and 3.7 
MMTCO2eq are due to ODS. Because of the significant 
environmental benefit to be gained by addressing HFC refrigerants, it 
is important to update the refrigerant management regulations in 
subpart F.
ii. Trends in HFC Use and Future Projections
    Although HFCs represent a small fraction of current GHG emissions 
by weight, their warming impact per kilogram is very strong. The most 
commonly used HFC, HFC-134a, has a GWP of 1,430, which means it traps 
1,430 times as much heat per kilogram as carbon dioxide does over 100 
years. The majority of global, and U.S., HFC use is in the 
refrigeration and air conditioning sector. HFC emissions are projected 
to increase substantially and at an increasing rate over the next 
several decades if their production is left uncontrolled. In the United 
States, emissions of HFCs are increasing more quickly than those of any 
other group of GHGs, and globally they are increasing 10 to 15 percent 
annually. At that rate, emissions are projected to double by 2020 and 
triple by 2030.
    HFCs are also rapidly accumulating in the atmosphere. The 
atmospheric concentration of HFC-134a has increased by about 10 percent 
per year from 2006 to 2012, and the concentrations of HFC-143a and HFC-
125, which are components of commonly used refrigerant blends, have 
risen over 13 and 16 percent per year from 2007 to 2011, respectively. 
Without action, annual global emissions of HFCs are projected to rise 
to about 6,400 to 9,900 MMTCO2eq in 2050, which is 
comparable to the drop in annual GHG emissions of ODS of 8,000 
MMTCO2eq between 1988 and 2010 (UNEP, 2011).
    As these HFCs accumulate in the atmosphere, they change the balance 
between energy entering the Earth's climate from the sun and energy 
escaping the Earth into space. The change in the net rate at which 
energy enters the atmosphere is called radiative forcing. By 2050, the 
buildup of HFCs in the atmosphere is projected to increase radiative 
forcing to 0.22-0.25 W m\2\. To appreciate the significance of the 
projected HFC radiative forcing within the context of all GHGs, the 
forcing from HFCs would be 6-9% of that from CO2 in the 
IPCC's representative concentration pathways (RCP6 and RCP8.5) in 2050 
(Velders et al., 2015).
iii. Montreal Protocol Amendment Proposal
    For the past six years, the United States, Canada, and Mexico have 
proposed an amendment to the Montreal Protocol to phase down the 
production and consumption of HFCs. The United States seeks adoption of 
an amendment that is acceptable to all Parties. Global benefits of the 
amendment proposal would yield significant reductions of over 90 
gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2eq) through 2050. 
A number of other Parties to the Montreal Protocol have also proposed 
amendments to phase down global production and consumption of HFCs. 
These proposals were introduced by a group of Island States; the 
European Union; and India. On November 6, 2015, the Parties to the 
Montreal Protocol adopted the ``Dubai Pathway'' on HFCs, which provides 
that the Parties would work together, within the Montreal Protocol, to 
adopt an HFC amendment in 2016.
4. Petition From the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy
    On January 31, 2014, the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric 
Policy (the Alliance) petitioned the Agency to initiate a rulemaking to 
apply the section 608 refrigerant management regulations to HFCs and 
other substitute refrigerants. In that petition, the Alliance requested 
that EPA extend the section 608 regulations relating to refrigerant 
sales and distribution restrictions, and the evacuation, certification, 
reclamation and recovery, leak repair, reporting and recordkeeping

[[Page 82278]]

requirements to HFCs. The petition argues that applying the section 608 
requirements to HFCs ``would increase the environmental benefits 
already realized from the section 608 regulations, through reduced HFC 
emissions, and would complement the United States' goal of a global 
phase down in HFC production and consumption.'' The petition cites 
sections 608(c)(2) and 301(a) of the CAA as authority for these 
revisions. A copy of the petition is included in the docket for this 
rulemaking. While EPA is not taking today's action solely as a result 
of the Alliance petition, this rulemaking constitutes the Agency's 
response to the petition.

D. What are the goals of this rule?

    The Agency has two goals for this rulemaking. The first is to 
promote the proper handling and use of ozone-depleting and substitute 
refrigerants. Doing so will protect the stratospheric ozone layer by 
reducing emissions of ODS refrigerants and protect the climate system 
by reducing emissions of refrigerant gases with high GWPs. High-GWP 
refrigerants include both ODS refrigerants and most substitute 
refrigerants, including HFCs, that EPA has not exempted from the 
venting prohibition under CAA section 608. The second goal of this 
rulemaking is to harmonize the requirements across all major 
refrigerant types and update the regulations in plain language to 
reduce uncertainty and complexity for the regulated community, as well 
as increase clarity, encourage compliance, and facilitate enforcement.
1. Promoting the Proper Handling of Refrigerants
    Today's rule will reduce the use and emission of refrigerants, 
maximize the recapture and recycling of such substances, and further 
interpret, explain, and enforce the prohibition on knowingly venting or 
releasing refrigerants during the maintenance, service, repair, or 
disposal of appliances.
    EPA estimates that this rule will result in annual reductions in 
emissions of approximately 114 ODP-weighted metric tons. A separate 
support document Analysis of the Economic Impact and Benefits of Final 
Revisions to the National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program 
contains a full discussion of the benefits of this rule and is 
available in the docket.
    Stratospheric ozone depletion decreases the atmosphere's ability to 
shield life on the Earth's surface from the sun's UV radiation. The 
links between stratospheric ozone depletion and public health concerns 
are well established. Emissions of ODS lead to chemical reactions that 
reduce the amount of ozone in the stratosphere. Less ozone in the 
stratosphere means that more UVA and UVB radiation reaches the earth's 
surface and is incident on exposed organisms, including humans. Adverse 
health effects associated with exposure to UV radiation include skin 
cancer, cataracts, and immune suppression. The Scientific Assessment of 
Ozone Depletion,\5\ prepared by the Scientific Assessment Panel to the 
Montreal Protocol, and Environmental Effects of Ozone Depletion and its 
Interactions with Climate Change,\6\ prepared by the Environmental 
Effects Assessment Panel to the Montreal Protocol provide comprehensive 
information regarding the links between emissions of ODS, ozone layer 
depletion, UV radiation, and human health effects. Both documents are 
available in the docket for this rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Scientific 
Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 2014, World Meteorological 
Organization, Global Ozone Research and Monitoring Project--Report 
No. 55, 416 pp., Geneva, Switzerland, 2014.
    \6\ United Nations Environment Programme, Environmental Effects 
Assessment Panel, Environmental effects of ozone depletion and its 
interactions with climate change: progress report, 2011, Photochem. 
Photobiol. Sci., 2012, 11, DOI: 10.1039/c1pp90033a.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The most common forms of skin cancer are strongly associated with 
UV radiation, and UV exposure is the most preventable cause of skin 
cancer (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Surgeon 
General's Call to Action to Prevent Skin Cancer. Washington, DC: U.S. 
Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Surgeon General; 
2014). Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United 
States, with more than 3.5 million new cases diagnosed annually 
(American Cancer Society, Cancer Facts and Figures, 2015). Rates for 
new cases of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, have been 
rising on average 1.4 percent each year over the last 10 years 
(National Cancer Institute, SEER Stat Fact Sheets: Melanoma of the 
Skin, available at https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/melan.html, 
accessed May 5, 2015). In 2015, it is estimated that 70,000 Americans 
will have been diagnosed with melanoma and almost 10,000 will have died 
as a result of the disease (American Cancer Society, Cancers Facts and 
Figures, 2015).
    Non-melanoma skin cancers are less deadly than melanomas, but if 
left untreated they can spread, causing disfigurement and more serious 
health problems. There are two primary types of non-melanoma skin 
cancers. Basal cell carcinomas are the most common type of skin cancer 
tumors. Basal cell carcinoma grows slowly, and rarely spreads to other 
parts of the body. It can, however, penetrate to the bone and cause 
considerable damage. Squamous cell carcinomas are tumors that may 
appear as nodules or as red, scaly patches. This cancer can develop 
into large masses and can spread to other parts of the body.
    Other UV-related skin disorders include actinic keratoses and 
premature aging of the skin. Actinic keratoses are skin growths that 
occur on body areas exposed to the sun. The face, hands, forearms, and 
neck are especially susceptible to this type of lesion. Although 
premalignant, actinic keratoses are a risk factor for squamous cell 
carcinoma. Chronic exposure to the sun also causes premature aging, 
which over time can make the skin become thick, wrinkled, and leathery.
    Research has shown that UV radiation increases the likelihood of 
certain cataracts. (Taylor, H.R., et al., 1988. Effect of ultraviolet 
radiation on cataract formation, New England Journal of Medicine, 319, 
1429-33; West, S. et al., 2005. Model of Risk of Cortical Cataract in 
the US Population with Exposure to Increased Ultraviolet Radiation due 
to Stratospheric Ozone Depletion, American Journal of Epidemiology, 
162, 1080-1088.) Cataracts are a form of eye damage in which a loss of 
transparency in the lens of the eye clouds vision. If left untreated, 
cataracts can lead to blindness. Although curable with modern eye 
surgery, cataracts diminish the eyesight of millions of Americans. 
Other kinds of eye damage caused by UV radiation include pterygium 
(i.e., tissue growth that can block vision), skin cancer around the 
eyes, and degeneration of the macula which contains the part of the 
retina where visual perception is most acute.
    Another benefit of reducing refrigerant emissions is protection of 
the climate system. Many refrigerants, including ODS and substitutes 
for ODS, are potent GHGs, having GWPs thousands of times higher than 
that of carbon dioxide (CO2), which has a GWP of one. For 
example, HCFC-22 has a GWP of 1,810. R-404A, a commonly used HFC 
refrigerant blend, has a GWP of 3,922. Other common HFC refrigerants, 
with their GWPs, include R-134a (1,430), R-410A (2,088), R-407A 
(2,107), and R-507A (3,985). EPA estimates that today's rule will 
reduce GWP-weighted emissions by approximately 7.3 MMTCO2eq 
per year.

[[Page 82279]]

    To briefly summarize, GHGs cause climate change by trapping heat on 
Earth. The Earth is constantly receiving energy from the sun in the 
form of radiation, while at the same time, energy is radiating away 
into space, mostly as infrared radiation. By absorbing and scattering 
radiation that otherwise would escape into space, GHGs throw off the 
balance between incoming and escaping radiation, resulting in more 
energy in the Earth's climate system.
    As described in the EPA's 2009 Endangerment Finding (74 FR 66496) 
and subsequent reports by the IPCC, the United States Global Change 
Research Program, and the National Research Council, climate change 
impacts threaten the health of Americans in multiple ways and touch on 
nearly every aspect of public welfare. For more information on GHGs and 
climate change in the United States, visit www.epa.gov/climatechange.
2. Improving Rule Effectiveness
    The second goal of today's rule is to improve the clarity and 
effectiveness of the subpart F regulations. Achieving the health and 
environmental benefits of these rules depends on widespread compliance, 
and understanding of the regulations by the regulated community 
enhances compliance.
    EPA has begun an initiative to improve the effectiveness of its 
rules called Next Generation Compliance. The vision for this initiative 
is to make it easier for the regulated community to understand and 
comply with environmental laws and inform the public about their 
performance. Most importantly, this initiative will help ensure that 
all Americans are protected from significant risks to human health and 
the environment and have access to information that allows them to more 
fully engage in environmental protection efforts.
    The Agency has identified several interconnected components in the 
Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance's 2014-2017 strategic 
plan for its Next Generation Compliance initiative that can improve the 
effectiveness of rules:
     Effective Regulations: Design regulations that are clear, 
as easy to implement as possible, and that contain self-reinforcing 
drivers. For example, where possible, design regulations such that 
regulated facilities can take steps to monitor their own performance to 
prevent violations, or be certified by an independent 3rd party.
     Advanced Monitoring: Use advanced monitoring technology 
for the government, industry, and the public to more easily find 
information on pollutant discharges/emissions, environmental 
conditions, and noncompliance.
     Electronic Reporting: Implement electronic systems to make 
reporting easier, more efficient, and less costly. For the user, these 
systems offer speed, convenience, expanded information choices, and 
filing capabilities. For government, they offer the ability to increase 
transparency, improve our ability to spot pollution and compliance 
issues, and respond quickly to emerging problems.
     Transparency: Make the information we have today more 
accessible, and make new information obtained from advanced monitoring 
and electronic reporting publicly available.
     Innovative Enforcement: Use Next Generation Compliance 
principles and tools in enforcement planning and cases.
    Effective Regulations. The Agency and industry have more than 20 
years of experience implementing and operating under the refrigerant 
management regulations in subpart F. Through that experience, it has 
become clear that there are elements of the program that could be made 
more effective. This rule revises the structure of these regulations to 
clearly lay out the process for repairing refrigerant leaks and adds 
steps to ensure that the repairs were successful. This rule also for 
the first time addresses chronically leaking systems in a manner that 
minimizes the burden on compliant systems. EPA has reorganized the 
subpart so affected entities can more easily find the provisions that 
apply to them, including recordkeeping and reporting. This rule removes 
outdated requirements and, where appropriate, removes unnecessary 
distinctions between refrigerants, appliance types, and recovery 
equipment types. Clearer regulations will also be supported by 
comprehensive compliance assistance materials for each industry segment 
affected by this final regulation. EPA hopes to make it easier for the 
regulated community to understand their obligations when handling 
refrigerants, thereby improving compliance and reducing damage to the 
environment.
    Advanced Monitoring. EPA is encouraging owners/operators of 
appliances containing 50 or more pounds of refrigerant to install 
automatic leak detection equipment. Such systems provide continuous 
information about whether a system is leaking, allowing leaks to be 
caught sooner. This can reduce both refrigerant costs and labor costs 
of manually inspecting refrigeration systems.
    Electronic Reporting. EPA has established the email address 
608reports@epa.gov and this rule requires that all reports that do not 
contain confidential business information be submitted to EPA at that 
address. EPA is also revising the regulations to explicitly state that 
owners and operators of appliances subject to the leak repair 
provisions may use electronic systems to track when and how much 
refrigerant is added to equipment and to keep other required records.
    Transparency. EPA is requiring members of the regulated community 
to post additional information online that is of use to this sector. 
For example, equipment testing organizations must post lists of 
certified recovery and/or recycling equipment on their Web sites rather 
than submit paper reports to EPA. Certifying organizations must also 
publish lists of technicians that they certify online to assist 
technicians who have lost their certification cards. EPA also posts to 
its Web site data on the amount of ODS refrigerant reclaimed each year. 
Under this final rule EPA will begin collecting and making available 
reclamation data for non-exempt substitute refrigerants which should 
provide EPA and the general public a greater understanding of the 
extent of HFC recovery and reclamation.
    Innovative Enforcement. EPA has incorporated innovative enforcement 
principles into subpart F since its inception, and this rule updates 
and strengthens those principles. For example, the refrigerant sales 
restriction is an effective way to ensure that anyone maintaining, 
servicing, or repairing an appliance is a certified technician. EPA has 
also required certification of refrigerant recovery equipment by 
independent third parties (i.e., UL and Air Conditioning, Heating, and 
Refrigeration Institute (AHRI)) to ensure that recovery equipment meets 
the applicable standards. This ensures that technicians who use these 
devices to recover refrigerant are also using equipment that, when 
following the manufacturer's instructions, will meet the minimum 
refrigerant evacuation requirements. EPA also relies on third parties 
to administer the technician certification exam.

E. What are the major revisions being finalized in this rule?

    EPA is finalizing most of the proposed revisions to the regulations 
for the National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program. Some of 
these revisions strengthen the existing program, in particular by 
requiring owners and operators to repair systems

[[Page 82280]]

that leak at lower rates than what is currently required and to verify 
that those repairs were successful. Others extend, as appropriate, the 
regulations to HFCs and other non-exempt substitute refrigerants. Still 
other revisions improve the effectiveness of the regulations. After 
considering comments, EPA has decided not to finalize certain aspects 
of the proposal. This section briefly discusses the major proposed 
revisions and the final actions that EPA is taking. Detailed 
discussions of all of the revisions to the regulations finalized in 
this action, changes from the proposal, and responses to significant 
comments are in Section IV of this notice. EPA also summarizes and 
responds to all significant comments on the proposed action in the 
comment response document in the docket.
1. Extend the Regulations To Cover Substitute Refrigerants
    EPA is finalizing the proposed extension of the requirements of the 
National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program to substitute 
refrigerants that have not been exempted from the venting prohibition 
(also referred to in this action as ``non-exempt substitutes'').
2. Strengthen Leak Repair Requirements
    Prior to this rule, the leak rates for ODS equipment were 35 
percent for IPR and commercial refrigeration appliances, and 15 percent 
for comfort cooling and other appliances. EPA proposed leak rates of 20 
percent for IPR and commercial refrigeration and 10 percent for comfort 
cooling and other appliances. Based in part on comments received on the 
proposal, EPA is finalizing leak rates for ODS equipment as follows: 30 
percent for IPR, 20 percent for commercial refrigeration appliances, 
and 10 percent for comfort cooling and other appliances. EPA is also 
extending the new leak rates to equipment using HFCs and other 
substitute refrigerants that are not exempt from the venting 
prohibition.
    After considering public comments, EPA is modifying the proposed 
leak inspection requirements in this final rule. EPA proposed to 
require quarterly or annual leak inspections for all appliances with a 
full charge of 50 pounds or greater, with the more frequent inspections 
applying to larger systems. In the revisions finalized in this rule, 
EPA is requiring quarterly or annual leak inspections only for 
appliances that have exceeded the applicable leak rate. Similar to the 
proposal, owners or operators can forgo leak inspections if they 
install, continuously operate, and maintain automatic leak detection 
systems.
    Based on comments, EPA has given particular attention to situations 
where the proposed regulations would have required the retrofit or 
retirement of an appliance. EPA has modified the final rule in numerous 
places to support the proper repair of leaking systems. Most notably, 
EPA is modifying the proposed chronic leaker provision. EPA proposed 
that appliances containing 50 or more pounds of ODS or substitute 
refrigerant that leak more than 75 percent of the appliance's full 
charge in each of two consecutive 12-month periods would have to be 
retired or mothballed. EPA is finalizing a requirement that owners or 
operators of appliances that leak 125 percent of their full charge in a 
calendar year must submit a report to EPA detailing their repair 
efforts. The report must be submitted no later than March 1 following 
the calendar year of the >=125 percent leak.
3. Extend the Sales Restriction to Substitute Refrigerants, With an 
Exception for Small Cans of MVAC Refrigerant
    EPA is finalizing the proposed restriction that non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants may only be sold to technicians certified under 
sections 608 or 609 of the CAA. In the case of MVAC refrigerant, EPA is 
exempting the sale of small cans of non-ODS substitutes to allow the 
do-it-yourself (DIY) community to continue servicing their personal 
vehicles. EPA is requiring that small cans of non-exempt substitute 
refrigerant be outfitted with self-sealing valves by January 1, 2018. 
Based on comments, EPA is not finalizing the proposal to prohibit the 
sale of small cans that do not contain self-sealing valves that were 
manufactured or imported prior to that requirement taking effect.
4. Establish Recordkeeping for Appliances Containing More Than 5 and 
Less Than 50 Pounds of ODS and Non-Exempt Substitute Refrigerant
    EPA is finalizing revisions to the regulations that require that 
technicians, or the company employing technicians, keep records when 
disposing of appliances containing more than five and less than 50 
pounds of refrigerant. These records include the company name, location 
of the appliance, date of recovery, and type of refrigerant recovered 
for each appliance. EPA is also finalizing, with some modification, the 
revision to the regulations requiring that technicians keep records of 
the amounts of ODS and non-exempt substitute refrigerant transferred 
for reclamation by refrigerant type.
    EPA is reducing the burden in this final rule by only requiring 
maintaining records typically generated in the field during the normal 
disposal of appliances. Therefore, EPA is not finalizing the proposed 
requirement to keep records indicating the amount of refrigerant 
recovered from each appliance. Instead, EPA is finalizing a requirement 
to record the total amount of refrigerant, by type, recovered from all 
appliances they disposed of over a calendar month. This tally can be 
performed less frequently and at a central location.
5. Update the Technician Certification Program
    EPA is finalizing the requirement that technicians be certified to 
handle HFCs and other non-exempt substitutes, as proposed. EPA is also 
finalizing the proposed requirement for certifying organizations to 
publish lists or create online databases of technicians that they 
certify.
6. Improving Readability and Restructuring the Requirements
    EPA is finalizing the extensive revisions to the regulations in 
subpart F to more clearly state the requirements of the National 
Recycling and Emission Reduction Program and to remove potentially 
ambiguous language, with minor changes from the proposal. EPA is 
modifying some of the proposed revisions to address additional 
suggestions raised by commenters. EPA's intent with these edits is to 
improve readability, not to change the substantive content or 
requirements of the regulations. For edits to the regulations that are 
intended to be substantive, EPA is discussing those revisions in this 
notice. EPA is adding to the docket a red-line version of the final 
regulatory text from subpart F that shows the final revisions to the 
prior regulations to assist the regulated community in identifying the 
differences.

F. Enforcement of Subpart F Regulations

    Subpart F regulations must be enforced to realize their full 
environmental and human health benefit. This section briefly presents 
examples of recent actions that EPA has taken to enforce the venting 
prohibition, leak repair, and safe disposal provisions of subpart F. 
Several provisions that EPA is finalizing in this rule are based on 
lessons learned in taking these enforcement actions. These revisions 
are intended to encourage compliance and facilitate potential future 
enforcement of

[[Page 82281]]

the requirements actions of these and other sections of the subpart F 
regulations. EPA's Web site contains more information on these 
enforcement actions.\7\
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    \7\ https://www.epa.gov/ozone-layer-protection/enforcement-actions-under-title-vi-clean-air-act.
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    Some commenters stated that EPA should seek better ways to enforce 
the pre-existing regulations for Class I and II ODS. One commenter 
encouraged EPA to continue to identify cost-effective means of ensuring 
that the entire regulated community supports and follows lawful 
policies and regulations. Another commenter wrote that venting of HFCs 
above de minimis levels must be severely penalized for the rule to be 
as effective as possible. That commenter encouraged EPA to reiterate 
that EPA welcomes information and reporting on an anonymous basis 
regarding parties known to be venting ODS, HFCs, and any non-exempt 
substitute.
    EPA responds that the Agency has enforced and continues to enforce 
these regulations in actions that range from civil fines to criminal 
prosecutions. EPA encourages anyone who suspects or witnesses unlawful 
releases of refrigerants or other violations of CAA regulations to 
report an environmental violation to EPA (www.epa.gov/enforcement/report-environmental-violations). In 2014 and 2015, EPA brought or 
assisted in three cases against individuals for violating the venting 
prohibition when cutting into the refrigerant lines to steal metal from 
HCFC-22 containing air conditioners. Under the plea agreement in a case 
from 2014, the individual cutting the refrigerant line must serve 31 
months in federal prison and then remain under court supervision for an 
additional 12 months during which time he must perform 200 hours of 
community service.
    EPA entered into consent decrees with the supermarket chains 
Safeway in 2013, Costco in 2015, and Trader Joe's in 2016 for 
violations of the leak repair provisions of subpart F for their 
commercial refrigeration units. In 2015, EPA obtained corrective action 
with the United States Navy to resolve allegations of failing to 
perform leak rate calculations when servicing comfort cooling 
equipment, and with DuPont for improper maintenance and repair of two 
large IPR units. In 2012, EPA executed consent decrees with Icicle 
Seafoods, American Seafoods Co. LLC, and Pacific Longline Co. LLC for 
failure to repair refrigerant leaks at chilling units aboard its 
fishing vessels and failure to verify the adequacy of repairs before 
resuming operations, among other violations. In March of 2016, Ocean 
Gold Seafoods, Inc. and Ocean Cold, LLC entered into a consent decree 
with EPA that resolved alleged violations for failing to promptly 
repair refrigerant leaks and failing to keep adequate records of the 
servicing of their IPR equipment necessary to prevent leaks.
    EPA has executed consent decrees to resolve alleged violations of 
the safe disposal regulations in subpart F. These include decrees in 
2016 with Parkway Iron and Metal, and in 2015 with Metal Dynamics and 
Basic Recycling, as well as at least forty-five non-judicial 
settlements against scrap recyclers in 2014 and 2015.
    EPA also continues to take steps to maintain the integrity of the 
certification programs under subpart F. EPA recently revoked over a 
dozen technician certification programs that had failed to submit the 
required biannual activity report (81 FR 28864). EPA is also ensuring 
that certified refrigerant reclaimers continue to operate in accordance 
with Sec.  82.164 and maintain records and submit reports in accordance 
with Sec.  82.166. EPA recently published a notice announcing the 
previous revocation of the certification of eight refrigerant 
reclaimers and giving a ninth reclaimer notice of impending revocation 
(80 FR 75455).

G. Incorporation by Reference

    This action involves technical standards. In some instances, EPA is 
deciding to use a modified version of an industry standard for purposes 
of this rule; in others, EPA is deciding to use an industry standard by 
incorporating it by reference exactly as written. This section 
summarizes the technical standards that EPA is incorporating by 
reference and describes how interested parties can access those 
standards. Sections IV.C (small cans of MVAC refrigerant), Section IV.G 
(recovery and/or recycling equipment), and IV.K (reclamation 
requirements) contain further discussion of these technical standards 
including comments received on EPA's proposal to incorporate certain 
standards by reference.
    EPA is incorporating by reference UL 1963, Requirements for 
Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Equipment, Fourth Edition, June 1, 2011 
in appendix B4. This establishes standards for refrigerant recovery and 
refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment to ensure the equipment can be 
used safely with flammable refrigerants. The standard is available at 
www.comm-2000.com or by writing to Comm 2000, 151 Eastern Avenue, 
Bensenville, IL 60106. The cost is $798 for an electronic copy and $998 
for hardcopy. UL also offers a subscription service to the Standards 
Certification Customer Library (SCCL) 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. Therefore, EPA concludes that the UL standard being 
incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
    EPA is not incorporating by reference AHRI Standard 700-2016, 
Specifications for Refrigerants. Rather EPA is basing the content found 
in appendix A on this standard. This standard establishes purity 
specifications for refrigerants, and specifies the associated methods 
of testing for acceptability of refrigerants. The standard is available 
at www.ahrinet.org or by mail at Air-Conditioning, Heating, and 
Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), 2111 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 500, 
Arlington, VA 22201. EPA is incorporating by reference publically 
available versions of the standards referenced in AHRI Standard 700-
2016. Specifically, these standards are:

--2008 Appendix C for Analytical Procedures for AHRI Standard 700-
2014--Normative. This document establishes definitive test 
procedures for determining the quality of new, reclaimed and/or 
repackaged refrigerants in support of the standards established in 
AHRI-700. An electronic copy of the appendix is available at 
www.ahrinet.org. It is also available by mail at Air-Conditioning, 
Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), 2111 Wilson Boulevard, 
Suite 500, Arlington, VA 22201. The cost of obtaining this standard 
is not a significant financial burden. Therefore, EPA concludes that 
the standard being incorporated by reference is reasonably 
available.
--2012 Appendix D for Gas Chromatograms for AHRI Standard 700-2014--
Informative Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute. 
This appendix provides figures for the gas chromatograms used with 
Appendix C to AHRI Standard 700-2015: Normative. An electronic copy 
of the appendix is available at www.ahrinet.org. It is also 
available by mail at Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration 
Institute (AHRI), 2111 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 500, Arlington, VA 
22201. The cost of obtaining this standard is not a significant 
financial burden. Therefore, EPA concludes that the standard being 
incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
--Federal Specification for ``Fluorocarbon Refrigerants,'' BB-F-1421 
B, dated March 5, 1982. This section of this standard establishes a 
method to determine the boiling point and boiling point range of a 
refrigerant. The standard is available in the docket for this 
rulemaking. Therefore, EPA concludes that the standard being

[[Page 82282]]

incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
--GPA STD-2177, Analysis of Natural Gas Liquid Mixtures Containing 
Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide by Gas Chromatography, 2013, Gas 
Processors Association. This standard establishes methods for 
analyzing demethanized liquid hydrocarbon streams containing 
nitrogen/air and carbon dioxide, and purity products such as ethane/
propane mix that fall within compositional ranges indicated in the 
standard. The standard is available at www.techstreet.com or by 
writing to Techstreet, 6300 Interfirst Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. 
The cost of this standard is $55 for an electronic copy or $65 for a 
printed edition. The cost of obtaining this standard is not a 
significant financial burden. Therefore, EPA concludes that the 
standard being incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
_ASTM Standard D1296-01-2012, Standard Test Method for Odor of 
Volatile Solvents and Diluents, July 1, 2012, ASTM International. 
This test method covers a comparative procedure for observing the 
characteristic and residual odors of volatile organic solvents and 
diluents to determine their odor acceptability in a solvent system. 
The standard is available at www.astm.org or by writing to ASTM, 100 
Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. 
The cost of this standard is $39. The cost of obtaining this 
standard is not a significant financial burden. Therefore, EPA 
concludes that the standard being incorporated by reference is 
reasonably available.

    EPA is not incorporating by reference AHRI Standard 740-2016, 
Performance Rating of Refrigerant Recovery Equipment and Recovery/
Recycling Equipment. Rather EPA is basing the content found in 
appendices B3 and B4 on this standard. This standard establishes 
methods of testing for rating and evaluating the performance of 
refrigerant recovery equipment and recovery/recycling equipment. The 
standard is available at www.ahrinet.org or by mail at Air-
Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), 2111 Wilson 
Blvd., Suite 500, Arlington, VA 22201. EPA is incorporating by 
reference the standards referenced in AHRI Standard 740-2016. 
Specifically, these standards are:

--ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 63.2-1996 (RA 2010) Method of Testing Liquid-
Line Filter Drier Filtration Capability, 2010, American National 
Standards Institute/American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and 
Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. The purpose of this standard is to 
prescribe a laboratory test method for evaluating the filtration 
capability of filters and filter driers used in liquid lines of 
refrigeration systems. The standard is available at www.ashrae.org 
or by mail at AHSRAE, 1791 Tullie Circle NE., Atlanta, GA 30329. The 
cost is $39 for an electronic copy or printed edition. The cost of 
obtaining this standard is not a significant financial burden. 
Therefore, EPA concludes that the standard being incorporated by 
reference is reasonably available.
_UL Standard 1963-2011, Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Equipment, 
Fourth Edition, 2011, American National Standards Institute/
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. This standard establishes safety 
requirements for and methods to evaluate refrigerant recovery and 
refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. The standard is available 
at www.comm-2000.com or by writing to Comm 2000, 151 Eastern Avenue, 
Bensenville, IL 60106. The cost is $798 for an electronic copy and 
$998 for hardcopy. UL also offers a subscription service to the 
Standards Certification Customer Library (SCCL) 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. Therefore, EPA concludes that the UL 
standard being incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
--AHRI Standard 110-2016, Air-Conditioning, Heating and 
Refrigerating Equipment Nameplate Voltages, 2016, Air-Conditioning, 
Heating, and Refrigeration Institute. This standard establishes 
voltage rating requirements, equipment performance requirements, and 
conformance conditions for air-conditioning, heating, and 
refrigerating equipment. A free electronic copy of this standard is 
available at www.ahrinet.org. It is also available by mail at Air-
Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), 2111 
Wilson Boulevard, Suite 500, Arlington, VA 22201. The cost of 
obtaining this standard is not a significant financial burden. 
Therefore, EPA concludes that the standard being incorporated by 
reference is reasonably available.
--International Standard IEC 60038, IEC Standard Voltages, Edition 
7.0, 2009-06, International Electrotechnical Commission. This 
standard specifies standard voltage values which are intended to 
serve as preferential values for the nominal voltage of electrical 
supply systems, and as reference values for equipment and system 
design. The standard is available at www.techstreet.com or by 
writing to Techstreet, 6300 Interfirst Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. 
The cost of this standard is $50. The cost of obtaining this 
standard is not a significant financial burden. Therefore, EPA 
concludes that the standard being incorporated by reference is 
reasonably available.

    EPA is not incorporating by reference California Air Resources 
Board, Test Procedure for Leaks from Small Containers of Automotive 
Refrigerant, TP-503, as amended January 5, 2010. Rather EPA is basing 
the content found in appendix E on this standard. This standard 
establishes methods for assessing the leak rate from small containers 
of refrigerant. A copy of this standard is available in the docket and 
www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2009/hfc09/hfc09.htm.

III. EPA's Authority Under the Clean Air Act

A. Summary of EPA's Authority for the Revisions to Subpart F

    The authority for this action is provided primarily by section 608 
of the CAA. Section 608 is divided into three subsections, which 
together comprise the ``National Recycling and Emission Reduction 
Program.'' Among other things, section 608 of the CAA requires EPA to 
establish a comprehensive program to limit emissions of ozone-depleting 
refrigerants. It also prohibits the knowing release or disposal of 
ozone-depleting refrigerants and their substitutes in the course of 
maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of air-conditioning and 
refrigeration equipment in a manner which permits such a substance to 
enter the environment. The three subsections of section 608 are 
described in more detail in the following paragraphs.
    Section 608(a) requires EPA to establish standards and requirements 
regarding use and disposal of class I and II substances. With regard to 
refrigerants, EPA is to promulgate regulations establishing standards 
and requirements for the use and disposal of class I and class II 
substances during the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of air-
conditioning and refrigeration appliances or IPR. Regulations under 
section 608(a) are to include requirements to reduce the use and 
emission of ODS to the lowest achievable level, and to maximize the 
recapture and recycling of such substances. Section 608(a) further 
provides that ``such regulations may include requirements to use 
alternative substances (including substances which are not class I or 
class II substances) or to minimize use of class I or class II 
substances, or to promote the use of safe alternatives pursuant to 
section [612] or any combination of the foregoing.''
    Section 608(b) requires that the regulations issued pursuant to 
section 608(a) contain requirements for the safe disposal of class I 
and class II substances, including requirements that such substances 
shall be removed from such appliances, machines, or other goods prior 
to the disposal of such items or their delivery for recycling.
    Section 608(c) establishes a self-effectuating prohibition, 
commonly called the ``venting prohibition,'' that generally speaking, 
makes it unlawful to knowingly release ODS and substitute refrigerants 
in a way that allows the refrigerant to enter the environment

[[Page 82283]]

while maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of air-
conditioning or refrigeration equipment. More specifically, section 
608(c)(1), effective July 1, 1992, makes it unlawful for any person in 
the course of maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of an 
appliance or IPR to knowingly vent, release, or dispose of any ODS used 
as a refrigerant in such equipment in a manner that permits that 
substance to enter the environment. The statute exempts from this 
prohibition ``[d]e minimis releases associated with good faith attempts 
to recapture and recycle or safely dispose'' of such a substance. 
Section 608(c)(2) extends the provisions of (c)(1), including the 
prohibition on venting, to substitutes for class I or class II 
refrigerants, effective November 15, 1995, unless the Administrator 
determines that such venting, release, or disposal ``does not pose a 
threat to the environment.'' EPA has determined through prior 
rulemakings that specific substances do not pose a threat to the 
environment when vented, released, or disposed of and has exempted 
those specific substitutes from the venting prohibition. The full list 
of substitutes that EPA has exempted from this prohibition is at 40 CFR 
82.154(a). For some substitutes that have been exempted from the 
venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2) and Sec.  82.154(a) the 
exemption only applies when the substitute is used in specified 
applications, but for others, the exemption is for the substitute 
refrigerant as used in all applications.\8\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ EPA is using the term ``non-exempt substitute'' in this 
notice to refer to substitute refrigerants that have not been 
exempted from the venting prohibition under CAA section 608(c)(2) 
and 40 CFR 82.154(a) in the relevant end-use. Similarly, the term 
``exempt substitute'' refers to a substitute refrigerant that has 
been exempted from the venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2) 
and Sec.  82.154(a) in the relevant end-use.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The statutory standards under section 608(a) against which the 
regulations concerning the use and disposal of ozone-depleting 
substances are to be measured are whether they ``reduce the use and 
emission of such substances to the lowest achievable level'' and 
``maximize the recapture and recycling of such substances.'' These 
standards are often complementary in the context of maintenance, 
service, repair, and disposal of air conditioning and refrigerant 
equipment. For example, in the context of recycling, maximizing 
recycling will also help reduce the use and emission of these 
substances to the lowest achievable level. These statutory standards 
also bear a relationship to the de minimis releases addressed in 
section 608(c). More specifically, emissions that occur while complying 
with EPA's recovery and recycling regulations are considered de 
minimis, because those regulations set forth practices and requirements 
which result in the lowest achievable level of emissions. EPA has 
established this interpretation in its regulations under section 608 
for ODS refrigerants.
    On May 14, 1993, EPA published the original regulations 
implementing subsections (a), (b), and (c)(1) for ODS refrigerants (58 
FR 28660). These regulations include evacuation requirements for 
appliances being serviced or disposed of, standards and testing 
requirements for recovery and/or recycling equipment, certification 
requirements for technicians, purity standards and testing requirements 
for used refrigerant sold to a new owner, certification requirements 
for refrigerant reclaimers, leak repair requirements, and requirements 
for the safe disposal of appliances that enter the waste stream with 
the charge intact. This rule also stated that the Agency interprets 
``de minimis'' to mean releases that occur while the recycling and 
recovery requirements of regulations under sections 608 and 609 are 
followed. However, those requirements only applied to ODS refrigerants, 
and these regulations did not explain how the venting prohibition or 
the de minimis exemption applied for substitute refrigerants. Among 
other things, this rulemaking addresses that gap in the regulations.
1. Applying Regulations Under Section 608 to Substitute Refrigerants
    In this rule, EPA is extending, as appropriate, provisions of the 
refrigerant recovery and/or recycling regulations, which previously had 
only applied to ODS refrigerants, to non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. To summarize briefly, EPA's authority for this action 
rests largely on section 608(c), which EPA interprets to provide it 
authority to promulgate regulations that interpret, explain, and 
enforce the venting prohibition and the de minimis exemption, as they 
apply to both ODS refrigerants and non-exempt substitute refrigerants. 
Accordingly, this rule establishes a comprehensive and consistent 
framework that applies to both ODS and non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. This, in turn, provides clarity to the regulated 
community concerning the measures that should be taken to comply with 
the venting prohibition for non-exempt substitutes and reduces 
confusion and enhances compliance for both ODS and non-exempt 
substitutes.\9\ EPA's authority to issue regulations for section 608(c) 
is supplemented by section 301(a), which provides authority for EPA to 
``prescribe such regulations as are necessary to carry out [the EPA 
Administrator's] functions under this Act.'' In addition, EPA's 
authority to extend the recordkeeping and reporting requirements to 
non-exempt substitutes is supplemented by section 114, which provides 
authority to the EPA Administrator to require recordkeeping and 
reporting in carrying out provisions of the CAA. Finally, the extension 
of requirements under section 608 to non-exempt substitutes in this 
rule is also supported by section 608(a) because having a consistent 
regulatory framework for non-exempt substitutes and ODS is expected to 
reduce emissions of ODS refrigerants, as well as non-exempt 
substitutes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ EPA used an analogous analysis in promulgating the 
regulations for section 608 originally. In that rulemaking, EPA 
explained that extending regulatory requirements to class II 
substances (rather than only regulating class I substances) would 
facilitate compliance with the venting prohibition, in part by 
providing clear guidance to technicians recovering class II 
substances on what releases do and do not constitute violations of 
the prohibition. 58 FR 28667. EPA also explained that it was 
desirable to provide a ``clear, consistent framework for fully 
implementing the prohibition on venting for all refrigerants'' to 
``minimize confusion and maximize compliance with the prohibition.'' 
58 FR 28666.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Section 608 of the CAA is ambiguous with regard to EPA's authority 
to establish refrigerant management regulations for substitute 
refrigerants. As Congress has not precisely spoken to this issue, EPA 
has the discretion to adopt a permissible interpretation of the CAA. 
Chevron, U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Res. Def. Council, Inc., 467 U.S. 837, 
843-44 (1984). Primarily under the authority of section 608(a), EPA has 
established standards for the proper handling of ODS refrigerants 
during the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of an appliance to 
maximize the recovery and/or recycling of such substances and reduce 
the use and emission of such substances. Section 608(a) expressly 
requires EPA to promulgate regulations that apply to class I and class 
II substances, but is silent on whether its requirements apply to 
substitute substances. On the other hand, section 608(c)(2) contains 
provisions for substitute refrigerants which parallel those for ODS 
refrigerants in section 608(c)(1). For instance, as for ODS 
refrigerants under section 608(c)(1), section 608(c)(2) prohibits 
knowingly venting, releasing, or disposing of any substitute 
refrigerant in the course of maintaining, servicing, repairing, or 
disposing of an appliance

[[Page 82284]]

in a manner which permits the substance to enter the environment.\10\ 
This creates a tension or ambiguity because the regulated community is 
subject to an explicit and self-effectuating prohibition on venting, 
releasing, or disposing of non-exempt substitute refrigerants while 
maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of equipment but at the 
same time is not explicitly required by section 608(a) to recover 
substitute refrigerant prior to servicing or disposing of equipment or 
to engage in any of the practices or behaviors that EPA has established 
to minimize the emission and release of ODS refrigerants during such 
maintenance, service, repair, or disposal.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ As noted previously, this venting prohibition does not 
apply to substitutes for which the Administrator has made a 
determination that such venting, release, or disposal ``does not 
pose a threat to the environment'' under CAA 608(c)(2). As indicated 
elsewhere in this notice, EPA is not extending the requirements of 
the refrigerant management program to substitutes that have been 
exempted from the venting prohibition in this action. Where a 
substitute has been exempted only in specific uses, the requirements 
in this rule apply to uses in which the substitute has not been 
exempted.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Moreover, some amount of refrigerant, whether ODS or substitute, is 
inevitably released during the maintenance, servicing, repair, and 
disposal of air-conditioning or refrigeration appliances or equipment. 
Without a clear regulatory framework for determining what requirements 
apply during the maintenance, servicing, repair, and disposal of such 
equipment containing a non-exempt substitute refrigerant, the regulated 
community and the public would not have the same measure of certainty 
as to whether such releases violate the venting prohibition or fall 
within the de minimis exemption to that prohibition, and what steps 
must be taken to comply with CAA obligations for such substitute 
refrigerants in undertaking such actions. Accordingly, this rulemaking 
finalizes regulations to interpret and explain how the venting 
prohibition and the de minimis exemption apply to non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. In doing so, EPA is clarifying that the regulated 
community that uses non-exempt substitute refrigerants may rely on the 
de minimis exemption to the venting prohibition if they follow the 
amended requirements in subpart F.
    Consistent with the language of sections 608(c)(1) and (2), this 
rule aims to avoid knowing releases of non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants into the environment in the course of maintaining, 
servicing, repairing, or disposing of an appliance or IPR, unless those 
releases meet the criteria for the de minimis exemption. Section 
608(c)(1) provides an exemption from the venting prohibition for ``[d]e 
minimis releases associated with good faith attempts to recapture and 
recycle or safely dispose of any such [class I or class II] 
substance.'' In this context, EPA interprets this provision to exempt 
releases that occur while the recycling and recovery requirements of 
regulations under sections 608 and 609 are followed and has promulgated 
regulations consistent with that interpretation.
    In particular, EPA has incorporated both the venting prohibition 
and the de minimis exemption into the regulations at Sec.  82.154(a). 
Further, the last sentence in the existing regulations at Sec.  
82.154(a)(2) provides that ``refrigerant releases shall be considered 
de minimis only if they occur when'' enumerated regulatory practices in 
subpart F or, alternatively, subpart B are followed. These subpart F 
requirements are the ones established in the 1993 rule mentioned above, 
and as periodically amended. The term refrigerant, however, was defined 
in Sec.  82.152 for purposes of subpart F to mean ``any substance 
consisting in part or whole of a class I or class II ozone-depleting 
substance that is used for heat transfer purposes and provides a 
cooling effect.'' This definition did not include substitute 
substances. In addition, EPA had not yet applied the recycling and 
recovery requirements to non-ODS substitutes, and therefore these 
provisions which make clear how to qualify for the de minimis exemption 
for ODS refrigerants did not apply to substitute refrigerants.
    EPA interprets section 608(c) such that the statutory de minimis 
exemption contained in section 608(c)(1) also applies to substitute 
refrigerants. Section 608(c)(2) states that, effective November 15, 
1995, ``paragraph 1 shall also apply'' to the venting, release, or 
disposal of any substitute substance for class I or class II 
substances. As section 608(c)(2) incorporates ``paragraph 1'' it is 
reasonable to interpret it to also contain this de minimis exemption, 
which is included in paragraph 1 of section 608(c). However, the Act's 
exemption applies only to those de minimis releases ``associated with 
good faith attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose of 
refrigerants'' and the Act does not explicitly address what would be 
considered such ``good faith attempts to recapture and recycle or 
safely dispose'' of either ODS or substitute refrigerants. In fact, 
Title VI does not contain any further explanation or definition of 
those terms. Moreover, the statutory provisions that require EPA to 
promulgate regulations addressing recapturing and recycling 
requirements and safe disposal requirements in section 608(a) and 
608(b) expressly mention that they apply to ODS refrigerants but are 
silent as to application to substitute refrigerants. This silence and 
the corresponding tension between these provisions creates an ambiguity 
in section 608 and EPA may fill that gap with a permissible 
interpretation. Chevron, U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Res. Def. Council, 
Inc., 467 U.S. 837, 843-44 (1984).
    Consistent with the interpretation of section 608(c)(2) as 
incorporating the de minimis exemption, prior to this rulemaking EPA's 
regulations at Sec.  82.154(a)(2) stated that ``[d]e minimis releases 
associated with good faith attempts to recycle or recover . . . non-
exempt substitutes are not subject to this prohibition,'' thus applying 
the statutory de minimis exemption from the venting prohibition to good 
faith efforts to recycle or recover non-exempt substitute refrigerants. 
However, in contrast to the regulations for ODS refrigerants, the 
regulations did not provide any specific provisions to explain what 
constitutes such a ``good faith attempt'' with respect to substitute 
refrigerants. Thus, the prior regulations were unclear as to what 
requirements or practices regulated parties must follow to qualify for 
the de minimis exemption, and thereby comply with the venting 
prohibition, for non-exempt substitute refrigerants.
    EPA has discussed this issue in previous notices. On June 11, 1998, 
EPA proposed to apply the de minimis exemption in section 608(c)(1) to 
substitute refrigerants and to issue regulations under section 
608(c)(2) that interpret, clarify, and enforce the venting prohibition 
for substitutes (63 FR 32044). EPA stated in that proposed rule, 
``[w]hile section 608(c) is self-effectuating, EPA regulations are 
necessary to define `(d)e minimis releases associated with good faith 
attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose' of such substances 
and to effectively implement and enforce the venting prohibition.'' 63 
FR 32046.
    In the final rule issued March 12, 2004 (69 FR 11946), EPA extended 
the regulations interpreting and enforcing the 608(c)(1) de minimis 
exemption to blends containing an ODS component but not to refrigerants 
containing only substitutes. As stated in that rule at 69 FR 11949:

    [V]enting of all substitute refrigerants, including HFC and PFC 
refrigerants (and

[[Page 82285]]

blends thereof) is prohibited under section 608(c), with the 
exception of de minimis releases associated with good faith attempts 
to recapture and recycle. The de minimis releases exception, 
however, is not self-effectuating, nor is it self-explanatory.
    EPA believes that regulatory clarification is necessary to 
define such `[d]e minimis releases' and `good faith attempts to 
recapture and recycle or safely dispose of any such substance' and 
safely dispose of appliances to effectively implement and enforce 
the venting prohibition. Section 608(c)(1) in conjunction with 
608(c)(2) of the Act allow for an exemption for de minimis releases 
associated with good faith attempts to recapture and recycle or 
safely dispose of substitutes for class I and class II ODSs used as 
refrigerants. A regulation reflecting the statutory requirement for 
recovery of substitute refrigerants is an essential part of a 
regulatory framework within which de minimis releases and good faith 
attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose of substitute 
refrigerants can be defined.

    This interpretation that the statutory de minimis exemption applies 
to substitutes but is not self-explanatory is consistent with the 
interpretation of section 608(c)(1) and (2) that EPA articulates in 
this section. However, in the March 2004 Rule EPA did not finalize its 
proposal to extend all of the subpart F regulations to substitute 
refrigerants. See 69 FR 11953.
    Following the March 12, 2004, rulemaking, the Administrator 
promulgated a direct final rule to amend the regulatory definitions of 
refrigerant and technician, as well as the venting prohibition, to 
correct and clarify the intent of those regulations (70 FR 19273, April 
13, 2005). As part of that rule, EPA edited the regulatory venting 
prohibition to reflect the statutory de minimis exemption in section 
608(c)(2). As explained at 70 FR 19275:

    In accordance with section 608(c)(2) of Title VI of the Clean 
Air Act (as amended in 1990), de minimis releases associated with 
good faith attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose of 
such substitutes shall not be subject to the prohibition. EPA has 
not promulgated regulations mandating certification of refrigerant 
recycling/recovery equipment intended for use with substitutes; 
therefore, EPA is not including a regulatory provision for the 
mandatory use of certified recovery/recycling equipment as an option 
for determining de minimis releases of substitutes. However, the 
lack of a regulatory provision should not be interpreted as an 
exemption to the venting prohibition for non-exempted substitutes. 
The regulatory prohibition at Sec.  82.154(a) reflects the statutory 
reference to de minimis releases of substitutes as they pertain to 
good faith attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose of 
such substitutes.
    In order to emphasize that the knowing venting of HFC and PFC 
substitutes remains illegal during the maintenance, service, repair, 
and disposal of appliances and to make certain that the de minimis 
exemption for refrigerants remains in the regulatory prohibition, 
Sec.  82.154(a) is amended to reflect the venting prohibition of 
section 608(c)(2) of the Act.

    In that action, EPA added the phrase ``[d]e minimis releases 
associated with good faith attempts to recycle or recover refrigerants 
or non-exempt substitutes are not subject to this prohibition'' to 
Sec.  82.154(a)(2) (emphasis added). However, because EPA has not 
extended the regulatory recycling and recovery requirements to 
substitute refrigerants, the regulations have not provided clarity or 
certainty how this exception applies to non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants that do not contain an ODS. Moreover, as for ODS, some 
amount of substitute refrigerant is released during the maintenance, 
servicing, repair, or disposal of appliances, even if precautions to 
avoid such releases are taken. For ODS refrigerants, the rules have 
provided certainty to the regulated community that if specific 
identified practices are followed, regulated entities would not be held 
liable for releases of small amounts of refrigerant incidental to these 
actions. These regulations have supported the recovery or recycling of 
ODS refrigerants and reduced the emissions of such substances. In other 
words, for ODS, EPA has reasonably interpreted the de minimis exemption 
to apply only to the small amount of emissions that cannot be prevented 
by following the regulatory requirements. This interpretation of the de 
minimis exemption is equally reasonable for non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. Accordingly, to provide the same clarity and certainty to 
the regulated community for substitute refrigerants, it is important to 
clarify how this exemption applies to non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants that do not contain an ODS. To do so, EPA is finalizing 
its proposal to extend the amended regulations concerning emissions 
reduction and recapture and recycling of CFC and HCFC refrigerants, 
found at 40 CFR part 82, subpart F, to all substitute refrigerants that 
have not been exempted from the venting prohibition under Sec.  
82.154(a)(1).
    These regulations establish standards and requirements related to 
the maintenance, servicing, repair, or disposal of appliances and IPR 
that use ODS or non-exempt substitutes as refrigerants. They are 
designed to minimize or avoid knowing releases or disposal, in the 
course of those activities, of ODS and non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants in a manner which allows that substance to enter the 
environment. For example, the regulations establish requirements to 
minimize emissions during appliance maintenance, servicing, or repair 
(e.g., by requiring that technicians recover refrigerant from an 
appliance before servicing and by setting standards for the repair of 
appliances that have leaked above the applicable threshold), as well as 
disposal (e.g., by requiring the use of certified recovery equipment to 
remove refrigerant from the appliance before the final disposal). 
Accordingly, the regulations finalized in this action fall within the 
scope of EPA's authority to interpret and explain the venting 
prohibition, and to give regulated entities greater certainty about 
what is required to comply.
    EPA is also adopting a broader interpretation of the venting 
prohibition under CAA sections 608(c)(1) and (2) in this action. As 
discussed in more detail in the proposal for this action (80 FR 69486), 
in the 1993 Rule EPA stated that the venting prohibition did not 
``prohibit `topping off' systems, which leads to emissions during the 
use of equipment'' but explained that the ``provision on knowing 
releases does however, include the situation in which a technician is 
practically certain that his or her conduct will cause a release of 
refrigerant during the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of 
equipment'' or fails to appropriately investigate facts that demand 
investigation (58 FR 28672). The proposal also explained that EPA had 
subsequently moved toward a broader interpretation of the venting 
prohibition in the proposed 2010 Leak Repair Rule (80 FR 69486, quoting 
75 FR 78570). EPA concludes that its statements in the 1993 Rule 
presented an overly narrow interpretation of the statutory venting 
prohibition. Consistent with the direction articulated in the proposed 
2010 Leak Repair Rule, EPA is adopting a broader interpretation. When 
refrigerant must be added to an existing appliance, other than when 
originally charging the system or for a seasonal variance, the owner or 
operator necessarily knows that the system has leaks. At that point the 
owner or operator is required to calculate the leak rate. If the leaks 
exceed the applicable leak rate for that particular type of appliance, 
the owner or operator will know that absent repairs, subsequent 
additions of refrigerant will be released in a manner that will permit 
the refrigerant to enter the environment. Therefore, EPA interprets 
section 608(c) such that if a person adds refrigerant to an appliance 
that he or she knows is leaking, he or she also violates the venting 
prohibition unless he or she has complied with the applicable practices

[[Page 82286]]

referenced in Sec.  82.154(a)(2), as revised, including the leak repair 
requirements, as applicable.
    This action extending the regulations under subpart F to non-exempt 
substitutes is additionally supported by the authority in section 
608(a) because regulations that minimize the release and maximize the 
recapture and recovery of non-exempt substitutes will also reduce the 
release and increase the recovery of ozone-depleting substances. 
Improper handling of substitute refrigerants is likely to contaminate 
appliances and recovery cylinders with mixtures of ODS and non-ODS 
substitutes, which can lead to illegal venting because such mixtures 
are difficult or expensive to reclaim or appropriately dispose of. 
Under the prior definition of refrigerant, any substance that consists 
in whole or in part of a class I or class II ODS and is used for heat 
transfer and provides a cooling effect, is a refrigerant and is subject 
to the requirements for ODS. However, when a regulated entity believes 
it is using a substitute refrigerant, and that substitute becomes 
contaminated with ODS, the contamination may not be apparent to the 
user, and thus, the user may not be aware that the requirements for 
refrigerants apply to that substance. This confusion can also lead to 
illegal venting of ODS. In short, the authority to promulgate 
regulations regarding the use of class I and II substances encompasses 
the authority to establish regulations regarding the proper handling of 
substitutes where this is needed to reduce emissions and maximize 
recapture and recycling of class I and II substances. Applying 
consistent requirements to all non-exempt refrigerants will reduce 
complexity and increase clarity for the regulated community and promote 
compliance with those requirements for ODS refrigerants, as well as 
their substitutes.
2. Recordkeeping Provisions
    In this action, EPA is also establishing new recordkeeping 
requirements, as well as extending existing recordkeeping requirements 
to non-exempt substitutes. EPA's authority to establish and extend 
these requirements is supported by CAA sections 608(a), 608(c), and 
114, consistent with the description of these authorities offered 
above. These new recordkeeping requirements are an important part of 
EPA's efforts to address illegal venting of refrigerants, improve 
accounting of refrigerants in affected appliances, and facilitate 
enforcement of requirements under section 608. For example, EPA is 
establishing a new recordkeeping requirement for the disposal of 
appliances containing more than five and less than 50 pounds of 
refrigerant. Section 608(a) gives EPA explicit authority to implement 
requirements that reduce ODS refrigerant emissions to the lowest 
achievable level. This recordkeeping requirement, along with other 
recordkeeping requirements in this rule, further the recovery, 
reclamation, and/or destruction of ODS refrigerants and discourages the 
illegal venting of such refrigerants from affected appliances. Because 
it minimizes the emission of ODS refrigerant, EPA has authority for 
this requirement as it relates to ODS appliances under 608(a). 
Additionally, providing a consistent standard for ODS and non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants will facilitate the recovery, reclamation, and/
or destruction of both ODS and non-ODS refrigerants and, accordingly, 
will reduce the emission of such refrigerants. EPA will continue to 
evaluate how best to use the information to promote the recovery of 
refrigerants and compliance with these provisions.
    EPA also has authority under section 114 of the CAA to require that 
technicians document that appliances containing an ODS refrigerant or a 
non-exempt substitute refrigerant have been properly evacuated prior to 
disposal. Section 114 of the CAA provides the primary authority to 
establish these recordkeeping and reporting requirements because it 
provides EPA authority to require recordkeeping and reporting in 
carrying out provisions of the CAA, including the venting prohibition 
under CAA sections 608(c) and the requirements under 608(a). Because 
these records will help EPA determine whether requirements under 
sections 608(c) and 608(a) are being complied with, this requirement 
falls within the scope of section 114.
3. Amendments Related to Practices and Requirements for ODS
    In addition to extending the existing regulations in subpart F to 
non-exempt substitute refrigerants, EPA is also revising and augmenting 
the existing requirements that apply to ozone-depleting substances, 
including: Lowered leak rates, periodic leak inspections for equipment 
that has leaked above the leak threshold, leak repair verification 
tests, and recordkeeping requirements for the disposal of appliances 
containing more than five and less than 50 pounds of refrigerant. EPA 
is also finalizing its proposal to update and revise subpart F to 
improve clarity and enforceability. EPA's authority for these 
amendments is based primarily on section 608(a), which requires EPA to 
promulgate regulations regarding the use and disposal of class I and II 
substances to ``reduce the use and emission of such substances to the 
lowest achievable level'' and ``maximize the recapture and recycling of 
such substances.'' In addition, because EPA is further elaborating the 
requirements and practices that regulated parties must follow to 
qualify for the de minimis exemption from the venting prohibition for 
ODS, EPA is drawing on its authority under section 608(c)(1). EPA's 
authority for these actions is also supplemented by section 301(a) and 
114, in the same way as described earlier in this notice.
4. Provisions Related to MVAC and MVAC-Like Appliances
    While section 608 covers all appliances,\11\ section 609 of the CAA 
directs EPA to establish requirements to prevent the release of 
refrigerants during the servicing of MVACs specifically. MVACs are 
defined under EPA's section 608 implementing regulations at 40 CFR part 
82, subpart F as ``any appliance that is a motor vehicle air 
conditioner as defined in 40 CFR part 82, subpart B.'' 40 CFR 82.152. 
Under section 609, in 40 CFR part 82, subpart B, MVACs are defined as 
``mechanical vapor compression refrigeration equipment used to cool the 
driver's or passenger's compartment of any motor vehicle. . . .'' 40 
CFR 82.32(d).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ For EPA's discussion on the definition of appliance, see 
Section IV.A.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    A motor vehicle is defined under subpart B as ``any vehicle which 
is self-propelled and designed for transporting persons or property on 
a street or highway, including but not limited to passenger cars, light 
duty vehicles, and heavy duty vehicles. This definition does not 
include a vehicle where final assembly of the vehicle has not been 
completed by the original equipment manufacturer.'' 40 CFR 82.32(c).
    Under section 609, no person repairing or servicing motor vehicles 
for consideration may perform any service on an MVAC that involves the 
refrigerant without properly using approved refrigerant recovery or 
recovery and recycling equipment and no such person may perform such 
service unless such person has been properly trained and certified. 
Refrigerant handling equipment must be certified by EPA or an 
independent organization approved by EPA. Section 609 also prohibits 
the sale or distribution of any class I or class II MVAC refrigerant in 
a container of less

[[Page 82287]]

than 20 pounds to any person who is not certified under section 609.
    Regulations issued under section 609 are in 40 CFR part 82, subpart 
B, and include information on prohibitions and required practices 
(Sec.  82.34), approved refrigerant handling equipment (Sec.  82.36), 
approved independent standards testing organizations (Sec.  82.38), 
requirements for technician certification and training programs (Sec.  
82.40), and certification, recordkeeping, and public notification 
requirements (Sec.  82.42). Appendices A-F of subpart B provide 
standards for minimum operating requirements for MVAC servicing 
equipment.
    Because MVACs are defined in subpart F as an ``appliance'' (Sec.  
82.152), the section 608 regulations found in subpart F are generally 
applicable to MVAC systems. However, because servicing and technician 
training and certification are regulated under section 609, EPA's 
section 608 regulations in subpart F defer to those requirements in 
subpart B. Procedures involving MVACs that are not regulated under 
section 609, such as the disposal of MVACs and the purchase of 
refrigerant for use in MVACs besides ODS refrigerant in containers less 
than 20 pounds, are covered by section 608. The prohibition in section 
608 against venting ODS and substitute refrigerants is also applicable 
to refrigerants used in MVAC systems.
    EPA also regulates MVAC-like appliances under subpart B. MVAC-like 
appliances are used to cool the driver's or passenger's compartment of 
off-road vehicles, including agricultural and construction 
vehicles.\12\ While these types of systems are outside of the scope of 
the definition of motor vehicle established in subpart B, there are 
similarities between MVAC-like appliances and MVAC systems. In the 1993 
Rule, under the authority of section 608, EPA adopted requirements for 
the certification and use of recycling equipment for MVAC-like 
appliances in subpart B. MVAC-like appliances may only be serviced by a 
certified technician and this requirement is not limited to those 
servicing for consideration, but MVAC-like technicians have the option 
to be certified under section 608 or 609.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \12\ We are amending the subpart F definition of ``MVAC-like 
appliance'' to replace the term ``off-road motor vehicle'' with the 
term ``off-road vehicles or equipment.'' This revision is not 
intended to effect a substantive change in the equipment covered by 
this definition but rather simply is intended to clarify the 
definition.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Through this rulemaking EPA is finalizing its proposal to apply the 
provisions of section 608 to non-exempt ODS substitutes, including 
those used in MVAC and MVAC-like appliances. EPA is not extending the 
regulations under section 609 as part of this rulemaking because the 
609 regulations have been applicable to all substitute substances since 
1995.\13\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ The Agency has indicated plans to issue a separate proposed 
rule to consider adopting standards from the Society of Automotive 
Engineers (SAE) for servicing equipment in 40 CFR subpart B. These 
standards are: SAE J2843 R-1234yf Recovery/Recycling/Recharging 
Equipment for Flammable Refrigerants for Mobile Air-Conditioning 
Systems, SAE J2851 Recovery Equipment for Contaminated Refrigerant 
from Mobile Automotive Air Conditioning Systems, and SAE J3030 
Automotive Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Equipment Intended for Use 
with Multiple Refrigerants. In a future rulemaking, EPA intends to 
propose to incorporate by reference these standards developed by SAE 
International's Interior Climate Control Committee.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

5. Consideration of Economic Factors
    Section 608 of the CAA does not explicitly address whether costs or 
benefits should be considered in developing regulations under that 
section. The statutory standards under section 608(a) against which the 
regulations concerning the use and disposal of ozone-depleting 
substances are to be measured are whether they ``reduce the use and 
emission of such substances to the lowest achievable level'' and 
``maximize the recapture and recycling of such substances.'' The phrase 
``lowest achievable level'' as used in section 608(a)(3) is not clear 
on its face as to whether economic factors should be considered in 
determining what is the ``lowest achievable level.'' Title VI does not 
further explain or define the term nor does it expressly state whether 
economic factors may or must be considered. Thus, EPA has discretion to 
adopt a reasonable interpretation. EPA has previously interpreted this 
phrase to allow the consideration of economic factors. See 58 FR 28659, 
28667 (May 14, 1993). EPA did not propose to revise that interpretation 
and has considered economic as well as technological factors in the 
development of this rule.
    The phrase ``de minimis releases associated with good faith 
attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose of any such 
substance'' as used in section 608(c)(1) and as applied to substitutes 
through section 608(c)(2) is similarly not clear on its face as to 
whether economic factors may be considered in determining what is de 
minimis. Title VI does not further address this issue. Thus, EPA has 
discretion to adopt a reasonable interpretation. EPA interprets this 
phrase to allow the consideration of economic factors. The Senate 
Manager's Statement for the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 indicates 
that ``the exception is included to account for the fact that in the 
course of properly using recapture and recycling equipment, it may not 
be possible to prevent some small amount of leakage'' (Cong. Rec. S 
16948 (Oct. 27, 1990), reprinted in 1 A Legislative History of the 
Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, at 929 (1993)). EPA does not read 
this statement as expressing an intent that the Agency consider only 
technological factors in setting standards for recapture and recycling 
equipment and the proper use of such equipment. Rather, EPA understands 
it as meaning that once those standards are set, only the small amount 
of emissions that cannot be prevented by following such standards 
should be exempted.
    Because the statutory language does not dictate a particular means 
of taking economic factors into account, if at all, EPA has discretion 
to adopt a reasonable method for doing so. In developing this rule, EPA 
has not applied a strict cost-benefit test, but rather has focused 
primarily on the state of air conditioning and refrigeration best 
practices and recovery technology, while also giving consideration to 
costs and benefits. The fact that industry has identified and uses 
these best practices indicates they are affordable.
    EPA considered cost for many specific aspects of this rule. For 
instance, as discussed in the leak repair section (Section IV.F of this 
notice), EPA considered what is achievable from a technical 
perspective, while also considering the costs of those practices and 
technologies and the benefits from their use, when determining whether 
to establish new requirements and extending existing requirements to 
non-exempt substitute refrigerants. See the technical support document 
Analysis of the Economic Impact and Benefits of Final Revisions to the 
National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program in the docket for 
sensitivity analyses conducted on various options. Generally, the leak 
repair requirements finalized in this action take into account that the 
variability of those conditions in the field is significant in each 
air-conditioning and refrigeration sector. For example, some appliances 
generally have more leaks than others. An industrial process 
refrigeration appliance can have thousands of pounds of refrigerant 
running through miles of piping, resulting in numerous opportunities 
for leaks to occur, whereas a household refrigerator typically has 
about one pound of refrigerant in a hermetically sealed refrigerant 
loop that rarely leaks. The

[[Page 82288]]

requirements in this rule reflect that difference.
    As another example, EPA considered the costs of extending the 
refrigerant sales restriction to small cans of non-exempt substitutes 
used for MVAC servicing. EPA decided a more cost effective method of 
reducing emissions is requiring that manufacturers install self-sealing 
valves on small cans rather than limiting the sale of small cans to 
certified technicians only. As a final example of how EPA considered 
costs in this rulemaking, EPA relied heavily on the existing program 
and requirements already in place for ODS refrigerants rather than 
developing a new and separate set of requirements for non-exempt 
substitutes. This will allow the regulated community to in many 
instances use or adapt existing compliance procedures for non-exempt 
substitutes rather than having to develop wholly new approaches to 
managing compliance. This approach should help regulated entities to 
better predict and manage compliance costs.

B. Comments and Responses Related to EPA's Authority

    This section summarizes many comments related to EPA's authority 
under the Clean Air Act to issue this rule and EPA's responses. Other 
comments related to EPA's authority for this action are addressed in 
the response to comments document found in the docket for this action.
1. Comment: EPA Does Not Have Authority To Regulate Substitutes That 
Have Limited or No Impact on Stratospheric Ozone Under Section 608
    Some comments asserted that EPA does not have the authority to 
extend the existing refrigerant management provisions in subpart F to 
non-ozone depleting refrigerants. Some commenters stated that under a 
plain language reading of section 608(a) it is clear that regulations 
to reduce use and emissions apply only to class I and class II 
substances and not substitutes. These comments said the language of 
section 608 as a whole authorizes a wide range of prescriptive 
regulations to reduce the use and emissions of class I and class II 
refrigerants but mentions substitutes only twice: That their use be 
promoted and the general requirement that their knowing venting is 
prohibited.
    On the contrary, other comments agreed that EPA had authority to 
extend these regulations to substitutes. One such comment stated: ``We 
believe that both the language of section 608 and the Agency's 
discretionary authority allow the extension of section 608's 
requirements to substitutes for ODS in the regulations.'' \14\ These 
commenters noted that extending these regulations to substitutes allows 
for a coherent and robust regime to address venting across the full 
suite of appliances and applications, and that applying the regulatory 
regime to substitute refrigerants would more fully allow for and 
incentivize the recovery and reclamation of both ODS and substitutes. 
These comments concluded that because ODS and substitutes can be used 
interchangeably, the regulation of substitutes reinforces the 
regulation of ODS and more reliably reduces ODS emissions. Another 
commenter who generally believes the Agency does not have authority to 
apply the leak repair provisions to appliances using substitute 
refrigerants does concede that there may be provisions of subpart F 
which are directly related to emissions occurring in the course of 
maintenance, service, repair or disposal activities and might be 
reasonably extended to substitute refrigerants.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \14\ Comment submitted by Natural Resources Defense Council and 
Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development, David Doniger, 
et. al., pg. 3. EPA-HQ-OAR-2015-0453-0121.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPA disagrees that its regulatory authority under CAA section 608 
extends only to class I and class II (ODS) substances and not to 
substitutes. EPA also disagrees with comments contending that, as a 
factual matter, extension of the refrigerant management regulations to 
substitutes would not reduce emissions of ODS and maximize the 
recapturing and recycling of ODS. Section 608 expressly addresses 
substitute refrigerants in the venting prohibition in section 
608(c)(2). As explained previously in this notice, EPA's authority for 
extending the refrigerant management regulations to substitute 
refrigerants is based primarily on section 608(c)(2) (via 
interpretation, explanation, and enforcement of the venting prohibition 
for substitutes) and secondarily on section 608(a) (via the 
corresponding reductions in ODS emissions and increases in ODS 
recapture and recycling that are expected to result from requiring 
consistent practices for ODS and substitute refrigerants), with 
additional support from CAA sections 301 and 114.
    More specifically with respect to section 608(a), that section 
states that the regulations under that section shall include 
requirements that reduce the use and emission of ODS to the lowest 
achievable level and that maximize their recapture and recycling. EPA's 
interpretation that section 608(a) supports the extension of the 
refrigerant management regulations to substitutes is based on reducing 
emissions of ODS and maximizing recapturing and recycling of ODS. This 
is because requiring practices that are consistent for both ODS and for 
substitutes reduces the likelihood that a person maintaining, 
servicing, repairing, or disposing of an appliance that uses ODS as a 
refrigerant mistakenly believes that it contains a substitute 
refrigerant and fails to apply the proper procedures for ODS, leading 
to increased ODS emissions or failure to recover or reclaim ODS. It is 
also because in the course of servicing, repairing, or maintaining 
appliances there is a potential for mixing ODS and substitute 
refrigerants, which may lead to venting or release of the mixture due 
to the difficulty of reclamation. EPA has explained that the venting 
prohibition applies to all refrigerants consisting in whole or in part 
of an ODS, such as a blend with an HFC component. (See 69 FR 11949). 
Accordingly, the commenters' statements that section 608(a) only 
applies to class I and class II substances fail to recognize that 
regulation of substitutes can help effectuate the statutory purposes 
mentioned in section 608(a). EPA is relying in part on section 608(a) 
for the extension of regulatory requirements to substitutes because it 
interprets this provision to support regulation of substitutes when 
such regulations can help achieve the purposes listed in section 
608(a). The extension of regulatory requirements to substitutes in this 
action is supported by section 608(a) because that extension of 
requirements to substitutes is expected to reduce ODS emissions and 
further maximize the recovery and reclamation of ODS. After 
consideration of all the comments, EPA concludes that it has authority 
to extend the refrigerant management regulations to substitutes, and 
that section 608(a) is a relevant source of authority because applying 
a consistent and coherent regulatory regime to both ODS and substitute 
refrigerants improves the application of the requirements to ODS, 
promoting the recovery and reclamation of ODS and reducing ODS 
emissions. Such ODS-focused goals are well within EPA's authority under 
CAA section 608(a).\15\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \15\ Although these comments do not relate to EPA's authority to 
regulate ODS, we do note for completeness' sake that CAA section 
608(a) also provides authority for the portions of this rulemaking 
that revise the refrigerant management requirements as those apply 
directly to ODS.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Commenters also disagreed with EPA's statement that there is 
ambiguity in the CAA regarding the Agency's authority to create a 
comprehensive regulatory program akin to that

[[Page 82289]]

applicable to class I and class II ODS. These commenters expressed that 
Congress explicitly addressed substitutes in section 608(c)(2) and did 
not in section 608(a) and that Congress was fully aware and capable of 
granting EPA authority to regulate substitutes under section 608(a) and 
it chose not to do so. They further commented that Congress knew which 
provisions of Title VI it wished to extend to substitutes and which it 
did not, and pointed to sections 609, 612, and 615 as allowing EPA to 
regulate substitutes. These comments concluded that Congress 
demonstrated that it knew how to include substitutes in refrigerant 
management regulations if it wanted to.
    EPA recognizes that Congress expressly mentioned substitutes in 
certain sections of Title VI of the CAA, such as section 608(c)(2). In 
EPA's interpretation of section 608, the fact that Congress expressly 
applied the venting prohibition to substitutes in section 608(c)(2) 
supports this action because this action clarifies how EPA interprets 
that venting prohibition and explains what actions must be taken during 
the maintenance, servicing, repair, or disposal of appliances and IPR 
to avoid violating the venting prohibition. The inclusion of 
substitutes in section 608(c)(2) also indicates that Congress 
contemplated that regulation of substitutes would play a role in 
implementing section 608. The ambiguity in section 608 is that Congress 
created an explicit prohibition on venting substitute refrigerants in 
the course of maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of 
appliances or IPR, and also provided an exception to that prohibition 
for ``de minimis releases associated with good faith attempts to 
recapture and recycle or safely dispose'' of such substances. CAA 
section 608(c)(1); see also CAA section 608(c)(2) (applying paragraph 
(c)(1) to the venting, release, or disposal of substitute 
refrigerants). Congress, however, did not define what releases would be 
considered ``de minimis'' nor which activities would be considered 
``good faith attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose'' of 
such substances. Where Congress has not directly spoken to an issue or 
has left ambiguity in the statute, that silence or ambiguity creates an 
assumption that ``Congress implicitly delegated to the agency the power 
to make policy choices that represent a reasonable accommodation of 
conflicting policies that are committed to the agency's care by the 
statute.'' National Ass'n of Mfrs. v. United States DOI, 134 F.3d 1095, 
1106 (D.C. Cir. 1998). As the U.S. Supreme Court has explained, the 
``power of an administrative agency to administer a congressionally 
created . . . program necessarily requires the formulation of policy 
and the making of rules to fill any gap left, implicitly or explicitly, 
by Congress.'' Chevron, 467 U.S. at 843-44. The Court later explained, 
``[w]e accord deference to agencies under Chevron, . . . because of a 
presumption that Congress, when it left ambiguity in a statute meant 
for implementation by an agency, understood that the ambiguity would be 
resolved, first and foremost, by the agency, and desired the agency 
(rather than the courts) to possess whatever degree of discretion the 
ambiguity allows.'' Smiley v. Citibank (s.D.), N.A, 517 U.S. 735, 740-
741 (1996). Accordingly, Congress's silence with regard to the venting 
prohibition and the exception for certain releases leaves a gap for the 
Agency to fill, as it is doing in this rulemaking.
    In addition to the statutory interpretation and the principle of 
Chevron deference discussed above, the legislative history further 
supports the notion that Congress anticipated and intended for the 
Agency to establish regulations that would further interpret, explain, 
and enforce the exception to the venting prohibition. A Senate Report 
accompanying a version of the Senate bill for the Clean Air Act 
Amendments of 1990, which enacted Title VI, addressed the venting 
prohibition and described that it would include ``[e]xceptions . . . 
for de minimis releases associated with good faith attempts to 
recapture, recycle and safely dispose of'' the substances used as 
refrigerants in household appliances, commercial refrigeration and air 
conditioning units. Report of the Committee on Environment and Public 
Works United States Senate, Report Accompanying S. 1630 (S. Rept. 101-
228) (December 20, 1989) at 396 (reprinted in 4 A Legislative History 
of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, at 8736 (1993)). This report 
further stated that the standards and requirements that EPA was 
required to promulgate ``should include provisions to foster 
implementation of this prohibition, including guidance on what 
constitutes `de minimis' and `good faith'.'' Id. Thus, EPA reasonably 
interprets the ambiguity in section 608(c) to mean that in creating the 
exception to the venting prohibition, Congress intended for the Agency 
to provide additional specificity regarding how a regulated entity 
would qualify for this exception. This rulemaking provides such 
additional specificity and further articulates the policy of how this 
exception is interpreted, explained, and enforced.
    While EPA acknowledges that section 608(a) does not explicitly 
mention substitutes, we disagree with the conclusion that the comment 
draws from that. The fact that Congress required EPA to address ODS in 
a certain manner under section 608(a) is not the same as prohibiting 
EPA from addressing other refrigerants in the same manner. EPA has 
explained in the preceding response to comments how it interprets 
section 608(a) to support this rulemaking.
    Some commenters contend that Congress specifically listed class I 
and class II substances for coverage under the regulations and under 
the principle of expressio unius est exclusio alterius, regulations 
cannot be applied to refrigerants that are neither class I or class II 
substances. This rule of statutory interpretation, which has limited 
force in an administrative law setting, means that the inclusion of one 
thing implies the exclusion of another thing. However, the fact that 
Congress mandated certain measures for ODS but was silent regarding 
appropriate measures for substitutes does not mean that Congress 
prohibited EPA from adopting similar measures for substitutes. See 
Cheney R.R. Co. v. ICC, 902 F.2d 66, 69 (D.C. Cir. 1990) (``The 
contrast between Congress's mandate in one context with its silence in 
another suggests not a prohibition but simply a decision not to mandate 
any solution in the second context, i.e., to leave the question to 
agency discretion.'')
    Commenters stated that section 608(c) is self-implementing and no 
promulgation of regulations by EPA is required or contemplated to 
implement such prohibition. In contrast, 608(a) and (b) require EPA to 
promulgate regulations to establish ``standards and requirements.'' 
These standards and requirements are different in kind and broader than 
the 608(c) statutory prohibition. EPA cannot merge the distinct 
requirements of 608(a) and (b) with the statutory prohibition of 
608(c). Another commenter stated that in trying to apply section 608(b) 
to any substitute substance, EPA is inferring authority that is not 
there.
    EPA agrees that the prohibition under 608(c) as it applies to the 
knowing venting or releasing of ODS and substitutes is itself self-
implementing. However, that fact does not preclude EPA from 
establishing regulations to include the prohibition in the overall 
context of the regulatory scheme and to promulgate rules to further 
interpret, explain, and enforce it, including by

[[Page 82290]]

providing certainty to enhance compliance. Indeed, EPA's prior 
regulations at 40 CFR 82.154 included the venting prohibition. More 
specifically, these regulations provided that ``no person maintaining, 
servicing, repairing, or disposing of appliances may knowingly vent or 
otherwise release into the environment any refrigerant or substitute 
from such appliances'' and then provided for exceptions from this 
prohibition for specified substitutes in specified end-uses. These 
exceptions implemented the discretion Congress left EPA under 608(c)(2) 
to exempt certain releases from the venting prohibition, if the 
Administrator has determined that ``venting, releasing, or disposing of 
such substance does not pose a threat to the environment.'' CAA section 
608(c)(2). Contrary to the comment, the inclusion of this discretion in 
section 608(c)(2) indicates that Congress intended for the EPA to have 
authority to implement aspects of the prohibition and in fact left gaps 
in this section that it expected EPA would fill as appropriate.
    Similarly, as discussed in the preceding response, the legislative 
history indicates that in establishing the venting prohibition, 
Congress expected EPA to promulgate regulatory ``provisions to foster 
implementation of this prohibition, including guidance on what 
constitutes `de minimis' and `good faith'.'' Report of the Committee on 
Environment and Public Works United States Senate, Report Accompanying 
S. 1630 (S. Rept. 101-228) (December 20, 1989) at 396 (reprinted in 4 A 
Legislative History of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, at 8736 
(1993)). Consistent with that Congressional intent, the prior 
regulations at 40 CFR 82.154 included provisions clarifying that 
``[ODS] releases shall be considered de minimis only if they occur 
when'' certain regulatory requirements are observed. 40 CFR 
82.154(a)(2). However, those regulations did not provide the same 
clarity regarding releases of non-exempt substitute refrigerants or 
what practices would be considered to fall within the ambit of ``good 
faith attempts to recycle or recover'' non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. 40 CFR 82.154(a)(2). Because Congress provided this 
exception to the venting prohibition for substitutes under section 
608(c)(2) but did not specify what practices or actions should be taken 
to qualify for this exception, it is reasonable to interpret this 
provision as indicating that Congress contemplated that EPA would 
resolve this ambiguity.
    While Congress did not establish specific rulemaking authority 
under section 608(c)(2), Congress did provide a general grant of 
authority in CAA section 301(a)(1) to ``prescribe such regulations as 
are necessary to carry out [the Administrator's] functions under'' the 
CAA. This rulemaking authority supplements EPA's authority under 
section 608 by authorizing EPA to promulgate regulations necessary to 
carry out its functions under section 608, including regulations 
necessary to interpret the venting prohibition and exceptions to it.
    EPA disagrees with the commenter that it is impermissibly merging 
the distinct requirements of CAA sections 608(a) and (b) with section 
608(c). While EPA's regulations under section 608(b) are simply one 
part of the regulations required under section 608(a), EPA is not 
relying on section 608(b) to justify its extension of the section 608 
regulations to substitutes in this rulemaking. The role of EPA's 
section 608(a) authority in this rulemaking has been discussed above, 
in a prior response to comment. Moreover, as noted above, the fact that 
Congress required EPA to address ODS refrigerants in specific way under 
section 608(a), or section 608(b) for that matter, is not the same as 
precluding EPA from addressing other refrigerants in a similar fashion. 
Likewise, where EPA has authority to establish regulations for non-
exempt substitute refrigerants, the fact that it has exercised its 
authority to establish similar regulations for other refrigerants does 
not prevent it from exercising its authority to regulate non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants in a similar manner.
    One commenter stated that using section 608(c) to establish the 
same requirements as authorized under section 608(a) renders section 
608(a) null and stated that statutory language should not be read in a 
manner that renders other provisions of the statute inconsistent, 
meaningless or superfluous.
    EPA disagrees with this comment. Unlike section 608(c), section 
608(a) is not limited to refrigerants. EPA has applied its authority 
under section 608(a) to establish or consider regulations for ODS in 
non-refrigerant applications. As an example, in 1998, EPA issued a rule 
on halon management under the authority of section 608(a)(2) (63 FR 
11084, March 5, 1998). In that action, EPA noted that section 608(a)(2) 
``directs EPA to establish standards and requirements regarding the use 
and disposal of class I and II substances other than refrigerants.'' 63 
FR 11085. Similarly, EPA considered whether to establish a requirement 
to use gas impermeable tarps to reduce emissions of methyl bromide 
under section 608(a)(2), ultimately determining not to do so for 
technological and economic reasons. 63 FR 6008 (February 5, 1998). In 
that action, EPA noted: ``[s]ection 608(a)(1) of the Act provides for a 
national recycling and emission reduction program with respect to the 
use and disposal of Class I substances used as refrigerants. Section 
608(a)(2) provides for such a program with respect to Class I and Class 
II substances not covered by section 608(a)(1).'' 63 FR 6008. 
Accordingly, this interpretation of section 608(c)(2) to allow EPA to 
establish requirements for non-exempt substitute refrigerants similar 
to those established under section 608(a) for ODS refrigerants does not 
render section 608(a) null or superfluous. Although EPA interprets its 
substantive authority under both sections 608(a) and 608(c) to support 
application of the refrigerant management requirements to both ODS and 
non-exempt substitute refrigerants, that is different from asserting 
that its section 608(c) authority would extend to any requirement that 
could be imposed under section 608(a). EPA was required to establish 
certain regulations for ODS refrigerants under section 608(a) and then 
decided to use those provisions to interpret and explain the venting 
prohibition for ODS under section 608(c). The fact that EPA is now 
electing to use the same requirements under section 608(c) for 
substitutes does not render 608(a) a nullity. EPA could have 
established different requirements to interpret and explain the venting 
prohibition, but for the reasons discussed above, decided to make the 
requirements consistent for both ODS and substitutes.
2. Comment: Congress Did Not Regulate Substitutes Because It Wanted To 
Create Incentives To Use Substitute Refrigerants
    One commenter asserted that applying detailed refrigerant 
management requirements to substitutes discourages the development of 
substitutes as it eliminates the incentive to operate with fewer 
regulatory requirements. Another commenter stated that the current 
regulations provide an opt-out incentive to owners that voluntarily 
retrofit to a non-ozone depleting substitute and suggested that EPA 
should seek to revise the proposed rule so that it continues to provide 
similar incentives.
    EPA disagrees that applying the refrigerant management requirements 
to non-exempt substitute refrigerants will discourage the development 
of substitutes. At this point in time, there are other incentives to 
either retrofit or

[[Page 82291]]

replace existing equipment that relies on ODS. Most ODS have been 
completely phased out and the HCFC phaseout is well underway. 
Allowances for domestic consumption of the most common HCFC 
refrigerant, HCFC-22, are set at 5.6 percent of baseline for 2016 and 
will decline to zero in 2020 (40 CFR 82.16, 82.15(e)). In addition, use 
restrictions issued pursuant to section 605(a) prohibit use of newly 
produced HCFC-22 in equipment manufactured on or after January 1, 2010 
(40 CFR 82.15(g)(2)). The section 605(a) use restrictions further 
prohibit use of newly produced HCFC-123 in equipment manufactured on or 
after January 1, 2020 (40 CFR 82.15(g)(4)). While used HCFCs are not 
subject to these restrictions, the HCFC phaseout and the restrictions 
on use of newly produced HCFCs provide clear market signals regarding 
future availability of HCFC refrigerants.
    In addition, while some provisions of the statute indicate 
Congressional intent to encourage companies to use safer alternatives, 
other provisions indicate that Congress was also concerned about the 
potential impacts of unregulated releases of these substitute 
refrigerants. Section 608(c)(2) is in the latter category, as it 
extends the venting prohibition to substitute refrigerants, unless EPA 
determines that such releases do not pose a threat to the environment. 
Accordingly, the application of these regulatory requirements to non-
exempt substitute refrigerants provides clarity and certainty to 
owners, operators, and people servicing, maintaining, repairing, or 
disposing of air conditioning and refrigeration equipment of how they 
can avoid violating the venting prohibition. Such clarity and certainty 
is consistent with EPA's efforts through other regulatory programs to 
facilitate and encourage the use of substitute refrigerants.
    Other commenters stated that Congress did not extend the 
refrigerant management requirements to substitutes, likely because it 
wanted to create incentives for companies to switch to safer 
alternatives.
    EPA responds that Congress did extend the venting prohibition to 
substitute refrigerants and left to EPA's discretion how to interpret 
and enforce that prohibition. While Congress did not require EPA to 
interpret and enforce the venting prohibition by regulating substitute 
refrigerants in the same manner as ODS, neither did it prevent EPA from 
doing so.
    Commenters also stated that 608(a)(3) encourages EPA to use the 
regulations under that provision to promote the use of safe 
alternatives. EPA responds that while section 608(a)(3) provides that 
the regulations that are required under section 608(a) ``may include 
requirements . . . to promote the use of safe alternatives pursuant to 
section [612],'' whether to include such provisions is discretionary, 
not mandatory. While Congress left such regulations to EPA's 
discretion, Congress directly applied the venting prohibition to 
substitute refrigerants under section 608. Moreover, the legislative 
history for section 608 recognizes the distinctions between sections 
612 and 608, stating: ``The fact that a particular substance has been 
identified by the Administrator as a `safe substitute' for purposes of 
section 612, does not affect the requirement for a separate 
determination under [section 608]. The purposes of section 612 and of 
this section are different and substances approved under section 612 
will not automatically qualify for exclusion from the prohibition on 
venting that is included in this section.'' Statement of Senate 
Managers, S. 1630, The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, reprinted in 1 
A Legislative History of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, at 928 
(1993). Accordingly, EPA does not interpret the discretion provided by 
section 608(a)(3) to diminish its ability to interpret, explain, and 
enforce section 608(c) as it is doing in this rule.
3. Comment: Section 608 Does Not Authorize EPA To Regulate the Normal 
Operation of Refrigerant Equipment
    Commenters stated that EPA's authority under section 608 is limited 
to regulating actions taken during servicing, repair, or disposal of 
refrigeration equipment, or class I and II refrigerants evacuated 
during such servicing and repair. These comments further stated that 
EPA's authority extends only to technicians and that nothing in section 
608 would enable EPA to impose liability on the equipment owner or 
operator.
    With regard to the actions that are within the scope of section 
608(c), as explained earlier in this notice, EPA interprets section 
608(c) to convey authority to interpret, explain, and enforce the 
venting prohibition for both ODS and substitute refrigerants, and that 
prohibition applies to the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of 
appliances and IPR. As explained elsewhere in this rulemaking, this 
action applies regulations to non-exempt substitute refrigerants that 
are related to the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of such 
appliances or to providing persons engaged in such activities with 
additional clarity and certainty on how to ensure that their actions 
comport with the venting prohibition and the de minimis exemption to 
it. For example, the technician certification provisions relate to who 
can maintain, service, or repair an appliance and the evacuation and 
recovery equipment provisions relate to how to maintain, service, 
repair or dispose of an appliance. Furthermore, the comment omits the 
concept of maintenance, which is included in section 608(c). EPA notes 
that the definition of the term ``maintain'' includes ``to keep in an 
existing state; preserve or retain'' and to ``keep in a condition of 
good repair or efficiency.'' The American Heritage College Dictionary, 
4th ed. (Houghton Mifflin, 2002), at 834; see also https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maintain (including in the definition of 
maintain ``to keep in an existing state (as of repair, efficiency, or 
validity): Preserve from failure or decline '') 
(last accessed May 31, 2016). Thus, ``maintenance'' and ``maintaining'' 
include a broad range of activities involved in preserving equipment in 
normal working order.
    EPA noted in a prior response that section 608(c) is limited to 
refrigerants while section 608(a) is not. However, the comment is 
incorrect that section 608(c) is limited to the activities of a 
technician. Section 608(c)(2) refers to ``any person,'' and ``person'' 
is defined broadly in CAA section 302, as well as in subpart F to 40 
CFR part 82. More specifically, section 302(e) defines ``person'' to 
``include[ ] an individual, corporation, partnership, association, 
State, municipality, political subdivision of a State, and any agency, 
department, or instrumentality of the United States and any officer, 
agent or employee thereof.'' Thus, the definition clearly is not 
limited to technicians. Furthermore, the current statement of purpose 
and scope in subpart F, Sec.  82.150, lists appliance owners and 
operators as one of the persons to which the subpart applies.
    When EPA initially promulgated the subpart F regulations, it 
explained that these rules applied to owners. For example, in the 
preamble to the 1993 Rule, EPA explained that it had made ``additions 
to the scope section to clarify that the rule covers refrigerant 
reclaimers, appliance owners, and manufacturers of appliances and 
recycling and recovery equipment in addition to persons servicing, 
repairing, maintaining, and disposing of appliances.'' 58 FR 28707 
(emphasis added); see also 58 FR 28681

[[Page 82292]]

(explaining that the rule required the owner of the equipment to either 
authorize the repair of substantial leaks or develop the equipment 
retirement/retrofit plan within 30 days of discovering leak above the 
standard and that the owner has the legal obligation to ensure that 
repairs are made to equipment where the leak rate exceeds the 
standard).
    Some comments on the proposed rule stated that section 608(c) 
cannot be used to require that an equipment owner undertake repairs. 
EPA disagrees with this comment. As explained above, owners are within 
the scope of ``person'' as defined in CAA section 302(e) and subpart F. 
An owner's failure to undertake repairs of leaky appliances or IPR 
could lead directly to a violation of the venting prohibition. As one 
example, if in the course of a normal maintenance check, a technician 
discovers that the appliance is releasing refrigerant above the 
threshold leak rate but the owner does not authorize the repairs as 
required by the rules, and instead decides to add refrigerant and 
continue operating the equipment, the owner would be participating in a 
knowing release.
    Many commenters also disagreed with EPA's interpretation of the 
venting prohibition, as articulated in the proposed rule that ``when a 
person adds refrigerant to an appliance that he or she knows is 
leaking, without repairing the appliance consistent with the leak 
repair requirements, he or she also violates the venting prohibition.'' 
One commenter stated that this could prohibit technicians from filling 
any leaking appliance. Another commenter noted that that it appears to 
cover failed repairs and verification tests during the repair period 
allowed by Sec.  82.156(i)(9) and Sec.  82.157(e). Commenters requested 
that EPA clarify that leaks that occur within an applicable repair 
window or retrofit/retirement schedule, even though the facility may be 
aware of the leak, do not violate the venting prohibition, where the 
leak repair procedures prescribed in subpart F are followed. To clarify 
EPA's statement in the proposed rule and to respond to these comments, 
EPA's position is that while the addition of refrigerant to an 
appliance known to be leaking above the threshold rate is a knowing 
release, that release does not violate the venting prohibition so long 
as the applicable practices referenced in Sec.  82.154(a)(2), as 
revised, are complied with, including the leak repair requirements, as 
applicable.
4. Addressing Concerns About Global Warming Is Not Lawful Under Title 
VI of the CAA
    Multiple commenters stated that EPA cannot use Title VI to control 
substances based on their GWPs. These commenters referred to section 
602(e), which states that EPA's required publication of the GWP of a 
class I or class II substance ``shall not be construed to be the basis 
of any additional regulation under this chapter.'' EPA responds that 
section 602(e) relates to the GWPs of ODS, and says nothing regarding 
the GWPs of substitutes. In any event, EPA is not relying on section 
602 as authority for the action being taken in this rulemaking. Rather, 
EPA is relying on section 608 for the substantive requirements 
contained in this rule. Section 608(c) prohibits the knowing venting or 
release of a substitute refrigerant unless the Administrator determines 
that such venting, release, or disposal does not pose a threat to the 
environment. While it is true that EPA anticipates a significant GHG 
emissions reduction as a result of this rule, EPA is extending the 
subpart F regulations to all substitute refrigerants that are not 
exempt from the venting prohibition irrespective of their GWPs. The 
GWPs of the non-exempt substitutes addressed in this rulemaking range 
from 4 to over 14,000.
    One commenter stated that the legislative history demonstrates that 
Congress considered and rejected regulating GHGs under Title VI of the 
CAA. Congress does not intend sub silento to enact statutory language 
that it has earlier discarded. The commenter also noted that Congress 
rejected the Senate version known as ``The Stratospheric Ozone and 
Climate Protection Act.'' That version of the act sought to reduce 
methane emissions in the U.S. and other countries. The removal of those 
provisions signifies, in the commenter's opinion, that Congress did not 
intend for Title VI to address substances that were not ozone 
depleting, even if they have high GWPs.
    EPA responds that while Congress chose not to include certain 
potential measures regarding regulation of GHGs unrelated to ODS, 
Congress nonetheless included multiple provisions regarding ODS 
substitutes. The legislative history of section 608(c) indicates that 
Congress specifically recognized that substitutes could pose a threat 
to the environment because they could include greenhouse gases. In 
discussing the venting prohibition, as it applies to substitute 
refrigerants, the statement of the Senate Managers included the 
following:

    Effective 5 years after enactment, the prohibition on venting or 
release shall also apply to all substances that are used as 
refrigerants as substitutes for class I or class II refrigerants. By 
its terms, this provision applies to substances that are not listed 
as class I or class II substances. This is an important provision 
because many of the substitutes being developed do not have ozone 
depleting properties but they are `greenhouse gases' and have 
radiative properties that are expected to exacerbate the problem of 
global climate change. The prohibition shall apply to all such 
substitute substances except where the Administrator determines that 
the venting, release or disposal of a particular substitute 
substance does not pose a threat to the environment.
    The Administrator shall consider long term threats, such as 
global warming, as well as acute threats. The fact that a particular 
substance has been identified by the Administrator as a `safe 
substitute' for purposes of section 612 does not affect the 
requirement for a separate determination under this section. The 
purposes of section 612 and of this section are different and 
substances approved under section 612 will not automatically qualify 
for exclusion from the prohibition on venting that is included in 
this section.\16\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \16\ Statement of Senate Managers, S. 1630, The Clean Air Act 
Amendments of 1990, reprinted in 1 A Legislative History of the 
Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, at 929 (1993).

    It is therefore clear that Congress understood that substitute 
refrigerants could be greenhouse gases, specifically sought to apply 
the venting prohibition to such gases, and specifically contemplated 
that climate risks would be considered in carrying out the venting 
prohibition. The removal of a provision related to methane within Title 
VI does not indicate that Congress did not intend to address greenhouse 
gases in the venting prohibition.
    One commenter stated that EPA has not undertaken an endangerment 
finding to support regulation of HFCs from IPR as a greenhouse gas 
which can be regulated under the CAA. EPA responds that under section 
608(c), the venting prohibition applies to substitutes unless EPA 
exempts them. EPA is not required to take any affirmative action, let 
alone an endangerment finding, for the venting prohibition to apply.
    One commenter stated that the purpose of Title VI is to implement 
the Montreal Protocol, whose sole goal is to protect the stratospheric 
ozone layer from ODS. EPA responds that while certain sections of Title 
VI do in fact implement the Montreal Protocol, several sections of 
Title VI call on EPA to take measures that are not required by the 
Montreal Protocol but are complementary to the ODS phaseout. These 
sections include, in addition to

[[Page 82293]]

section 608, sections 609 (servicing of motor vehicle air 
conditioners), 610 (nonessential products), 611 (labeling), and 612 
(safe alternatives policy). Section 608 clearly provides EPA authority 
to regulate the venting, release, and disposal of substitute 
refrigerants.
5. EPA's Proposal Would Increase Risks to Human Health and Violate 
Section 612
    One commenter stated that the proposed rule would drive owners and 
operators of IPR from HFCs to exempt substitutes in order to remove 
themselves from the regulatory requirements of subpart F. The commenter 
stated that some of these exempt substitutes are not safer for human 
health. HFCs are non-ozone depleting, non-flammable, and non-toxic 
whereas ammonia, chlorine, and hydrocarbons are either toxic or 
flammable. By encouraging the use of these non-exempt but riskier 
substitutes, the commenter states that EPA is violating section 612(a) 
of the CAA.
    EPA responds that the commenter is quoting the policy statement 
that appears in section 612(a). The Agency is not acting under section 
612. Rather, EPA is acting under section 608. This action under section 
608 is consistent with decisions made under section 612 and does not 
alter those decisions. Specifically, it does not preclude use of any 
substitute listed as acceptable or acceptable subject to use 
restrictions under section 612(c) for the specified end-use. Under 
section 612(c), EPA compares substitutes not only to ODS but also to 
other available substitutes. When reviewing substitute refrigerants, 
EPA considers a variety of risks, including toxicity and flammability. 
In some instances, EPA lists substitutes as acceptable subject to use 
conditions that mitigate such risk. EPA does not dictate that a 
particular user choose a specific substitute from among those listed as 
acceptable for that end-use. Whether an owner or operator of an IPR 
facility chooses to transition to an exempt substitute is a decision 
that must be made weighing the advantages and disadvantages of the 
specific refrigerant.
6. Section 301 and 114 Do Not Grant EPA Authority To Regulate 
Substitutes
    Two commenters stated that section 301 grants EPA general 
rulemaking authority but does not authorize the Agency to act where a 
specific statutory provision already has addressed an issue. They 
further stated that section 608(a) does address the issue of whether 
the refrigerant management regulations apply to substitutes and 
therefore EPA cannot use section 301 to create that authority.
    As discussed above, nothing in Title VI says what refrigerant 
management requirements should apply to substitutes: Therefore, this is 
not a situation where a specific statutory provision has already 
addressed the issue. EPA is issuing regulations to interpret, explain, 
and enforce the venting prohibition in section 608(c)(2) with regard to 
non-exempt substitutes. EPA is not deriving substantive authority from 
section 301. Rather, EPA is relying on section 608 for its substantive 
authority and is looking to section 301 as supplemental authority to 
issue regulations to carry out its functions under section 608. 
Similarly, EPA is looking to section 114 not for the substantive 
refrigerant management requirements being finalized today but rather as 
authority to require recordkeeping and reporting in carrying out the 
venting prohibition for non-exempt substitutes.

IV. The Revisions Finalized in This Rule

A. Revisions to the Definitions in Sec.  82.152

    EPA proposed to update and clarify many of the definitions in 
subpart F. EPA also proposed to add new definitions and remove 
definitions that solely restated the required practice. In general, 
these revisions are to improve readability, increase consistency with 
how the term is used in the regulatory text, and specifically 
incorporate substitute refrigerants as appropriate.
    EPA received comment on the proposed revisions to definitions of 
refrigerant and appliance, as well as terms specifically applicable to 
the leak repair portion of the regulations. EPA also received requests 
to define additional terms. Those comments, and changes from the 
proposed definitions that are being made in this final rule, are 
discussed later in this section with those terms. EPA is finalizing as 
proposed the other revisions to definitions in this section that were 
addressed in the notice of proposed rulemaking and where we did not 
receive comments. Other revisions elicited only supporting comments, 
which are briefly noted in the descriptions of the revisions.
Appliance
    EPA proposed to define appliance as any device which contains and 
uses a class I or class II substance or substitute as a refrigerant and 
which is used for household or commercial purposes, including any air 
conditioner, motor vehicle air conditioner, refrigerator, chiller, or 
freezer. EPA is finalizing three revisions to the definition of 
appliance. First, EPA is extending the subpart F regulatory definition 
to apply to substitute refrigerants. Second, EPA is adding ``motor 
vehicle air conditioner'' to the list of example appliances. Third, EPA 
is adding a sentence stating that each independent circuit on a system 
with multiple circuits is considered a separate appliance.
    The prior definitions in subpart F are written to separate ozone-
depleting substances from non-ozone depleting substitutes. EPA's prior 
regulations defined an appliance as a device which contains and uses a 
refrigerant. As relevant here, section 601 of the CAA defines an 
appliance as a ``device which contains and uses a class I or class II 
substance as a refrigerant.'' Class I and class II substances are 
defined as substances listed under sections 602(a) or (b), 
respectively. Section 601 of the CAA does not define refrigerant but 
EPA's regulations at Sec.  82.152 as they existed before this 
rulemaking defined refrigerant as solely class I or class II ozone-
depleting substances, or mixtures containing a class I or class II ODS.
    Defining these terms in this manner was appropriate before section 
608(c)(2) took effect on November 15, 1995. Under section 608(c)(2), 
the venting prohibition applies to substitutes for ODS refrigerants 
and, accordingly, it states that ``[f]or purposes of this paragraph'' 
appliance includes any ``device which contains and uses as a 
refrigerant a substitute substance and which is used for household or 
commercial purposes.'' However, EPA had not updated the definition of 
appliance in subpart F to reflect section 608(c)(2). Because EPA 
regulations, as they existed before this rulemaking, had defined an 
appliance as a device that contains and uses a refrigerant, and 
refrigerant in a way that does not include substitutes, substitutes 
were excluded from the regulatory definition of appliance.
    In this action, EPA is revising the definition of appliance so that 
it encompasses the definition of the term in both sections 601 and 608 
of the CAA. EPA is defining appliance as any device which contains and 
uses a class I or class II substance or substitute as a refrigerant and 
which is used for household or commercial purposes. This revision makes 
the regulatory definition consistent with both sections 601 and 608 of 
the CAA, improves internal consistency of the regulations, and 
increases clarity for the regulated community.

[[Page 82294]]

    One commenter stated that EPA should not add ``substitutes'' to the 
definition of appliance because CAA section 601(1) already defines 
appliance and ``substitutes'' is not included. EPA responds that while 
the definition of appliance in section 601(1) does not contain 
``substitutes,'' section 608(c)(2) does extend the term appliance to 
systems containing substitutes for purposes of that paragraph. It is 
reasonable to update the regulatory definition so that there is a 
consistent definition of appliance throughout subpart F. Further, 
because the regulations in subpart F address the venting prohibition 
under section 608(c)(2) for substitute refrigerants and requirements to 
interpret, explain, and enforce the de minimis exemption to that 
prohibition, it is reasonable to include ``substitutes'' in the 
regulatory definition of appliance. In addition, this rulemaking only 
changes the definition of appliance as it appears in subpart F, but the 
definition of the term in other regulations under Title VI, such as in 
40 CFR 82.3, remains unchanged.
    EPA also proposed and is finalizing the addition of ``motor vehicle 
air conditioner'' to the list of example appliances. Two commenters 
objected to this proposal, stating that neither definition of appliance 
in section 601 or 608 of the CAA specifically includes motor vehicle 
air conditioners. One commenter states that Congress specifically 
considered but ultimately decided against explicitly including ``motor 
vehicles'' within the definition of appliance in section 601 of the 
CAA.
    A plain reading of the Clean Air Act would include motor vehicle 
air conditioning under appliance. Section 601 of the CAA defines an 
appliance as ``any device . . . which is used for household or 
commercial purposes including any air conditioner . . .'' (emphasis 
added). In the 1993 Rule establishing regulations under section 608 for 
the first time, the Agency stated the following:

    The Act defines `appliance' as `any device which contains and 
uses a class I or class II substance as a refrigerant and which is 
used for household or commercial purposes, including any air 
conditioner, refrigerator, chiller, or freezer.' EPA interprets this 
definition to include all air-conditioning and refrigeration 
equipment except that designed and used exclusively for military 
applications. Thus, the term includes all the sectors of air-
conditioning and refrigeration equipment described under Section 
III.A above, including household refrigerators and freezers (which 
may be used outside the home), other refrigerated appliances, 
residential and light commercial air-conditioning, transport 
refrigeration, retail food refrigeration, cold storage warehouses, 
commercial comfort air-conditioning, motor vehicle air conditioners, 
comfort cooling in vehicles not covered under section 609, and 
industrial process refrigeration.'' (58 FR 28669; May 14, 1993, 
emphasis added)

    In that same final rule, EPA established the definition of MVAC in 
subpart F as ``any appliance that is a motor vehicle air conditioner as 
defined in 40 CFR part 82, subpart B'' (emphasis added), and that 
definition has not since been changed. The commenters themselves state 
that procedures that are not regulated under section 609, such as the 
disposal of MVACs and the purchase of refrigerant in some sized 
containers, are covered by section 608. Furthermore, they agree that 
the prohibition against venting ODS and substitute refrigerants in 
section 608 is also already applicable to refrigerants used in MVAC and 
MVAC-like appliances. This necessarily implies that appliance as used 
in section 608 includes ``motor vehicle air conditioners.'' The 
inclusion of ``motor vehicle air conditioners'' as an example within 
appliance is a clarification, and it reflects the way the term 
appliance has been used throughout the history of the program. Specific 
provisions in subpart F that relate to activities that are regulated 
for MVACs under section 609 refer, as appropriate, to the subpart B 
regulations issued under section 609 of the CAA.
    Comments from the auto industry also expressed concern that adding 
motor vehicle air conditioners to the list of examples in the 
definition of appliance would affect EPA's exemption from servicing 
requirements for MVACs in vehicles that have not yet left the 
manufacturing facility. In the 1992 rule establishing regulations under 
section 609, EPA stated that:

a motor vehicle air conditioner is not subject to these regulations 
prior to the completion of final assembly of the vehicle by the 
original equipment manufacturer. While repair or service work on air 
conditioners in unfinished vehicles may well fit the definition of 
`service for consideration,' the equipment and technician 
certification requirements of these rules do not apply as the motor 
vehicle air conditioner is not subject to these rules prior to the 
completion of the final assembly process by the vehicle's 
manufacturer. (57 FR 31246; July 14, 1992)

    The addition of motor vehicle air conditioners as an example within 
the definition of appliance does not affect current practices and EPA 
regulations as they affect vehicle manufacturing. That was not the 
intent of the proposed change and is not a result of this final action. 
As previously discussed, the definition of motor vehicle air 
conditioner in subpart F is ``any appliance that is a motor vehicle air 
conditioner as defined in 40 CFR part 82, subpart B'' and the 
definitions within subpart B, under section 609, exclude vehicles that 
have not completed manufacturing by the original equipment 
manufacturer. EPA provided the following explanation for the exclusion 
of vehicles that have not yet been fully manufactured from the 
servicing requirements under section 609 in the 1992 final rule:

    EPA believes the repair of newly manufactured units is not 
likely to be a common occurrence and when it does occur, the 
manufacturing facilities clearly use equipment to recover and 
recycle the refrigerant so that it may be reintroduced once the 
motor vehicle air conditioner is repaired. The equipment is 
significantly different from the kind of equipment covered by EPA's 
definition of approved equipment, yet serves the purpose of such 
equipment equally well. In addition, the technicians performing this 
operation are typically manufacturing employees, not service 
technicians. For all these reasons, the Agency believes it is not 
necessary at this time to extend the requirements of this servicing 
regulation into the assembly operation. . . EPA wants to be clear 
that this exclusion is limited to final assembly activities 
conducted by the vehicle's original manufacturer, and does not 
include service or repair activities conducted, for example, by a 
dealer. (57 FR 31245, July 14, 1992)

    One commenter further stated that it is not necessary to impose new 
technician training and certification requirements, or other regulatory 
requirements, for the automobile company and component supplier 
employees and contractors engaged in these activities. EPA agrees and 
reiterates that because the venting prohibition already applied to ODS 
and substitutes, this final action will not have any new effect on the 
automotive manufacturing process or individuals employed in the 
automotive and/or MVAC manufacturing process prior to the vehicle 
leaving the manufacturing plant. EPA's regulations under both sections 
608 and 609 are intended, and will continue, to apply only to MVACs 
that are fully manufactured.
    A few commenters requested that EPA clarify that for systems 
containing multiple circuits, each independent circuit is considered a 
separate appliance for the purposes of subpart F. This is the position 
that EPA has taken in the Compliance Guidance for Industrial Process 
Refrigeration Leak Repair Regulations under Section 608 of the Clean 
Air Act from October 1995 and the commenters believe that making such a 
statement in the regulations will be clearer to the regulated 
community.

[[Page 82295]]

EPA agrees and is adding a sentence clarifying this point to the 
definition.
    Many commenters from the supermarket industry believe that the 
Agency's interpretation of the term appliance is too broad. In these 
commenters' view, appliances are display cases or unit coolers and not 
the broader system of piping, compressors, and condensing units to 
which those are attached. One commenter suggested that EPA create a 
definition for the term system to indicate a combination of various 
pieces of equipment and appliances that are professionally and 
specifically designed and erected for a particular application. Another 
commenter suggested that EPA define the refrigerant circuit as separate 
from the appliance. These commenters are especially concerned about a 
definition of appliance that includes all coolers, display cases, 
components, and piping in light of EPA's proposal to require that an 
appliance be retired if it exceeds the proposed two-year leak limit.
    EPA responds that the Agency interprets an appliance as a fully 
assembled device that can function for its intended purpose. 
Components, on the other hand, are all the parts of the appliance that 
make up the refrigerant circuit, as described later in this section. As 
EPA described in the final rule allocating HCFCs for 2010-2014, 
``appliances are separate from components, which are the individual 
parts of an appliance, such as a condensing unit or line set, that by 
themselves cannot function to provide a cooling effect'' (74 FR 66439; 
December 15, 2009). EPA recognizes that some would prefer that some 
components be considered appliances. For example, some members in the 
industry consider a condensing unit in a residential split system to be 
an appliance. However, EPA does not believe it is practical or clear 
for some components to also be considered appliances in the regulatory 
definitions. The concepts of full charge or leak rate do not make sense 
in the context of only a component. Finally, EPA notes that much of 
these commenters' concerns about the scope of the term appliance was in 
response to EPA's proposal that chronically leaking appliances be 
retired. As discussed in Section IV.F.12, EPA is not finalizing the 
proposed requirement for automatic retirement of chronically leaking 
appliances.
Apprentice
    As proposed, EPA is amending the definition of apprentice to 
replace the ``Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training'' with the ``Office 
of Apprenticeship'' to match the current name of the office and to make 
minor edits to improve clarity and readability.
Batch
    EPA proposed a requirement that each batch of reclaimed refrigerant 
be tested. EPA did not propose to define ``batch'' but is doing so in 
this final rule based on requests by commenters to clarify the term. 
EPA agrees with the comment that adding a definition of batch will 
clarify this requirement, and is defining the term based on language 
provided by multiple commenters. Therefore, EPA is defining batch to 
mean a single bulk cylinder of refrigerant after all reclamation has 
been completed prior to packaging or shipping to the market.
Certified Refrigerant Recovery or Recycling Equipment
    As proposed, EPA is removing the defined term certified refrigerant 
recovery or recycling equipment which was merely a reference to the 
sections of the Code of Federal Regulations that discuss the 
certification program. This term was also used inconsistently 
throughout subpart F as ``recovery and recycling equipment,'' 
``recovery or recycling equipment,'' ``recycling and recovery 
equipment,'' and ``recycling or recovery equipment.'' The regulations 
at Sec.  82.36 make a distinction, in the context of MVAC servicing, 
between equipment that only recovers refrigerant and equipment that 
both recovers and recycles refrigerant. The regulations in subpart F 
generally do not make a distinction. The standards in appendices B1 and 
B2 refer to recovery and/or recycling equipment while the standard in 
appendix C for small appliances refers to recovery equipment only. For 
consistency, in the revised provisions, EPA is using ``recovery and/or 
recycling equipment'' throughout, except for when referring only to 
small appliances.
Class I and Class II
    EPA is finalizing as proposed regulatory definitions for class I 
and class II ozone-depleting substances to assist the reader. These 
terms are currently defined in section 601 of the CAA and in 40 CFR 
part 82, subpart A. EPA is finalizing the addition of a definition of 
class I as an ozone-depleting substance that is listed in 40 CFR part 
82, subpart A, appendix A. Similarly, EPA is finalizing the addition of 
a definition of class II as an ozone-depleting substance that is listed 
in 40 CFR part 82, subpart A, appendix B. EPA also notes that the 
regulatory text uses class I substance, class I ODS, and class I 
refrigerant interchangeably (and similarly uses class II substance, 
class II ODS, and class II refrigerant interchangeably) and all are 
intended to have the same meaning for the purpose of subpart F.
Comfort Cooling
    EPA is finalizing the addition of a definition for comfort cooling. 
The leak repair provisions divide refrigeration and air-conditioning 
equipment into four categories: Comfort cooling, commercial 
refrigeration, industrial process refrigeration, and other. EPA's prior 
regulations defined commercial refrigeration and industrial process 
refrigeration but not comfort cooling.
    For purposes of the leak repair requirements, EPA proposed to 
define comfort cooling as the air-conditioning appliances used to 
provide cooling in order to control heat and/or humidity in facilities 
including but not limited to office buildings and light commercial 
buildings. EPA further proposed to include language explaining that 
comfort cooling appliances include building chillers and roof-top self-
contained units, and may be used for the comfort of occupants or for 
climate control to protect equipment within a facility, such as but not 
limited to computer rooms. EPA sought comments on the applicability of 
the proposed definition of comfort cooling to air-conditioning 
equipment that is typically used to provide cooling and or humidity 
control in such environments.
    Commenters suggested that EPA remove the reference to equipment and 
computer rooms as this is beyond the scope of comfort cooling. One 
commenter suggested that comfort cooling only include computer rooms 
set to above 68 degrees F to align the definition with CARB-32. That 
commenter also suggested that appliances used to cool computer rooms 
would fall under the category of ``other appliances.'' Another 
commenter believes that such appliances are currently considered as 
IPR. EPA responds that the intent was to apply the term comfort cooling 
only to spaces occupied by humans. EPA has made edits to better reflect 
this understanding in the final definition and is therefore not 
including in the final definition the last sentence from the proposed 
definition (which read ``[t]hey may be used for the comfort of 
occupants or for climate control to protect equipment within a 
facility, including but not limited to computer rooms.'').
    EPA notes here that comfort cooling, with respect to the leak 
repair provisions in this subpart, does not include MVACs or MVAC-like 
appliances.

[[Page 82296]]

Commercial Refrigeration
    As proposed, EPA is finalizing the amendment to the definition of 
commercial refrigeration that removed the sentence stating that this 
equipment typically contains a charge size over 75 pounds. While 
accurate, this sentence has caused confusion as to whether or not the 
leak repair requirements are applicable to such appliances with a full 
charge between 50 pounds, as stated in the leak repair required 
practices, and 75 pounds. The leak repair requirements do apply because 
the threshold is a refrigerant charge of 50 pounds or greater. EPA is 
removing this sentence to avoid this confusion. EPA received comments 
in support of this revision.
Critical Component/Component
    As proposed, EPA is removing the defined term critical component 
and adding the term component. The term critical component was only 
used in the context of an extension for the repair of IPR when critical 
components could not be delivered within the necessary time. EPA is 
amending the definition so that it is not limited to IPR, but also 
includes comfort cooling and commercial refrigeration appliances. As 
discussed in Section IV.F of this notice, EPA is applying the 
extensions for leak repairs to all types of appliances. The 
unavailability of a component is not unique to IPR and EPA is granting 
all appliances the same flexibility to request additional time. This 
revision to the regulatory definitions supports that flexibility.
    EPA proposed to define component as ``a part of the refrigerant 
loop within an appliance including, but not limited to, compressors, 
condensers, evaporators, receivers, and all of its connections and 
subassemblies.'' Component is intended to be broader than critical 
component. EPA considers components to include all the parts of the 
appliance that make up the refrigerant circuit such as the compressor, 
heat exchangers (condenser and evaporator), and valves (e.g., heat 
recovery, expansion, charging). Other components may include receivers, 
manifolds, filter driers, and refrigerant piping. EPA is finalizing 
this definition substantially as proposed, although it is replacing the 
word ``loop'' with ``circuit,'' as refrigerant circuit is a defined 
term in the regulations.
Custom-Built
    As proposed, EPA is amending the definition of custom-built to 
remove a citation to a section of the regulation that has moved.
Disposal
    EPA proposed to amend the definition of disposal to clarify that 
the disposal process includes the destruction of an appliance that 
releases or would release refrigerant to the environment. This proposed 
revision is intended to cover activities such as vandalism or the 
cutting of refrigerant lines, whether to steal metal or to vent the 
refrigerant or both. EPA also proposed to clarify that the disassembly 
of an appliance for recycling, as well as reuse, is part of the 
disposal process.
    One commenter stated that the regulatory definition of disposal is 
inconsistent with EPA's Sustainable Materials Management policy and 
with the RCRA definition of disposal at 40 CFR 260.10, which leads to 
regulatory confusion. The commenter seeks to clarify that the recycling 
of appliances or components is separate from disposal. The commenter 
believes there should be four definitions regarding recycling and 
disposal: (1) Recycle refrigerant; (2) dispose of refrigerant; (3) 
recycle an appliance; and (4) dispose of an appliance. The commenter 
finds that the proposed revision to the definition confuses the 
distinction between recycling and disposal. The commenter also finds 
that the word ``destruction'' is too broad if EPA is trying to address 
vandalism, line-cutting, or theft and is concerned that the term 
equates recycling with such unlawful activities.
    EPA responds that the Agency addresses the recycling and disposal 
(or reclamation) of refrigerant elsewhere in subpart F. The safe 
disposal provisions at Sec.  82.155 relate to the disposal of 
appliances. The Clean Air Act in 608(a) refers to the ``service, 
repair, and disposal of appliances'' and 608(c) refers to the 
``maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of an appliance'' 
(emphases added). The manner in which the appliance is disposed of, 
whether by recycling, landfilling, reuse of component parts, or another 
method is not addressed by the CAA. For the purposes of section 608, 
what is relevant is that an action is taken on an appliance at the end 
of its useful life that releases or would release refrigerant if the 
proper precautions are not taken. EPA agrees it is appropriate to 
specify what is included in disposal for clarity but does not agree 
that the term must have the same meaning in section 608 of the CAA as 
under RCRA or the Sustainable Materials Management policy. The 
commenter does not make clear how the Agency's Sustainable Materials 
Management policy is in conflict with the requirement in subpart F to 
recover, or verify the prior recovery, of refrigerant in discarded 
appliances. EPA is finalizing its proposal to include recycling for 
scrap as one of the methods by which an appliance may be disposed.
    Furthermore, EPA's intent is to address the various actions taken 
upon an existing and operational system that will effectively end its 
useful life and potentially release refrigerant. Both recycling and 
vandalizing a fully charged appliance would have that effect, though 
EPA recognizes the distinctions between those two actions. This 
revision is also consistent with a recent court decision-which found 
that cutting a functioning condenser unit and releasing refrigerant 
into the environment constituted disposal of an appliance within the 
meaning of CAA section 608 and its implementing regulations, even if 
the underlying intent was to steal and sell the metal piping. United 
States v. Harrold, No. 2:15-mj-605 (S.D. Ohio, Oct. 28, 2015) (order 
concluding that the complaint sufficiently charged a violation of the 
Act and that sufficient evidence was presented to establish probable 
cause that defendant violated the Act).\17\ See also United States v. 
Morrissette, 579 F. App'x 916, 919 (11th Cir. 2014) (stating that 
defendant who stole metal coils from commercial air conditioning units 
had violated the CAA regardless of the underlying intent to steal 
copper). EPA is finalizing the definition of disposal substantially as 
proposed. In response to the comment, EPA is replacing the word 
``destruction'' with ``vandalism'' to more specifically refer to 
actions such as line cutting and metal theft. The vandalism would have 
to be of such a nature that it would release the refrigerant. EPA is 
also separating ``[t]he recycling of any appliance for scrap'' from 
``[t]he disassembly of any appliance for reuse of its component 
parts.'' Both are considered disposal.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \17\ A copy of this opinion and other documents related to this 
case are available in the docket for this rulemaking.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Follow-Up Verification Test
    EPA is amending the definition of follow-up verification test to 
remove duplicative text that was also covered in Sec.  82.156(i). The 
revised definition describes what the test is and how it is conducted, 
not the regulatory requirements of the test. The revised regulatory 
requirements are found in Sec.  82.157(e). EPA is not specifying one 
test that would satisfy what constitutes a follow-up verification test, 
but is providing an illustrative list of tests that would qualify. EPA 
does not intend for this list to be all-inclusive, but rather to

[[Page 82297]]

provide examples of known methodologies of performing leak repair 
verification tests.
    One commenter suggested that EPA modify the name of this test to 
follow-up leak repair verification test. The commenter has found that 
over 40 percent of technicians who do not work on IPR, where these 
tests were previously required, were confused about the distinction 
between the initial and follow-up verification tests. The technicians 
indicated to the commenter that such a name change would make it 
clearer that the tests are about the effectiveness of the repair. EPA 
disagrees that changing the name of the test will improve technician's 
abilities to conduct these tests or reduce refrigerant emissions. It is 
understandable that technicians that do not work on IPR equipment and 
are not trained in the procedures of subpart F that had previously only 
applied to IPR would not be aware of the requirements. EPA is concerned 
that changing the name of the test would confuse those who already know 
of the requirement. EPA is therefore finalizing the definition of 
follow-up verification test as proposed.
Full Charge and Seasonal Variance
    EPA is amending the definition of full charge to account for 
seasonal variances and to make minor edits for readability. Owners or 
operators of commercial refrigeration appliances and IPR have 
previously expressed concerns that the full charge may not be 
accurately determined due to seasonal variances that may alter the 
amount of refrigerant in an appliance. Seasonal variances in ambient 
temperature and pressure have the effect of forcing refrigerant to 
different appliance components (for example, from an appliance's 
receiver to the condenser).
    EPA is allowing owners or operators to account for seasonal 
variances by measuring the actual amount of refrigerant added to or 
evacuated from the appliance. EPA is defining full charge as the amount 
of refrigerant required for normal operating characteristics and 
conditions of the appliance as determined by using one or a combination 
of the following four methods:
    (1) Use of the equipment manufacturer's determination of the full 
charge;
    (2) Use of appropriate calculations based on component sizes, 
density of refrigerant, volume of piping, and other relevant 
considerations;
    (3) Use of actual measurements of the amount of refrigerant added 
to or evacuated from the appliance, including for seasonal variances; 
and/or
    (4) Use of an established range based on the best available data 
regarding the normal operating characteristics and conditions for the 
appliance, where the midpoint of the range will serve as the full 
charge.
    To further explain the definition of full charge, EPA is creating a 
defined term for seasonal variance. This term means the removal of 
refrigerant from an appliance due to a change in ambient conditions 
caused by a change in season, followed by the subsequent addition of an 
amount that is less than or equal to the amount of refrigerant removed 
in the prior change in season, where both the removal and addition of 
refrigerant occurs within one consecutive 12-month period. A complete 
discussion of allowing for seasonal variances when calculating 
appliance leak rates is found in Section IV.F of this preamble.
    EPA received several comments on the proposed definition of 
seasonal variance. Two commenters recommended that EPA use the removal 
of refrigerant as the first step and the addition of refrigerant as the 
second step. While EPA proposed the opposite framing, you can measure 
the amount removed to be able to determine the amount that can be added 
in the next season without triggering a leak rate calculation. EPA has 
adjusted the definition and the narrative in the preamble accordingly.
    Four commenters suggested that the amount added and removed does 
not always have to be equal, as was proposed. EPA agrees that as long 
as the amount added is less than or equal to the amount removed in the 
prior season, the addition will be considered a seasonal variance.
    One commenter requested that EPA clarify whether the added 
refrigerant amount is to be included in the full charge amount. The 
commenter is concerned that not reflecting the seasonal variance could 
affect what is considered normal operating characteristics and 
conditions, which would in turn affect when verification tests can be 
conducted. Another commenter proposed that the maximum charge be used 
at all times when calculating the leak rate, regardless of what is 
actually in the appliance at the time of repair.
    Given the concerns raised by the commenter about including seasonal 
variances in the appliance's full charge to prevent problems with 
compliance with normal operating characteristics and conditions, the 
full charge must be adjusted to account for the amount of refrigerant 
removed or added for a seasonal variance if the full charge was 
calculated using any method other than method four, since that method 
inherently includes a range. To be clear, verification tests should be 
conducted regardless of whether the appliance contains extra 
refrigerant to account for a seasonal variance. This could result in 
two ``full charges,'' one for each season. EPA does not agree that it 
would be appropriate to use the maximum charge or the higher of the two 
full charge calculations because some seasonal variances are large 
enough that adjusting the full charge would make significant difference 
in the leaks that would exceed the applicable leak rate. Since this is 
an added flexibility, requiring slightly more recordkeeping is 
warranted.
    One commenter indicated that refrigerant charge should never be 
added or removed throughout the year. While this may be true for some 
types of equipment, there are legitimate situations where such 
additions or removals are appropriate, typically in larger commercial 
refrigeration and industrial process refrigeration appliances. For 
example, one commenter cited the instance of a seafood packer who may 
need to add refrigerant during crab season when the refrigeration or 
freezing load spikes.
    Finally, the Agency is allowing an owner or operator to choose a 
combination of methods to determine full charge. There are instances 
where multiple methods may be necessary to accurately determine the 
full charge. Further EPA is providing flexibility by not requiring that 
owners or operators commit to the same method for the life of the 
appliance. EPA is requiring in this final rule that owners or operators 
maintain a written record of the full charge, the method(s) used to 
determine the full charge, and any changes to that amount.
High-Pressure Appliance
    EPA is amending the definition of high-pressure appliance as 
proposed to update the list of example refrigerants with the most 
commonly used refrigerants today. Because revisions to appliance and 
refrigerant carry over into this term as well, under the revisions 
finalized in this rule, high-pressure appliances include those that use 
ODS and non-ODS substitute refrigerants.
Industrial Process Refrigeration
    EPA is amending the definition of industrial process refrigeration 
as proposed to make minor clarifications for readability and to remove 
a citation

[[Page 82298]]

to a section of the regulation that has moved.
Industrial Process Shutdown
    EPA is amending the definition of industrial process shutdown as 
proposed to remove a citation to a section of the regulation that has 
moved.
Initial Verification Test
    EPA is amending the definition of initial verification test to 
remove duplicative text that is also covered in the required practices 
section of the regulation. The revised definition describes in general 
terms what the test is, not what the requirements of the test are. The 
purpose of this test is to verify that a leak has been repaired prior 
to adding refrigerant back into the system. The requirements for an 
initial leak repair verification test are described in Section IV.F.8 
of this notice and in Sec.  82.157(e)(1) of the revised regulation.
Leak Inspection
    EPA is creating a new defined term leak inspection. EPA proposed to 
define leak inspection as the examination of appliances using a 
calibrated leak detection device, a bubble test, or visual inspection 
for oil residue in order to determine the presence and location of 
refrigerant leaks.
    Some commenters recommended additional leak detection methods 
including: Standing pressure/vacuum decay tests, ultrasonic tests, 
periodic evacuations, gas-imaging cameras, sight glass checks, viewing 
receiver levels, pressure checks, charging charts, and the sub-cooling 
method (for expansion systems).
    In general, leak detection methods fall into two categories: Ones 
that indicate that an appliance is leaking; and ones that can identify 
the location of a leak. EPA stated in the proposal that the proposed 
definition covers the techniques currently used to detect the location 
of leaks, not activities that would assist only in determining whether 
a system is leaking generally without providing information that would 
allow detection of the location of the leak. One commenter stated that 
limiting leak inspections in such a manner increases the costs of 
conducting leak inspections.
    EPA responds that the purpose of a leak inspection is to determine 
the location of a leak, not to determine whether an appliance is 
leaking. As discussed in Section IV.F.4 of this notice, EPA is 
modifying the leak inspection requirement so that it is only required 
on appliances that have exceeded the applicable leak rate. To repair a 
leak, the technician must be able to locate it. Therefore, inspection 
methods that only indicate that the appliance is releasing refrigerant 
do not provide the necessary information for a technician to repair 
leaks. Further leak inspections on the repaired system may benefit from 
using a combination of methods to determine whether the system 
continues to leak refrigerant, and if so, where.
    Commenters also recommended that EPA remove some of the proposed 
inspection methods. Multiple commenters recommended that EPA not 
include a visual inspection for oil residue, as that is not a reliable 
indicator of a refrigerant leak. Similarly, some commenters noted that 
the bubble test should be used in conjunction with another leak 
detection method due to its low sensitivity or potential unreliability 
when performed outdoors. EPA agrees that a visual inspection for oil 
residue is not dispositive and has removed that method from the list of 
leak inspection methods included in the definition as finalized. EPA is 
including bubble tests in that list because it may be appropriate in 
some circumstances. EPA is also strengthening the leak inspection by 
requiring under Sec.  82.157(g)(2) that it be performed by a certified 
technician, while providing discretion for the technician to determine 
which methods are appropriate.
    Some commenters also recommended that EPA remove the word 
``calibrated'' because some electronic leak detectors are self-
calibrating while others do not require calibration. Instead, these 
commenters suggested that EPA require that the devices be operated and 
maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. Another commenter 
recommended that EPA maintain the requirement that leak detection 
devices be calibrated. Given the variability of equipment, EPA agrees 
with the comments suggesting that it is preferable to follow the 
manufacturer guidelines. Thus, in this final definition EPA is 
replacing ``calibrated leak detection device'' with ``leak detection 
device operated and maintained according to manufacturer guidelines'' 
based on public comment.
    In this final rule, EPA is providing a non-exhaustive list of 
methods for leak inspections, and clarifying that techniques that only 
determine whether the appliance is leaking must be used in combination 
with another method that can identify the location of the leak. In 
general, commenters encouraged EPA to allow for or require multiple 
methods due to the limitations of individual techniques in different 
circumstances. This approach is consistent with those comments.
Leak Rate
    EPA proposed, and is now finalizing, one substantive change to the 
definition of leak rate to change the calculation performed under what 
is called Method 2 under the prior rules. The first step of that method 
has been to take the sum of the quantity of refrigerant added to the 
appliance over the previous 365-day period (or over the period that has 
passed since leaks in the appliance were last repaired, if that period 
is less than one year). Instead of the cut-off being since the last 
repair (if less than 365 days), EPA is amending Step 1 to cover the 
period of time since the last successful follow-up verification test 
showing that all identified leaks were successfully repaired (if less 
than 365 days have passed since the last refrigerant addition). The 
goal of this change is to improve the clarity of the requirements. 
Under the prior definition, it was unclear if the repair had to be 
successful in order to be considered in the leak rate calculation. 
These revisions clarify that all identified leaks must be verified as 
having been successfully repaired.
    EPA is also renaming the two methods from Method 1 and Method 2 to 
``Annualizing Method'' and ``Rolling Average Method'' to improve 
readability. EPA is also finalizing the proposed change to clarify that 
while the same leak rate calculation must be used for all appliances at 
the same facility, this only refers to the appliances subject to the 
leak repair provisions (i.e., appliances normally containing 50 or more 
pounds of refrigerant).
    EPA received three comments on this proposed definition. One 
commenter recommended that EPA remove the Rolling Average Method for 
simplicity and change the Annualizing Method such that the calculation 
is based on the time since the last successful follow-up verification 
test instead of the last refrigerant addition. The commenter further 
recommended changes to the Rolling Average Method, if EPA keeps it in 
the regulation, to better express the amount of refrigerant that would 
be lost if that leak continued for a full year.
    EPA responds that while reducing the number of leak rate 
calculation methods could simplify the regulations, numerous appliance 
owners and operators have used the Rolling Average method for years and 
they continue to seek flexibility. EPA does not see an environmental 
benefit in reducing this flexibility. On the suggestions to change the 
Annualizing and Rolling Average Methods, EPA is not adopting the 
suggestions. Broadly speaking, EPA

[[Page 82299]]

interprets the comment to indicate that the Rolling Average Method 
should be more like the Annualizing Method and vice versa such that 
they are effectively identical. This seems unnecessary and confusing, 
and limits flexibility. Both methods have strengths that would be 
undercut by the suggested changes.
    The strength of the Annualizing Method is that it is future-
oriented. It allows an owner or operator to ``close out'' each leak 
event so long as the requirements are followed and does not lump past 
leak events with the current leak event. It considers the amount of 
time since the last refrigerant addition and then scales that up to 
provide a leak rate that projects the amount lost over a whole year if 
not fixed. As a result, this formula will yield a higher leak rate for 
smaller leaks if the amount of time since the last repair was shorter. 
This can have significant environmental benefits by requiring more 
thorough leak inspections and verified repairs sooner. The commenter's 
suggested change would make this method too similar to the Rolling 
Average Method for minimal, if any, benefit and could potentially 
increase the amount of time included in each leak rate calculation. 
Stretching out the period of time covered could result in lower leak 
rates depending on the situation.
    The Rolling Average Method also has its strengths. It accounts for 
all refrigerant additions over the past 365 days or since the last 
successful follow-up verification test showing that all identified 
leaks were successfully repaired (if less than 365 days). If an owner 
or operator verifies all identified leaks are repaired, this method 
would also allow an owner or operator to ``close out'' a leak event. If 
there is no follow-up verification test showing that all identified 
leaks were successfully repaired within the last year, the leak rate 
would be based completely on actual leaks in the past year. This 
retrospective approach measures actual performance and if leaks are 
identified and fixed quickly, an appliance may never reach the 
applicable leak rate.
    Two other commenters questioned the rationale for the change given 
the need to update tracking software and provide staff training. EPA 
explained its rationale in the proposed rule and earlier in this 
notice. Specifically, the change is needed to provide clarity that 
repairs must be successful and verified in order to be considered in 
the calculation and to improve effectiveness of the rule.
    In this action, EPA is requiring that owners or operators use a 
prospective approach (the Annualizing Method), that focuses on the 
current leak event rather than the size of past leaks, or a 
retrospective approach (the Rolling Average Method), where past 
performance is key. If an owner or operator repairs all identified 
leaks and verifies that the repairs have been successful, then the 
Agency considers that a sufficient clearing event in that the leak rate 
has been brought as close to zero as possible. We recognize that these 
changes may require modification to software and technician training 
with the new requirements. For that reason, EPA intends to develop 
several compliance assistance tools that will help technicians and 
owners/operators to better understand the requirements. EPA has also 
delayed the compliance date for the appliance maintenance and leak 
repair requirements to January 1, 2019, to allow time for the industry 
to prepare for these changes.
Low-Pressure Appliance
    EPA is amending the definition of low-pressure appliance to update 
the list of example refrigerants with the most commonly used 
refrigerants today. Because revisions to appliance and refrigerant 
carry over into this term as well, under the revisions finalized in 
this action, low-pressure appliances include those that use ODS and 
non-ODS substitute refrigerants. EPA is finalizing this definition as 
proposed.
Medium-Pressure Appliance
    EPA is amending the definition of medium-pressure appliance to 
update the list of example refrigerants with the most commonly used 
refrigerants today. Because revisions to appliance and refrigerant 
carry over into this term as well, under the revisions finalized in 
this action, medium-pressure appliances include those that use ODS and 
non-ODS substitute refrigerants. EPA is finalizing this definition as 
proposed.
Mothball
    EPA proposed to revise the defined term system mothballing to 
mothball to reflect how it is used in the regulations, and EPA is 
finalizing this definition as proposed. Mothballing an appliance 
suspends the time needed to complete repairs, retrofit or retirement 
plans, or the actual retrofit or retirement of appliances that have 
triggered the leak repair requirements. The previous definition 
referred to refrigeration appliances, but the suspension is allowed for 
comfort cooling appliances as well as commercial refrigeration and IPR 
systems. EPA is therefore removing the reference to ``refrigeration'' 
appliances in the definition. The previous definition also required 
that the appliance be shut down for ``an extended period of time.'' EPA 
is removing this phrase because the Agency is not concerned about 
length of time that the system is shut down but rather that the system 
has been removed from service temporarily, as opposed to permanently, 
and that the refrigerant has been evacuated. The revised definition 
also notes that refrigerant can be evacuated from an isolated component 
of the appliance if only an isolated section or component is affected 
and makes minor edits to improve clarity and readability. EPA is also 
clarifying in Sec.  82.157(d)(3) and Sec.  82.157(i) that the 
suspension of time ends when refrigerant is added back into the 
appliance.
    One commenter recommended that EPA allow the system to be filled 
with nitrogen or another inert gas to protect the system while repair 
is in process. EPA responds that the regulations in subpart F do not 
prohibit or address this action, as long as the holding charge is an 
inert gas and not a refrigerant as defined in this subpart. However, 
EPA is not making revisions to address this point specifically, as the 
regulations in subpart F are concerned with refrigerants and the 
nitrogen or other inert gas in this example is not being used as a 
refrigerant.
Normal Operating Characteristics and Conditions
    As proposed, EPA is changing the defined term normal operating 
characteristics or conditions by replacing ``or'' with ``and'' for 
consistency through the regulations and to accurately describe the 
intended state of the appliance to which this term refers. EPA is also 
removing a reference to a section of the regulation that has moved and 
adding a reference to the appliance's full charge. Operating at full 
charge is a necessary element of an appliance's normal characteristics 
and it should be reflected in the definition. Finally, the revised 
definition clarifies that this term applies to all appliances, not just 
refrigeration appliances.
Normally Containing a Quantity of Refrigerant
    As proposed, EPA is removing the defined term normally containing a 
quantity of refrigerant. Because EPA is replacing this term with the 
phrase ``with a full charge of'' in the regulatory text where the term 
occurred, this definition is no longer needed.
One-Time Expansion Device
    EPA is amending the definition of one-time expansion device as 
proposed to clarify that this includes devices that can store multiple 
charges, which are

[[Page 82300]]

released individually to the environment to provide a cooling effect.
Opening an Appliance
    EPA proposed to amend the definition of opening an appliance to 
improve readability. EPA is finalizing this amended definition as 
proposed.
Reclaim
    As proposed, EPA is changing the defined term reclaim refrigerant 
to reclaim so as to match usage in the regulatory text and to update 
the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Institute (AHRI) 
standard referenced in the definition. Because revisions to refrigerant 
carry over into the definition for this term, it is appropriate to use 
the updated AHRI standard which also includes non-ODS substitute 
refrigerants.
Recover
    As proposed, EPA is changing the defined term recover refrigerant 
to recover so as to match usage elsewhere in the regulatory text.
Recycle
    In the context of recycling refrigerant, EPA is finalizing 
revisions to the defined term recycle refrigerant to recycle so as to 
match usage elsewhere in the regulatory text. The revised term also 
clarifies that reuse of recycled refrigerant must occur in equipment of 
the same owner. This revision facilitates consistency with the 
prohibition in Sec.  82.154(g) of the existing rules on the sale of 
used refrigerant unless it has either been reclaimed or is being 
transferred to an appliance owned by the same parent company or by the 
same federal agency or department. EPA is finalizing this definition 
substantially as proposed.
Refrigerant
    EPA is amending the definition of refrigerant, for the purposes of 
subpart F, to include both ODS and substitutes that are used for heat 
transfer purposes and provides a cooling effect. This amended 
definition is closer to how the term is commonly understood, based on 
its functional properties. From an engineering standpoint, it is 
irrelevant whether or not a compound is an ODS to function as a 
refrigerant. Broadening the term also brings another term in subpart F 
that contains this term, refrigerant circuit, more in line with common 
usage.
    One commenter stated that EPA does not have authority to regulate 
substitutes to the same extent as class I and class II ODS and thus the 
Agency is prohibited from redefining refrigerant to include 
substitutes. EPA is revising the definition of refrigerant under 
subpart F for purposes of interpreting, explaining, and enforcing the 
venting prohibition, which applies to substitute refrigerants as well 
as to ODS refrigerants. EPA is not revising the definition of 
refrigerant for other subparts under part 82. EPA addresses comments 
about its authority for this action in Section III of this notice.
Retire
    EPA is creating a defined term retire. EPA proposed retire to mean, 
in reference to appliances, the disassembly of the entire appliance 
including its major components, such that the appliance as a whole 
cannot be used by any person in the future.
    One commenter recommended that retire not include the phrase ``such 
that the retired appliance as a whole cannot be used by any person in 
the future.'' The commenter is concerned that this could prevent the 
reuse of certain equipment parts. Furthermore, the owner/operator has 
no means to determine the ultimate fate of the retired appliance or 
components. Another commenter stated that the requirement to render the 
appliance unfit for use by the current or future owner is unnecessary 
because retired appliances typically use an older refrigerant and are 
not economical to purchase. Requiring that the owner do something to 
render the unit unfit for use would impose an unnecessary burden. EPA 
responds that the term retire concerns the continued use of that 
appliance as a whole. All of the working components of a retired 
appliance could be disassembled and resold to be used in multiple other 
appliances because the original appliance, as a whole, is no longer 
operating.
    Another commenter stated that appliances may be retired without 
being completely disassembled. This comment stated that often, 
especially for IPR, appliances can be abandoned in place for a 
considerable length of time; so long as an appliance is made inoperable 
and permanently shut down it should be considered retired. This 
commenter provided recommended language which accurately describes the 
necessary state of the appliance ``rendered unusable'' and notes that 
any remaining refrigerant would be recovered from the appliance. EPA is 
finalizing the definition of retire that largely matches the definition 
suggested by this commenter because it more accurately describes the 
intent of what the Agency proposed.
    As discussed in the proposed rule, retirement differs from 
mothballing, as defined at Sec.  82.152, because a mothballed appliance 
is simply evacuated and shut down until it is ready to be used once 
again, whereas retirement involves a permanent shutdown of an 
appliance. Retirement should also not be confused with a repair. Repair 
is not expressly defined in the subpart F regulations. Repair may 
include the removal of a faulty component, but such removal does not 
mean that the appliance as a whole has been removed from service and 
rendered unfit for further use. Throughout this rule, ``replacement'' 
or ``replace'' may be used when discussing a situation where an 
existing appliance is retired and replaced with another appliance. In 
some instances, however, the owner or operator may choose to only 
retire and not replace an appliance so the two terms are not always 
used together.
Retrofit
    EPA is creating a defined term retrofit. Many appliance owners or 
operators have incorrectly equated retrofit with repair and EPA 
received one comment on the proposed rule requesting additional 
examples of activities and refrigerant conversions that would qualify 
as a retrofit.
    EPA is finalizing this definition as proposed. EPA uses retrofit to 
refer to a change to the appliance in order to convert it to the use of 
a different refrigerant. In response to the comment requesting the 
addition of examples of activities or refrigerant conversions, EPA 
concludes that it is not necessary to include additional examples of 
activities in the definition. Further, EPA is not specifying the type 
of refrigerants that are being converted, though typically retrofits 
have involved the replacement of an ODS with a non-ozone depleting 
substitute. Retrofits often require changes to the appliance (for 
example, change in lubricants, filter driers, gaskets, o-rings, and in 
some cases, components) in order to acquire system compatibility. 
Sometimes very few or no changes to the appliance are necessary to 
convert from one refrigerant to another. That would still be a retrofit 
because the refrigerant has changed.
    Retrofit does not apply to upgrades or repairs to existing 
equipment where the refrigerant is not changed. EPA generally considers 
a repair to include an action that addresses the leaking appliance or 
the affected component(s) of the leaking appliance. Repairs may include 
replacement of components or component subassemblies but changing the 
refrigerant would make the action a retrofit.

[[Page 82301]]

Self-Sealing Valve
    EPA is finalizing its proposal to create a defined term self-
sealing valve. Under this definition, self-sealing valve is a valve 
affixed to a container of refrigerant that automatically seals when not 
actively dispensing refrigerant and that meets or exceeds established 
performance criteria as identified in Sec.  82.154(c)(2). The purpose 
of a self-sealing valve is to prevent or minimize inadvertent release 
of refrigerant to the environment during the use and storage of the 
container of refrigerant. The requirement for self-sealing valves for 
small cans of MVAC refrigerant is discussed in more detail in Section 
IV.C.
Small Appliance
    EPA is finalizing proposed amendments to the definition of small 
appliance to remove the reference to class I and class II refrigerants. 
Because revisions to appliance and refrigerant carry over into this 
term as well, under the revisions finalized in this rulemaking small 
appliances include those that use ODS and non-ODS substitute 
refrigerants. EPA is also adding portable air conditioners to the list 
of example small appliances.
    One commenter requested that EPA specifically exclude MVACs and 
MVAC-like appliances from this definition. The commenter believes that 
without such an exclusion those types of appliances would be included 
in the revised definition of small appliance, which it characterizes as 
including any appliance charged with five pounds or less of 
refrigerant, and be subject to regulations that apply to small 
appliances. EPA responds that MVACs and MVAC-like appliances are not 
small appliances even though the charge sizes may be similar. Small 
appliances must be hermetically sealed, which MVACs and MVAC-like 
appliances are not.
    Another commenter noted that EPA has specifically granted an 
exemption for the manufacture of small appliances in subpart B and 
urged EPA to preserve that exclusion in subpart F for MVACs. The 
commenter points to the definition of motor vehicle in subpart B. EPA 
responds that the definition of motor vehicle air conditioner in 
subpart F is simply a reference to subpart B. Thus, the use of MVAC in 
subpart F has the meaning granted to it in subpart B and this rule does 
not remove the exclusion granted for the assembly of MVACs in subpart 
B. EPA disagrees that it is necessary to clarify this point by amending 
the definition of appliance, which is a broader category, nor is it 
appropriate to amend the definition of small appliance in the manner in 
which the commenter recommends. See discussion under the definition of 
appliance for additional information.
Substitute
    EPA is finalizing proposed amendments to the definition of 
substitute to remove the phrases ``EPA-approved'' and ``in a given 
refrigeration or air-conditioning end-use.'' These phrases are 
references to the SNAP program, which identifies acceptable 
alternatives to ODS for specific end-uses. The Agency has changed the 
status of certain refrigerants from acceptable to unacceptable for new 
retail food refrigeration equipment, vending machines, and motor 
vehicle air conditioning (80 FR 42870; July 20, 2015). EPA has also 
recently proposed to make additional changes (81 FR 22810; April 18, 
2016). EPA does not mean to imply that finding a refrigerant to be 
unacceptable in a given end-use under SNAP means that it is no longer 
included within substitute, and thus by extension refrigerant. Were 
that the case, those substances would be exempted from the safe 
handling requirements of subpart F, or even the venting prohibition, 
despite still being used as refrigerants. EPA intends for those 
substances to continue to be subject to those requirements where they 
are being used as refrigerants. Accordingly, EPA is finalizing this 
revision to prevent that confusion, especially since the Agency allows 
for the servicing of existing appliances designed to use refrigerants 
that the Agency recently listed as unacceptable in new (and in some 
cases) retrofitted appliances.
    Under the revised definition, any chemical or product, whether 
existing or new, that is used by any person as a replacement 
refrigerant for a class I or II ozone-depleting substance would be 
considered a substitute, even if it has been recently listed as 
unacceptable under SNAP in some end-uses or has not been submitted to 
or reviewed by the SNAP program. One commenter stated that by limiting 
the definition of substitute to replacements for ODS, EPA could be 
unintentionally permitting new replacements to HFCs, as opposed to ODS, 
to be beyond the scope of subpart F. Another commenter suggested that 
the term be limited to the SNAP-approved list of substitutes but 
provided no reasons for such a limitation.
    EPA responds that in 2004, the Agency affirmed an inclusive view of 
the scope of substitutes under subpart F. In that rule, it stated:

    Under section 608, EPA considers a SNAP-approved refrigerant a 
`substitute' for CFC or HCFC refrigerants under section 608 if any 
of the following is the case: (1) The substitute refrigerant 
immediately replaced a CFC or HCFC in a specific instance, (2) the 
substitute refrigerant replaced another substitute that replaced a 
CFC or HCFC in a specific instance (i.e., it was a second-or later-
generation substitute), or (3) the substitute refrigerant has always 
been used in a particular instance, but other users in that end-use 
have used it to replace a CFC or HCFC. (March 12, 2004; 69 FR 11958)

EPA continues to hold this interpretation, except that for the reasons 
discussed above, EPA no longer maintains the position that substitutes 
must be approved under SNAP in order to be considered a refrigerant 
under section 608 when the substance is used as a refrigerant. In 
addition, the phrase ``any chemical or product, whether existing or 
new'' makes clear that the term is to be applied broadly, even to 
compounds that do not yet exist or have not yet been developed.
    Other commenters recommended that EPA explicitly state the types of 
refrigerants that are considered substitutes. The proposal stated that 
EPA intends to apply the requirements in subpart F to all substances 
that are functionally refrigerants, including but not limited to HFCs, 
PFCs, HFOs, hydrofluoroethers, and hydrocarbons, as long as those 
substances have not been exempted from the venting prohibition. To the 
extent these comments are suggesting that EPA should provide some 
examples as a non-exhaustive list in the definition, EPA agrees that 
this increases clarity and EPA has added a non-exhaustive list of 
examples of substances that would be included in this definition, as 
well as clarifying that blends of such substances are also included. 
This approach also matches other definitions in subpart F that have 
similar lists of examples. To the extent the commenters are suggesting 
that EPA establish an exhaustive list of substances that would qualify 
as substitutes, EPA does not agree such a list is needed or would be 
feasible to include. Including such a list would also be unadvisable 
given the continued development of new substitutes. Therefore, the 
definition provides an illustrative list of substances that are 
included.
    To provide clarity, EPA is adding mention of the venting 
prohibition in the definition of substitute. While EPA is finalizing 
its interpretation that carbon dioxide, nitrogen, water, ammonia, 
chlorine, hydrocarbons, and R-441A are substitutes, the regulations as 
finalized make clear that when these substitutes are used as 
refrigerants in

[[Page 82302]]

the end-uses specified in Sec.  82.154(a)(1), they are exempt from the 
requirements of subpart F and can be referred to as ``exempt'' 
substitutes. Similarly, the term ``non-exempt substitutes'' as used in 
this subpart refers to all other substitutes and end-uses not specified 
in Sec.  82.154(a)(1) as exempt from the venting prohibition. This 
clarification is only for purposes of the subpart F regulations, and 
should not be construed to affect any other subpart.
    One commenter requested that the regulations include the phrase 
``non-exempt refrigerants'' more frequently so that the reader does not 
have to understand that the regulatory definition of refrigerants 
excludes substitutes that are exempted from the venting prohibition. 
EPA responds that while exempt substitutes are included in the 
regulatory definition of refrigerant, the regulatory text has been 
revised to clarify that the obligations under subpart F do not apply to 
exempt substitutes. EPA has included in the definition of substitute a 
description of the terms ``exempt substitutes'' and ``non-exempt 
substitutes'' with reference to Sec.  82.154(a)(1), which provides that 
exempt substitutes are exempt from the requirements of this subpart, so 
that readers of the regulation can follow EPA's intent from the 
definition. EPA has also added references in the regulation to class I, 
class II, and non-exempt substitute refrigerants, where applicable, to 
be clear which refrigerants are subject to the provisions.
Suitable Replacement Refrigerant
    EPA is removing the defined term suitable replacement refrigerant. 
As discussed in Section IV.F.10 of this notice, EPA is removing the 
extension to retrofit or retire an appliance using an ODS refrigerant 
if a suitable replacement refrigerant with a lower ozone depletion 
potential is unavailable. It is therefore appropriate to remove the 
term from the list of definitions.
System Receiver
    EPA is finalizing the creation of a defined term system receiver to 
provide clarity to the reader and improve the organization of these 
regulations, by providing a definition of this term in a location where 
the reader might expect to find it. Under the added definition, a 
system receiver is the isolated portion of the appliance, or a specific 
vessel within the appliance, that is used to hold the refrigerant 
charge during the servicing or repair of that appliance. This 
definition was previously included only in a parenthetical in the 
regulatory text at Sec.  82.156(a), which describes the required 
practices to properly evacuate refrigerant from an appliance. The 
definition added in this rule does not introduce any new practices to 
the evacuation requirements. EPA is also removing the parenthetical in 
Sec.  82.156(a), as it is no longer needed.
Technician
    EPA is amending the definition of technician to improve clarity. As 
revised, the definition highlights that the determining factor for 
being a technician is performing actions that could reasonably be 
expected to violate the integrity of the refrigerant circuit. In 
general, only people who have completed the technician certification 
process should be performing actions that could violate the integrity 
of the refrigerant circuit and could therefore release refrigerant into 
the environment.
    The exception to that general statement is that persons 
maintaining, servicing, or repairing MVACs and persons disposing of 
small appliances, MVACs, or MVAC-like appliances do not need to be 
technicians, as defined within subpart F. This exception is explicitly 
included in the definition finalized in this action. This revision is 
not intended to affect the scope of the existing requirements but 
rather to respond to requests from stakeholders prior to the 
publication of the proposed rule that the Agency clarify which 
activities must be conducted by technicians and which need not be. EPA 
received comments stating that the proposed revision would require 
persons maintaining, servicing, or repairing MVACs to be technicians. 
EPA did not intend to impose that requirement and has corrected that in 
the final rule. EPA also edited the regulations in the sales 
restriction in Sec.  82.154(c) to ensure that technician applies only 
to technicians authorized under section 608 and not persons authorized 
under section 609.
    The prior definition of technician also included a non-exclusive 
list of example activities that are reasonably expected to violate the 
integrity of the refrigerant circuit as well as examples of activities 
that do not. EPA proposed to edit these examples to improve clarity and 
to add the following two examples of activities reasonably expected to 
violate the integrity of the refrigerant circuit: Adding or removing 
components and cutting the refrigerant line. EPA is finalizing the 
definition substantially as proposed, including the two new example 
activities that are reasonably expected to violate the integrity of the 
refrigerant circuit, and with the modifications from the proposal 
described above related to MVACs and persons authorized under section 
609.
Very High-Pressure Appliance
    EPA is finalizing amendments to the definition of very high-
pressure appliance to update the list of example refrigerants with the 
most commonly used refrigerants today. Because revisions to appliance 
and refrigerant carry over into this term as well, under the revised 
definition very high-pressure appliances include those that use ODS and 
non-ODS substitute refrigerants.
Voluntary Certification Program
    EPA is finalizing the proposed removal of the defined term 
voluntary certification program. This term references a provision in 
the regulations that grandfathered in technicians who were certified 
prior to the establishment of the technician certification program in 
subpart F. As discussed in Section IV.J.4 below, EPA is removing these 
grandfathering provisions in this action because they are no longer 
needed and therefore is removing the definition as well.

B. Revisions to the Venting Prohibition in Sec.  82.154(a)

1. Background
    As explained in Section III of this notice, under the revisions 
finalized in this rule, Sec.  82.154(a) prohibits the venting of ODS 
refrigerants and non-ODS substitute refrigerants to the environment by 
persons maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of an 
appliance. This provision provides an exemption to the venting 
prohibition for certain substitutes in specific end-uses based on a 
determination that the listed substitutes in the listed end-uses do not 
pose a threat to the environment when released. As revised, this 
section also exempts from the venting prohibition de minimis releases 
of ODS refrigerants and non-exempt substitute refrigerants, and defines 
de minimis releases of ODS refrigerants and non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants to be those releases that occur when the other provisions 
of subpart F (or subpart B in the case of MVACs) are followed.
2. Applying the de minimis Exemption to Substitute Refrigerants
    As explained in more detail earlier in this notice, the knowing 
venting, release, or disposal of substitutes for class I and class II 
refrigerants in the course of maintaining, servicing, repairing, or 
disposing of an appliance or IPR is expressly prohibited by section 
608(c)(1) and (2) of the CAA, effective November 15, 1995, unless the 
Administrator determines that such

[[Page 82303]]

venting, release, or disposal does not pose a threat to the 
environment. This prohibition is commonly called the venting 
prohibition. Section 608(c)(1) establishes the venting prohibition for 
class I and class II substances, and also establishes an exemption from 
the prohibition for de minimis releases associated with good faith 
attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose of ``any such 
substance.'' The statutory language of section 608(c)(2) extends 
paragraph 608(c)(1) to substitutes for class I and class II substances 
used as refrigerants in appliances and IPR. This extension includes 
both the prohibition on venting and the exemption for de minimis 
releases associated with good faith attempts to recapture and recycle 
or safely dispose of such substances.
    Prior to this rulemaking, for class I and II substances EPA had 
interpreted as de minimis those releases that occur despite compliance 
with EPA's required practices under the previous regulations for 
recycling and recovery, use of certified recovery and/or recycling 
equipment, and technician certification programs. EPA interpreted 
compliance with those regulations to represent ``good faith attempts to 
recapture and recycle or safely dispose'' of refrigerant. Accordingly, 
the prior regulations at Sec.  82.154(a)(2) provided that releases of 
ODS refrigerants are considered de minimis only if they occur when the 
other provisions of subpart F (or subpart B in the case of MVACs) are 
followed. Although the prior regulations at Sec.  82.154(a) exempted de 
minimis releases of non-exempt substitutes from the venting 
prohibition, those regulations did not provide any express guidance for 
such substitutes as to what practices are considered ``good faith 
attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose'' of the substitute 
such that incidental releases would qualify for the de minimis 
exemption.
    EPA interprets the phrase ``good faith attempts to recapture and 
recycle or safely dispose'' similarly when it applies to substitute 
refrigerants under section 608(c)(2) as when it applies to ODS 
refrigerants under section 608(c)(1). Thus, compliance with the 
provisions regarding the evacuation of equipment, use of certified 
equipment, and technician certification in any instance where a person 
is opening (or otherwise violating the refrigerant circuit) or 
disposing of an appliance would represent ``good faith attempts to 
recapture and recycle or safely dispose'' of non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. EPA considers these provisions to appropriately represent 
good faith attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose of such 
substitute refrigerants. For example, the proper use of certified 
recovery equipment and the evacuation of refrigerant to prescribed 
standards would be considered a good faith attempt to recapture and 
recycle or safely dispose of non-exempt substitute refrigerants when 
maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of an appliance.
    Under this approach, releases are only considered de minimis if 
they occur when these procedures, or those under subpart B, are 
followed. Conversely, emissions that take place during maintenance, 
servicing, repair, or disposal when these provisions are not followed 
are not de minimis emissions and are subject to the venting 
prohibition. While these principles were clearly expressed in the prior 
regulations for ODS, the prior regulations did not clearly establish 
what practices the regulated community would need to follow in order to 
qualify for the de minimis exemption and to comply with the venting 
prohibition while maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of 
equipment containing non-exempt substitute refrigerants. With the 
revisions finalized in this rule, EPA is clarifying how the venting 
prohibition and de minimis exemption apply to non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants, to increase certainty for and facilitate compliance by 
the regulated community, as well as further explaining its 
interpretation of these statutory provisions.
    It is impossible to open an appliance (or otherwise violate the 
refrigerant circuit) or dispose of an appliance without emitting some 
of the refrigerant in the circuit. Even after the appliance has been 
evacuated, some refrigerant remains, which is released to the 
environment when the appliance is opened or disposed of. Other 
activities that fall short of opening or disposing of the appliance but 
that involve violation of the refrigerant circuit also release 
refrigerant, albeit in very small quantities, because connectors (e.g., 
between hoses or gauges and the appliance) never join together without 
intervening space. Even in the best case in which a good seal is made 
between a hose and an appliance before the valve between them is 
opened, some refrigerant will remain in the space between the valve and 
the outer seal after the valve is closed. This refrigerant will be 
released when the outer seal is broken. Thus, whenever a person opens 
an appliance (or otherwise violates the refrigerant circuit) in the 
course of maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing that 
appliance, he or she could violate the venting prohibition unless the 
exception for de minimis releases applies. Because EPA is finalizing 
revisions that define the exception for substitute refrigerants such 
that it only applies when the person complies with the existing 
refrigerant management provisions, compliance with those provisions 
will ensure that any releases incidental to these practices will be 
considered de minimis and thus will not violate the venting prohibition 
under section 608(c)(2).
    One commenter stated that it fails to see why it would be unclear 
to the regulated community that the same de minimis exemption 
applicable to class I and II substances applies equally to substitutes. 
Section 608(c)(1) provides a specific de minimis exemption. Paragraph 1 
contains the de minimis language, so that language clearly applies to 
the intentional venting/release of substitutes under paragraph 2. In 
other words, the de minimis language in section 608(c)(1) is expressly 
applicable to section 608(c)(2), and there is no ambiguity that EPA 
needs to clarify.
    EPA agrees with the comment that the statute applies the de minimis 
exemption to substitute refrigerants. This statutory interpretation 
supports the revisions finalized in this rule. The statutory ambiguity 
arises because neither section 608(c)(1) or (2) specifically define 
what releases would qualify for the de minimis exemption or what would 
be considered ``good faith attempts to recapture and recycle or safely 
dispose'' of such a substance. The Agency previously established 
regulations clarifying what releases would be considered exempt from 
the venting prohibition under the de minimis exemption for ODS 
refrigerants. For class I and II substances EPA has interpreted those 
releases that occur despite compliance with EPA's required practices 
for recycling and recovery under the previous Sec.  82.156, use of 
recovery and/or recycling equipment certified under Sec.  82.158, and 
technician certification programs under Sec.  82.161 as falling within 
the de minimis exemption. Because the de minimis language in section 
608(c)(1) is directly applicable to section 608(c)(2), it is reasonable 
for EPA to choose to use the same regulations to clarify which releases 
of non-exempt substitute refrigerants qualify for the de minimis 
exception. These regulations accordingly fill a gap in the statute and 
the prior regulations relating to the definition of the de minimis 
exemption and the phrase ``good faith attempts to recapture and recycle 
or safely dispose'' for non-exempt substitute refrigerants.

[[Page 82304]]

    Another commenter stated that EPA must distinguish between 
provisions interpreting and enforcing the venting prohibition and other 
provisions implementing the statutory requirements to ``minimize the 
use and emission'' and ``maximize the recapture and recycling'' of 
class I and class II substances. In the commenter's view, the leak 
repair program is clearly related to the latter requirements. In 
addition, to the extent that a regulatory violation such as 
recordkeeping does not cause a release, EPA cannot use that as a 
violation of the venting prohibition. The comment concludes that all de 
minimis releases associated with good faith attempts to recover or 
recycle refrigerants are exempt regardless of regulatory compliance.
    EPA disagrees that there is a subset of the provisions finalized in 
this action that does not interpret, explain, or enforce the venting 
prohibition and is only aimed at minimizing the use and emission or 
maximizing the recapture and recycling of refrigerants. Under the prior 
regulations with regard to ODS, the regulatory text has long used the 
required practices under subpart F, including the leak repair 
provisions under the prior Sec.  82.156(i), to clarify which emissions 
will qualify for the de minimis exemption and thus not run afoul of the 
venting prohibition. The stakeholder community has appeared to accept 
this structure, and the interpretation of the venting prohibition it 
embodies, as it related to ODS. As described above in more detail, EPA 
is extending this regulatory structure which has long interpreted and 
enforced the venting prohibition for ODS to do the same for the venting 
prohibition as it applies to non-exempt substitute refrigerants. The 
fact that these requirements may also be related to minimizing the use 
and emission or maximizing the recapture and recycling of ODS 
refrigerants does not preclude EPA from using those requirements to 
clarify how the venting prohibition applies to non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. Nor does it prevent EPA from choosing to interpret, 
explain, and enforce the de minimis exemption for ODS and non-exempt 
substitutes through consistent requirements. EPA is extending this 
regulatory structure to non-exempt substitutes to clarify its 
interpretation of the ambiguous statutory phrase ``de minimis releases 
associated with good faith attempts to recover or recycle 
refrigerants'' and to enhance certainty that emissions that occur while 
complying with the regulations are covered by this exemption. After the 
revisions finalized in this rule, releases of non-exempt substitutes 
will be considered de minimis only if they occur when the specified 
requirements are satisfied.
    In addition, EPA does not agree with the comment's implication that 
the leak repair program relates only to minimizing the use and emission 
or maximizing the recapture and recycling of refrigerants. For example, 
leak repair is a type of servicing and releases of non-exempt 
substitutes that occur in the course of repairing leaks as required by 
the leak repair program could violate the venting prohibition. As such, 
it is reasonable to clarify in the regulations that releases of non-
exempt substitutes that are incidental to repairing leaks as required 
by the regulations will not be considered to violate the venting 
prohibition. In establishing the recordkeeping requirements in this 
rule, EPA is not suggesting that every failure to comply with a 
recordkeeping requirement would necessarily result in a violation of 
the venting prohibition. But in any event a failure to comply with a 
recordkeeping requirement would certainly be a violation of section 
114.
    Another commenter stated that there is no basis in the text of the 
CAA to assert that the venting prohibition is self-effectuating but 
that the de minimis exemption is not. It may be reasonable to interpret 
de minimis to mean in compliance with a comprehensive regulatory 
program when such a program is already authorized, but EPA cannot 
create a comprehensive regulatory program from that term. The commenter 
believes that it would be reasonable to interpret de minimis as those 
releases that occur when following best practices that occur while 
maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of an appliance.
    While the prohibition on venting under section 608(c) is self-
effectuating, meaning the prohibition itself is legally binding even 
without implementing regulations, the statutory terms contain 
ambiguity. For example, the terms ``de minimis releases'' and ``good 
faith attempts to recapture and recycle or safely dispose'' are not 
specifically defined in section 608(c)(1) or (c)(2). Accordingly, it is 
appropriate for EPA to clarify in its regulations how it interprets and 
will apply those terms. As described in greater detail above, EPA is 
finalizing revisions to the section 608 regulations to further 
interpret and explain the venting prohibition and increase its 
enforceability by giving greater clarity and certainty as to which 
releases it views as being covered by the de minimis exemption. 
Addressing the application of the venting prohibition and the de 
minimis exemption through rulemaking provides advance notice to 
regulated entities; this is in contrast to case-by-case application, 
which would be the approach in the absence of rulemaking.
    Further, even if we agreed with the comment that the term de 
minimis does not support development of a comprehensive regulatory 
program, EPA is not creating such a program through this rule. Rather, 
it is extending a regulatory program that already exists and serves to 
interpret and enforce the venting prohibition and de minimis exemption 
for ODS and using those same requirements for the same purpose for non-
exempt substitute refrigerants. Although EPA could have chosen a 
different method to interpret and enforce the venting prohibition for 
non-exempt substitute refrigerants, for reasons described elsewhere in 
this rule, EPA is electing to regulate ODS refrigerants and non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants consistently.
3. Exempting Certain Substitutes From the Venting Prohibition
    EPA proposed to explicitly state in the regulatory text that the 
substitutes exempted from the venting prohibition in Sec.  82.154(a)(1) 
are also exempt from the other provisions of subpart F. EPA also 
proposed to reorganize the list of exempt substitutes by refrigerant 
type for readability. EPA did not propose to revise the listed end-uses 
or propose to add or remove any substitutes from the list.
    Multiple commenters supported EPA's proposal to extend the existing 
regulations to HFCs and other non-exempt substitutes for the clarity it 
would provide to manufacturers and technicians. Other commenters 
recommended that EPA treat all refrigerants (including exempt 
substitutes like hydrocarbons, ammonia, and carbon dioxide) equally in 
all aspects of the subpart F regulations, including recovery and 
reclamation, technician certification, leak detection, and 
recordkeeping. Consistent application of the regulations to all 
refrigerants, the commenters say, would reinforce essential refrigerant 
management practices for all systems, reduce leaks, improve safety, and 
improve the operating efficiency of equipment. The commenters say that 
all refrigerants, other than water and some HFOs, have either 
flammability properties, higher GWP properties, or properties hazardous 
to human health (toxicity, risk of asphyxiation, frostbite, etc). 
Another commenter was opposed to exempting refrigerants that may be 
vented from the broader subpart F

[[Page 82305]]

requirements (with the possible exception of systems using water, 
nitrogen, or carbon dioxide) as it viewed such an exemption as a 
dramatic expansion of the exemption to the venting prohibition. The 
commenter states that establishing a separate class of equipment that 
does not require proper refrigerant management practices will only 
increase confusion in the field and exacerbate the problem of illegal 
venting.
    EPA agrees with the comments that the extension of the subpart F 
regulations increases clarity. EPA disagrees that its clarification 
that exempt substitutes are not subject to the subpart F requirements 
is an expansion of the exemption since the service practices and 
requirements in subpart F had previously only applied to ODS 
refrigerant. There are a couple of reasons for EPA's present view that 
it is appropriate not to extend the provisions of subpart F to 
refrigerants that have been exempted from the venting prohibition. 
First, EPA has previously determined that the release of these 
substances do not pose a threat to the environment or are already 
controlled by other authorities. (See 69 FR 11949, 80 FR 19454, and 81 
FR 22810). Given those decisions, it would generally not make sense to 
require all procedures for recovery or safe disposal, or to apply all 
other provisions of subpart F to those exempt refrigerants. This is 
consistent with the intent of section 608(c)(2), which states that 
substitutes may be exempted from the venting prohibition if the 
Administrator determines that not just the venting but also the 
``releasing, or disposing'' of such substance does not pose a threat to 
the environment.
    Second, the refrigerant management practices in subpart F may be 
inappropriate for some of the exempted refrigerants. For example, the 
venting of exempt hydrocarbon refrigerants in certain end-uses may be 
the safest option for technicians at this time, considering that such 
refrigerants are flammable but most existing recovery equipment were 
not designed and constructed, e.g. with spark-proof components, for use 
on flammable refrigerants. As long as the Administrator has determined 
that such venting of those substances in those end-uses does not pose a 
threat to the environment, such venting is legal and may be safer than 
following the subpart F requirements in some circumstances.
4. Releases From Containers
    EPA is moving the previous regulatory provision in Sec.  
82.154(a)(2) that states that the venting prohibition applies to the 
release of refrigerant (both ODS and non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants) after its recovery from an appliance. EPA is moving this 
provision to a separate paragraph (Sec.  82.154(a)(3)) rather than its 
previous location in the description of a de minimis release. Standing 
alone should make the provision clearer that it is a violation of the 
venting prohibition to vent or otherwise release refrigerant after that 
refrigerant is recovered from an appliance, whether from cylinders, 
recovery equipment, or any other storage container or device. The 
venting prohibition cannot be circumvented by using a recovery device 
and subsequently releasing the refrigerant. This is especially 
important because refrigerant recovered from appliances may be 
contaminated or be a mixture of multiple refrigerants. Such refrigerant 
may be difficult to reclaim or may require a fee for proper disposal or 
destruction. In light of those difficulties, it is important to 
emphasize that venting this refrigerant, even though it is in a 
cylinder and not an appliance, is illegal. EPA did not receive any 
comments on this provision and is finalizing it as proposed.

C. Revisions to the Refrigerant and Appliance Sales Restrictions in 
Sec.  82.154

1. Background
    Under the prior regulations at Sec.  82.154(m), the sale or 
distribution of a refrigerant containing a class I or class II 
substance, such as R-12 or refrigerant blends that include HCFCs, is 
restricted to technicians certified under sections 608 or 609 of the 
CAA. The sale or distribution of any class I or class II substance 
suitable for use in an MVAC that is in a container of less than 20 
pounds may only be sold to technicians certified under section 609.
    The prior regulations at Sec.  82.154(g) also restricted the sale 
of used ODS refrigerant sold for reuse unless certain conditions are 
met, the most important of which is that the refrigerant has been 
reclaimed. Sections 82.154(j) and (k) prohibited the sale of appliances 
containing an ODS refrigerant unless the appliance has a servicing 
aperture or process stub to facilitate the removal of refrigerant at 
servicing and disposal. Section 82.154(p) prohibited the manufacture or 
import of one-time expansion devices that contain any refrigerant (ODS 
or non-ODS), other than exempted refrigerants.
2. Extension to Substitute Refrigerants
    Through today's rule, EPA is extending the sales restriction to 
HFCs and other non-exempt substitute refrigerants. This sales 
restriction applies to non-exempt substitute refrigerants sold in all 
sizes of containers for use in all types of appliances, including 
MVACs. EPA is creating an exception for small cans (two pounds or less) 
of refrigerant intended to service MVACs, so long as the cans are 
equipped with a self-sealing valve. EPA is also restricting the sale of 
used non-exempt substitute refrigerants.
    Since 1993, EPA has restricted the sale of ODS refrigerant to 
certified technicians as a means of ensuring that only qualified 
individuals--those who have sufficient knowledge of the safe handling 
regulations--actually handle refrigerant. EPA considers the restriction 
on the sale of ODS refrigerant to be important for ensuring compliance 
with and aiding enforcement of the regulations issued under sections 
608 and 609 of the CAA. This requirement also relates to EPA's Next 
Generation Compliance strategy since compliance with this requirement 
is largely carried out by distributors who sell refrigerant to 
technicians. In this rulemaking, EPA is choosing to apply the same 
requirements for sales of ODS and non-exempt substitutes. Limiting the 
sale of non-exempt substitute refrigerants to technicians who have 
demonstrated knowledge of safe handling practices helps minimize the 
release of refrigerants during the maintenance, servicing, and repair 
of appliances containing such substitute refrigerants. A sales 
restriction for non-exempt substitute refrigerants also provides 
important support to the extension of the technician certification 
requirements to individuals working with non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants.
    Generally, commenters are supportive of EPA's proposal and agree 
with EPA's rationale. Commenters who are generally opposed to extending 
EPA's regulations under section 608 to substitutes did not specifically 
raise the issue of whether EPA had authority to extend the sales 
restriction to HFCs and other non-exempt substitute refrigerants. EPA 
addresses the general comments about its authority for extending the 
refrigerant management regulations, as appropriate, to non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants in Section III of this notice. Some commenters 
stated that the sales restriction should be extended to hydrocarbons. 
These commenters noted that the flammability of these refrigerants 
poses far greater risks than that of R-22 when handling it and 
servicing equipment. Because the sales restriction is an element of the 
broader technician certification provisions of subpart F, EPA responds 
to comments concerning the sale and

[[Page 82306]]

handling of flammable refrigerants in Section IV.I of this notice.
3. Sales of Small Cans
a. What is EPA finalizing concerning small cans of MVAC refrigerant?
    Historically, individuals have been able to purchase small cans of 
non-ODS refrigerant to service their own vehicles. This do-it-yourself 
(DIY) servicing is unique in the air-conditioning and refrigeration 
sector to the MVAC end-use. As mentioned previously in this notice, EPA 
is finalizing the extension of the sales restriction to non-exempt 
substitutes. EPA is also finalizing an exemption from the sales 
restriction for small cans of MVAC refrigerant that are manufactured 
with a self-sealing valve to minimize the release of refrigerant during 
servicing because the Agency has concluded that restricting the sale of 
small cans of refrigerant for use in servicing MVAC would be 
unnecessarily burdensome. If EPA extended the sales restriction to 
substitute refrigerants without exempting small cans, the sale of both 
small containers of refrigerant, which are used for DIY servicing of 
MVAC systems, and typical size (e.g., 25- or 30-pound) cylinders of 
refrigerant used by technicians to service MVAC and other appliances 
would be limited to certified technicians.
    In the United States, HFC-134a has been used in all newly 
manufactured vehicles with air-conditioning systems since 1994 and 
almost all small cans of refrigerant sold for MVAC DIY use are cans of 
HFC-134a.\18\ More recently, the SNAP program listed HFO-1234yf, HFC-
152a, and carbon dioxide (CO2 or R-744), three climate-
friendly alternatives for MVAC, as acceptable subject to use conditions 
for use in new light-duty vehicles. Manufacturers are currently 
producing or are actively developing light-duty models using these 
three refrigerants. As finalized in this rule, the exception 
for small cans would apply to HFC-134a, HFO-1234yf, HFC-152a, as well 
as any additional MVAC refrigerants listed as acceptable subject to use 
conditions under SNAP that are not exempt from the venting prohibition. 
Because CO2 is exempt from the venting prohibition, it is 
not subject to the sales restrictions and certification is not required 
for its purchase in any size container. EPA has not received a 
submission of a unique fitting for use on a small can of HFO-1234yf; 
therefore, at this time this refrigerant cannot be sold in small cans 
to individuals, regardless of the exemption finalized in this rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \18\ ODS refrigerant for MVAC servicing that is sold in 
cylinders less than 20 pounds is currently restricted to technicians 
certified under section 609 of the CAA.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Based on the NPD Automotive Aftermarket Industry Monitor, 2008, 
approximately 14 million small cans are sold each year. If EPA were to 
extend the sales restriction to small cans without the exemption for 
small cans with self-sealing valves, individuals who normally service 
their own MVAC would be required to either seek certification under 
section 609 or take their car to a technician to be serviced. EPA 
estimates that the cost associated with those two actions could be as 
much as $1.5 billion per year. For more details, see Analysis of the 
Economic Impact and Benefits of Final Revisions to the National 
Recycling and Emission Reduction Program in the docket.
    EPA's proposal to exempt small cans of refrigerant for use in MVAC 
systems that are equipped with a self-sealing valve was informed by 
input from the Auto Care Association and the Automotive Refrigeration 
Products Institute, two associations that represent the vast majority 
of manufacturers of small cans in the United States. EPA also reached 
out to CARB and other industry representatives as discussed in the 
NPRM. Based on California's experience, EPA proposed the exemption for 
small cans equipped with self-sealing valves as an effective way to 
reduce emissions of HFCs used to service MVACs without limiting sales 
to certified technicians. These valves reduce the release of 
refrigerant during servicing and reduce releases from the can after the 
servicing is complete.
    Manufacturers already produce small cans with self-sealing valves 
to meet California's requirements. According to industry 
representatives and CARB, self-sealing valves are estimated to cost 
$0.25 per can. In light of that information, EPA does not find it to be 
unduly burdensome to add self-sealing valves to all small cans produced 
for sale in the United States, especially as compared to an extension 
of the sales restriction that would prohibit the sale of small cans to 
non-certified persons. Because they are incorporated into the product, 
consistent with EPA's Next Generation Compliance principles, the 
individual servicing her or his personal MVAC would reduce emissions 
without any additional effort or training, as compared to using small 
cans of refrigerant on the market today that do not employ a self-
sealing valve. Thus, EPA has determined that self-sealing valves are an 
effective mechanism for controlling the release of non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants to the atmosphere, making it unnecessary to 
impose burdensome training and/or certification requirements more 
broadly at this time.
    As described in Analysis of the Economic Impact and Benefits of 
Final Revisions to the National Recycling and Emission Reduction 
Program, EPA estimates that a nationwide requirement to use self-
sealing valves on all small cans will reduce emissions by more than 
0.657 MMTCO2eq. per year. EPA also anticipates there could 
be additional emissions reductions to the extent the self-sealing 
valves allow individuals to store and re-use the same can of 
refrigerant, reducing the need to buy additional small cans. Currently, 
a small can is typically used in one vehicle and then discarded with 
some refrigerant still remaining in the can -from which it will 
ultimately be released to the environment. EPA estimates that the 
annual cost for this requirement would be approximately $3 million with 
the cost decreasing over time as manufacturers increase production and 
achieve greater economies of scale.
    EPA is finalizing a new appendix E establishing a standard for 
self-sealing valves that is based largely on CARB's Test Procedure for 
Leaks from Small Containers of Automotive Refrigerant, TP-503, as 
amended January 5, 2010. To be consistent with the CARB standard and 
existing small cans that are already on the market, the leakage rate 
may not exceed 3.00 grams per year when the self-sealing valve is 
closed. This leakage rate applies to full containers as well as 
containers that have been used and are partially full.
b. How is EPA responding to comments about this topic?
    EPA received comments from several manufacturers, distributors, and 
retailers of automotive refrigerant, and associations representing 
them, in support of requiring that the small cans be outfitted with 
self-sealing valves and not restricting the sale of small cans to 
certified technicians. EPA also received comments from multiple 
industry associations and CARB supporting these provisions.
    Two environmental organizations were opposed to the proposed 
exemption for small cans equipped with self-sealing valves. The 
commenters recommend that only certified technicians be allowed to 
purchase MVAC refrigerant, regardless of the container size. The 
commenters believe that the DIY community is a large source of 
emissions of automotive refrigerant. Specifically, they claimed that 
emissions occur because DIYers are untrained in the use of the product, 
they

[[Page 82307]]

vent remaining refrigerant from the MVAC prior to recharging it because 
they do not own recovery and recycling equipment, and they are merely 
filling, rather than repairing, a leaking system. One of the commenters 
estimated the annual emissions of automotive refrigerant at 18 
MMTCO2eq.
    EPA responds that DIY servicing is unique to the MVAC end-use, as 
discussed previously in this notice. EPA did not propose to restrict 
the sale of small cans of MVAC refrigerant to certified technicians, 
explaining its concerns that such a requirement could be unnecessarily 
burdensome (80 FR 69479; Nov. 9, 2015). If EPA were to prohibit DIY 
servicing, individuals who normally service their own MVAC would be 
required to either seek certification under section 609 or take their 
car to a technician to be serviced. EPA estimates that the cost 
associated with those two actions could be as much as $1.5 billion per 
year. In the short term, EPA has concluded that requiring small cans of 
refrigerant to have self-sealing valves is an effective mechanism for 
controlling the release of refrigerant to the atmosphere by DIYers from 
the can of refrigerant. In the longer term, the transition to new MVAC 
refrigerants will reduce emissions of high GWP refrigerants from DIY 
servicing at little to no cost for DIYers.
    EPA has estimated that the requirement for self-sealing valves on 
small cans of refrigerant will reduce refrigerant emissions by 0.657 
MMTCO2eq. per year compared to the current status. Self-
sealing valves prevent emissions of the gas remaining in the can after 
the system is fully filled. Currently, if a system takes 1.5 cans to 
fill, the DIYer will have no choice but to allow the extra 0.5 can to 
be released to the environment after detaching it. Furthermore, because 
self-sealing valves allow individuals to store and re-use the same can 
of refrigerant, there may be less need to buy additional small cans. 
CARB has claimed benefits of 0.25-0.47 MMTCO2eq for their small can 
program in 2020. However, because their program includes more than just 
self-sealing valves (e.g., refundable deposits), the benefits are not 
directly comparable. CARB has noted a reduction in sales of small cans 
of 1.1 million to 1.9 million cans, which they attribute to the 
effectiveness in the valves and the displacement of new purchases by 
later use of the remaining heel.
    EPA received one comment from a chemical manufacturer stating that 
they would support the continued sale of small cans without self-
sealing valves but limit those sales to certified technicians under 
section 609. EPA does not see the benefit of restricting the sale of 
small cans to people certified under section 609 since small cans of 
refrigerant that do not have self-sealing valves are inherently 
emissive. Being certified under section 609 would not prevent the 
emission of the refrigerant from the heel of the can.
    Commenters who oppose the sale of small cans generally do support 
the requirement to use self-sealing valves if there is not a total ban 
on sales. One commenter also strongly recommended that EPA allow the 
sale of small cans of HFO-1234yf and HFC-152a so that DIY consumers 
will not be enticed to recharge their HFO-1234yf system with HFC-134a 
for the lack of any alternative. EPA responds that the regulations at 
Sec.  82.154(c)(1)(x) as revised in this action include any non-exempt 
substitute refrigerant that is intended for use in an MVAC. Therefore, 
small cans of HFO-1234yf and HFC-152a would be exempt from the sales 
restriction but also have the same requirements for unique fittings and 
self-sealing valves under section 608. As discussed previously in this 
notice, HFO-1234yf cannot currently be sold in small cans because a 
submission has not yet been made to SNAP for a unique fitting for small 
cans of HFO-1234yf. This action under section 608 does not prohibit the 
sale of any MVAC refrigerant alternative in a small can; however, 
refrigerants must be listed as acceptable or acceptable subject to use 
conditions for MVAC and unique fittings for small cans must be 
established under section 612 of the CAA prior to use\19\.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \19\ ``Use'' is defined at 40 CFR 82.172 to include ``use in a 
manufacturing process or product, in consumption by the end-user, or 
in intermediate uses, such as formulation or packaging for other 
subsequent uses.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Small cans of refrigerant sold for MVAC servicing are different 
from containers of refrigerant sold for stationary refrigeration and 
air-conditioning in that the small cans for MVAC are required to have 
unique fittings. The SNAP program requires as a use condition for MVAC 
refrigerants that the container and the MVAC system use unique fittings 
to prevent cross-contamination. If used properly, the unique fittings 
will not allow for the introduction of HFC-134a refrigerant into a 
system using any other refrigerant, including CFC-12, HFO-1234yf, or 
another approved substitute refrigerant. Using an adapter or 
deliberately modifying a fitting to use a different refrigerant is a 
violation of the SNAP use conditions. Unique fittings will also reduce 
the likelihood that a small can will be used to service appliances 
other than MVACs that use non-exempt substitute refrigerants, which 
would be in contravention of the sales restriction.
    Refrigerant sold for MVAC servicing is also different than other 
refrigerant because of the limited types of equipment that could be 
serviced with a small can. First, many household appliances that use 
refrigerants are hermetically sealed, like a refrigerator. Someone who 
wanted to open that appliance would need greater skill and specialized 
equipment to service the appliance since there would not be a servicing 
port to access. This makes it less likely that homeowners would attempt 
to use a small can to service other small household appliances. Larger 
appliances that use HFC-134a that are not hermetically sealed, like a 
reach-in cooler, would need more than one small can to fully charge the 
appliance. Because of the cost and the added effort to use multiple 
small cans to charge a larger appliance, it is not practical for 
someone to use a small can. This would likely lead the person to 
purchase a larger container of refrigerant, which would require that 
the person be a certified technician.
    Commenters, including CARB, supported the use of CARB's standards. 
One commenter representing the manufacturers of small cans noted that 
this standard was developed in a cooperative effort between CARB and 
the refrigerant industry and that the procedures described in the 
standard have been used since 2010 to certify small cans sold in the 
California market. The commenter also stated that adopting the 
California standard would also allow for a quicker transition to cans 
with self-sealing valves, while development and adoption of a new 
standard would require a longer transition time and therefore, EPA 
should provide a later compliance date.
    EPA agrees with the commenters and has determined that the 
establishment of the standard in appendix E, which is based on CARB's 
Test Procedure for Leaks from Small Containers of Automotive 
Refrigerant, TP-503, is appropriate. This provides for one uniform 
standard across the nation, thus simplifying compliance and avoiding 
potential burdens associated with complying with two different 
standards, one in California and another in the rest of the country. No 
commenter identified any other standard for self-sealing valves. EPA is 
finalizing the provisions in the newly created appendix E without any 
changes from the proposal.
    EPA requested comment on whether the final rule should exempt the 
sale of

[[Page 82308]]

HFC-134a only or of all MVAC substitute refrigerants in small cans. One 
commenter responded that the exemption should apply to all refrigerants 
for use in MVAC and MVAC-like appliances because the rationale applies 
equally to other MVAC refrigerants. The minimal leakage and venting 
from small cans of other refrigerants is relatively the same as from 
small cans of HFC-l34a, and the commenters know of no technical reason 
why a self-sealing valve could not be created for those cans also. EPA 
appreciates the commenters' support for the proposal to apply the 
exemption to all MVAC substitute refrigerants. EPA is finalizing the 
exemption as proposed. It will apply to all MVAC substitute 
refrigerants, except those exempt from the venting prohibition. EPA 
also notes that refrigerants for use in MVAC-like appliances are not 
exempt from the sales prohibition, consistent with EPA's approach to 
MVAC-like appliances historically. Under section 609, technician 
certification is required only when a person is servicing an MVAC 
system for consideration whereas MVAC-like appliances must always be 
serviced by a certified technician.
4. Servicing Apertures and Process Stubs
    EPA is finalizing revisions that require that new appliances 
containing a non-exempt substitute refrigerant (including a used non-
exempt substitute refrigerant) have a servicing aperture or process 
stub to facilitate the recovery of refrigerant at servicing and 
disposal. Including these design features on appliances containing such 
substitutes facilitates compliance with the section 608(c) prohibition 
against the venting, release, or disposal of substitute refrigerants 
into the environment. These access points allow for the proper 
evacuation or recovery of substitute refrigerant, preventing releases 
to the atmosphere in the course of maintaining, servicing, repairing, 
or disposing of the appliance. Without these access points, it would be 
harder for persons maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of 
such appliances to properly evacuate the refrigerant in accordance with 
Sec.  82.156(b). For example, these access points provide the person 
disposing of an appliance the opportunity to properly remove the 
refrigerant prior to crushing or shredding and thus avoid a knowing 
release. EPA did not receive comments on this provision. The 
manufacture or import of one-time expansion devices that contain any 
refrigerant (ODS or non-ODS), other than exempted refrigerants, was 
prohibited under the prior regulations. One-time expansion devices, by 
design, release their refrigerant charge to the environment in order to 
provide a cooling effect. Examples include self-chilled beverage 
containers that must be disposed of or recycled after each use, as well 
as reusable containers. EPA is finalizing minor edits to this 
prohibition that reference the list of exempt refrigerants as proposed. 
EPA did not receive any comments on this provision.

D. Revisions to the Safe Disposal Provisions in Sec.  82.155

1. Background
    In the 1993 Rule, EPA established specific requirements for the 
safe disposal of small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances 
containing ODS refrigerant since they typically enter the waste stream 
with the refrigerant charge intact. Under the prior rules at Sec.  
82.156(f), persons who took the final step in the disposal process of 
such appliances had to either recover any remaining refrigerant in the 
appliance or verify that the refrigerant has previously been recovered 
from the appliance or shipment of appliances. If they verified that the 
refrigerant has been recovered previously, they had to retain a signed 
statement attesting to this or a contract from the supplier of the 
appliances for three years. While recovery equipment used to remove the 
refrigerant had to be certified under Sec.  82.158, persons recovering 
the refrigerant at disposal did not need to be certified technicians.
2. Extension to Substitute Refrigerants
    EPA is extending the preexisting safe disposal provisions 
previously found at Sec.  82.156(f) for small appliances, MVACs, and 
MVAC-like appliances containing ODS refrigerants to the same types of 
appliances that contain non-exempt substitute refrigerants. Generally, 
commenters support EPA's proposal and agree with EPA's rationale. 
Commenters who stated that EPA does not have authority to extend 
section 608 regulations to substitutes were silent on the specific 
issue of the safe disposal provisions. A fuller and more general 
discussion of the authority for this action is found in Section III of 
this notice.
    Safely disposing of both ODS and substitute refrigerant in small 
appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances is important for the 
environment and public health. According to EPA's Vintaging Model,\20\ 
EPA projects that the GWP-weighted amount of refrigerant contained 
within MVACs and small appliances in use in 2015 was more than 260 
MMTCO2eq and 175 MMTCO2eq, respectively. This 
constitutes 12 and 8 percent, respectively, of the total GWP-weighted 
amount of refrigerant contained within all appliances in the United 
States in 2015. On an ODP-weighted basis, EPA estimates that more than 
1,400 ODP-weighted metric tons of refrigerant were contained within 
small appliances in 2015, representing 5 percent of the refrigerant 
contained within all appliances in the United States. While EPA 
projects that these amounts will decrease over time as zero-ODP and 
low-GWP substitute refrigerants penetrate the market, the need for 
robust safe disposal requirements remains because these appliances are 
used for a long time. One commenter agreed, noting that forty percent 
of the refrigerators sent to their recovery facility were manufactured 
prior to 1993 and contain CFCs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \20\ EPA's Vintaging Model estimates the annual chemical 
emissions from industry sectors that have historically used ODS, 
including air-conditioning and refrigeration. The model uses 
information on the market size and growth for each of the end-uses, 
as well as a history and projections of the market transition from 
ODS to alternatives. The model tracks emissions of annual 
``vintages'' of new equipment that enter into operation by 
incorporating information on estimates of the quantity of equipment 
or products sold, serviced, and retired or converted each year, and 
the quantity of the compound required to manufacture, charge, and/or 
maintain the equipment.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    One commenter approves of the clear signal that the rule sends for 
appliances containing exempt refrigerants. However, this commenter asks 
how a recipient of a component of such an appliance for disposal would 
be aware that the subpart F requirements do not apply to that 
component. EPA responds that the only likely exempt refrigerant in that 
scenario is a small appliance containing a flammable refrigerant. As 
required under the SNAP use conditions, the component would have 
markings such as red tubing or a warning label that would distinguish 
that component from other components. The labels must be placed on the 
outside of the appliance, on the inside of the appliance near the 
compressor, on or near any evaporators that can be contacted by the 
consumer, near the machine compartment, and near any and all exposed 
refrigerant tubing.
3. Clarifications to the Existing Program
    The safe disposal regulations require actions of three separate 
groups of people: The final processor, the supplier of appliances for 
disposal, and the person who recovers the refrigerant. The final 
processor is the person who takes the final step in the disposal 
process,

[[Page 82309]]

typically a scrap recycler or landfill operator. Final processors may 
receive appliances with a charge or without a charge. The supplier is 
the person dropping off the appliance (or shipment of appliances) for 
disposal. The person who recovers the refrigerant may be the final 
processor, the supplier, or a separate third entity. EPA is finalizing 
as proposed regulatory text to help clarify the different actors.
    Refrigerant may be recovered at any stage in the disposal process, 
even prior to the supplier taking possession. As EPA stated in the 1993 
Rule, ``the supplier to the final processor does not have to remove the 
refrigerant but then must assure, through an accompanying 
certification, that refrigerant has been removed earlier in the 
disposal chain. Any copies of the certificate of removal provided to 
the supplier could be passed on to the final processor.'' (58 FR 28704-
28705). EPA's intent has been to provide the flexibility needed to 
permit the recovery of refrigerant by the entity in the disposal chain 
that can accomplish that task most efficiently while at the same time 
establishing a mechanism to help ensure that the refrigerant has not 
simply been illegally vented. This flexibility is important for the 
disposal sector, which is highly diverse and decentralized. This signed 
certification serves both goals.
    EPA is revising the regulations to clarify what must be in the 
contract stating that refrigerant will be removed prior to delivery. 
EPA is replacing the word ``remove'' which appears repeatedly in these 
provisions with ``properly recover.'' These revisions clarify the 
provisions' intent that the refrigerant is recovered to the required 
evacuation levels using the appropriate equipment. EPA is also stating 
explicitly that the contract should provide that the supplier of the 
appliances is responsible for recovering any remaining refrigerant or 
verifying that the refrigerant has already been evacuated. As discussed 
in the 1993 Rule, the supplier to the final processor does not have to 
remove the refrigerant but must assure, through accompanying 
certifications, that the refrigerant has been removed earlier in the 
disposal chain.
    EPA notes here that a contract is appropriate for businesses to 
streamline transactions in cases where they maintain long-standing 
business relationships. A contract would be entered into prior to the 
transaction, such as during the set-up of a customer account, not 
simultaneously with the transaction. A signed statement is more 
appropriate for one-off transactions between the supplier and the final 
processor.
    EPA is also clarifying the format that the records required under 
this section may take. In general, where the regulations in subpart F 
require an individual to maintain records, the Agency intends for them 
to do so either in an electronic or paper format, preferably in an 
electronic system. EPA is clarifying this point explicitly in the 
recordkeeping provision at Sec.  82.155(c).
    One commenter stated that the new Sec.  82.155 will remain unclear 
if EPA does not review the relevant applicability determinations for 
potential inclusion in the regulatory text. EPA responds that 
applicability determinations are only applicable to the person 
requesting the determination from EPA. However, in response to the 
comment, EPA has reviewed and is incorporating information from 
specific applicability determinations into the regulatory text where 
the Agency finds it will increase clarity to the industry as a whole.
    Two applicability determinations address the situation where 
refrigerant has leaked out of an appliance prior to arriving at the 
final disposer. Applicability determination number 608-8 addresses 
whether a verification statement is needed where all of the refrigerant 
has already leaked out due to a break in the refrigerant circuit. 
Applicability determination number 608-9 addresses whether the term 
leaked out includes instances in which the line has been cut prior to 
the delivery of the appliance. EPA's determination in 1993 was that if 
all the refrigerant has leaked out, the signed statement need not 
contain the name and address of the person who performed the recovery 
as no such person exists. The signed statement must, however, clearly 
state that all the refrigerant in the appliance had already leaked out. 
EPA also determined that ``leaked out'' means those situations in which 
the refrigerant has escaped because of system failures, accidents, or 
other unavoidable occurrences not caused by a person's deliberate acts 
or negligence, such as deliberately cutting refrigerant lines. Scrap 
processors may accept appliances whose lines have been cut as long as 
they obtain a signed statement from the supplier. This includes 
appliances that have been vandalized. EPA is incorporating information 
from these determinations into the regulatory text at Sec.  
82.155(b)(2)(iii).
    Two applicability determinations address whether the verification 
statements are needed for appliances that arrive at the final processor 
in various conditions. Applicability determination number 608-8 
pertains to the situation where the entire refrigeration circuit has 
been removed from the appliance prior to delivery. Applicability 
determination number C040001 pertains to (1) receipt of an appliance in 
which some components of the refrigerant circuit have been removed; (2) 
receipt of portions of the refrigerant circuit (e.g., compressor); (3) 
receipt of an appliance in which the entire refrigerant circuit has 
been removed; and (4) receipt of an appliance which has previously been 
through a process in which refrigerant would have been released or 
recovered.
    EPA's determinations in 1993 and 1996 were that the first two 
situations would be subject to the safe disposal regulations and the 
third and fourth situations would not be. Any equipment that contained 
refrigerant is subject to the safe disposal requirements. This includes 
a complete appliance with an intact refrigerant circuit, an appliance 
with a broken refrigerant circuit such as one with a component removed, 
or a single component that would contain refrigerant in an appliance. 
In all such instances the intent of the safe disposal program--to 
verify that the refrigerant was recovered properly--still applies.
    Consistent with these determinations, EPA interprets its 
regulations such that items that have had the entire refrigerant 
circuit removed, such as the outer housing of an air conditioner or the 
structural shell of a refrigerator, are not subject to the safe 
disposal regulations, as these items do not meet the definition of 
appliance. Similarly, shredded material, baled scrap, or crushed cars 
are not subject to the safe disposal regulations. The person 
responsible for compliance with the safe disposal regulations is the 
entity upstream that conducted the final processing where the appliance 
was shredded, crushed, flattened, baled, or otherwise demolished and 
where the refrigerant would have been previously recovered in 
accordance with the regulations.
4. Hazardous Wastes
    One commenter requested that EPA exclude hydrocarbon refrigerants 
that are vented from the definition of hazardous waste. The commenter 
reacted to a discussion in the proposed rule that household appliances 
containing a hydrocarbon refrigerant would be exempt as a household 
hazardous waste under the federal hazardous waste regulations at 40 CFR 
261.4(b)(1) (although States may have more stringent regulations) and 
therefore, could generally be vented upon disposal under both RCRA and 
CAA regulations. The commenter notes

[[Page 82310]]

that a household-type appliance may also originate from institutional 
and commercial settings and therefore would not qualify for the 
household waste exclusion under RCRA.
    EPA responds that these refrigerants may be subject to regulation 
as hazardous waste, with the exception of refrigerants that are 
directly reused. The Agency did not propose to amend the regulations 
issued under RCRA in the proposal to this final action and has not 
undertaken the analysis to do so at this time. This comment is also 
outside the scope of this rulemaking, which relates to regulations 
under section 608 of the CAA, not to regulations under RCRA.
5. Restructuring and Edits for Readability
    EPA is creating a single section, Sec.  82.155, for all safe 
disposal provisions, including the recordkeeping and reporting 
requirements. One commenter supported moving the refrigerant recovery 
requirements for small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances into 
a single section. The commenter suggested the section be titled ``Safe 
Disposal of Refrigerant'' rather than ``Safe Disposal of Appliances'' 
as they stated that the CAA does not contain the concept of safe 
disposal of appliances. While it is true that section 608(c) is 
concerned with the entry of refrigerants into the environment, it 
addresses such releases in the context of ``disposing of an 
appliance.'' EPA disagrees that it is necessary to change the name of 
the section. However, EPA has reorganized the section to put up front 
the general requirement that refrigerant be evacuated from appliances 
before describing the requirements of the final processor.

E. Revisions to the Evacuation Requirements in Sec.  82.156

1. Background
    Under EPA's existing regulations at Sec.  82.156(a), ODS 
refrigerant must be transferred to a system receiver or to a certified 
recovery and/or recycling machine before appliances are opened for 
maintenance, service, or repair. The same requirement applies to 
appliances that are to be disposed of, except for small appliances, 
MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances which were subject to separate 
requirements under Sec.  82.156(g) and (h). To ensure that the maximum 
amount of refrigerant is captured rather than released, EPA requires 
that air-conditioning and refrigeration appliances be evacuated to 
specified levels of vacuum.
2. Extension to Substitute Refrigerants
    EPA is finalizing revisions in this action that extend the existing 
requirements at Sec.  82.156 to appliances containing non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants. Therefore, before appliances containing non-
exempt substitute refrigerants are opened for maintenance, service, or 
repair, the refrigerant in either the entire appliance or the affected 
part (when it can be isolated) must be transferred to a system receiver 
or to a certified recovery and/or recycling machine. The same 
requirements apply to appliances that are to be disposed of, except for 
small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances, which have separate 
requirements.
    Generally, commenters were supportive of EPA's proposal and agreed 
with EPA's rationale. Commenters who stated that EPA does not have 
authority to extend section 608 regulations to substitutes were silent 
on the specific issue of evacuation requirements. EPA addresses general 
comments about its authority for this action in Section III of this 
notice.
i. Evacuation Levels for Appliances Other Than Small Appliances, MVACs, 
and MVAC-Like Appliances
    EPA is finalizing revisions to Sec.  82.156(a) such that appliances 
other than small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances containing 
non-exempt substitute refrigerants must be evacuated to the levels 
established for CFCs and HCFCs with similar saturation pressures. These 
levels are based on the saturation pressures of the refrigerant, which 
is a characteristic independent of whether or not the refrigerant is an 
ozone-depleting substance. As is the case for CFCs and HCFCs, the 
appropriate evacuation levels for HFCs and other substitutes depends 
upon the size of the appliance and the date of manufacture of the 
recovery and/or recycling equipment. EPA did not receive comment 
expressing any technical concerns with extending the evacuation 
requirements to substitute refrigerants. Some commenters stated that 
they currently treat ODS and HFC appliances in the same manner, 
including the level of evacuation.
ii. Evacuation Levels for Small Appliances
    EPA is finalizing revisions to Sec.  82.156(b) to establish the 
same evacuation requirements for servicing small appliances charged 
with non-exempt substitute refrigerants as had previously existed only 
for small appliances charged with ODS refrigerants. Technicians opening 
small appliances for service, maintenance, or repair are required to 
use equipment certified either under appendix B, based on AHRI 740, or 
under appendix C, Method for Testing Recovery Devices for Use with 
Small Appliances, to recover the refrigerant.
    Technicians using equipment certified under appendix B have to pull 
a four-inch vacuum. Technicians using equipment certified under 
appendix C have to capture 90 percent of the refrigerant in the 
appliance if the compressor is operational, and 80 percent of the 
refrigerant if the compressor is not operational. Because the 
percentage of refrigerant recovered is very difficult to measure on any 
given job, technicians would have to adhere to the servicing procedure 
certified for that recovery system under appendix C to ensure that they 
achieve the required recovery efficiencies.
    One commenter specifically expressed support for extending the 
evacuation requirements to small appliances charged with non-exempt 
substitutes but not to small appliances containing exempt refrigerants. 
The commenter notes that the technician would be required to use 
appropriately certified equipment to recover the refrigerant. EPA did 
not propose to require the recovery of exempt refrigerants and agrees 
that it would not be appropriate to finalize such a requirement in this 
rule, as the venting prohibition does not apply to these substances.
    EPA is also revising Sec.  82.156(b) to establish the same 
evacuation requirements for disposing of small appliances that are 
charged with non-exempt substitute refrigerants as currently exist for 
small appliances charged with ODS refrigerants. Small appliances must 
have 80 or 90 percent of the refrigerant in them recovered (depending 
on whether or not the compressor was operational) or be evacuated to 
four inches of mercury vacuum.
    EPA is also finalizing revisions to the regulations to simplify the 
evacuation requirements for small appliances so that they are the same 
for both servicing and disposal. This new provision applies to both ODS 
and non-exempt substitute refrigerants. Prior to this rulemaking, a 
technician servicing a small appliance containing an ODS needed to only 
recover 80 percent of the refrigerant when using recovery equipment 
manufactured before November 15, 1993. At the same time, there was no 
established level of evacuation in the disposal requirements when using 
pre-1993 recovery

[[Page 82311]]

equipment. EPA is allowing that 80 percent level of evacuation for 
disposal to simplify and unify the requirements. This revision will 
have minimal effect as few people continue to use recovery equipment 
manufactured prior to that date.
    One commenter stated that there should not continue to be separate 
evacuation levels for recovery equipment manufactured before 1993. This 
commenter saw such equipment being used only rarely and only to avoid 
the deeper evacuation requirements. This commenter also stated that 
pulling a 4-inch vacuum on a small appliance is not equal to 80 percent 
refrigerant recovery. EPA responds that the proposal explicitly stated 
that EPA was not proposing to amend the required levels of evacuation 
in Table 1, change the circumstances that would allow for alternate 
evacuation levels, or to revise those alternate levels. EPA understands 
the concerns raised by the commenter, but removing the older evacuation 
levels at this time is beyond the scope of this rulemaking.
iii. Evacuation Levels for MVACs and MVAC-Like Appliances
    Technicians repairing or servicing MVACs for consideration and 
MVAC-like appliances containing an ODS or a non-exempt substitute 
refrigerant are subject to the requirement to ``properly use'' (as 
defined at Sec.  82.32(e)) servicing equipment approved pursuant to 
Sec.  82.36(a). All persons recovering refrigerant from MVACs and MVAC-
like appliances for purposes of disposal of these appliances must 
reduce the system pressure to or below 102 mm of mercury vacuum or use 
refrigerant recycling equipment dedicated for use with MVAC and MVAC-
like appliances approved pursuant to Sec.  82.36(a). The proposed rule 
incorrectly extended the MVAC servicing requirement to all persons, not 
just those servicing MVACs for consideration. EPA has revised the final 
rule to properly distinguish between the two.
    EPA received a comment that section 608 of the CAA does not apply 
to MVACs. As discussed above in Section III of this notice, section 
608(c) provides EPA authority to regulate the disposal of MVACs, which 
are a type of appliance. With respect to disposal of MVACs, this final 
rule, like the prior regulations, only specifies evacuation levels for 
such appliances when they are disposed.
3. Records for Disposal of Appliances With a Charge of More Than 5 and 
Less Than 50 Pounds
    EPA is adding new recordkeeping requirements at Sec.  82.156(a)(3) 
for the disposal of appliances with a full charge of more than five and 
less than 50 pounds of either ODS or non-exempt substitute refrigerant. 
Most appliances this size are disassembled in the field and as such 
must have the refrigerant recovered in the field. EPA is requiring 
records that document the name of the company that employs the 
technician, the location of the appliance being disposed of, the date 
of recovery, and the type of refrigerant removed from each appliance 
prior to disposal. The technician who evacuated the refrigerant, or the 
company employing that technician, must also maintain records 
indicating the quantity and type of refrigerant transferred for 
reclamation, the company that they transferred the gas to, and the date 
of the transfer. The technician, or the company employing the 
technician, would be required to maintain these records for three 
years. By company employing the technician, EPA means the person paying 
the technician's salary or wage, not the appliance owner or operator 
who has hired the technician for that specific service. The finalized 
regulations have one change compared to the proposal: EPA is not 
requiring records indicating the amount and type of refrigerant 
recovered from each separate appliance but rather the total amount and 
types recovered from all appliances disposed of in each calendar month. 
As described in more detail below, this modification from the proposed 
revision was made after consideration of public comments.
    Comments in support of this proposed recordkeeping requirement 
agreed with EPA's goal of improving the enforceability of the venting 
prohibition. One commenter stated that EPA's rationale to improve 
compliance with the venting prohibition and facilitate enforcement 
against those who do vent is insufficient and not adequately supported 
in the record. Another commenter believes that venting is not as 
prevalent as EPA thinks it is and that to the extent that it does 
occur, it is done by individuals who are not certified technicians.
    EPA responds that the Agency has heard from people throughout the 
HVAC/R industry that venting regularly happens in appliances with more 
than 5 and less than 50 pounds of refrigerant. One commenter to this 
rule who regularly addresses contractor and service technician groups 
hears from them that the venting prohibition is widely disregarded. At 
a recent meeting EPA attended with air-conditioning and refrigeration 
contractors, an industry speaker asked attendees what percentage of 
technicians recover refrigerant. The estimates individuals offered were 
generally between 10 to 30 percent, with the caveat that recovery is 
much more common in the refrigeration industry than the air-
conditioning industry. EPA also receives numerous tips each year of 
someone cutting refrigerant lines to quickly and illegally dispose of 
appliances of this size. This feedback indicates a likelihood that 
venting regularly occurs.
    At times, including in public fora such as the public meeting in 
November 2014, stakeholders have requested that EPA increase 
enforcement of the venting prohibition. At that meeting, some 
stakeholders indicated that technicians will knowingly and illegally 
vent refrigerant if they think EPA will not bring an enforcement 
action. Multiple commenters urged the Agency to do a better job of 
enforcing the venting prohibition. This request came from a broad cross 
section of the air conditioning and refrigeration community including 
refrigerant reclaimers, recycling and recovery equipment certifiers, 
and appliance manufacturers and distributors. Some of these comments 
stated that good actors who comply with the law are placed at a 
competitive disadvantage by entities who can operate more cheaply by 
skipping the required recovery practices and choose instead to 
illegally vent refrigerant.
    The Agency has recently brought successful cases against 
individuals who have illegally vented refrigerant. However, the 
availability of the records required under this provision would enhance 
the Agency's ability to enforce the venting prohibition because these 
records could be used to demonstrate whether or not refrigerant has 
been recovered and sent for reclamation. If refrigerant cannot be 
accounted for, a company or technician may not be able to show that 
they complied with the venting prohibition.
    Some commenters who objected to this proposal stated that EPA did 
not provide sufficient justification and that EPA underestimated the 
burden to technicians. EPA responds that it is reasonable to require 
technicians and the companies employing technicians to maintain records 
of the amount of refrigerant that they recover and send for reclamation 
to enhance compliance with and enforceability of the venting 
prohibition. There is a significant environmental benefit to ensuring 
that ODS and HFC refrigerant are recovered from existing appliances of 
this size at the time of disposal. Using EPA's Vintaging Model, EPA 
estimated the number of appliances in this size category that are 
disposed of annually,

[[Page 82312]]

the full charge of those appliances, and the type of refrigerant they 
contain. EPA estimates that 7.3 million appliances of this size, with a 
total charge of 27,300 MT of refrigerant, are disposed of annually. 
This is equal to 960 ODP-weighted metric tons and 49.5 
MMTCO2eq. This represents 45 percent of the total amount of 
ODS and HFC refrigerants contained within all appliances from all size 
categories that are disposed of annually.
    EPA's benefits assessment for the proposed rule did not calculate 
any additional emissions reductions because the existing regulations 
already require recovery when appliances are disposed. However, in 
practical terms, requiring a record from each disposal event may drive 
more technicians to comply with the venting prohibition because the 
recordkeeping requirement places extra emphasis on the prohibition and 
on the risks of violating it. Even slight improvements to compliance 
could produce substantial environmental benefits.
    Another commenter stated that some IPR facilities may have hundreds 
or even a thousand of these smaller 5-50 pound appliances and that 
requiring additional tracking or recordkeeping would be unnecessary and 
overly burdensome. Furthermore, the commenter continued, because 
industry has the burden of proof that it is in compliance with the 
venting prohibition, industry has established basic recordkeeping that 
can meet the intent of this rule without requiring additional or 
duplicative information. A couple of commenters similarly noted that it 
is good business practice to recover refrigerant from such units prior 
to disposal.
    EPA responds that the incentive to illegally vent may be less if 
the owner has hundreds of appliances or uses in-house technicians. In 
that situation, it may be good business practice to recover refrigerant 
from a system being disposed of because that refrigerant can be reused 
in that owner's other appliances. The desire to fit more service calls 
into a day is also perhaps less when using in-house personnel. However, 
in cases where a technician is getting paid by the job, there is an 
economic incentive to minimize the time spent at each job-site which 
could include venting refrigerant. EPA disagrees that such facilities 
will require burdensome new tracking and recordkeeping. While a 
facility may have many appliances, the records that EPA is requiring in 
this rule are only necessary once--upon disposal--and only a small 
subset of the total number of appliances is likely to be disposed of in 
a given year.
    EPA has considered ways to minimize the burden to technicians in 
light of commenters' concerns. EPA is modifying the final rule so as to 
require records that are generated through normal operations in the 
field. Therefore, EPA is removing the requirement to determine the 
amount of refrigerant recovered from each appliance. Entities would not 
be required to weigh cylinders or otherwise calculate how much 
refrigerant they recovered at each and every site, which was the most 
time consuming element of the proposed recordkeeping requirements. 
Instead, EPA's goals can be achieved by requiring records of the amount 
recovered in each calendar month. This way, recovery cylinders can be 
weighed less frequently and at a centralized location or recovery 
cylinders can simply be tallied if the amount of refrigerant in them is 
known.
    One commenter encouraged EPA to consider exempting residential 
systems from the recordkeeping requirements due to the nature of their 
servicing. EPA responds that this recordkeeping requirement does not 
apply to regular servicing, only disposal, which occurs much less 
frequently.
    A couple of commenters requested clarification of who must maintain 
records. One commenter did not support this requirement because they 
believed it would require records be kept by homeowners. Another 
commenter suggested that third-party collection sites not have 
recordkeeping requirements so as to not discourage wholesalers and 
storefronts from serving in the collection chain.
    EPA responds that the recordkeeping requirements finalized for this 
provision apply solely to the company employing the technician (or to 
the technician, if operating independently) who is disposing of the 
appliance in both commercial and residential settings. This could be 
the owner or operator of the appliances or it could be a contractor who 
is hired to dispose of the appliance. When that company transfers the 
refrigerant for reclamation they may have to receive records from other 
entities (such as reclaimers or third-party collection sites) but those 
receiving refrigerant are not obligated to maintain any records 
themselves. EPA is not requiring any recordkeeping by the owners of the 
appliance unless the owner of the appliance and the employer of the 
technician are the same entity.
    One commenter suggested that EPA extend the proposed recordkeeping 
requirements to those who collect at least 100 pounds of refrigerant 
per year from small appliances. This commenter also suggested less 
detailed records be kept in such instance, specifically (1) the 
quantity of refrigerant recovered monthly, (2) the number of units 
disposed of, and (3) the name of the certified reclaimer to whom they 
transferred the recovered refrigerant. EPA disagrees that extending 
this requirement to small appliances is necessary. Certification and 
recordkeeping requirements currently exist for the disposal of small 
appliances. These records are held by the final disposer, who is best 
suited to maintain them. In addition, EPA does not require that small 
appliances be evacuated by a certified technician when being disposed 
of.
    Two commenters suggested that EPA extend the recordkeeping 
requirement to appliances containing more than 50 pounds as well. One 
of the commenters was concerned that contractors who collect from both 
smaller 5-50 pound and larger 50-plus pound appliances would have to 
separate or otherwise distinguish between what was recovered from each 
when transferring their refrigerant to a reclaimer. EPA finds that it 
would not be necessary to distinguish between these two size 
categories. A single record of all refrigerant transferred for 
reclamation is sufficient because EPA is not requiring an accounting of 
all recovered refrigerant as it moves through the market.
    After consideration of these comments, EPA is requiring records 
that are regularly generated by technicians or companies recovering 
refrigerant while disposing of appliances as a practical way to improve 
the Agency's ability to enforce the venting prohibition without 
imposing an undue burden on regulated entities that are already 
complying fully with the venting prohibition. To avoid imposing an 
undue burden on good actors, especially out in the field where there 
may already be pressure to cut corners, EPA is not finalizing the 
proposed requirement that records be kept of how much refrigerant is 
recovered from each appliance. Weighing or otherwise calculating the 
amount of refrigerant recovered at each job site could increase burden 
of these requirements by consuming additional time.
4. Clarifications and Edits for Readability
    As proposed, EPA is moving the provisions that were found in Sec.  
82.156 ``Required Practices'' in the prior rules into three separate 
sections: Sec.  82.155 to address the safe disposal of small 
appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like

[[Page 82313]]

appliances; Sec.  82.157 to address appliance maintenance and leak 
repair for appliances containing 50 or more pounds of refrigerant; and 
Sec.  82.156 to address the proper evacuation of refrigerant from 
appliances. These provisions tend to affect different stakeholders so 
separating them into different sections will make the required 
provisions easier to find.

F. Revisions to the Leak Repair Requirements in Sec.  82.157

1. Background
    A central component of EPA's longstanding program to properly 
manage ODS refrigerants is the requirement to repair leaking appliances 
within 30 days of determining that a certain leak rate has been 
exceeded. Owners and operators of appliances normally containing 50 or 
more pounds of ODS refrigerant must repair their appliances if they 
leak above a certain rate or take other actions to reduce the emissions 
such as retrofitting, retiring, or mothballing the appliance. Under the 
prior regulations, the leak rate at or above which action was required 
was 35 percent for commercial refrigeration appliances and IPR and 15 
percent for comfort cooling and other appliances. If the attempt to 
repair failed to bring the appliance's leak rate below the applicable 
leak rate within that time frame, the owner or operator must develop a 
retrofit or retirement plan and implement it within one year of the 
plan's date. Owners or operators also had the option of developing a 
retrofit or retirement plan within thirty days of identifying that the 
leak rate has been exceeded. Owners or operators of IPR or federally 
owned appliances may have more than 30 days to complete repairs and 
more than one year to retrofit appliances where certain conditions 
applied (e.g., equipment located in areas subject to radiological 
contamination, unavailability of necessary parts, and adherence to 
local or state laws that may hinder immediate repairs). The full suite 
of the prior requirements are found at Sec.  82.156(i).
    EPA recognizes that refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment 
often do leak. This is particularly likely for larger and more 
complicated appliances like those subject to the subpart F leak repair 
provisions. However, leaks from such appliances can be significantly 
reduced. Multiple factors support this conclusion. Concrete evidence 
that leaks can be significantly reduced include experience with the 
GreenChill program, an EPA partnership designed to encourage 
supermarkets to reduce emissions of refrigerants and transition to low-
GWP and low-charge refrigeration appliances; reports from facilities 
regulated under California's Refrigerant Management Program; and 
feedback from stakeholders prior to publishing the proposed rule. The 
revised leak repair provisions in this action will reduce refrigerant 
releases of ODS and non-exempt substitute refrigerants by ensuring 
effective repairs and ongoing monitoring of leaking systems.
2. Restructuring and Edits for Readability
    The regulatory text has been modified several times since EPA first 
established the program in 1993. The regulation now contains numerous 
cross-references to other provisions in Sec.  82.156(i), making the 
requirements difficult to follow and in some places potentially leading 
to differing interpretations. Many important provisions are not readily 
apparent, such as the primary requirement that repairs must occur 
within 30 days, which appears explicitly only at the end of the leak 
repair requirements at Sec.  82.156(i)(9). Therefore, EPA has rewritten 
the regulation and moved the provisions to a single new section of the 
Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) to make it easier for stakeholders to 
locate and understand the requirements.
    EPA recognizes that changing the text so significantly may make 
stakeholders who are familiar with the existing requirements wonder how 
these revisions affect their current compliance monitoring systems and 
protocols. EPA emphasizes that the Agency did not intend to alter the 
substance of the requirements while restructuring except where 
specified. EPA discusses the intended amendments to the requirements in 
this section of the notice. In general, commenters were supportive of 
EPA's efforts to rewrite and simplify the leak repair provisions.
    To avoid both ambiguity and cumbersome language throughout, EPA 
establishes from the outset in Sec.  82.157(a) that the provisions of 
Sec.  82.157 apply to owners and operators of all appliances containing 
50 or more pounds of refrigerant, unless otherwise specified. One 
commenter stated that EPA should clarify throughout the rule whether 
the owner/operator or the technician is responsible. EPA responds that 
the final rule makes clearer that the owner or operator is responsible 
for conducting the leak inspection or repairing the appliance even when 
it is the technician who will be performing those actions. When a 
provision applies to technicians or people servicing equipment, the 
provision so specifies.
    Multiple commenters requested that EPA define owner/operator and 
one commenter requested that EPA clarify who is responsible if the 
owner is different from the operator. EPA responds that the Agency is 
not defining owner or operator because these terms are widely 
understood in the public and regulated community. If the owner and the 
operator are separate entities, both are responsible for complying with 
the applicable leak repair provisions. EPA notes that the owner of the 
system chooses the operator of the system, or passes that 
responsibility to someone else (e.g., a tenant in a building may be 
provided authority to operate an air conditioning system even though 
that tenant does not own the building or the air conditioning system). 
EPA does not want to hinder the ability of the owner and operator of 
the system to make the decision as to who would be responsible for 
complying with these requirements, and, therefore, the Agency has 
maintained the existing language that places responsibility for such 
compliance with requirements on both parties.
    The existing regulations also inconsistently described the leak 
repair requirements as applying to appliances with ``50 or more 
pounds'' or ``more than 50 pounds'' of refrigerant. The proposed 
revisions consistently use ``50 or more pounds of refrigerant.'' EPA 
received a comment from CARB that the California regulations are based 
on EPA's ``more than 50 pounds,'' but CARB stated they can address any 
potential inconsistencies created by this revision. As such, EPA is 
finalizing consistent use of the phrase ``50 or more pounds of 
refrigerant'' in the revised regulations.
3. Extension to Substitute Refrigerants
    EPA proposed to extend the leak repair provisions previously found 
at Sec.  82.156(i) to appliances containing non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. EPA is finalizing this extension in the revised leak 
repair regulations (now found at Sec.  82.157). As such, the other 
provisions related to leak repair and maintenance finalized in this 
rule (e.g., verification tests, reporting by chronic leakers, etc.) 
apply to appliances containing ODS and non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants as well. Consistent with discussions elsewhere in this 
notice, EPA is not extending these requirements to appliances using 
substitute refrigerants in a specific end-use for which the substitute 
refrigerant used has been exempted from the venting prohibition. These 
exemptions are listed in the regulations at Sec.  82.154(a)(1). For 
example, these

[[Page 82314]]

requirements would not be extended to water in any application, or to 
ammonia in commercial or industrial process refrigeration or in 
absorption units.
    Extending the leak repair requirements to non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants will lead to significant environmental benefits because 
these substances pose a threat to the environment when released. Like 
ODS, HFCs and PFCs also have the ability to trap heat that would 
otherwise be radiated from the Earth back to space. This ability gives 
both HFCs and PFCs relatively high GWPs. The 100-year GWPs of saturated 
HFCs used as refrigerants range from 124 (for HFC- 152a) to 14,800 (for 
HFC-23), and the GWPs of PFCs used as refrigerants range from 7,390 
(for PFC-14) and higher. HFC-134a, the most common individual HFC used 
in air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment, has a GWP of 1,430. 
See Section II.C.2 of this notice for further discussion related to the 
environmental effects of greenhouse gases.
    In determining whether to exempt HFC and PFC refrigerants from the 
venting prohibition in 2004, EPA examined the potential effects of the 
refrigerant from the moment of release to its breakdown in the 
environment, considering possible effects on workers, building 
occupants, and the environment. EPA concluded that the release of HFCs 
and PFCs poses a threat to the environment due to their high GWPs. For 
that reason, and because of a lack of regulation governing the release 
of such refrigerants, EPA did not exempt the release of HFC or PFC 
refrigerants from the statutory venting prohibition. Therefore, 
knowingly venting or otherwise releasing into the environment of HFC 
and PFC refrigerants during the maintenance, service, repair, or 
disposal of appliances remains illegal. The venting prohibition focuses 
on knowing venting or release during the maintenance, service, repair, 
or disposal of appliances and thus does not account for all HFC (and 
PFC) refrigerant emissions. For instance, in previous rules we have not 
assumed that emissions of HFCs that occur due to appliance leaks 
constitute knowing releases. However, as discussed elsewhere in this 
rulemaking, EPA is broadening its interpretation of what is considered 
a knowing release under section 608(c) for purposes of appliance leaks. 
In addition, the requirements to calculate leak rates and monitor 
leaking systems that EPA is finalizing in this action provide knowledge 
to appliance owners and operators and thereby broaden the set of 
refrigerant releases for which they would be liable for a knowing 
release.
Consideration of Costs
    Based on the evidence discussed later, the reported leak rate 
performance of today's comfort cooling, commercial refrigeration, and 
IPR appliances with full charges of 50 or more pounds argues for 
lowering the leak rates. The evidence discussed later demonstrates that 
the leak rates of 35 percent for IPR and commercial refrigeration and 
15 percent for comfort cooling are considerably above the ``lowest 
achievable level of emissions'' envisioned in CAA section 608(a)(3)(A).
    While section 608(a)(3) does not require EPA to perform a cost-
benefit analysis to determine what leak rate(s) would constitute the 
``lowest achievable level of emissions,'' in general, EPA has balanced 
the benefits from reducing emissions of refrigerants with the costs of 
these requirements. EPA has determined that the costs are reasonable 
given the significant benefits that accrue (both private in the form of 
cost savings and public in the form of improved health and 
environmental protection from reduced GHG and ODS emissions). 
Specifically, EPA reviewed data from the lowest-emitting equipment to 
gauge technological feasibility and then reviewed other datasets, such 
as CARB data and consent decree requirements, to determine a reasonable 
set of requirements. EPA then assessed the costs and benefits 
associated with extending the existing requirements to appliances using 
substitute refrigerants. EPA also assessed the tighter requirements 
applicable to appliances containing ODS or non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants such as lower leak rates, the requirement to repair leaks 
once the applicable leak rate is exceeded, the requirement to conduct 
verification tests on all types of appliances, and periodic leak 
inspections for appliances that had exceeded the leak rates.
    Based on the comments received, EPA considered ways to reduce the 
cost of these requirements, as compared to the proposal. These changes 
are discussed in full later in this section and include: Limiting 
periodic leak inspections to appliances that have exceeded the 
applicable leak rate, rather than requiring all appliances to be 
inspected; finalizing a leak rate for IPR of 30 percent rather than 20 
percent; allowing greater flexibility for owners and operators to 
determine which leaks to repair rather than requiring the repair of all 
leaks; and modifying the proposed chronic leaker provision so that it 
results in reporting to EPA rather than automatic retirement of the 
appliance.
    This rule also provides flexibility that will reduce the cost of 
complying with the existing regulations. For comfort cooling and 
commercial refrigeration appliances, EPA is allowing an extension to 
the 30-day repair requirement if the arrival of a part is delayed, 
recognizing that the short additional time needed for delivery of a 
part can result in a nearer-term and less costly emission reduction 
than a retrofit. EPA is also allowing an extension to implement a 
retrofit or retirement for any appliance that transitions to a non-
exempt substitute refrigerant.
4. Leak Inspections
    The prior regulations at Sec.  82.156(i) focused on actions an 
appliance owner or operator must take after discovering an appliance 
has a leak. EPA proposed to require annual or quarterly leak 
inspections as a proactive maintenance practice depending on the type 
and size of the appliance. More specifically, EPA proposed to require 
that owners or operators of commercial refrigeration appliances or IPR 
normally containing 500 or more pounds of refrigerant conduct quarterly 
leak inspections of the appliance, including the appliance's 
refrigerant circuit. Inspections would be annual for commercial 
refrigeration appliances and IPR containing 50 pounds or more but less 
than 500 pounds of refrigerant, as well as comfort cooling appliances 
and other appliances normally containing 50 or more pounds of 
refrigerant.
    The purpose of the proposed leak inspection requirement was to 
determine the location of refrigerant leaks. This proposal was designed 
with Next Generation Compliance objectives in mind (see Section 
II.D.3). The Agency anticipated that many appliance owners and 
operators would take action earlier if leaks were identified because it 
is in their financial interest to do so and would reduce emissions and 
refrigerant costs. Repairing leaks earlier could also prevent that 
appliance from being pulled into the proposed regulatory requirements 
at Sec.  82.157 for exceeding the applicable leak rate. EPA also 
proposed to allow owners or operators to forgo periodic leak 
inspections if they installed and operated an automatic leak detection 
system that continuously monitors the appliance for leaks.
    Frequency of Leak Inspections. State regulatory agencies and 
environmental organizations supported the proposed requirement to 
conduct periodic leak inspections. Two such commenters suggested that 
EPA require quarterly leak inspections for systems with 200

[[Page 82315]]

pounds or more to harmonize the leak inspection requirements with 
California's Refrigerant Management Program. However, many other 
commenters expressed strong opposition to mandatory quarterly or annual 
leak inspections, asserting that requiring inspections of all 
appliances imposes unnecessary costs, especially for systems that are 
not leaking. Those commenters estimated the cost of an inspection for a 
large supermarket could exceed $5,000. Another commenter stated that 
companies do not need a regulatory requirement to inspect and maintain 
their refrigeration equipment and that since EPA did not require repair 
of leaks identified in a leak inspection for appliances that do not 
exceed the applicable leak rate, there is not a reasonable relationship 
between the proposed requirement and the goal of emissions reduction. 
One commenter stated that leak inspections are unnecessary, at least 
for chemical manufacturing, because temperatures and pressures must be 
maintained within tight tolerances for reactions to proceed. 
Furthermore, any changes in temperature and pressure would trigger an 
alarm or shutdown the process.
    Other commenters expressed qualified support for annual leak 
inspections, especially if it is phased in, starting with larger 
systems or if a company can provide evidence that they have not added 
refrigerant to a system in over a year. Another commenter stated that 
leak inspections should only be annual, unless the equipment exceeds 
the applicable leak rate for that system. That commenter believes that 
the inspections should return to being an annual requirement after the 
leak rate has been reduced below the threshold for two years. One 
commenter stated that the greatest value of a leak inspection is on a 
system with a known leak.
    Based on these comments relating to the expense and value of 
conducting leak inspections on all appliances, EPA is finalizing the 
leak inspection requirement only for appliances that have been found to 
be above the applicable leak rate. EPA proposed to only require that 
the leaks identified from a leak inspection be repaired when the 
applicable leak rate is exceeded. EPA's proposal observed that the 
costs of repairing all leaks when the leak rate is below the applicable 
leak rate may be higher than the benefits, especially when the leak is 
a series of small pinhole leaks and the leak rate is very low, as may 
often be the case. As stated in the proposed rule, when the applicable 
leak rate is exceeded, the benefits of repairing those leaks are 
significant--both for the environment and for the owner/operator (in 
decreased refrigerant replacement costs)--and do result in significant 
savings, which supports repair of leaks. EPA appreciates the concern 
raised by commenters who question the value of conducting leak 
inspections on appliances that are known to not be leaking, or leaking 
at a low rate that would not trigger a requirement for repair under the 
regulations. Periodic leak inspections are a best practice within the 
industry to reduce emissions of refrigerants and the Agency continues 
to recommend periodic leak inspections for all appliances as even well-
maintained appliances might leak.\21\ EPA did not quantify any benefits 
for systems that had a leak rate below the applicable leak rate because 
the Agency did not propose that the leaks that were discovered in those 
systems needed to be repaired. While requiring proactive leak 
inspections would generally reduce leaks because companies would find 
leaks and could repair them before the applicable leak rate was 
exceeded, EPA is not finalizing the periodic leak inspections for all 
appliances, as proposed. Many of the specific comments about timing of 
leak inspections no longer apply because of this change. However, EPA 
has reconsidered the cost of conducting a leak inspection, as discussed 
further in Section VI of the preamble.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \21\ See GreenChill's Best Practices Guidelines: Commercial 
Refrigeration Leak Prevention & Repairs, May 2011, available in the 
docket for this rulemaking.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPA is finalizing a requirement at Sec.  82.157(d)(1) to conduct a 
leak inspection after discovering the leak rate had exceeded the 
applicable leak rate. Thereafter, EPA is requiring episodic leak 
inspections based on the full charge size and type of appliance on the 
same schedule as in the proposed Sec.  82.157(b)(1)-(3), but in this 
final rule EPA added a provision clarifying that this requirement ends 
if the appliance remains below the applicable leak rate for a specific 
time. More specifically, following a leak rate exceedance, EPA is 
requiring quarterly leak inspections for IPR and commercial 
refrigeration appliances containing 500 or more pounds of refrigerant 
until there are four quarters in a row where the appliance has not 
exceeded the applicable leak rate. For IPR and commercial refrigeration 
appliances containing between 50 and 500 pounds of refrigerant, and for 
all comfort cooling appliances or other remaining appliances normally 
containing 50 or more pounds of refrigerant, EPA is requiring annual 
leak inspections following a leak rate exceedance until the owner or 
operator can demonstrate that the appliance has not exceeded the 
applicable leak rate for one year. More frequent monitoring is 
important for larger commercial refrigeration appliances and IPR 
because those systems tend to have more leaks than comfort cooling 
appliances and because the amount of refrigerant that would be lost in 
a leak is generally greater for those systems.
    In our view, and based on our review of comments, limiting 
inspections to those appliances that are known to have leaked and 
triggered the repair requirements appropriately tailors the leak 
inspection requirement to those systems that are most likely to leak 
and provides important information about whether the leak repairs have 
held over the longer term. EPA is not finalizing the proposed revision 
allowing for annual leak inspections when refrigerant has not been 
added to the appliance for more than a year as EPA is not finalizing 
the periodic leak inspection requirement for systems that are below the 
applicable leak threshold. As discussed later, EPA is finalizing the 
proposed revision allowing the use of automatic leak detection systems 
in lieu of quarterly or annual leak inspections.
    EPA proposed to establish a process that would allow less frequent 
leak inspections for federally owned appliances that are located in 
remote locations or are otherwise difficult to access for routine 
maintenance. One commenter disagreed with the proposal to allow a 
reduced inspection schedule for federally owned appliances. Other 
commenters requested that EPA provide a similar exemption to privately 
owned appliances.
    Because EPA is not finalizing periodic leak inspections for 
appliances below the applicable leak threshold, EPA is also not 
finalizing the reduced leak inspection schedule for federally owned 
appliances. EPA is requiring that federally owned equipment that has 
leaked in excess of the applicable leak rate be subject to the same 
periodic leak inspection schedule as privately owned equipment. The 
concerns about burden raised by federal agencies during the development 
of the proposal are addressed by removing the proposed requirement that 
leak inspections be conducted on all appliances. The number of 
appliances leaking above the final leak thresholds is less than 20 
percent of the total number of installed appliances with charges of 50 
pounds or greater.
    Description of leak inspections. Many commenters requested 
clarification

[[Page 82316]]

about the types of methods that can be used to conduct a leak 
inspection. EPA responds to those comments in the section of this 
notice that addresses comments on the proposed definitions. As 
described there, the revised definition includes examples of methods 
that may be appropriate for leak inspections.
    EPA proposed that periodic leak inspections would not need to be 
performed by certified technicians and took comment on that idea. Two 
commenters agreed that leak inspections should not be required to be 
conducted by certified technicians. Reasons stated for not requiring 
the inspection to be done by a certified technician are that they are 
more expensive than in-house personnel, they may be less familiar with 
the appliance, and that the person doing the inspection will not 
necessarily be performing activities that can only be performed by a 
certified technician such as adding or removing refrigerant or making 
any repairs to the appliance. Another commenter believes that leak 
inspections should be performed by someone trained to fix leaks, and 
thus that the persons performing leak inspections must be a certified 
technician.
    In this final rule, EPA is requiring that the required leak 
inspections be performed by certified technicians. EPA is making this 
change from the proposal for several reasons. First, required leak 
inspections are now limited to appliances that are known to have been 
leaking. It is now very likely that a technician will have to add 
refrigerant or make additional repairs after the leak inspection. This 
is certainly the case for the inspection triggered by discovering that 
the leak rate exceeds the threshold. Second, because EPA is no longer 
requiring the repair of all identified leaks, the person inspecting the 
system must also be qualified to determine which leaks must be repaired 
to bring the leak rate below the applicable level. Third, while 
certified technicians may be more expensive to hire, the overall burden 
of the leak inspection requirement is less since many fewer appliances 
must be inspected than originally proposed. Under the proposal, all 
appliances of a certain size would require leak inspections, which EPA 
estimated to be approximately 1.5 million. Under the finalized 
provisions, that number drops to approximately 282,000 appliances. EPA 
has considered the comments about the cost of performing a leak 
inspection and has updated the technical support document accordingly. 
Finally, EPA is not specifying a single method but rather allowing the 
person conducting the inspection to determine the method(s) that are 
appropriate for that appliance. This technical judgment requires 
someone trained in the methods of leak detection, which is more likely 
to be the case for a certified technician.
    Many commenters requested clarification on what portions of an 
appliance are subject to a leak inspection. The proposed regulatory 
text was silent on this issue but the notice of proposed rulemaking 
discussed inspecting visible components and the proposed definition of 
leak inspection included an examination of ``all visible components of 
an appliance.'' The proposal did not define ``visible'' or address the 
treatment of components that are only visible if intermediary steps are 
taken (e.g., clearing ice or elevating monitoring personnel). 
Commenters noted that refrigerant lines may be insulated and thus the 
piping is not visible and that lines may run along the ceiling of a 
store and are not observable or are difficult to access. One commenter 
proposed a definition that would limit inspections to areas that are 
visible and accessible without the use of equipment. The commenter 
states that the vast majority of components in commercial 
refrigeration, and those most prone to refrigerant leakage, are 
accessible directly from floor or roof level. One commenter requested 
that EPA define visible components as those that are readily accessible 
to be viewed and accessed during normal preventative maintenance 
activities for the appliance. One commenter suggested that the leak 
inspection be ``consistent with good industry practice.'' Another 
commenter expressed concern that requiring the inspection of all 
visible components may necessitate the appliance be shut down.
    Another commenter requested specific exceptions for components that 
are difficult to monitor, insulated, unsafe to monitor, or otherwise 
not accessible. Consistent with other leak detection and repair 
programs for New Source Performance Standards, Subparts VV and VVa, 
which relates to equipment leaks of VOC in synthetic organic chemicals 
manufacturing, the commenter suggests that the following sources be 
exempt from inspection: (1) Components that require monitoring 
personnel to be elevated more than 2 meters above a support surface; 
(2) components that are insulated; (3) components that are determined 
to be un-safe to monitor as determined by site personnel; (4) 
components that are under ``ice'' that forms on the outside of 
equipment. A couple of commenters also expressed concern about 
requiring leak inspections on equipment that cannot be accessed due to 
radiological concerns.
    EPA appreciates the difficulties associated with inspecting the 
entirety of an appliance, which these comments illustrate. EPA proposed 
a definition of leak inspection that includes ``all visible 
components.'' EPA is modifying that proposed definition to remove the 
reference to ``all visible components.'' Also, in light of the points 
raised in the comments, EPA is clarifying in the final rule that a leak 
inspection must be conducted on all visible and accessible components 
of an appliance, with some exceptions. EPA did not propose any 
exceptions but did state in the notice of proposed rulemaking that the 
inspection should occur on all visible and accessible components of an 
appliance. The exceptions finalized in this rulemaking clarify what is 
not considered visible or accessible: 1) Where components are 
insulated, under ice that has formed on the outside of equipment, 
underground, behind walls, or are otherwise inaccessible; (2) where 
personnel must be elevated more than 2 meters above a support surface; 
or (3) where components are unsafe to inspect, as determined by site 
personnel. This clarification takes into consideration risks to the 
person conducting the inspection. The Agency does not expect that an 
appliance be shut down in order to fulfill the obligation of inspecting 
all visible components.
    Automatic Leak Detection. EPA proposed to not require periodic leak 
inspections if owners or operators install and operate an automatic 
leak detection system that continuously monitors the appliance for 
leaks. Although EPA is removing the periodic leak inspection 
requirements for many appliances, EPA will continue to allow the use of 
automatic leak detection equipment to continuously monitor whole 
appliances or portions of appliances in lieu of the required periodic 
inspections for that appliance or that portion of the appliance. Use of 
such equipment can minimize releases of refrigerant because it 
discovers leaks sooner than a quarterly or annual leak inspection can. 
Using their 2014 Refrigerant Management Program (RMP) data, CARB 
commented that they found that leaking systems using automatic leak 
detection had a 25 percent lower annual leak rate than those without. 
This comment provides further support for including this option to use 
automatic leak detection equipment to continuously monitor an appliance 
or portion of an appliance in the final rule.

[[Page 82317]]

    A few commenters encouraged EPA to require automatic leak detection 
equipment on appliances with more than 2,000 pounds of refrigerant to 
harmonize EPA's requirements with California's. EPA responds that while 
this rule does not impose requirements that are inconsistent with 
CARB's program, EPA has not included all of CARB's requirements in this 
rule. EPA is requiring that automatic leak detection systems meet the 
same level of detection (10 parts per million of vapor) and 
notification thresholds (100 parts per million of vapor, a loss of 50 
pounds of refrigerant, or a loss of 10 percent of the full charge) as 
CARB requires. EPA knows that such equipment is already available on 
the market and capable of meeting those standards, which allows 
companies wishing to install automatic leak detection equipment to do 
so sooner than if EPA established different standards in this rule. It 
also means that installed equipment that meets California's 
requirements will meet EPA's requirements. EPA disagrees, as discussed 
later, with the comment suggesting it require the use of automatic leak 
detection equipment.
    Some commenters were opposed to requiring automatic leak detection. 
One such commenter stated that it does not work well outdoors and that 
it may be hazardous to enclose a system to facilitate leak detection. 
It can also be expensive and EPA did not estimate the costs of 
requiring it. One nuclear power producer commented that any 
modifications to nuclear generating stations must undergo extensive 
engineering and risk review processes. This argues against requiring 
the installation of monitoring equipment. Another commenter stated that 
it has not been able to identify any reliable information confirming 
that such automatic leak detection devices are available, cost-
effective, and capable of satisfying EPA's requirements.
    EPA responds that the Agency is not requiring the use of automatic 
leak detection equipment in this final rule. Rather, this is an option 
that an owner or operator can choose to pursue in lieu of conducting 
periodic leak inspections. EPA agrees that automatic leak detection 
equipment may not be appropriate for all systems, and the Agency is not 
suggesting that components be enclosed in order to allow for automatic 
leak detection equipment where it would be hazardous to do so. The 
decision to install such equipment is up to the owner/operator. With 
regard to availability, EPA responds that California's existing 
requirements for use of such systems have been in place since 2011 and 
include the same standards as those EPA is finalizing in this rule, so 
equipment meeting these requirements is already available and in use. 
EPA encourages anyone interested in using automatic leak detection to 
consult entities in California regarding the availability and 
performance of such equipment. Another commenter notes that electronic 
leak detection equipment is currently installed in thousands of 
supermarkets, further supporting the idea that such equipment is 
available and in use.
    Many commenters supported automatic leak detection equipment in 
lieu of periodic leak inspections but were concerned that the systems 
they currently have installed do not meet the requirements of the 
proposed rule because the entire refrigeration system is not within the 
building envelope. EPA proposed that automatic leak detection equipment 
systems that directly detect the presence of a refrigerant in air could 
only be used where the entire appliance or the compressor, evaporator, 
condenser, or other component with a high potential to leak is located 
inside an enclosed building or structure. Multiple commenters requested 
that EPA still allow the option of using automatic leak detection for 
those components that are not outdoors. The outside components would 
then be the only portion of the system that would be subject to 
periodic inspections. EPA agrees that automatic leak detection 
equipment should be allowed for enclosed components even if only 
portions of an appliance are enclosed and the proposed rule was 
intended to cover that situation. EPA has revised the final rule to 
more clearly allow for this and to clarify that in such situations, the 
automatic leak detection equipment would only be used to monitor 
components located in an enclosed building or structure but the other 
components would continue to be subject to any applicable leak 
inspection requirements.
    One commenter encouraged EPA to require that the leak detection 
system be certified. There are third party systems on the market that 
claim to check charges, but the commenter believes some may be 
inaccurate. The commenter recommends referencing ASHRAE 207P, which 
will allow for verification of the charge checking systems. EPA 
responds that the referenced ASHRAE standard is still under development 
and we are unaware of any certification programs that exist or that are 
planned to reference that standard once finalized. Requiring 
certifications for leak detection systems is therefore not appropriate 
at this time. EPA is finalizing the proposal to require that the owner 
or operator calibrate the automatic leak detection system annually and 
keep records documenting the calibration.
5. Lowering Leak Rates
    The leak rate is the rate at which an appliance is losing 
refrigerant, measured between refrigerant charges. If the leak rate for 
an appliance is above a specified threshold, the regulatory revisions 
finalized in this rule require certain actions, such as leak repair, 
from the owner/operator.
    EPA is lowering the leak rates for IPR, commercial refrigeration, 
and comfort cooling and other appliances containing ODS refrigerants 
and is establishing those same leak rates for appliances using non-
exempt substitute refrigerants. EPA is lowering the leak rates to 30 
percent (from 35 percent) for IPR, 20 percent (from 35 percent) for 
commercial refrigeration appliances and 10 percent (from 15 percent) 
for comfort cooling and all other appliances with a full charge of 50 
pounds or more of ODS or non-exempt substitute refrigerant. For the 
reasons discussed below, EPA is finalizing a higher leak rate for IPR 
than proposed while finalizing the same rates as proposed for 
commercial refrigeration and comfort cooling. In making this decision, 
EPA has assessed the compliance costs, cost savings, and environmental 
benefits and has found that the aggregated costs are reasonable, and 
that lowering leak rates will result in fewer emissions of both ODS and 
non-exempt substitute refrigerants.
    EPA reviewed data submitted under California's RMP, the South Coast 
Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), GreenChill partners, consent 
decrees for both commercial refrigeration and IPR for companies found 
to be in violation of subpart F regulations, EPA's Vintaging Model, 
conversations with potentially affected stakeholders, and comments on 
this and past proposed rules. See the technical support document 
Analysis of the Economic Impact and Benefits of Final Revisions to the 
National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program for a complete 
discussion. EPA presents here background on two data sources (CARB and 
SCAQMD) that EPA relied on for multiple types of appliances and then 
discusses appliance-specific data separately.
    California's RMP requires that owners or operators of any appliance 
with more than 50 pounds of ODS or HFC refrigerant repair leaks, 
conduct leak inspections or install automatic leak detection equipment, 
and report their

[[Page 82318]]

refrigerant usage and repairs.\22\ In addition, any facility with a 
refrigeration appliance containing more than 50 pounds of refrigerant 
must report all service records annually to California. CARB has 
categorized facilities based on the facility's largest appliance. 
Facilities that have at least one appliance with a full charge of 2,000 
pounds or more (classified as ``large'' facilities under the RMP) began 
reporting in 2012 (for 2011 service records). These large facilities 
must submit service records for any appliance that has a full charge 
greater than 50 pounds. ``Medium'' facilities have at least one 
appliance with a full charge of 200 or more pounds but less than 2,000 
pounds and they started reporting in 2014. ``Small'' facilities have at 
least one appliance between 50 and 200 pounds and will have begun 
reporting in 2016. California's reporting program provides insight into 
the use and emissions of ODS and substitute refrigerants from 
refrigeration appliances in the state, across a broad range of sectors 
that use refrigeration appliances. For the proposed rule, EPA reviewed 
the 2013 data, the most recent dataset available at that time, which 
contained information from 11,166 appliances at large and medium 
facilities. EPA has subsequently reviewed the 2014 data, containing 
data on 12,605 appliances, and found it to be substantially similar. A 
series of charts showing the aggregated California data has been 
included in the technical support document. EPA has analyzed these data 
in developing the revised leak rates for IPR, commercial refrigeration, 
and comfort cooling appliances.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \22\ Among other requirements, the RMP establishes leak repair 
requirements for appliances with more than 50 pounds of refrigerant. 
More detail on the RMP is provided in the technical support document 
in the docket titled Analysis of the Economic Impact and Benefits of 
Final Revisions to the National Recycling and Emission Reduction 
Program and online at www.arb.ca.gov/stoprefrigerantleaks.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    California's South Coast Air Quality Management District is an air 
pollution control agency that services the areas of Orange County and 
the urban portions of Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino 
counties, which contained approximately half of the population of 
California at that time. SCAQMD had issued Rule 1415 to reduce 
emissions of ozone-depleting refrigerants from stationary refrigeration 
and air-conditioning systems. The rule required any person within 
SCAQMD's jurisdiction who owns or operates a refrigeration system to 
minimize refrigerant leakage. A refrigeration system is defined for the 
purposes of that rule as ``any non-vehicular equipment used for cooling 
or freezing, which holds more than 50 pounds of any combination of 
class I and/or class II refrigerant, including, but not limited to, 
refrigerators, freezers, or air-conditioning equipment or systems.''
    Under Rule 1415, SCAQMD collected the following information every 
two years from owners or operators of such refrigeration systems: 
Number of refrigeration systems in operation; type of refrigerant in 
each refrigeration system; amount of refrigerant in each refrigeration 
system; date of the last annual audit or maintenance performed for each 
refrigeration system; and the amount of additional refrigerant charged 
every year. For the purposes of Rule 1415, additional refrigerant 
charge is defined as the quantity of refrigerant charged to a 
refrigeration system in order to bring the system to a full capacity 
charge and replace refrigerant that has leaked. This reporting 
requirement has now been replaced by the statewide RMP reporting.
    EPA analyzed the SCAQMD data on ODS-containing appliances for the 
proposed 2010 Leak Repair Rule. The analysis prepared for that rule can 
also be found in the docket for today's rulemaking. The dataset 
contains information on over 4,750 appliances from 2004 and 2005 with 
ODS refrigerant charges greater than 50 pounds. The data included 
refrigeration and air-conditioning appliances that meet EPA's 
definitions of IPR (e.g., food processing industry, pharmaceutical 
manufacturing), commercial refrigeration (e.g., refrigerated 
warehouses, supermarkets, retail box stores), and comfort cooling 
(e.g., office buildings, universities, hospitals) from businesses of 
all sizes. EPA has considered the previous analysis of those data in 
developing the revised leak rates for IPR, commercial refrigeration, 
and comfort cooling appliances in this final rule.
i. Industrial Process Refrigeration
    In the proposed rule, EPA discussed reducing the leak rate for IPR 
and commercial refrigeration from 35 percent to 20 percent. EPA 
specifically sought comments on whether a 20 percent leak rate was 
appropriate, or whether a leak rate higher than 35 percent or as low as 
10 or 15 percent would be appropriate. After considering the comments 
received and upon further analysis of the CARB data, EPA is finalizing 
a leak rate of 30 percent.
    Some commenters supported the lower leak rates noting that real-
world experience shows that the lower leak thresholds are technically 
and practically achievable. Some industry members encouraged EPA to 
explore the feasibility of further lowering rates for IPR in the 
future, consistent with improved and available industry best practices. 
Other commenters stated that data from GreenChill and consent decrees 
are not representative of IPR facilities. One commenter also stated 
that CARB data do not support that a 20 percent threshold is achievable 
because one third of the reporting facilities are not achieving such 
performance. As a result, the commenter stated that EPA has not shown 
that lowering the leak rate for IPR from 35 to 20 percent is necessary 
nor economically or practically feasible.
    Some commenters suggested EPA distinguish between old and new 
equipment. One commenter noted that existing IPR equipment can meet the 
35 percent leak rate but not all could achieve the 20 percent leak 
rate. Thus, the proposed leak rate would strand significant investment 
in custom-designed refrigeration process equipment. Another commenter 
stated that older IPR facilities were designed when refrigerant 
tightness was not a critical design element. Facilities have been 
upgraded and maintained to achieve 35 percent leak rates but further 
upgrades and repairs to bring them to a lower rate would be costly if 
not impossible. The commenter also stated that it would not be cost 
effective since many are near the end of their useful lives. A few 
commenters suggested that EPA follow the 1998 proposal and allow for 
the 35 percent rate if the appliance meets all of the following 
criteria: (1) The refrigeration system is custom-built; (2) the 
refrigeration system has an open-drive compressor; (3) the 
refrigeration system was built in 1992 or before; and (4) the system is 
direct-expansion (contains a single, primary refrigerant loop). Another 
commenter recommended keeping the leak rate at 35 percent for systems 
using substitute refrigerants, stating that companies that retrofitted 
from ODS to HFC refrigerants should be recognized for that prior 
environmental advancement.
    In response to the comment that some of the data are not 
representative of IPR facilities, EPA responds that the Technical 
Support Document for the proposal did distinguish between IPR and 
commercial refrigeration. EPA did not use GreenChill's commercial 
refrigeration data or consent decrees for commercial refrigeration as a 
basis for the proposal on IPR. In the final Technical Support Document, 
as well as the discussion that immediately follows, EPA has further 
separated out the analysis for IPR.

[[Page 82319]]

    After considering these comments and further reviewing the CARB 
data, EPA is finalizing a leak rate of 30 percent for IPR, rather than 
20 percent as proposed. The potential benefits of lowering the leak 
rate to 20 percent are small in relation to the potential costs 
incurred by those small number of facilities that could be affected.
    EPA's model, informed by the 2013 CARB data, indicates that 92 
percent of IPR appliances have leak rates below 30 percent. Almost 10 
percent of ODS-containing appliances would trigger the leak repair 
requirements if the leak rate were lowered from 35 to 20 percent, as 
proposed. However, if the leak rate is lowered from 35 to 30 percent 
only 0.6 percent more ODS-containing IPR appliances would trigger the 
leak repair requirements.
    Viewed another way, using the California data as a proxy for the 
entire United States' IPR systems, the proposed 20 percent leak rate 
could affect up to 9 percent of all IPR appliances (though only a small 
subset of IPR systems above 20 percent using ODS refrigerant would be 
newly affected because they were already subject to the 35 percent leak 
rate). Appliances that leaked more than 20 percent are responsible for 
86 percent of emissions in the CARB data. Changing the leak rate 
threshold to 30 percent, as EPA is finalizing in this rule, would 
affect 7 percent of all IPR appliances and an even smaller subset of 
ODS-containing equipment (only 0.6 percent). In the CARB records, 
appliances leaking more than 30 percent are responsible for 75 percent 
of emissions.
    EPA's review of the 2004 and 2005 data submitted to the SCAQMD from 
349 IPR facilities also indicate that 81 percent of ODS-containing IPR 
appliances had leak rates below 30 percent. Slightly less than 5 
percent of ODS-containing appliances would trigger the leak repair 
requirements if the leak rate was lowered from 35 to 20 percent, as 
proposed. In this final rule, only 1.5 percent of ODS-containing 
appliances would trigger the leak repair requirements if the leak rate 
was lowered from 35 to 30 percent. However, by extending the leak 
repair requirements to IPR appliances containing non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants, a 30 percent leak rate would also trigger all IPR 
facilities using non-exempt substitute refrigerants above that 
threshold, not just the incremental difference of facilities operating 
between 30 and 35 percent.
    EPA calculates leak inspection and repair costs of a 20 percent 
leak rate for IPR to be $7.0 million, with annual emissions reductions 
equal to 0.63 MMTCO2eq and 8.0 ODP tons. EPA calculates the 
leak inspection and repair compliance costs of a 30 percent leak rate 
for IPR to be $5.5 million, with annual emissions reductions equal to 
0.44 MMTCO2eq and 5.4 ODP tons. Finally, EPA analyzed 
retaining the current 35 percent leak rate for IPR, as applied to IPR 
using substitute refrigerants. In that scenario, the leak inspection 
and repair costs would be $5.1 million, with annual emissions 
reductions equal to 0.26 MMTCO2eq and 0 ODP tons. Lowering 
the leak rate from 35 to 30 percent provides significantly more 
environmental benefits, including reductions in emissions of ozone-
depleting substances, for the costs. Lowering the leak rate further 
provides diminishing returns.
    EPA recognizes that some IPR transitioned to HFCs from ODS 
refrigerants. This may have been an environmental decision for some, 
but other commenters stated that this was done to avoid being covered 
by the subpart F regulations. For whatever reasons, these facilities 
transitioned to a substitute refrigerant and therefore were no longer 
required to maintain a leak rate below 35 percent. EPA's analysis 
described above indicate that that a majority of the new IPR equipment 
affected by the rule will be those using substitute refrigerants. At a 
30 percent leak rate, EPA estimates that there will be 492 newly 
affected systems containing ODS refrigerant but 5,938 systems 
containing HFC refrigerants.
    While the number of affected IPR facilities may be small (EPA 
estimates there are 1.5 million appliances with a charge size of at 
least 50 pounds of an ODS or non-exempt substitute refrigerant), the 
challenges faced by IPR facilities to upgrade or improve their system 
are more substantial that those faced by other appliance types. In 
general, leak rates are highest for IPR systems for a number of 
factors. First, such appliances are generally custom-built and 
assembled at the site where they are used rather than in a factory 
where standard manufacturing practices can be put in place to reduce 
leaks. Appliances used in IPR are custom-designed for a wide spectrum 
of processes and facilities, including applications such as flash 
freezers aboard commercial fishing vessels to cooling processes used in 
the manufacture of pharmaceuticals. This results in the sector having 
an extraordinarily broad range of equipment configurations and designs. 
Custom designed equipment may also present more challenges to original 
equipment manufacturers who wish to systematically implement leak 
reduction technologies. Second, these appliances generally use a long, 
single refrigerant loop for cooling that is not enclosed within a piece 
of equipment. This tends to raise average leak rates, particularly when 
the refrigerant loop flows through inaccessible spaces, such as 
underneath floors, or when used in challenging climates and operating 
conditions. Third, these appliances are often integrated into 
production plants or other applications and typically operate 
continuously. This need for continuous operation can make repairing 
certain leaks more difficult and costly, possibly requiring 
manufacturing processes to be shut down and long lead times. Multiple 
commenters agreed with and provided comments supporting EPA's 
assessment that IPR facilities can be leakier and more challenging to 
repair than commercial refrigeration and comfort cooling appliances.
    In response to comments requesting different leak rates for old and 
new appliances, EPA is not distinguishing between old and new 
appliances in the regulations for the following reasons. First, CARB 
data indicate that older IPR equipment is not necessarily leakier than 
newer IPR equipment. While newer systems can generally be designed with 
leak tightness in mind, EPA has also found that the quality of the 
construction and the operation and maintenance of the appliance plays a 
larger role in whether the appliance leaks than the age of the 
equipment per se. Leakage can be reduced even on older equipment by 
taking appropriate measures. Second, in EPA's experience with the HCFC 
phaseout, it has been challenging in some circumstances for owners and 
operators to determine whether an appliance is existing or new.
    For clarity and to facilitate compliance, and consistent with the 
proposal, EPA is not finalizing a distinction between old and new IPR 
appliances in the leak thresholds finalized in this rulemaking. In 
response to the commenters encouraging EPA to explore the feasibility 
of further lowering IPR rates in the future, EPA will take this under 
advisement for future analyses and such a future analysis may include 
the age of the facility and refrigeration technology used. Further 
gradation of the IPR category is not necessary at this time.
ii. Commercial Refrigeration Appliances
    EPA proposed to lower the leak rate for commercial refrigeration 
appliances from 35 percent to 20 percent. Based on the data analysis 
discussed in this

[[Page 82320]]

section and comments, EPA is finalizing that rate as proposed.
    First, EPA reviewed data from GreenChill, an EPA partnership with 
food retailers to reduce refrigerant emissions and decrease their 
impact on the ozone layer and climate change. Established in 2007, this 
partnership has 27 member companies comprising almost 30 percent of all 
supermarkets in the United States. GreenChill works to help food 
retailers voluntarily (1) transition to environmentally friendlier 
refrigerants; (2) lower refrigerant charge sizes; (3) eliminate leaks; 
and (4) adopt green refrigeration technologies and best environmental 
practices. One of the GreenChill partnership's programs that helps food 
retailers reduce their refrigerant emissions is the Food Retailer 
Corporate Emissions Reduction Program. Under this program, partners 
report their corporate-wide average leak rate for all refrigerants. A 
corporate-wide average leak rate is the sum of all refrigerant 
additions in a given time period for all of the commercial 
refrigeration appliances owned by a corporate entity, divided by the 
full charge for all of the commercial refrigeration appliances owned by 
that same corporate entity during that time period.
    Between 2007 and 2014, the corporate-wide average leak rate for all 
reporting GreenChill partners remained within a relatively narrow range 
of between 12.6 percent and 13.8 percent. Remarkably, when new partners 
joined, the reported corporate-wide average leak rate across all 
partners remained level. Several supermarket chains in the GreenChill 
program, including some having hundreds of stores, have consistently 
reported a corporate-wide leak rate below 10 percent. These data 
support the conclusion that leak rates in commercial refrigeration 
appliances can be considerably lower than 35 percent and that a 20 
percent leak rate is reasonable.
    Some commenters found GreenChill data unpersuasive because they are 
self-reported and unverified and because they represent the average 
performance of multiple appliances rather than the performance of 
individual systems. Another commenter stated that GreenChill data are 
not representative of the supermarket industry as a whole and do not 
consider the capabilities of independent operators or small businesses.
    EPA disagrees with the comments regarding the use of GreenChill 
data. It is appropriate to use the GreenChill data to inform EPA's 
consideration of achievable leak rates for commercial refrigeration. 
The average performance of multiple appliances is relevant to 
understanding how well individual appliances, on average, perform. This 
dataset represents almost a third of the supermarket industry, 
including a few smaller independent operators, over multiple years and 
locations across the United States. Even if the data were biased 
towards larger chains and organizations that have proactively sought to 
reduce their emissions below the prior regulatory rate of 35 percent, 
these data give an indication of what is achievable when companies seek 
to reduce leak rates. Further, these data demonstrate that leak rates 
well below 20 percent are not just achievable but may be consistently 
maintained. A leak rate is not inherent to a particular piece of 
equipment but rather includes factors such as how that appliance is 
operated and maintained.
    One commenter representing the supermarket industry supported 
lowering the leak rate threshold but stated that 20 percent may be 
burdensome for small businesses and independent retailers. Other 
commenters in the supermarket industry supported the proposed 20 
percent leak rate and one stated that they currently meet that rate for 
both ODS and HFC equipment. CARB submitted comments suggesting that EPA 
lower the leak rate to 10 percent for commercial refrigeration, or 
totally eliminate the threshold. Based on their 2014 RMP data, lowering 
the threshold to 10 percent would raise the number of affected systems 
in California from 5,500 to 6,342 (out of more than approximately 
20,000 systems) while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 0.11 
MMTCO2e. Another commenter urged EPA to establish a leak 
rate of 10 percent for new commercial refrigeration to incentivize 
improved design, installation, and maintenance. The commenter refers to 
the GreenChill program at least 125 stores currently certified as 
Silver or above, and with Platinum certified stores achieving leak 
rates below 5 percent and to a supermarket chain in the UK that has a 
corporate-wide leak rate of 7.1 percent in 2013.
    EPA responds that the average leak rate across all GreenChill 
commercial refrigeration appliances does not rise appreciably when new 
companies joined the partnership, which indicates that companies 
operating outside of the GreenChill partnership are operating with leak 
rates well below 35 percent.\23\ EPA's standard presumption, based on 
CARB data, is that the average leak rate for all commercial 
refrigeration is 25 percent. That some commenters say they operate 
their commercial refrigeration with leak rates below 20 percent for 
both ODS and HFC equipment is further support that private incentives 
drive lower leak rates and that a 20 percent rate is clearly 
achievable.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \23\ See the document GreenChill Partnership's 2014 Data: 
Benchmarks, Results, and Trends in the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Based on data in the record, EPA does not agree that a 10 percent 
leak rate would be appropriate for commercial refrigeration. GreenChill 
partners have lower leak rates than the industry average, yet the 
average rate among all commercial refrigeration appliances in 
GreenChill is around 13 percent. There are only nine supermarkets that 
have achieved the Platinum level certification. EPA therefore does not 
believe that 10 percent is currently regularly achievable industry-
wide. EPA also appreciates the concept raised by the commenter that 
establishing lower leak rates for future appliances could be a way to 
encourage innovation. EPA did request comment on whether there are 
other regulatory incentives that could provide a basis to go with a 
leak rate lower than 20 percent and establishing a target rate to 
achieve in the future is an intriguing concept. EPA will take this 
comment under advisement. However, in today's final rule EPA is basing 
the revised leak rates on what appliances are currently able to 
regularly achieve.
    The data submitted to the SCAQMD from 1,722 commercial 
refrigeration appliances indicate that 77 percent of ODS-containing 
comfort cooling appliances had leak rates below 20 percent. Only 8 
percent of ODS-containing appliances would trigger the leak repair 
requirements if the leak rate was lowered from 35 to 20 percent. In 
2010, when EPA analyzed the data, EPA found that the SCAQMD leak repair 
data for commercial refrigeration appliances was consistent with EPA's 
analysis of the commercial refrigeration sector.
    EPA has also reviewed how companies agreed to manage refrigerants 
through recent consent decrees with the Agency. In consent decrees with 
Safeway and Costco, the two companies agreed to bring their corporate-
wide leak rates from about 25 percent to 18 and 19 percent, 
respectively. In a recent consent decree with Trader Joe's, the company 
agreed to achieve and maintain an annual corporate-wide average leak 
rate of 12.1 percent through 2019. One commenter was unpersuaded by the 
use of consent decrees because they are aspirational and do not reflect 
actual operation. EPA agrees that the corporate-wide leak rates to be 
obtained under these consent decrees are not data

[[Page 82321]]

of actual operations, per se, but they are more than merely 
aspirational. Consent decrees are legally binding and the companies 
would not have committed to them if they thought they were 
unachievable. These consent decrees provide additional support for the 
proposition that a 20 percent leak rate for commercial refrigeration is 
reasonably achievable. These consent decrees are available in the 
docket.
iii. Comfort Cooling and Other Appliances
    EPA proposed to lower the leak rate for comfort cooling appliances 
and all other refrigeration appliances normally containing 50 pounds or 
more of refrigerant that do not fit into the commercial refrigeration 
or IPR categories from 15 percent to 10 percent. Based on the data 
analysis discussed in this section and comments, EPA is finalizing that 
rate as proposed.
    Some commenters recommended keeping the leak rate at 15 percent 
because some older systems may not be able to achieve a lower leak 
rate. These commenters stated that large chillers from the 1990s have a 
leak rate of 8 to 10 percent due to the seal lubrication design and 
that as chillers age, the leak rate increases. They asserted EPA should 
therefore consider the equipment's date of manufacture, the compressor 
configuration, and whether the equipment is custom built. Another 
commenter recommended a 5 percent leak rate for comfort cooling and 
cited multiple data sources. This commenter pointed to sources of data 
showing a 0.5 percent leak rate for HCFC-123 chillers, as well as a 
2009 CARB analysis showing a leak rate of 1 percent and the 2005 IPCC/
TEAP Special Report which shows average annual leak rates for best 
practice in large commercial air-conditioning to be 0.5 percent. 
Another commenter indicated support for the 10 percent leak rate and 
noted that the threshold could be lowered further without creating 
undue burden, but did not provide any technical data concerning average 
leak rates.
    EPA responds that the Agency does consider factors such as the date 
of manufacture and the compressor configuration for establishing a leak 
rate applicable to all comfort cooling appliances. Since as far back as 
1998, EPA found that comfort cooling appliances leaked less than five 
percent per year, with many new comfort cooling appliances leaking 
around two or even one percent per year. The highest leak rates 
reported from new equipment back in 1998 was high pressure chillers 
with open-drive compressors with leak rates ranging from four to seven 
percent. (63 FR 32066). This assessment continues to be valid based on 
industry feedback on EPA's Vintaging Model. On the other side of the 
spectrum, the ultralow leak rates (e.g., 1 percent or lower) cited by 
the other commenter are generally best-practice leak rates or average 
leaks rates across new or low-pressure chillers and do not necessarily 
represent the full range of chillers, by type and age, that are subject 
to these regulations. The HCFC-123 chillers cited by the commenter 
operate at a lower pressure than the other systems and thus might not 
be representative of achievable leak rates for HFC and other HCFC 
equipment which operate under higher pressures.
    A few commenters stated that EPA lacks definitive data on typical 
and economically achievable leak rates for comfort cooling appliances. 
These commenters asserted that the CARB and GreenChill data presented 
in the proposed rule are primarily related to commercial refrigeration 
and IPR, and that SCAQMD's data is not nationally representative 
because those appliances have been subject to leak regulations since 
1991.
    EPA responds that the Agency has analyzed average leak rates 
specifically of comfort cooling appliances as reported to SCAQMD and 
CARB, and as estimated in the Vintaging Model. As reflected in this 
analysis, these three sources indicate that most comfort cooling 
appliances can regularly achieve an annual leak rate of 10 percent. 
This memo also cites other industry estimates of leak rates in comfort 
cooling appliances. The majority of these estimates range between 2 and 
5 percent with three of the fourteen estimates estimating leak rates 
above 10 percent.
    The data submitted to the SCAQMD from 2,700 comfort cooling 
appliances indicate that 87 percent of ODS-containing comfort cooling 
appliances had leak rates below 10 percent. Only 1.5 percent of ODS-
containing appliances would trigger the leak repair requirements if the 
leak rate was lowered from 15 to 10 percent.
    EPA agrees that appliances in California or in the SCAQMD may have 
lower leak rates than appliances nationally, given the refrigerant 
management regulations that have existed in the state for many years. 
EPA therefore compared California data with the national assumptions in 
the Vintaging Model and found that the two correlate closely. The 
Vintaging Model is updated frequently with data supplied by refrigerant 
industry stakeholders. Therefore, any difference is not likely to be 
significant. This comparison is found in the final technical support 
document in the docket.
    Commenters also stated that previous actions are leading the 
recovery of the ozone layer. These commenters stated that reducing the 
leak rate as proposed will not contribute to the recovery of the ozone 
layer and thus EPA cannot justify the burden on owners and operators of 
such equipment. EPA anticipates that this action will contribute to the 
recovery of the ozone layer and has calculated a reduction in ODP-
weighted emissions of 114 ODP tons. However, section 608 does not 
require EPA to quantify the impact of this action on the ozone layer. 
To the contrary, section 608(a) directs EPA to establish regulations 
that reduce the use and emissions of ODS to the lowest achievable 
level, without requiring separate evaluation of how each such reduction 
would affect the recovery of the stratospheric ozone layer. Individual 
actions such as reducing emissions from comfort cooling appliances fit 
into the broader approach to ozone layer protection reflected in Title 
VI of the Clean Air Act. As such, any action that reduces the use and 
emissions of ODS can help the recovery of the ozone layer.
    EPA also received two comments regarding what is included under the 
term other appliances. One commenter recommended that the Agency create 
a defined term that includes refrigerated air dryers, non-food cold 
storage, wind tunnels, electrical equipment room cooling, non-occupied 
digital control rooms, computer server rooms with set point below 
68[emsp14][deg]F, environmental chambers, growth chambers, turbine 
inlet air cooling, test cells and chambers, and aquariums. That 
commenter stated that thousands of regulated entities have identified 
systems that potentially fall into that category. Another commenter 
noted that humidity control in paint booths and air compressors could 
be other appliances but are currently treated as IPR. This commenter 
encouraged EPA to remove the other category and instead treat 
appliances that do not fall under comfort cooling or commercial 
refrigeration as IPR.
    At this time, EPA is not finalizing a definition of ``other 
appliance.'' The owners or operators of some of the appliances included 
in a definition may currently treat such appliances as IPR or 
commercial refrigeration. While not all ``other appliances'' fall under 
IPR, for those that do, moving them into an ``other appliances'' 
category would reduce their leak rate from 35 to 10 percent without 
prior notice. More

[[Page 82322]]

fundamentally, EPA's current view is that it is appropriate for other 
appliances to be regulated according to their function, such that those 
that fit within the definition of IPR would be regulated as IPR and 
those that fit within the definition of commercial refrigeration would 
be regulated accordingly. That view is reflected in the regulatory text 
finalized in this rule, which provides that the 10 percent leak rate 
applies to ``other appliances'' with a full charge of 50 or more pounds 
of refrigerant that are not covered by subparagraphs addressing IPR or 
commercial refrigeration equipment.
6. Leak Rate Calculation and Seasonal Variances
    The first step in reducing refrigerant leaks is knowing whether the 
appliance is leaking refrigerant and, if so, to what extent. The prior 
regulations at Sec.  82.156(i) did not explicitly require technicians 
or owners and operators to calculate the leak rate each time 
refrigerant is added to an appliance. Recognizing that knowing the leak 
rate is necessary for compliance with the leak repair provisions of 
subpart F, EPA's Compliance Guidance for Industrial Process 
Refrigeration Leak Repair Regulations under Section 608 of the Clean 
Air Act from October 1995 states that ``[e]ach time you add refrigerant 
to a system normally containing 50 pounds or more of refrigerant, you 
should promptly calculate the leak rate.'' (emphasis in original). 
Generally, the only time one can calculate the leak rate is when 
refrigerant is added to the appliance.
    To reinforce this practice, EPA is clarifying in the revisions to 
the regulatory text finalized in this rule that owners or operators of 
appliances with 50 or more pounds of refrigerant must calculate the 
leak rate every time refrigerant is added to those appliances. EPA is 
also clarifying that the leak rate would not need to be calculated when 
refrigerant is added immediately following a retrofit or the 
installation of a new appliance or for a seasonal variance.
    Two commenters suggested that the leak rate calculation should not 
be required on non-leaking appliances where all identified leaks are 
repaired within 30 days of discovery. While EPA commends appliance 
owners and operators who regularly repair all identified leaks within 
30 days, calculating the leak rate each time refrigerant is added is 
still necessary. Comments indicate that in some instances, appliance 
owners and operators are unable to find significant leaks that may be 
driving the high leak rate. Given this feedback, EPA concludes that 
calculating the leak rate is needed to alert the appliance owner or 
operator to the fact that, in the case of a continually high leak rate, 
the typical repair and inspection attempts are not sufficiently 
addressing the problem with the appliance. Moreover, because the 
revisions to the leak repair rules as finalized in this action require 
owners or operators to repair leaks to lower the leak rate below the 
applicable threshold, calculating the leak rate on an ongoing basis 
provides important information to help evaluate whether this 
requirement has been satisfied. Not calculating the leak rate each time 
refrigerant is added could also lead to confusion for technicians that 
service more than one customer if each has different equipment subject 
to different regulatory compliance requirements.
    EPA is also clarifying in this final rule how to handle seasonal 
variances. In regions of the country that experience large temperature 
swings during the year, refrigerant in some appliances can migrate from 
the condenser to the receiver. This migration results in a need to add 
refrigerant to an appliance to ``flood the condenser'' in the season of 
lower temperature ambient conditions (fall or winter). In this case, 
the added refrigerant would have to be removed when the weather returns 
to design ambient conditions to prevent high head pressures. This 
technique is often referred to as a winter-summer charge procedure or a 
seasonal adjustment. Seasonal adjustments are not necessary for 
appliances with properly sized system receivers because they can hold 
the appliances' full charge, including the additional charge needed to 
flood the condenser.
    Under this final rule, owners or operators can exclude from the 
leak rate calculation the amount added that is less than or equal to 
the amount removed during the prior season. In a properly charged, non-
leaking system, adding refrigerant during months with lower ambient 
conditions (fall or winter) would require an equivalent amount of 
refrigerant to be removed in the months with higher ambient conditions 
(spring or summer). If more refrigerant is added in the fall/winter 
than was removed in the prior spring/summer, the difference between the 
two would be considered a leak and not a seasonal variance. Without 
requiring that the amount added be equal to or less than the amount 
removed to qualify for the exemption, there is no way to distinguish 
legitimate seasonal variances from refrigerant leaks. For example, an 
appliance owner removes 150 pounds of refrigerant during the spring. 
Later that year, he adds 180 pounds to that same system to address a 
seasonal variance. The owner would be able to consider 150 of the 180 
pounds as a seasonal variance and the remaining 30 pounds as a leak.
    EPA expects only one removal and one addition of refrigerant to 
account for seasonal variance. If the amount added is equal to or less 
than the amount removed in the previous season, but an additional 
amount is added in close proximity (typically within a few days to a 
few weeks) to the addition being counted as a seasonal variance, and 
the two additions together are less than or equal to the amount removed 
in the previous season, the second addition would be considered part of 
the same refrigerant addition unless the owner or operator could 
document a leak.
    As discussed previously in this notice, EPA is defining a seasonal 
variance as the removal of refrigerant from an appliance due to a 
change in ambient conditions caused by a change in season, followed by 
the subsequent addition of an amount that is less than or equal to the 
amount of refrigerant removed in the prior change in season, where both 
the removal and addition of refrigerant occurs within one consecutive 
12-month period.
    EPA is finalizing in the revised regulations at Sec.  82.157(b) 
that the leak rate does not need to be calculated when adding 
refrigerant that qualifies as a seasonal variance. Both the addition 
and prior removal of refrigerant due to seasonal variances must be 
documented. Such additions and removals would already be accounted for 
in service records provided by the technician to the owner/operator. 
The recordkeeping requirements for this flexibility in calculating the 
leak rate are located in Sec.  82.157(l)(2), and those for maintaining 
records associated with the seasonal variance if it is excluded from 
the leak rate calculation are at Sec.  82.157(l)(10).
    Commenters were generally supportive of this new flexibility, but 
had some concerns, many of which are discussed in the definitions 
section of this notice. Several commenters requested clarification on 
whether the owner or operator would be responsible for this 
requirement. Owners or operators must keep records of refrigerant added 
and removed from an appliance. If they wish to claim a seasonal 
variance, they must note in their records the amount of refrigerant 
that was removed at the end of the last season for a seasonal variance. 
This is likely to be one of the only reasons to remove refrigerant 
without immediately adding additional refrigerant or without

[[Page 82323]]

mothballing, retiring or retrofitting an appliance.
7. Appliance Repair
    The prior regulations at Sec.  82.156(i) generally require owners 
or operators to repair leaks within 30 days of the leak rate being 
exceeded (i.e., the date of the refrigerant addition) to bring the leak 
rate to below the applicable leak rate. In the proposed rule, EPA 
discussed that owners or operators may not know that they have 
performed sufficient repairs to bring the system below the leak rate, 
or they may have completed the repairs but may find themselves out of 
compliance if a separate leak occurs. To reduce emissions of 
refrigerants to the lowest achievable level, and remove ambiguity 
concerning compliance, EPA proposed to require a leak inspection of the 
appliance and then repair all identified leaks. Recognizing that a 
small amount of refrigerant can be released from an appliance even if 
the refrigerant circuit is unbroken, EPA sought comments on not 
requiring the repair of certain minor leaks. Specifically, EPA asked 
whether it should exempt situations where sound professional judgment 
indicates an individual identified leak is not the result of a faulty 
component or connection and that refrigerant releases would not be 
reduced from repair or adjustment.
    Many commenters requested that EPA differentiate between major 
fixable leaks and minor unfixable leaks. They stated that it is 
impossible to repair ``all leaks'' as many systems have minuscule leaks 
that are not fixable. A couple of commenters suggested that EPA not 
require the repair of leaks that meet the ASHRAE 147 standard, which 
are those that are less than 0.1oz/year/joint. Another commenter 
recommends a threshold of 10,000 ppm if using leak detection equipment, 
or detection visible to the naked eye if using qualitative tests like a 
soap bubble test. Other commenters supported EPA's proposed exception 
that allows a technician to use best professional judgment to decide 
that a leak is not caused by a faulty component or connection and that 
the leak would not be reduced from repair or adjustment.
    Some commenters were concerned about the diminishing returns of 
repairing all identified leaks. In some cases, small leaks may actually 
require extensive repair activities and even component replacement. 
Repairing all identified leaks will extend repair times, which for IPR 
systems may increase the costs of the repair or, in the case of nuclear 
generating facilities, increase the risk of conducting those repairs. 
For those reasons, these commenters said owners and operators should be 
provided flexibility to select which leaks to repair or make a good-
faith effort to repair leaks.
    In this final rule, after consideration of the comments, EPA is not 
finalizing the proposed change to require repair of all identified 
leaks. In the proposal, EPA acknowledged that a small amount of 
refrigerant can migrate from an appliance even if the refrigerant 
circuit is unbroken, and requested comment on whether there should be a 
limited exception from the requirement. Instead, the regulations 
finalized today contain the same requirement as in the original rule by 
requiring that leaks be repaired such that the leak rate will be below 
the applicable leak rate. Accordingly, EPA is not at this time setting 
a final standard for what is, or is not, an actionable leak beyond the 
applicable leak rate. In not finalizing this proposed change, EPA 
considers that an owner or operator may have good reason to choose not 
to repair a small leak. EPA also considers the original intent of the 
leak repair provisions, as explained in the 1993 Rule. At that time the 
Agency considered requiring the repair of all leaks ``which has the 
benefit of simplicity and clarity'' but explained that without ``any 
type of lower bound, however, this standard could result in huge 
amounts of money being spent to repair even pinhole leaks in equipment 
that may soon be obsolete . . . The intent of the leak repair 
requirement in this rule is to assure that substantial leaks are 
repaired.'' (58 FR 28680). Not finalizing this proposed requirement 
reduces the number of leaks that are to be repaired and accordingly 
will reduce the burden of the final rule compared with the proposed 
rule for two reasons. First, the repair effort itself may take less 
time. Second, fewer verification tests on the repairs, and 
recordkeeping associated with such tests, will be needed.
    The final regulations include other provisions to help ensure that 
leaks are repaired consistent with the Rule's provisions, and to 
address compliance and enforceability of the leak repair provisions. 
For example, the final regulations provide for initial and follow-up 
verification tests, as discussed below. They also specify that the leak 
rate must be confirmed upon the next refrigerant addition. EPA 
recognizes that this will result in some uncertainty because the owner 
or operator will not know whether the repair is successful until the 
leak rate is measured at a future date. There are two instances in 
which EPA will consider a repair to be successful beyond calculating 
the leak rate upon the next refrigerant addition. The first instance is 
if a subsequent leak inspection does not find any leaks at all.\24\ EPA 
therefore strongly encourages the owner or operator to repair all 
identified leaks, and this provision provides an incentive to repair 
all identified leaks, although EPA is not finalizing this proposed 
requirement. The second instance is if there has not been a refrigerant 
addition in 12 months after the date of repair. If there is not a need 
for another refrigerant addition for at least a year after the date of 
repair (and thus the leak rate cannot be calculated for at least a 
year) EPA will consider the repairs to have been successful.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \24\ As discussed previously in this notice, EPA is finalizing 
the proposed requirement that the owner or operator conduct a leak 
inspection of the appliance before considering the repair to be 
complete. Conducting a comprehensive leak inspection is the only way 
to ensure that the owner or operator can identify the repairs 
necessary to bring the leak rate below the applicable level.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    If upon the next refrigerant addition the appliance is still 
exceeding the threshold leak rate, EPA's presumption is that the repair 
failed. The burden is on the owner or operator of the appliance to show 
that leaks were repaired to bring the leak rate below the applicable 
threshold and that those repairs held.
    One commenter stated that the greatest value of a leak inspection 
is on a system with a known leak. A comprehensive leak inspection on an 
appliance that has exceeded the applicable leak rate will ensure that 
the technician does not stop an inspection when the first leak is 
found. Another commenter encouraged EPA to be specific that the leak 
inspection be conducted on the whole system not just where the original 
leak was found. Another commenter stated that if a particular circuit 
in a rack house is found to be leaking and is subsequently repaired and 
passes the verification test, it would be nonsensical to require the 
inspection of other circuits on that particular appliance.
    EPA agrees with these three commenters. The leak inspection must 
encompass all visible and accessible components of an appliance, with 
certain exceptions specified in the revised rule. The leak inspection 
is not complete simply because a single suspected leak is identified. 
Only through an inspection of the whole of the appliance can an owner 
or operator know that the repairs that are to be made will be 
sufficient to bring the appliance below the applicable leak rate. 
However, a leak inspection need

[[Page 82324]]

not be performed on other appliances at that site. As discussed 
previously in this notice, EPA is clarifying the definition of 
appliance such that each separate circuit is a separate appliance. 
While there could be a benefit to proactively searching for leaks on 
all other circuits, there is no obligation to inspect the other 
circuits if only one circuit is leaking and it has been repaired and 
the repair verified.
8. Verification Tests
    The prior regulations at Sec.  82.156(i)(3) required verification 
tests for repairs to IPR and federally owned commercial and comfort 
cooling appliances containing an ODS refrigerant. Verification tests 
are performed on appliances, or portions thereof, shortly after they 
are repaired to confirm that leaks have been fixed. Without 
verification tests, it may take additional time for the owner and 
operator to realize that a repair has been unsuccessful and during that 
time refrigerant could continue to leak from the appliance. EPA is 
extending this requirement to all required repairs because ensuring 
that the repairs are done correctly the first time is vital to reducing 
refrigerant emissions, regardless of whether the appliance is used for 
IPR, commercial refrigeration, comfort cooling, or is in the category 
of ``other appliances.''
    EPA is finalizing the requirement at Sec.  82.157(e) that owners or 
operators of all types of appliances that are subject to the leak 
repair requirements (including those using an ODS or non-exempt 
substitute refrigerant) perform both an initial and follow-up 
verification of repairs every time the applicable leak rate is exceeded 
(unless a retrofit or retirement plan is being developed). Most 
commenters on this issue supported the requirement for a follow-up 
verification test. Commenters agreed that the combination of an initial 
and a follow-up verification test provides effective confirmation of 
successful repair. One commenter stated that requiring the verification 
of all repairs would be excessively burdensome. The commenter discusses 
this burden in the context of the proposal to repair ``all identified 
leaks.'' The commenter continues that if amendments to the rule for 
inspections and repairs are adopted in any form, EPA should adopt 
verification provisions that are limited to significant leaks or adopt 
an 80/20 rule to assure that the majority of leak repairs are verified 
by a certified technician or qualified plant personnel.
    EPA disagrees with the comment about limiting verification 
provisions to significant leaks or adopting an 80/20 rule. Because EPA 
is not requiring the repair of all identified leaks in the final rule, 
the number of verification tests should be reduced. However, as 
explained above, it is important that all repairs be verified both for 
purposes of compliance and enforceability and for purposes of avoiding 
emissions from leaking appliances. Since owners or operators have 
flexibility to determine which leaks to repair as long as they can meet 
the obligation to bring the leak rate below the applicable threshold, 
they may generally consider what are significant leaks in their repair 
effort. The verification tests would only apply to the leaks that were 
repaired.
    One commenter stated that a follow-up verification test is 
unnecessary if there are periodic leak inspections and thus they should 
be eliminated. EPA disagrees with this comment because a follow-up 
verification test and a leak inspection serve two separate purposes. 
The verification test is conducted shortly after the repairs to confirm 
the success of those repairs. The leak inspections are to identify over 
the next year or longer whether new leaks have developed or whether 
minor leaks have become more significant and to determine the location 
of such leaks.
    EPA requested comments on whether to require a minimum time between 
initial and follow up verification tests, such as one to three hours, 
to allow an appliance to return to normal operating characteristics and 
conditions. Many commenters recommended that EPA not establish a 
minimum time. Commenters suggested that the follow-up verification test 
be allowed as soon as the appliance returns to normal operating 
characteristics and conditions. Requiring a waiting period would 
increase costs by requiring an additional service call. Furthermore, 
high pressure systems will reveal whether a leak was properly repaired 
almost immediately.
    EPA has considered the burden of conducting verification tests on 
all appliances. The Agency understands that most technicians pressure 
check appliances immediately following repairs. Such pressure checks 
would satisfy the initial verification requirements. EPA is concerned 
that follow-up verifications may not be a part of normal operating 
procedures for all repairs. This final rule would allow both initial 
and follow-up verification tests to be conducted during the same 
service appointment. Accordingly, EPA does not expect the requirement 
for verification tests to result in a longer servicing event and thus 
we do not expect this requirement to result in incremental labor costs. 
However, the final rule provides, and EPA reiterates, that the 
technician must wait until the appliance returns to normal operating 
characteristics and conditions, which includes operating temperatures, 
pressures, fluid flows, speeds, and other characteristics, including 
full charge of the appliance, that would be expected for a given 
process load and ambient condition during normal operation.
    Some commenters requested that EPA add a reporting requirement for 
technicians to provide owners or operators with the results of the 
verification tests. These commenters expressed that it is difficult to 
get all of the documentation that they are required to maintain from 
the technicians who generate those records. EPA agrees with the need to 
harmonize the recordkeeping provisions between technicians and owners 
and operators and understands that in order for owners and operators to 
maintain the required records of the verification tests, they would 
need to obtain relevant information from the person conducting those 
tests. For these reasons, EPA is adding a requirement for technicians 
to provide documentation at the conclusion of each service visit to 
Sec.  82.157(l)(5).
    Two commenters suggested that EPA provide an exception for 
situations where a follow-up verification test is impossible, for 
example, when it would be unsafe to be present when the system is at 
normal operating characteristics and conditions. One of the commenters 
recommended that EPA allow a standing deep vacuum test in lieu of a 
follow-up verification test. EPA responds that the Agency attempted to 
address similar concerns from commenters in 1995. Examples included 
leaks inside a heat exchanger, compressor internals, locations that 
must be insulated prior to start-up, and locations in close proximity 
to dangerous hot equipment or moving parts where access is not possible 
after reassembly (See 60 FR 40429). At that time, the Agency amended 
the regulation at Sec.  82.156(i)(3) to state that ``[i]n all cases, 
the follow-up verification test shall be conducted at normal operating 
characteristics and conditions, unless sound professional judgment 
indicates that tests performed at normal operating characteristics and 
conditions will produce less reliable results, in which case the 
follow-up verification test shall be conducted at or near the normal 
operating pressure where practicable, and at or near the normal 
operating temperature where practicable.'' EPA had proposed to remove 
that provision to make the regulation clearer and less ambiguous.

[[Page 82325]]

Instead, EPA is modifying that provision in the revised regulations at 
Sec.  82.157(e)(2) to more clearly address the concern about safety 
raised by the commenters as well as the original intent of that 
provision.
    EPA is also finalizing the proposed change to clarify that owners 
or operators may conduct as many repair attempts as needed within the 
initial 30 days (or longer if an extension is available) to repair the 
appliance. Consequently, the Agency is explicitly allowing unlimited 
verification tests within the required repair window. Commenters were 
supportive of this clarification.
9. Extensions to the 30-Day (or 120-Day) Repair Requirement
    The prior regulations contained extensions to the repair or 
retrofit/retirement deadlines under four conditions:
     The appliance was mothballed (available for all 
appliances) (Sec.  82.156(i)(10));
     The appliance was located in an area subject to 
radiological contamination or where shutting down the appliance would 
directly lead to radiological contamination (available for federally 
owned appliances) (Sec.  82.156(i)(1)(ii) and (i)(5)(ii));
     Applicable federal, state, or local regulations made a 
repair within 30 or 120 days impossible (available for IPR) (Sec.  
82.156(i)(2)(i)); or
     Parts were unavailable (available for IPR) (Sec.  
82.156(i)(2)(i)).
    While not an extension, IPR facilities were also allowed an initial 
repair period of 120 days rather than 30 days if an industrial process 
shutdown is required to complete the repair. In addition, an exemption 
to the repair requirement was allowed for all types of appliances if a 
dated retrofit or retirement plan is developed within 30 days and is 
then implemented within one year of the date developed.
    EPA proposed to provide these extensions to all appliance 
categories, not just IPR and federally owned equipment. EPA is 
finalizing these proposed extensions, with some changes from the 
proposal. Based on comments received, EPA is finalizing a modified 
version for the extension for when necessary parts are unavailable. 
More specifically, EPA is clarifying that the extension is allowed when 
components that must be replaced as part of the repair are not 
available within the initial 30 day (or 120 day) repair time frame. 
Also based on comments, EPA is modifying the proposed changes to allow 
these extensions upon notification to EPA, unless EPA notifies the 
source otherwise, rather than requiring owners or operators to request 
an extension and wait for EPA approval. Taken together, these changes 
significantly reduce the burden of the leak repair regulations on 
owners of comfort cooling and commercial refrigeration appliances and 
to a lesser extent IPR.
    Based on comments received, EPA is modifying the extension for when 
necessary parts are unavailable. Many commenters supported EPA's 
proposal to allow additional time to acquire and install a replacement 
for a leaking component. While EPA views installing a component as a 
type of repair, the comments indicate that some owners or operators 
consider the replacement of a component as different than the repair of 
an appliance. Replacing a component is more costly, requires more time 
to order, and requires more system downtime to install. Owners or 
operators may attempt to repair a leak but upon a failed follow-up 
verification test may ultimately decide that the whole component where 
the leak is located needs to be replaced. By the time a decision is 
made to replace the whole component, there is little time remaining 
within the initial 30 day repair window to procure and install that 
component.
    Based on these comments, EPA is modifying the extension for when 
necessary parts are unavailable by clarifying that the extension is 
allowed when components that must be replaced as part of the required 
repair are not available within the initial 30 day time frame (or 120 
days if an industrial process shutdown is required). This extension 
encourages the proper repair of an appliance, which in EPA's view, 
includes the replacement of major components if necessary, rather than 
simply patching those components, an approach which may not be 
successful in the longer term. Furthermore, some owners or operators 
would prefer to replace a faulty component before they are required to 
retrofit or retire an entire appliance and believe this could, in many 
instances, be an equally effective means to address needed repairs. 
This extension should also reduce the potentially large burden upon 
owners or operators of requiring a large-scale retrofit or retirement 
when replacing the leaking component might satisfactorily repair the 
appliance.
    The extensions for repair in the prior regulations are open-ended. 
While those regulations provided only the additional time needed to 
receive delivery of the necessary parts, it did not set an outer limit 
for delivery nor did it clearly provide time to install the components 
once they are received. EPA is finalizing its proposal to set a limit 
on the extension for the installation of a necessary component. The 
owner or operator must complete the repair within 30 days after 
receiving delivery of the component and the total extension may not 
exceed 180 days (or 270 days if an IPR shutdown is required).
    To qualify for any of the extensions in this section, owners or 
operators must perform all repairs that can be completed within the 
initial 30 or 120 day period. Initial verification tests must be 
performed on all completed repairs. A final verification test may not 
be appropriate for the completed repairs depending on the nature of the 
remaining repairs and state of the appliance. The owner or operator 
must also document all such repair efforts and the reason for the 
inability to make the repair. This would include a written statement 
from the appliance or component manufacturer or distributor stating the 
unavailability of the necessary component and the expected delivery 
date.
    Some commenters stated that any changes to nuclear generating 
stations must undergo extensive engineering and risk review processes, 
which recommends against the requirement to retrofit if they cannot 
repair the system. The commenter noted that extended downtime of safety 
systems in such facilities will increase risk to workers and may 
conflict with federal regulations. EPA responds that the Agency is 
providing extensions for any appliance type subject to radiological 
contamination. Previously, this extension was available only for 
federally owned appliances. EPA is also not changing the open-ended 
nature of the extensions due to radiological contamination or 
compliance with applicable federal, state, or local regulations. 
Together, this should allow repairs in accordance with the commenter's 
schedule.
    In some instances, encouraging repair may be a preferable 
environmental outcome to requiring the retrofit or retirement of a 
leaking system. Appliances that are to be retired are not required to 
be repaired. Thus, an appliance may continue to leak for up to a year 
(in addition to extension opportunities). Under this final rule, leaks 
must be repaired to bring the leak rate below the applicable threshold 
within 30 days and any component replacement must occur within 6 
months. The extension could accelerate the time by which the appliance 
will stop releasing refrigerants by making leak repair seem more 
attractive or

[[Page 82326]]

feasible for some owners or operators compared with retrofit or 
retirement of a leaking system.
    Based on the comments received, EPA is allowing these extensions to 
be automatic, so long as EPA is notified. Previously, owners or 
operators would have to request these extensions from EPA and wait for 
them to be approved. One commenter requested that EPA automatically 
grant the extension where there are limiting federal, state, or local 
laws so long as the owner or operator maintains the proper 
documentation that demonstrates they satisfy the condition. Another 
commenter requested that EPA harmonize the timing of the request with 
the 30 day time frame to repair. Previously, a request had to be made 
within 30 days of exceeding the leak rate but EPA had an additional 30 
days to approve or deny the request. There was no clear tolling of the 
30 day repair clock which meant a system could be denied an extension 
after the repair deadline expired. EPA is resolving these conflicting 
schedules by considering repair requests approved unless EPA notifies 
the owner or operator that it is not approved.
    Owners or operators must provide the same information to EPA as was 
contained in a request for an extension under the prior regulations. 
The request must include: Identification and address of the facility; 
the name of the owner or operator of the appliance; the leak rate; the 
method used to determine the leak rate and full charge; the date a leak 
rate above the applicable leak rate was discovered; the location of 
leak(s) to the extent determined to date; any repair work performed 
thus far, including the date that work was completed; the reasons why 
more than 30 days are needed to complete the repair; and an estimate of 
when the work will be completed.
    If an extension to the earlier submitted completion date is 
necessary, the owner or operator must still submit a request to EPA 
with a new estimated date of completion and documentation of the reason 
for that change. The request must be within 30 days of identifying that 
further time is needed. The owner or operator must keep a dated copy of 
this submission and proof that it was submitted.
10. Retrofit or Retirement Plans
    The previous regulations at Sec.  82.156(i)(6) required an owner or 
operator of an appliance that exceeds the applicable leak rate to 
develop a retrofit or retirement plan generally within 30 days if they 
were unable to repair the leak or simply choose not to repair the leak 
and instead retire the appliance. EPA proposed four revisions to the 
retrofit/retirement provision. First, EPA proposed to remove the 
requirement to retrofit or retire an appliance after a failed follow-up 
verification test. Second, EPA proposed to remove the requirement to 
use a substitute with a lower or equivalent ODP. Third, EPA proposed to 
establish explicit elements of a retrofit/retirement plan. Fourth, EPA 
proposed to require that all identified leaks be repaired as part of 
implementing any retrofit plan. EPA is finalizing these four proposals, 
with some modifications based on comments.
    Failed Verification Tests. The prior regulations required owners or 
operators of IPR using an ODS refrigerant that have failed a follow-up 
verification test to develop a retrofit or retirement plan within 30 
days of the failed verification test and implement the plan within one 
year. Owners or operators of comfort cooling and commercial 
refrigeration appliances were not required to perform verification 
tests on their repairs and therefore were not subject to this trigger 
to develop a retrofit or retirement plan. As discussed in Section 
IV.F.8 of this notice, EPA is extending the requirement to conduct 
verification tests on repairs made to commercial refrigeration and 
comfort cooling appliances, increasing the potential universe of 
appliances affected.
    Both prior to initiating this rulemaking and through comments 
received on the proposed rule, appliance owners/operators have 
expressed their concern to EPA that the requirement to retrofit or 
retire an entire appliance because it has failed a verification test is 
not always practical or necessary. In their view, a failed verification 
test should indicate to a technician that further repair work needs to 
be performed to properly fix the leak, not a regulatory requirement to 
begin retrofitting or retiring the appliance. As EPA discusses in the 
section on follow-up verification tests, in the revisions finalized in 
this rule EPA is allowing as many repairs and follow-up verification 
tests as are necessary to fix the appliance within the required time 
frame. Accordingly, consistent with these comments, the revised 
regulations no longer require an owner or operator to retrofit or 
retire an entire appliance simply because it has failed a verification 
test.
    EPA proposed that failing to comply with ``paragraphs (e) and (f) 
of this section,'' which included the proposed requirement to repair 
all identified leaks and verify all repairs, would trigger a 
requirement to develop a retrofit or retirement plan within 30 days, 
rather than a failed verification test. As discussed above, EPA is not 
finalizing the proposal to repair all identified leaks; therefore, EPA 
is modifying the trigger to develop a retrofit or retirement plan 
accordingly. In this final rule, a plan must be developed within 30 
days of discovering that an appliance continues to leak above the 
applicable leak rate after having conducted the necessary repairs and 
verification tests. This provision as finalized is also narrower and 
clearer than a ``failure to comply with paragraphs (e) and (f) of this 
section,'' which EPA proposed, because the proposed language could have 
been interpreted to also include failure to maintain records rather 
than failure to repair the appliance. EPA has added a provision to 
clarify that owners or operators are still required to develop a 
retrofit or retirement plan even if they do not affirmatively choose to 
retrofit, retire, or repair their leaking appliance.
    Retrofit/Retirement ODP. EPA's prior regulations required that 
appliances containing an ODS refrigerant, when being retrofitted or 
retired/replaced, use a refrigerant with an equivalent or lower ODP. 
EPA created this provision to foster the transition from refrigerants 
with high ODPs to ones with a lower or zero ODP.
    EPA proposed to remove this requirement and allow for retrofits or 
retired/replaced appliances to use any refrigerant (other than the one 
currently used in that appliance in the case of retrofits), so long as 
it is acceptable for use under SNAP. This proposed revision would not 
relax the prior requirements with respect to HCFCs since the 
regulations implementing sections 605 and 606 of the CAA already 
prohibit the use of virgin HCFCs in appliance manufacture (as of 
January 1, 2010, for HCFC-142b and HCFC-22; and as of January 1, 2020, 
for other HCFCs) and thus installation and retrofit of such appliances 
would not occur. As explained in the proposal, requiring the use of a 
refrigerant with a lower or equivalent ODP could be problematic if the 
requirement were read strictly because some non-exempt substitutes like 
HFOs that are not classified as an ODS have a negligible, but non-zero, 
ODP. For example, trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene (also known 
as 1233zd(E)) has an ODP between 0.00024 to 0.00034 and a GWP between 
4.7 to 7 (see 77 FR 47768). Under a strict interpretation, an owner/
operator would not be able to replace an R-134a chiller with a 
1233zd(E) chiller in the future because R-134a has an ODP of zero and 
the olefinic refrigerant has an ODP greater than zero. This

[[Page 82327]]

could prevent transition to low-GWP alternatives.
    Some commenters suggested that EPA should require a retrofit to an 
acceptable substitute under SNAP, with one commenter suggesting that it 
be a lower GWP alternative than the refrigerant currently being used. 
Another commenter suggested that if the SNAP-approved refrigerant with 
the lowest available GWP is being used, EPA should allow for documented 
repairs and quarterly leak inspection in place of forced system 
retirement.
    Other commenters questioned the value of retrofitting a system that 
already uses substitute refrigerants and suggest that retrofit plans 
should not be required for non-ODS equipment. One commenter viewed the 
existing rules as providing an opt-out incentive to owners that 
voluntarily retrofit to a non-ODS. The commenter requested that EPA 
retain this feature so that owners that switch from a high-GWP 
refrigerant to a low-GWP refrigerant similarly benefit. Similarly, a 
commenter questioned how retrofitting helps the owner/operator if the 
rules for HFCs are the same as for ODS.
    EPA responds that the Agency is finalizing provisions that 
encourage the repair of leaking systems instead of requiring the 
retrofitting or retirement of those systems. Most significantly, EPA is 
finalizing the proposal to allow all comfort cooling, commercial 
refrigeration, and IPR appliances the opportunity to extend the 
deadline to repair leaking appliances beyond 30 days (or 120 days if an 
industrial process shutdown is required). It is not the Agency's 
intention to use the retrofit or retirement requirements in the subpart 
F regulations to dictate specific refrigerant choices. The revisions to 
these regulations are intended to provide as much flexibility to the 
owner or operator to decide what is appropriate for their system.
    Elements of a Retrofit or Retirement Plan. EPA has not previously 
specified what elements should be included in a retrofit or retirement 
plan. Due to the complex nature of refrigeration appliances, an 
exhaustive list may not fit all types of appliances considering the 
wide array of configurations and refrigerant choices. Based on requests 
from stakeholders, EPA proposed a minimum set of information that is 
likely to be needed during any type of retrofit or retirement to be 
included in a plan, including:
     Identification and location of the appliance;
     Type (i.e., ASHRAE number) and full charge of the 
refrigerant currently used in the appliance;
     Type (i.e., ASHRAE number) and full charge of the 
refrigerant to which the appliance will be converted, if retrofitted;
     Itemized procedure for converting the appliance to the new 
refrigerant, including changes required for compatibility (for example, 
procedure for flushing old refrigerant and lubricant; and changes in 
lubricants, filters, gaskets, o-rings, and valves), if retrofitted;
     Plan for the disposition of recovered refrigerant;
     Plan for the disposition of the appliance, if retired; and
     Schedule for completion within one year of the appliance 
retrofit or retirement.
    Some commenters stated that this is excessively detailed and 
includes information that is unlikely to be known immediately upon 
deciding to retrofit or retire an appliance. One commenter noted that 
it will take time to perform the necessary engineering evaluations and 
investigate the costs and timing associated with the available options. 
The commenter provided revised regulatory text to remove reference to 
the type of refrigerant and full charge for the retrofitted system, the 
procedure for converting the appliance to a new refrigerant, and the 
schedule for conducting the retrofit or retirement.
    EPA responds that the shortest time frame in which a retrofit or 
retirement plan would have to be developed is when, upon discovering a 
leak, the owner or operator immediately chooses to retrofit or retire 
the appliance upon discovering that leak. In that circumstance the plan 
would be developed within 30 days. In all other circumstances, the 
owner will have 30 days from when repair attempts have failed, 
including repairs attempted under various extensions, to develop the 
plan.
    While some information may not be available in that time frame, the 
owner or operator can develop an initial plan within 30 days and then 
modify it as additional information is determined. For example, owners 
or operators may not know within the allotted time frame what the 
itemized procedure will be until they finalize plans for the retrofit 
or retirement. The plan could indicate what steps must be taken in 
order to have enough information to make the necessary determinations. 
The information required in the plan is not excessively detailed 
because the owner or operator will need to know this information in 
order to properly dispose of the old appliance and install the 
replacement.
    One commenter also stated that the plan does not need to be kept 
onsite with the appliance, so long as it can be made available to EPA 
and that it is also unnecessary for a plan to be signed because staff, 
including the person who initially signed the plan, could change. The 
commenter believes it is sufficient for EPA to be told who is 
responsible for the plan when it is provided to the Agency. EPA 
responds that it is appropriate for the plan to be accessible at the 
site of the appliance. The previous rules required that the original 
plan or a legible copy be kept at the site of the appliance. This could 
imply maintaining a printed version of the plan with the appliance. EPA 
is finalizing the proposal to allow for the plan to be ``accessible'' 
at the site of the appliance, which includes an option to have the plan 
be ``accessible'' in electronic format. This provides sufficient 
flexibility for the plan's storage while still allowing for the plan to 
be quickly available upon request. It is also important that the plan 
be signed so that the authorized representative has taken 
responsibility for the plan and so that EPA can identify who that 
person is and the date the plan was created.
    Requirement to Repair Appliances Undergoing Retrofit. Under the 
prior regulations at Sec.  82.156(i)(6), owners or operators were not 
required to repair leaks if they developed a retrofit or retirement 
plan. EPA proposed to require that all identified leaks be repaired as 
part of any retrofit under such a plan. EPA is finalizing the 
requirement that a system being retrofitted must be simultaneously 
repaired as part of the retrofit. EPA is also finalizing the proposed 
requirement that the owner or operator repair ``all identified leaks'' 
as part of the retrofit, rather than allowing selective repairs that 
would bring the appliance below the applicable leak rate. Although this 
differs from the requirements for leak repair discussed in Section 
IV.F.7, a retrofit is a more extensive change to a system, during which 
time components may be replaced and more comprehensive leak repair can 
be performed.
11. Extensions To Retrofit or Retire Appliances
    Under the prior regulations at Sec.  82.156(i)(6), an owner or 
operator generally was required to complete the retrofit or retirement 
of a leaking appliance containing an ODS within one year of creating a 
retrofit or retirement plan. Extensions were available in the following 
circumstances:

[[Page 82328]]

     If delays were caused by requirements of other applicable 
federal, state, or local laws or regulations (available for IPR);
     If a suitable replacement refrigerant with a lower ODP was 
unavailable (available for IPR);
     If the supplier of the appliance or a critical component 
quoted a delivery time of more than 30 weeks from when the order was 
placed (available for IPR);
     If complications presented by the appropriations and/or 
procurement process resulted in a delivery time of more than 30 weeks 
(available for federally owned appliances); or
     If the appliance was located in an area subject to 
radiological contamination and creating a safe working environment will 
require more than 30 weeks (available for federally owned appliances).
    EPA proposed at Sec.  82.157(i) four substantive revisions to these 
extensions. First, as with all other leak repair provisions, EPA 
proposed to apply these extensions to appliances containing non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants. EPA is finalizing this revision, as proposed.
    Second, EPA proposed to remove the extension for when a suitable 
replacement refrigerant with a lower ODP is not available. EPA 
established this extension when certain applications using CFCs did not 
have a suitable HCFC substitute. Today, there are many more substitutes 
for ODS refrigerants. In fact, few appliances can be newly installed or 
retrofitted with virgin ODS because of the HCFC use restrictions 
implementing section 605 of the CAA. As discussed previously in this 
notice, EPA is removing the requirement that a retrofit use a 
refrigerant with a similar or lower ODP. Therefore, the rationale for 
this extension no longer exists and EPA is removing it as proposed. EPA 
is accordingly also removing the term suitable replacement refrigerant 
from the definitions in Sec.  82.154, as proposed.
    Third, EPA proposed a new extension at Sec.  82.157(i)(1) if the 
appliance is to be retrofitted to or replaced with a refrigerant that 
is exempt from the venting prohibition as listed in Sec.  82.154(a). In 
that situation, EPA proposed to allow an extension up to 18 months. 
Whereas the prior extensions were only available to IPR and federally 
owned appliances, EPA proposed to make this extension available to 
comfort cooling and commercial refrigeration appliances as well.
    Some commenters were supportive of this proposal as a way to 
encourage transition to zero-ODP and low-GWP refrigerants. Other 
commenters were opposed to the proposal because it encourages the use 
of refrigerants that are more toxic, hazardous, or flammable than HFCs.
    EPA responds that the first comment is correct that the 
refrigerants that are exempt from the venting prohibition, such as 
carbon dioxide (R-744), and the hydrocarbon refrigerants ethane (R-
170), propane (R-290), isobutane (R-600a), and R-441A in certain uses, 
have an ODP of zero and low GWPs ranging from one to eight. EPA further 
notes that subject to 40 CFR subpart G, many of the refrigerants exempt 
from the venting prohibition are not acceptable when retrofitting 
certain types of equipment; hence, in most cases these exempt 
refrigerants would be used in new equipment replacing the leaking 
system. One reason to provide more time for retrofitting or 
replacements for exempt substitutes is to allow time to purchase and 
install new equipment. With respect to the points made by the second 
comment, the refrigerant must be approved under SNAP for the end-use in 
order to be used. A company choosing to move to one of these 
alternatives would reasonably be expected to consider safety 
characteristics of the refrigerant. Moreover, for refrigerants that are 
exempt from the venting prohibition, the Agency has already determined 
that the release of these substances do not pose a threat to the 
environment as part of the decision to exempt them from the venting 
prohibition. Accordingly, EPA is finalizing this extension as proposed.
    Fourth, the prior regulations at Sec.  82.156(i)(3)(v) relieved 
owners and operators of IPR appliances of the requirement to retrofit 
or retire their appliances if they established that the appliance's 
leak rate is below the applicable rate within 180 days of an initial 
failed follow-up verification test and they notified EPA within 30 days 
of that determination. EPA proposed to remove this provision because it 
was infrequently used and because other extensions, in particular the 
extension to receive a replacement component, should provide sufficient 
flexibility for IPR and other appliances.
    Multiple commenters recommended that EPA retain this exemption 
because there may be situations where the root cause of a leak is not 
identified until after a retrofit/retirement plan is developed. The 
commenters stated that an appliance need not be retrofitted or retired 
if it can be demonstrated that it is repaired.
    Based on these comments, EPA is not finalizing its proposal to 
remove that provision. Just because it is not frequently used does not 
mean that it may not be used in the future, especially since EPA is 
expanding the universe of appliances subject to the retrofit/retirement 
plan requirements to include those that use non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. EPA agrees that an appliance need not be retrofitted or 
retired if it can be demonstrated that the repairs bring the leak rate 
of the appliance below the threshold leak rates. In the instance of a 
retrofit, because EPA is requiring that all identified leaks be 
repaired, it is possible that the appliance could be repaired to such 
an extent as to not need to complete the retrofit.
    EPA is concerned, however, about whether this provision could 
provide a mechanism to delay repairs. To discourage this, EPA is 
requiring that all identified leaks be repaired consistent with the 
retrofit requirements, rather than merely fixing leaks sufficient to 
bring the appliance below the applicable leak rate, which is what EPA 
is finalizing for repairs required under Sec.  82.157(d). EPA is also 
revising the reporting elements that were found in the prior 
regulations related to this provision. Rather than allowing the owner 
or operator to merely provide notice to EPA, the Agency is requiring 
that the owner or operator request that EPA relieve them of the 
obligation to retrofit or retire the appliance. Like other requests in 
the leak repair provisions, the request will be considered approved 
unless EPA notifies the owners or operators otherwise within 60 days of 
receipt. The request must also provide other information about the 
equipment and the repair, such as an explanation of why the repair was 
not conducted within the time frames required under Sec.  82.157(d) and 
(f). This approach provides flexibility for owners and operators while 
avoiding it becoming simply an extension of the duty to repair because 
of the increased level of repair and the information requirements 
associated with its use. EPA anticipates this will be most useful in 
situations where the root cause of the leak is not identified until 
after a retrofit/retirement plan is developed.
    Finally, EPA proposed to revise the extension for IPR to implement 
a retrofit plan where a supplier of the appliance or a critical 
component has quoted a delivery time of more than 30 weeks from when 
the order is placed. EPA proposed to modify this to mirror the 
extension allowed for the repair of an appliance in this situation, 
such that the appliance or appliance components would have to be 
installed on the retrofitted appliance within 120 days after receiving 
delivery of the necessary parts. Previously, this extension allowed

[[Page 82329]]

for one additional year beyond the one-year retrofit period. EPA 
inadvertently removed a provision, found previously at Sec.  
82.156(i)(7)(iii), that further extended this extension for the 
delivery and installation of critical components without discussion in 
the notice of proposed rulemaking. EPA is restoring that provision at 
Sec.  82.157(i)(2)(iii). EPA notes that the Agency correctly proposed a 
similar extension for federally owned appliances in Sec.  
82.157(i)(3)(iii).
12. Chronically Leaking Appliances
    EPA proposed to add a total leak limit to the repair requirement to 
address chronically leaking systems. Under that proposal, an appliance 
containing 50 or more pounds of refrigerant may not leak more than 75 
percent of its full charge in two consecutive twelve-month periods and 
remain in use. If an appliance exceeded the two year leak limit, the 
owner or operator would be out of compliance until the appliance was 
retired or mothballed and later retired.
    For the proposed rule, EPA reviewed data reported to CARB to 
determine whether such a total leak limit would be necessary and, if 
so, what the limit should be. In 2013, approximately 8 percent of 
reporting appliances had leaked more than 75 percent of their full 
charge over the calendar year and were responsible for 38 percent of 
total reported emissions. Due to the high chronic leaks of such 
appliances, the environmental benefit of establishing a cumulative leak 
limit could be large. Nonetheless, the number of appliances affected by 
this proposed limit should be low.
    Environmental NGOs and state pollution control agencies were 
supportive of the proposed two year leak limit, with one NGO suggesting 
a leak limit of 55 percent instead of 75 percent. A chemical 
manufacturer was also supportive if the proposal allowed an exemption 
for unavoidable catastrophic leaks. Many other commenters expressed 
strong opposition to the proposed two year leak limit, describing it as 
redundant, unnecessary, or punitive. Commenters state that there are 
many reasons why an appliance may leak in excess of 75 percent for two 
consecutive years even though the appliance is in good condition. For 
example, commenters expressed that it is possible for two large volume 
leaks to occur from unrelated components. Multiple commenters stated 
that owners should not have to mothball an appliance where the cause of 
the leak can be remedied by the replacement of a component. Commenters 
that operate supermarkets were especially concerned about the 
requirement to retire the appliance given that EPA's definition of 
appliance includes all of the display cases and coolers attached to the 
refrigerant circuit. This requirement would result in the scrapping and 
replacement of perfectly good components. Another commenter for similar 
reasons suggested that IPR be exempt from the retirement responsibility 
due to their unique nature, although the commenter believed comfort 
cooling and commercial refrigeration could remain subject to the 2 year 
leak limit. If EPA chose to finalize this leak limit, many commenters 
requested an off-ramp provision from the automatic retirement for 
catastrophic leaks resulting from accidents, vandalism, acts of nature, 
non-mechanical failures, or on a case-by-case decision upon notifying 
EPA.
    In response to the significant concerns raised by commenters, EPA 
is not finalizing this proposed two year leak limit. EPA is aware of 
the many situations in which a system can leak large quantities of 
refrigerant in consecutive years. For instance, it is possible, though 
rare, for two catastrophic leaks to occur on the system through no 
fault of the operator. Although EPA requested comments on a possible 
exemption for catastrophic leaks, it is clear from the comments that 
there is a wide range of opinions about what a catastrophic leak is, 
and what can cause such a leak. Because EPA is not finalizing this 
provision, it is not defining the term catastrophic leak at this time.
    EPA also assumed that, absent catastrophic leaks, it was unlikely 
for a system to be in compliance with other parts of subpart F while 
still leaking at this rate. EPA generally anticipates that a leaking 
appliance will be repaired within 30 days to six months. However, the 
leak repair regulations contemplate situations in which an owner or 
operator is unable to repair or subsequently retrofit a system in a 
timely fashion (e.g., federally owned equipment located in areas 
subject to radiological contamination, unavailability of necessary 
parts for IPR, or adherence to local, State, or federal laws hinder 
repairs for IPR). Based on feedback from stakeholders from meetings 
docketed in this rule, EPA is aware of instances where appliances leak 
refrigerant in excess of 75 percent but are still in compliance with 
the other leak repair regulations.
    While EPA wishes to reduce chronically leaking systems, EPA 
believes other practices required under this final rule will help 
address chronic leakers. For example, strengthening the leak repair 
regulations by lowering the rate at which the initial repairs must be 
performed, requiring leak inspections prior to those repairs, 
verification tests of those repairs, and subsequent leak inspections 
after the repair, will reduce the number of chronically leaking 
systems.
    Data received from CARB and other sources indicate that there are 
systems that may not be adhering to the leak repair requirements of 
subpart F. Some commenters, even those opposed to the specific proposal 
offered by EPA, agree that the worst chronic leaking systems may 
warrant special consideration. However, they found the proposed 
provision both overly broad and overly harsh in its outcome. Some 
commenters proposed alternate methods of addressing chronically leaking 
systems. One commenter stated that a requirement to properly document 
causes for large leaks and to establish corrective actions would likely 
be more effective at reducing large leaks than simply imposing a two 
year leak limit that would result in a unit being retired. CARB 
recommended that if both (a) the annualized leak rate exceeds 100 
percent more than 4 times in the previous 365 days and (b) more than 
120 percent of the total charge has been added in the previous 365 
days, the system or faulty component should be retired. EPA considered 
CARB's approach and finds it attractive for a couple of reasons. This 
alternative has the benefit of considering the number of refrigerant 
additions in addition to the total amount of refrigerant released, 
thereby removing appliances affected by catastrophic leaks. It also 
would take effect after one year, which will cut in half the time in 
which refrigerant is being released into the environment. However, this 
approach would still require the automatic retirement of these systems, 
which some commenters found to be too strict a penalty.
    The chronically leaking appliance provision, as proposed, would 
apply to appliances containing 50 pounds or more of refrigerant that 
leak more than 75 percent of the full charge in each of two consecutive 
twelve-month periods. Based on the comments, EPA is revising the 
chronically leaking appliance provision. EPA is requiring that owners 
or operators of appliances that leak 125 percent of their full charge 
in a calendar year submit a report to EPA detailing their repair 
efforts. The reports must be submitted no later than March 1 of the 
year following the 125 percent or greater leak. Through that report, 
the owner or operator must demonstrate that they are

[[Page 82330]]

in compliance with the repair provisions or the retrofit or retirement 
provisions in this section. In some cases, owners or operators may have 
already provided information to EPA as part of a repair or retrofit 
extension request.
    By raising the threshold, EPA intends to avoid capturing appliances 
affected by unavoidable losses of full charge. Systems would have to 
lose their full charge and then a significant quantity more. Using CARB 
data and scaling up to the whole U.S., EPA estimates that 1,425 
appliances (or 0.1 percent of all appliances with 50 or more pounds of 
refrigerant) would be affected at 125 percent of full charge.
    Like CARB's approach, this would apply after one year rather than 
waiting for a second year of high leaks. As such, it will catch chronic 
leakers sooner than the provision EPA proposed. Several commenters 
contended the opportunity for a case-by-case determination is necessary 
to account for the variety of situations that might trigger the 
chronically leaking appliance provisions. They contended that without 
the opportunity for a case-by-case determination, the provision will 
force the retirement of working equipment. EPA's revised approach is 
similar to what many commenters suggested in that it allows for a case-
by-case discussion after notifying EPA. Adding this reporting 
requirement also furthers EPA's goal of revising these regulations to 
improve enforcement and compliance of the regulations in subpart F. 
This will incentivize many owners and operators to improve their 
systems to ensure that they do not trigger this reporting requirement.
    Comments were mixed as to whether the chronically leaking appliance 
provisions should be calculated based on calendar year, 12-month 
consecutive periods, or whether regulated entities should be given the 
discretion to choose one or the other. These concerns are partially 
moot, given that EPA has changed this requirement to allow for 
reporting to EPA in lieu of a retrofit or retirement. EPA is finalizing 
provisions stating that the 125 percent is based on calendar year so 
that entities do not need to calculate refrigerant additions on a 
rolling basis.
13. Recordkeeping
    The prior regulations contained recordkeeping and reporting 
provisions for all of subpart F at Sec.  82.166. As proposed, EPA is 
finalizing a recordkeeping paragraph at Sec.  82.157(l) and a reporting 
paragraph at Sec.  82.157(m) within the leak repair section to make 
these requirements easier to locate.
    The prior regulations also required that certain records be kept in 
hard copy at the site of the appliance. Under the revisions finalized 
in this rule, EPA is explicitly allowing, though not requiring, 
electronic records in this final rule. EPA recognizes that many 
companies employ electronic databases to store and track records. An 
electronic recordkeeping system has advantages to paper records, and 
EPA encourages owners and operators of appliances to use one of these 
systems to track refrigerant additions and other required records. 
Electronic systems allow for more comprehensive refrigerant management 
and can help identify leaky appliances earlier. These records must 
still be accessible onsite if an EPA inspector visits a facility, but 
that access can occur through downloading or printing the records from 
an online system.
    Owners and operators. The previous rules required owners and 
operators to maintain service records documenting the date and type of 
service, as well as the quantity of ODS refrigerant added. EPA proposed 
to add specific recordkeeping requirements to ensure that the owner or 
operator is aware of the leak rate. EPA also proposed to require that 
the owner or operator maintain records of all calculations, 
measurements, and assumptions used to determine the full charge and any 
revisions made to the full charge over time. EPA also proposed records 
for the leak inspections or automatic leak detection equipment, 
verification tests, and seasonal variances.
    Some commenters stated that the recordkeeping for the newly 
proposed requirements will be a significant burden. One commenter 
stated that the recordkeeping from all of the leak inspections would be 
a large burden and urged EPA to minimize that burden in the final rule. 
Another stated that requiring detailed information on the location of 
all repaired leaks with the type of verification test would be a 
substantial burden and would require enhanced service records tailored 
to individual equipment. The commenter suggested EPA require instead 
only the date and results of initial and follow-up verification tests.
    EPA responds that the Agency recognizes the concerns about the 
extent of the proposed recordkeeping burden. EPA is finalizing the 
recordkeeping requirements as proposed but is modifying the final rule 
to reduce the number of such records. First, EPA is only requiring leak 
inspections on systems that have exceeded the applicable leak rate, 
rather than on all appliances. EPA estimates that the universe of 
affected appliances will decrease by 81 percent relative to the 
proposal (from 1.5 million to 282,000 appliances). Though there are 
fewer leak inspections, EPA estimates a higher total burden because the 
Agency has increased the estimates for the costs of each inspection 
based on public comments. Second, EPA is only requiring repairs 
sufficient to bring the leak rate below the threshold leak rate, rather 
than requiring the repair of all identified leaks (unless the owner or 
operator chooses to calculate their leak rate using the Rolling Average 
method). There should be fewer verification tests and thus less to 
record.
    EPA is finalizing the leak inspection records as proposed. 
Specifically, owners or operators must keep records of leak inspections 
that include the date of inspection, the method(s) used to conduct the 
leak inspection, a list of the location of each leak that was 
identified, and a certification that all visible and accessible parts 
of the appliance were inspected. The specificity of the leak inspection 
documentation is appropriate because this information will help 
demonstrate that the repair has brought the appliance's leak rate below 
the threshold leak rate. This information would allow the owner or 
operator to demonstrate, if needed, that a further exceedance of the 
leak rate threshold after repairing leaks is due to a new leak rather 
than a leak that was previously identified but not repaired.
    EPA is also finalizing the verification test records as proposed. 
Specifically, owners or operators must maintain records that include 
the location of the appliance, the date of the verification tests, the 
location of all repaired leaks that were tested, the type of 
verification test used, and the results of those tests. It is important 
to document that each specific repair was verified so as to determine 
whether a repair was successful and whether the leak has been 
addressed. EPA is not requiring such specificity as a schematic of that 
individual appliance showing the locations of all repairs and 
verification tests. However, information should allow a technician to 
generally know which components of the appliance were repaired.
    In this final rule, EPA is establishing the recordkeeping 
requirements described generally in this section for owners and 
operators of appliances normally containing 50 or more pounds of class 
I, class II, or non-exempt substitute refrigerant. All records required 
in Sec.  82.157(l) must be maintained for at least three years.
     Maintain records documenting the full charge of 
appliances;

[[Page 82331]]

     Maintain records, such as invoices or other documentation 
showing when refrigerant is added or removed from an appliance, when a 
leak inspection is performed, when a verification test is conducted, 
and when service or maintenance is performed;
     If using an automatic leak detection system, maintain 
documentation that the system is installed and audited or calibrated 
annually and records of when the monitoring system identifies a leak 
and the location of the leak;
     Maintain retrofit and/or retirement plans;
     Maintain retrofit and/or extension requests submitted to 
EPA;
     If a system is mothballed to suspend a deadline, maintain 
records documenting when the system was mothballed and when it was 
brought back on-line (i.e., when refrigerant was added back into the 
appliance);
     Maintain records of purged and destroyed refrigerant if 
excluding such refrigerant from the leak rate;
     Maintain records to demonstrate a seasonal variance; and
     Maintain copies of any reports submitted to EPA under 
Sec.  82.157(m).
    Technicians. The prior rules required technicians to provide an 
invoice or other documentation that includes the amount of ODS 
refrigerant added to the owner or operator. This would likely already 
include information on the system serviced, the date, and the company/
person servicing the appliance. It would likely also include some 
description of the service provided. However, the information that the 
technician was required to provide did not match the information that 
the owner or operator was required to maintain. The limited records 
that the prior regulations required from service technicians also did 
not provide information needed by the owner or operator to make 
decisions on the fate of the appliance. EPA proposed to align the 
records that the technician must provide to the owner or operator with 
the ones that the owner or operator are required to maintain.
    Multiple commenters noted that owners or operators must expend a 
tremendous amount of effort to obtain good records from outside service 
providers. Often facility owners are provided incorrect or incomplete 
paperwork or are unable to obtain paperwork at all. The commenters were 
generally supportive of EPA's proposal that would make it a requirement 
for technicians to provide the necessary information to the owner or 
operator of the appliance. However, one commenter stated that the 
record for the proposed rule does not justify the extent of records 
that technicians must provide to owners/operators and suggested that 
EPA maintain only the current recordkeeping requirements for 
technicians.
    Multiple commenters requested that EPA remove the proposed 
requirement that technicians provide the owner or operator with the 
full charge of the appliance or the leak rate calculations because 
technicians often do not have sufficient information, such as the date 
of last service, to make those calculations. Other commenters requested 
that the Agency require the technician provide the owner or operator 
with information about the initial and follow-up leak repair 
verification tests that matches what EPA proposed to require the owner 
or operator to maintain.
    After considering the comments, EPA is finalizing its proposal to 
align the records that the technician must provide to the owner or 
operator with the records that the owner or operator are required to 
maintain, with a few exceptions described below. In response to the 
comment that EPA maintain only the current recordkeeping requirements 
for technicians, the service technician is generally in the better 
position to generate those records as they are performing the service 
activities and usually are the expert that the appliance owner or 
operator is relying on to make informed decisions about their 
appliances. Finalizing these requirements for technicians should help 
ensure that the appropriate records are created so that they can be 
maintained.
    Specifically, EPA is requiring that whenever an appliance with 50 
or more pounds of refrigerant is maintained, serviced, repaired, or 
disposed of, the technician must provide the owner or operator with an 
invoice or other documentation that indicates (1) the identity and 
location of the appliance; (2) the date and type of maintenance, 
service, repair, or disposal performed, including the location of 
repairs and the results of any verification tests or leak inspections 
(if applicable); (3) the name and contact information of the person 
performing the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal; and (4) the 
amount and type of refrigerant added to and/or removed from the 
appliance (if applicable).
    Based on the comments, EPA is not finalizing a requirement that the 
technician calculate the leak rate or provide the owner or operator 
with a record indicating the full charge of the appliance. The rules as 
finalized require the technician to provide information that they are 
best positioned to gather and that is relevant to calculating the leak 
rate and full charge, but the owner or operator is well positioned to 
determine those numbers because they should have the historical 
information that informs that calculation. Accordingly, it is not 
necessary for the technician to calculate the leak rate and EPA has 
modified the requirement at Sec.  82.157(b) to explicitly state that it 
is the owner or operator's responsibility to calculate the leak rate. 
Because the owner and operator is also required to calculate the full 
charge it is no longer a relevant record for the technician to provide.
    The final rule also explicitly requires that persons conducting the 
initial or follow-up leak repair verification test must, upon 
conclusion of that service, provide the documentation needed to meet 
the owner or operator's recordkeeping requirements. This furthers the 
goal of aligning the technician and owner or operator's recordkeeping 
requirements.
14. Reporting
    The existing regulations require that owners or operators report to 
EPA in certain circumstances. EPA is not making changes to those 
reporting requirements in this final rule:
     If the owner or operator is requesting an extension to the 
30-day (or 120-day) requirement to complete repairs pursuant to Sec.  
82.157(f);
     If the owner or operator is requesting an extension to 
complete a retrofit or retirement of an appliance pursuant to Sec.  
82.157(i); or
     If the owner or operator is excluding purged refrigerants 
that are destroyed from annual leak rate calculations pursuant to Sec.  
82.157(k).
    EPA is also finalizing two reporting requirements that were not 
contained in the proposed rule. First, EPA is requiring at Sec.  
82.157(j) that owners or operators submit a report if their appliance 
leaks 125 percent or more of the full charge in a calendar year and 
thereby triggers the chronically leaking appliances provision. EPA is 
adding this report to provide added flexibility, so that appliances 
that have leaked 125 percent of their full charge or greater do not 
necessarily need to be retired or retrofitted provided there is an 
explanation for the leak. This report must explain the reason for the 
leak rate of 125 percent or greater and could potentially include, 
among other things, the documentation prepared to extend the repair 
requirement or a description of catastrophic events. As discussed 
earlier in this notice, this reporting requirement is based on comments 
received to remove the two-year leak

[[Page 82332]]

limit and allow for case-by-case evaluations.
    Second, this final rule contains a provision allowing owners or 
operators who are retrofitting or retiring an appliance to request that 
EPA relieve them of that obligation if they can establish within 180 
days of the plan's date that the appliance no longer exceeds the 
applicable leak rate. This provision is contained in the prior 
regulations. EPA had proposed to remove it, but based on comments 
requesting that it be left in place, EPA is not finalizing the proposal 
to remove it. EPA is requiring information be included in the report 
that is similar to the previously existing requirement except EPA is 
additionally requiring a description of why the repair was not 
conducted within the time frames required under paragraphs (d) and (f) 
of this section. In addition, it must include a signed statement that 
all identified leaks will be repaired and an estimate of when those 
repairs will be completed (not to exceed one year from date of the 
plan). These additional elements are necessary to ensure that this 
provision is not used as a way to circumvent the required time frames 
for repair.
    EPA is not finalizing the proposed requirement for the report that 
would have accompanied an extension request from federal agencies to 
conduct less frequent leak inspections in the proposed rule. EPA is not 
finalizing this proposed extension and thus the reporting element is no 
longer necessary.
    EPA is also finalizing the requirement that all reports be 
submitted to EPA via email at 608reports@epa.gov, as proposed. If the 
submission contains confidential business information, reports can be 
mailed to the address in Sec.  82.160. This should reduce costs and 
streamline the reporting process for both EPA and those reporting. It 
is also consistent with EPA's Next Generation Compliance initiative. 
Commenters generally supported the move towards electronic reporting 
and recordkeeping.
    Two commenters requested that the Agency require that owners and 
operators keep a record of the amount of refrigerant leaked annually to 
the atmosphere by refrigerant type and that this information be 
reported to EPA. Additionally, the commenters requested that EPA make 
the data related to the emissions of refrigerants publicly available. 
In accordance with the transparency element of the Next Generation 
Compliance initiative, the general public could then point out 
violations and owners and operators would have an incentive to correct 
excessively leaking appliances.
    EPA responds that in general, EPA is not requiring that owners or 
operators calculate the sum total of refrigerant leaked annually or 
submit those data to EPA. The volume of reporting would be substantial 
and for a majority of appliances would be of limited value to EPA or 
the general public. However, owners or operators of equipment that 
leaks 125 percent of the total charge in a calendar year will have to 
calculate their total refrigerant additions to determine whether they 
have met that threshold. EPA finds that there is merit for those 
chronically leaking systems to perform this calculation and report to 
EPA because that will encourage those owners or operators to take steps 
to ensure they do not meet or exceed that threshold.

G. Revisions to the Standards for Recovery and/or Recycling Equipment 
in Sec.  82.158

1. Background
    Under the prior regulations, all refrigerant recovery and/or 
recycling equipment manufactured or imported on or after November 15, 
1993, and used during the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of 
appliances containing an ODS refrigerant must be certified by an 
approved equipment testing organization to ensure that it meets certain 
performance standards. These standards may vary for certain equipment 
intended for use with the disposal of small appliances. These 
performance standards were contained in tables 2 and 3 of Sec.  82.158, 
as well as appendices B1, B2, and C of subpart F. EPA based these 
standards in large part on ARI (now AHRI) Standard 740-1993 and ARI 
Standard 740-1995. Recovery and/or recycling equipment intended for use 
during the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of MVAC and MVAC-
like appliances must meet the standards in subpart B. The regulations 
pertaining to MVACs refer to subpart B and state that such recovery 
and/or recycling equipment must meet the standards of Sec.  82.36(a).
2. Extension to Substitute Refrigerants
    In the revisions finalized in this rule, EPA is requiring that all 
recovery and/or recycling equipment manufactured or imported for use 
during the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of appliances 
(except small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances) that contain 
non-exempt substitute refrigerants be certified by an approved 
equipment testing organization as being capable of meeting certain 
performance standards. EPA is requiring that after January 1, 2017, all 
newly manufactured or imported recovery and/or recycling equipment used 
during the disposal of all appliances, including MVACs and MVAC-like 
appliances, also be certified. One commenter agreed that recovery and/
or recycling equipment for use with non-exempt substitute refrigerants 
should be certified. This comment supports EPA's approach.
    EPA proposed that all existing recovery and/or recycling equipment 
that met certification requirements for ODS prior to this rulemaking 
would be considered as certified for non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. EPA is further clarifying that if a person who recovers 
refrigerant has recovery equipment that was certified as meeting the 
requirements for an ODS refrigerant, it can be used to recover other 
non-flammable refrigerants in that pressure category. For example, 
recovery equipment manufactured in 2015 that was certified to recover 
HCFC-22 can be used to recover other non-ODS refrigerants like R-407A, 
R-407C, or R-410A. However, proper care should be taken to prevent 
refrigerant mixing if using the same recovery device with multiple 
refrigerants.
    One commenter noted that additional equipment testing would be 
required if the equipment manufacturers want older equipment to handle 
newer non-exempt substitute refrigerants. EPA responds that all 
equipment manufactured or imported on or after January 1, 2017, must be 
tested under the new standards. This is true of older equipment designs 
previously certified for ODS which have not been tested for substitute 
refrigerants. However, any equipment manufactured or imported prior to 
the effective date is grandfathered and does not have to be 
recertified. Technicians can continue to use previously certified 
recovery equipment that they already own. As has been the case when EPA 
has previously changed equipment standards, EPA does not require 
technicians to recertify or replace their existing equipment.
    EPA is adding appendices B3 and B4, based on the AHRI Standard 740-
2016, Performance Rating of Refrigerant Recovery Equipment and 
Recovery/Recycling Equipment. The recovery standard is the same in both 
appendices; the difference between the two, as discussed later in this 
notice, is that appendix B4 contains additional safety standards for 
flammable refrigerants. EPA proposed to base appendices B3 and B4 on 
AHRI Standard 740-2015 but is using the most recent version of that 
standard for the final rule. All new equipment manufactured or imported 
on or after

[[Page 82333]]

January 1, 2017, must meet the standards in appendices B3 or B4 and 
table 2. The evacuation level would depend upon the saturation pressure 
of the refrigerant. EPA is also updating appendix C ``Method for 
Testing Recovery Devices for Use with Small Appliances'' to reference 
all refrigerants, instead of the previously referenced CFC-12.
    Certifying refrigerant recovery and/or recycling equipment for use 
with non-exempt substitutes serves multiple purposes. First, 
certification provides reliable information on the ability of equipment 
to minimize emissions of these substitute refrigerants, by measuring 
and/or establishing standards for recovery efficiency (vacuum level) 
and maximum emissions from air purging, oil draining, equipment 
clearing, and hose permeation. The fact that the equipment minimizes 
emissions is part of our consideration of whether emissions associated 
with using recovery equipment are considered de minimis releases. 
Second, certification provides reliable information on the equipment's 
ability to clear itself when switching between refrigerants. Without 
sufficient clearing capability, equipment may retain residual 
refrigerant in its condenser, which would then be mixed with the next 
batch of refrigerant recovered by the equipment. Because mixed 
refrigerant can be difficult if not impossible to reclaim (depending on 
how cross-contaminated the mixed refrigerant is) and expensive to 
destroy, it is much more likely than unmixed refrigerant to be vented 
to the atmosphere. Third, certification provides reliable information 
on the equipment's recovery speed. Without such information, 
technicians may purchase equipment that recovers too slowly, tempting 
them to interrupt recovery before it is complete. As discussed in the 
1993 Rule, where EPA established the equipment certification 
requirements, the information on equipment performance provided by an 
independent third-party testing organization is more reliable than that 
provided by other sources, such as equipment manufacturers (58 FR 
28686-28687).
    Finally, certification embraces Next Generation Compliance 
principles. Users of certified equipment, when following the 
manufacturer's instructions, will be in compliance with the regulatory 
standards for the evacuation of refrigerant.
    Flammable Refrigerants. Different treatment is warranted for non-
exempt flammable refrigerants. As proposed, EPA is adding standards for 
the recovery of flammable non-exempt refrigerants to appendix B4. 
Currently, six flammable non-exempt substitute refrigerants are 
approved for use in stationary refrigeration and air-conditioning 
equipment: HFC-32, HFC-152a, R-406A, R-411A, R-411B, and HFO-1234ze(E).
    EPA is using AHRI Standard 740-2016 as the basis for the recycling 
and/or recovery equipment requirements in appendix B3. This standard 
does not address the safety of recovering flammable refrigerants. EPA 
is therefore creating appendix B4, which requires the recovery/
recycling performance of appendix B3 and the safety performance of 
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Standard 1963-2011, Supplement SB--
Requirements for Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Equipment Intended for 
Use with a Flammable Refrigerant. All recycling and/or recovery 
equipment manufactured or imported after January 1, 2017, that are to 
be used with flammable non-exempt substitute refrigerants must meet 
this new standard. EPA is incorporating UL 1963 by reference and 
modifying the testing protocol in appendix B3 to account for 
flammability concerns during testing.
    Two testing organizations supported using UL 1963 to address 
flammable refrigerants. One commenter preferred that EPA reference UL 
1963 directly within appendix B4 rather than establishing separate 
requirements in appendix B4 that are based on that standard. Separate 
requirements published outside of that standard would make it more 
difficult to apply the standard. EPA responds that appendix B4 refers 
to UL 1963, Supplement SB, and does not reproduce the standard in the 
appendix due to copyright concerns.
    Another commenter strongly recommended that a label be required on 
all products certified to handle flammable refrigerants. EPA responds 
that UL 1963, Supplement SB has requirements for markings that must be 
placed on recovery and/or recycling equipment certified to handle 
flammable refrigerants. Because EPA is incorporating those standards in 
appendix B4 by reference, EPA is requiring those markings.
3. Removing the Certification by Owners of Recovery and/or Recycling 
Equipment
    As proposed, EPA is removing the requirement under Sec.  82.162 
that anyone who maintains, services, repairs, or disposes of appliances 
containing an ODS submit a signed statement to the appropriate EPA 
Regional office stating that they own recovery and/or recycling 
equipment and are complying with the applicable requirements of subpart 
F. EPA received one comment in support of taking this action.
    EPA created this provision in 1993 when the Agency first required 
that recovery and/or recycling equipment be certified and that 
technicians use certified equipment. At the time, the use and 
availability of recovery and/or recycling equipment was not as 
commonplace as it is today. Equipment certification by owners 
demonstrated to EPA that equipment was available for use by certified 
technicians. In particular, EPA was interested in the capabilities of 
grandfathered, or pre-1993, equipment. Since certified recovery and/or 
recycling equipment is now commonly available, EPA no longer needs the 
information contained in the certification statement such as the number 
of service trucks and personally identifiable information of equipment 
owners.
4. Clarifications and Edits for Readability
    EPA is reorganizing Sec.  82.158 by appliance type. EPA is also 
combining tables 2 and 3, which contain the levels of evacuation that 
must be achieved by recovery and/or recycling equipment, to remove 
inconsistencies in terminology and formatting.
    EPA also revised how the requirements for recovery equipment used 
on small appliances are written. In general, the requirement is that 
the equipment is capable of recovering 90 percent of the refrigerant in 
the test stand when the compressor of the test stand is operational and 
80 percent of the refrigerant when the compressor of the test stand is 
not operational. In addition, there are secondary considerations that 
could allow for the certification of recovery equipment based on when 
that equipment was manufactured or imported.

H. Revisions to the Standards for Equipment Testing Organizations in 
Sec.  82.160

    EPA relies on independent third party organizations approved by the 
EPA Administrator to certify that refrigerant recovery and/or recycling 
equipment meets the standards in subpart F. Any equipment testing 
organization may apply for approval so long as they can verify that 
they have the expertise and technical capability to verify the 
performance of the recovery and/or recycling equipment, have no 
conflict of interest (e.g., with equipment manufacturers), and receive 
no direct or indirect financial benefit from the outcome of 
certification testing.

[[Page 82334]]

    Any new certifying organization must have expertise to certify 
equipment that is used to recover or recycle refrigerants that are 
subject to this subpart. This means that they must be able to evaluate 
and certify HFCs and other non-exempt substitute refrigerants, 
including flammable refrigerants. Because the same expertise is needed 
to test equipment used for ODS and substitute refrigerants, equipment 
certifying organizations that have already been approved by EPA may 
continue to certify equipment designed for substitute refrigerants 
without needing to re-apply. In comments on the proposed rule, two 
certifying organizations agreed that currently approved organizations 
should not have to reapply to certify equipment used to recycle and/or 
recover substitute refrigerants and that the same expertise is needed 
to test equipment used for ODS and substitutes.
    EPA is removing the requirement that organizations provide a list 
of all certified equipment to EPA within 30 days of the organization's 
approval by EPA and annually at the end of each calendar year 
thereafter. Instead, EPA is requiring that the certified equipment 
testing organizations publish online a list of equipment that meets EPA 
requirements. This list must include the manufacturer and the name and/
or serial number of a newly certified model line, which is the 
information that the certifying organizations had to provide to EPA. 
This list must be updated no less than once per year, but an 
organization can choose to update the list more frequently. Online 
lists must contain certified equipment until three years after that 
equipment is no longer offered for sale. Making the information 
available online will be no more burdensome for the testing 
organization than submitting the list to EPA. Online publication is 
also a better method of communicating these findings to the public and 
the service/repair industry than sending the information to EPA. Two 
certifying organizations commented that they support these revisions 
because they already make the information publicly available through 
their Web sites.
    EPA is also adding to the regulatory text the timing for records 
retention that had previously only been found in guidance documents. 
The regulation now specifies that all records must be maintained for 
three years after the equipment is no longer offered for sale. EPA is 
adopting a similar timeframe for the online lists of certified 
equipment.
    EPA also encourages the use of electronic reporting and has 
established the email address 608reports@epa.gov to receive 
applications from organizations seeking to be approved under this 
section and the required notification if a previously certified model 
line fails to meet the standards upon retesting.

I. Revisions to the Technician Certification Requirements in Sec.  
82.161

1. Background
    The prior regulations at Sec.  82.161 required the certification of 
all individuals who maintain, service, or repair air-conditioning and 
refrigeration equipment containing an ODS, other than MVACs which are 
addressed in a separate subpart of the regulations. This group includes 
installers, contractor employees, in-house service personnel, and 
anyone else who performs installation, service, maintenance, or repair 
that might reasonably have the opportunity to release ODS refrigerants 
to the environment. In addition, individuals disposing of air-
conditioning and refrigeration equipment other than small appliances, 
MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances must be certified. Individuals 
disposing of small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances do not 
need to be certified.
    Under those rules, technicians become certified by passing a test 
containing questions drawn from a bank developed by EPA with input from 
industry educational organizations with a certification program 
approved by EPA. The test includes questions on the role of CFCs and 
HCFCs in stratospheric ozone depletion, the requirements of the subpart 
F, and proper techniques for recycling and conserving refrigerant. EPA 
makes the question bank available to certifying organizations that 
demonstrate that they can properly generate, track, administer, and 
grade tests; issue certificates; and keep records.
2. Extension to Substitute Refrigerants
    In this final rule, EPA is finalizing its proposal to extend the 
certification requirements to technicians who work with non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants.
    Persons who are not certified technicians are more likely to 
intentionally or inadvertently release refrigerant in the course of 
servicing, maintaining, repairing, or disposing of refrigeration and 
air conditioning equipment. One commenter stated that they believe most 
of the intentional venting of refrigerant is done by individuals who 
are not certified technicians. Another commenter noted that they have 
observed a lack of competence within the equipment servicing sectors 
leading in many instances to the improper handling of refrigerants or 
servicing of mechanical equipment.
    EPA responds that these comments support the importance of 
extending the technician certification requirement, as well as other 
provisions of the refrigerant management rules, to non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants. Certified technicians are more likely to 
understand how and why to recover and recycle refrigerants and to have 
the proper equipment to do so. Technician certification helps ensure 
that technicians know refrigerant recovery requirements and techniques. 
The prior regulations did not specifically prohibit an uncertified 
individual from opening an air conditioner that contains a substitute 
refrigerant in order to add a substitute refrigerant or replace 
components. Similarly, the regulations did not specifically prohibit an 
uncertified individual from opening an air conditioner that contains an 
ODS refrigerant to add ODS refrigerant (assuming a certified technician 
purchased the ODS refrigerant). While the venting prohibition generally 
applies to these actions, without training or certification the 
individual performing such servicing activities may not even be aware 
of the prohibition against knowingly venting or otherwise releasing 
refrigerant.
    Tips reported to the Agency indicate that servicing by uncertified 
individuals occurs. One commenter asserted that a substantial number of 
technicians, possibly up to 25 percent, are operating without 
certification. EPA responds that this information, if true, would 
further support the extension of the technician certification 
requirement to non-exempt substitute refrigerants. Requiring that 
anyone opening an appliance (except those containing only exempt 
substitute refrigerants) be a certified technician will reduce 
emissions caused by uninformed service personnel and will facilitate 
enforcement of the venting prohibition, especially when coupled with 
the recordkeeping requirement for appliances containing more than five 
and less than 50 pounds of refrigerant.
    Many companies require certification of their technicians 
regardless of the type of refrigerant being used. The principles of 
proper handling, recovery, and disposal of non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants are similar if not identical to those for ODS 
refrigerants, except that additional safeguards are advisable for 
flammable refrigerants. The fact that some individuals may be working 
on non-ODS appliances without certification and without following safe 
handling practices places them at a disadvantage with respect to

[[Page 82335]]

compliance. Because there is a reasonable expectation that an ODS or 
non-exempt substitute refrigerant could be released into the 
environment in the course of that work if appropriate precautions and 
practices are not followed, requiring technician certification for 
individuals performing such work ensures that they have the information 
necessary to comply with the regulatory requirements and with the 
venting prohibition, as well as to minimize emissions. Accordingly, to 
promote proper practices or at least remove barriers for compliance and 
for environmental protection, EPA is requiring certification for anyone 
working on an appliance that contains a non-exempt refrigerant.
    Many commenters supported extending the technician certification 
requirement for the handling of substitute refrigerants. While some 
commenters stated that EPA does not have authority to extend section 
608 regulations to substitutes, those commenters did not raise the 
specific issue of technician certification. EPA addresses those general 
comments about its authority for this action in Section III of this 
notice. Two commenters recommended extending the technician 
certification requirement to flammable refrigerants. Three commenters 
urged EPA to extend the technician certification requirement for the 
handling of all refrigerants, even if they are exempt from the venting 
prohibition. These commenters stated that treating all refrigerants 
equally will provide consistency and clarity in the industry. Other 
commenters stated that many of the exempt refrigerants have special 
considerations such as flammability or toxicity that require care 
during handling and servicing. As noted previously, some commenters 
stated that the sales restriction should be extended to hydrocarbons. 
These commenters noted that the flammability of these refrigerants 
poses far greater risks than that of R-22 when handling it and 
servicing equipment. One commenter recommended that if the sales 
restriction was extended to flammable refrigerants then it should be 
extended to all exempt refrigerants.
    As stated in the proposed rule, EPA is not extending the technician 
certification requirement (and thus the sales restriction) to 
individuals maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of 
appliances containing substitute refrigerants that are exempt from the 
venting prohibition. EPA has exempted substitutes, at least in the 
specified end-uses, from the venting prohibition because the Agency has 
determined for purposes of section 608(c) that they do not pose a 
threat to the environment when released. For water or nitrogen, 
technician certification would provide no environmental benefit nor 
would it increase technician safety. For ammonia or chlorine, other 
regulations address the risks related to those specific compounds (for 
example, OSHA regulations that address risk to technician safety). The 
types of refrigeration equipment that use these exempt substitute 
refrigerants are also significantly different from an engineering 
standpoint from the equipment that uses ODS or HFC refrigerants. 
Therefore, there is little potential for ODS and these exempt 
substitute refrigerants to be mixed and intentionally released to the 
environment.
    Hydrocarbon refrigerants may be different than the other substitute 
refrigerants. EPA notes that all end-uses for hydrocarbons currently 
authorized under SNAP are also exempted under the venting prohibition. 
The Agency did not propose and is not establishing a technician 
certification requirement or sales restriction for those exempt 
substitute refrigerants. The Agency may consider in future whether 
there are any regulatory or other measures that would be appropriate to 
address the handling of exempt flammable refrigerants.
    As a result of today's action, flammable substitutes that have not 
been exempted from the venting prohibition in a particular end-use are 
subject to the requirements of subpart F, including the sales 
restriction and the technician certification requirements. Unlike the 
other exempt substitutes, hydrocarbons are being sold to service 
existing ODS and HFC equipment for which this refrigerant is not listed 
as acceptable under SNAP. Specifically, R-22a, which is propane, in 
some cases mixed with isobutane and an odorant, has been marketed as a 
``drop-in'' (or more appropriately termed a ``retrofit'') replacement 
for existing equipment designed for use with HCFCs and/or HFCs. Often 
these are MVACs or residential split systems.
    R-22a has not been submitted to SNAP for review for these uses, and 
EPA has not listed propane as acceptable for these end-uses under the 
SNAP program. Accordingly, EPA considers its introduction into 
interstate commerce for this use a violation of the SNAP regulations. 
In addition, EPA has not exempted R-22a or propane used as a retrofit 
in existing HCFC-22 appliances from the venting prohibition. As a 
result, R-22a and propane are subject to the requirements of subpart F 
in such non-exempt end-uses, including the sales restriction and the 
technician certification requirements.
    The Agency has learned through its recent enforcement actions 
against Enviro-Safe and Northcutt, two distributors of R-22a, and 
through other investigations that R-22a is being sold to both consumers 
and technicians. Often the buyers are not aware there is a difference 
between R-22 and R-22a, or even that R-22a is flammable. As a result, 
appliances have exploded and technicians have been injured. Technicians 
need to be aware of the safety concerns of using such refrigerant for 
themselves or subsequent technicians who service ODS or HFC equipment 
that inappropriately contains hydrocarbons. Consumers must also not 
have easy access to this refrigerant for their own safety. Applying the 
sales restriction to unapproved uses of hydrocarbon refrigerants and 
educating technicians through the certification program will reduce 
safety risks and prevent the mixing (and subsequent venting) of ODS and 
HFC refrigerants with these unapproved alternatives.
    One commenter, while supportive of extending the technician 
certification requirements to those working with non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants, disagreed with the premise that failing to require 
certification will result in the release and mixture of ODS and non-ODS 
refrigerants.
    EPA responds that information about the illegal use of R-22a as a 
replacement for R-22 indicates to EPA that people are purchasing their 
own refrigerant and mixing it with HCFCs. The consequences of 
inappropriately mixing refrigerants include significant losses in 
performance and energy efficiency, damage to equipment, the lost value 
of the mixed refrigerant (which is at best difficult, and often 
impossible, to separate into the component refrigerants), and costs for 
destroying mixed refrigerants. Refrigerant mixture also leads both 
directly and indirectly to refrigerant release. Mixture leads directly 
to release because mixtures of certain refrigerants, such as R-22 and 
R-134a, have higher pressures than either component alone. Thus, 
pressure-sensitive components such as air purge devices on recycling 
machines and relief devices on appliances may be activated by these 
mixtures, venting the refrigerant to the atmosphere. Purge devices in 
particular are often set to open when the pressure of the recovery 
cylinder's contents rises more than 5-10 psi above the expected 
saturation pressure for the refrigerant; this margin is exceeded by R-
22/R-134a mixtures containing more than ten percent of the 
contaminating refrigerant.

[[Page 82336]]

    Refrigerant mixture also reduces recycling and leads indirectly to 
release. First, mixed refrigerants lose their value for reclamation 
because it is difficult to separate the component refrigerants. 
Typically, reclaimers will pay refrigerant distributors for recovered 
refrigerant. Reclaimers may actually charge money to accept highly 
mixed refrigerant or not take it at all. Mixed refrigerants cost money 
to reclaim or destroy and this cost could provide a financial incentive 
for illegal venting. Second, the direct releases and equipment 
breakdowns caused by contamination lead to increased equipment 
servicing, which itself leads to unavoidable releases of refrigerant. 
Thus, failure to require certification for people working with 
substitute refrigerants would increase the probability of both 
substitute and ozone-depleting refrigerants being emitted to the 
atmosphere.
    As noted previously in this notice, certified technicians are more 
likely to understand how and why to recover and recycle refrigerants 
and to have the proper equipment to do so. The skills and knowledge 
that certified technicians have reduces the likelihood that they would 
mix or release ODS and non-ODS refrigerants. For these reasons, EPA is 
requiring technician certification for persons working with non-exempt 
substitutes.
3. Updated Test Bank
    EPA is currently updating the technician certification test bank 
through a process separate from this rulemaking. While this is not a 
regulatory change--the Agency can update the test bank when appropriate 
without promulgating a new regulation--it aligns with EPA's efforts to 
extend the refrigerant management regulations to substitute 
refrigerants. Currently, the questions focus on CFCs and HCFCs, even 
though CFCs have been phased out for nearly twenty years and the 
predominant HCFC, HCFC-22, will be phased out by 2020.
    As part of the public participation process for this rule, 
stakeholders provided input regarding updating the test bank questions. 
Many commenters supported updating the test bank, especially given the 
new refrigerants and technologies that have become available since the 
test was initially developed. Commenters provided suggestions for 
numerous topics that should be covered by the exam. These include 
placing greater focus on the venting prohibition, recovery best 
practices, safe handling of flammable refrigerants, use of new 
refrigerants, financial benefits of refrigerant recycling, and the 
costs of non-compliance related to equipment efficiency, equipment 
life, and environmental harm. One commenter observed that the core, 
Type II, and Type III tests should now include questions on 
verification testing since this will be a new requirement of 
technicians servicing comfort cooling and commercial refrigeration 
appliances under the leak repair provisions.
    EPA responds that all of these suggested topics fit into the 
testing topics listed in appendix D. EPA intends to consider these 
potential topics when updating the test bank questions. EPA has begun 
reviewing the test bank and consulting with certification and training 
organizations to identify questions that should be updated, replaced, 
or removed. EPA also intends to incorporate new and revised elements of 
the National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program that are being 
finalized in this action in the updated test bank. As such, the test 
bank will not be completed until after publication of the final rule. 
Testing organizations have requested time to update their training and 
testing materials before the new questions go into effect. EPA 
anticipates the new questions will be added to all exams by mid- to 
late 2017.

J. Revisions to the Technician Certification Program Requirements in 
Sec.  82.161

1. Background
    The regulations at Sec.  82.161 require that organizations 
operating technician certification programs apply to EPA to have their 
programs approved. The application process ensures that technician 
certification programs meet minimum standards for generating, tracking, 
and grading tests, as well as keeping records. Approved technician 
certification programs must keep records of the names of technicians 
they have certified and the unique numbers assigned to each technician 
certified through their programs. These records allow both the Agency 
and the certification program to verify certification claims and to 
monitor the certification process. Approved technician certification 
programs also must submit reports to EPA every six months containing 
information on the number of students certified and the pass/fail rate. 
Such reports allow the Agency to monitor program compliance.
2. Extension to Substitute Refrigerants
    As discussed previously, EPA is requiring in this final rule that 
technicians who work with non-exempt substitute refrigerants be 
certified. By extension, EPA is also requiring that technician 
certification programs offer tests to certify those technicians. This 
should not require significant changes to current practices other than 
using the updated test bank once available and the revisions discussed 
in this section. EPA is not requiring that current certification 
programs recertify based on any of the revisions in this final rule. 
EPA did not receive comment specifically on these proposed revisions.
3. Posting Lists of Certified Technicians
    In regulatory revisions finalized in this rule, EPA is requiring 
that certifying organizations publish online lists of the technicians 
certified by that organization. However, EPA is not establishing a 
single ``database'' nor requiring certified organizations to create 
their own databases as was contemplated in the proposed rule. The 
primary intent of these published lists is to assist technicians who 
have lost their certification cards and reduce the burden currently 
facing the Agency and technician certification programs in assisting 
technicians who have lost their certification cards as described in the 
proposed rule. These goals can be accomplished for all future 
technicians through the publication of limited information online. 
Technicians should be able to find out who certified them through a 
simple web search.
    In the proposed rule, EPA described this as a database and 
discussed one of its possible uses as a tool refrigerant wholesalers 
could use to verify their customer is a certified technician. Many 
commenters supported the creation of a single technician database 
maintained by EPA. A few of those commenters encouraged EPA to include 
all certified technicians, not just newly certified technicians, 
because an incomplete list would have only marginal value for anyone 
referencing the list prior to selling refrigerant. Some refrigerant 
distributors wanted assurance that their refrigerant sales would not be 
adversely affected or that they would not be held responsible for 
errors or omissions in the technician database. One commenter who 
employs in-house technicians stated that their technicians would prefer 
not to be included in such a database. The commenter requested that 
there not be a database, or if there is one that technicians should 
have to affirmatively opt in, rather than being given the option of 
opting out.
    EPA responds that the Agency did consider the possibility of a 
database that could be used to enforce the sales restriction. EPA 
agrees that in order to be used for regulatory purposes the

[[Page 82337]]

content of the database would need to be complete and continuously 
updated. The only manner the Agency could ensure a complete list of 
technicians would be to require technicians to recertify, which EPA did 
not propose. EPA did not propose to require that certification programs 
list everyone currently in their records. While this may assist current 
technicians who have lost their cards, listing the hundreds of 
thousands of technicians certified over the last twenty-two years could 
be overly burdensome. This would also not provide technicians with the 
opportunity to opt out.
    As this requirement is primarily for the benefit of the technician, 
EPA is requiring technician certification programs to notify 
individuals taking the certification exam that information will be 
posted online and allow them to opt out. Allowing the opt out is 
sufficient for those technicians who do not want to be listed; 
requiring an opt in to be listed, on the other hand, would reduce the 
utility of the lists. EPA is also exempting federal government-run 
programs from this requirement as proposed. The public release of 
government and military personnel names linking them to their federal 
employment could present significant privacy and security concerns.
    EPA did not receive comment on the proposed information that would 
need to be published. EPA is therefore finalizing as proposed the 
following information requirements: The first name, middle initial, and 
last name of the certified technician, the technician's city of 
residence when taking the test, the type(s) of certification received, 
and the date each certification was received. EPA is not requiring any 
specific format for providing this information. EPA is aware that some 
certifying organizations already provide this information online to 
their technicians and the Agency does not intend to require that they 
change how they offer the information so long as the required data 
elements are included. Rather than continuous updating, as would have 
been required of a database, EPA is requiring that the lists be updated 
annually, although individual organizations may choose to update their 
lists more frequently.
4. Grandfathering Provisions
    In this rulemaking, EPA is finalizing its proposal to remove 
provisions related to voluntary certification programs at Sec.  
82.161(g). This program was created to allow technicians who were 
trained prior to the establishment of approved technician certification 
programs to be recognized as certified technicians. This program 
expired in 1994 and is no longer necessary. EPA did not receive any 
comments on this proposal.
5. Certification Cards
    As proposed, EPA is finalizing revisions to the requirements for 
the required text that is printed on certification cards. Some 
organizations told EPA prior to publication of the proposed rule that 
the language used on the certification card implies that a technician 
as defined in subpart F may be trained in other aspects of equipment 
installation. The primary purpose of the 608 certification card is for 
a technician to prove to a vendor that they understand the 
environmental impacts of mishandling refrigerants and are legally 
permitted to perform the necessary maintenance, servicing, repair, or 
disposal work under CAA section 608. While this certification qualifies 
an individual to maintain, service, repair, or dispose of appliances 
containing certain refrigerants for purposes of CAA section 608, the 
608 exam is less focused on the operational and engineering aspects of 
refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment. Accordingly, the 608 
certification is not intended to serve as a general license for 
individuals who work on such equipment.
    To more accurately reflect the knowledge needed to obtain the 
certification, EPA is updating the card to read: ``[Name of person] has 
successfully passed a [Type I, Type II, Type III, and/or Universal, as 
appropriate] exam on how to responsibly handle refrigerants as required 
by EPA's National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program.''
    EPA stated in the 1993 Rule establishing the technician 
certification requirements that standardized language will decrease 
administrative costs and aid in enforcement. In addition, it was 
intended to ease burden on refrigerant wholesalers who must inspect the 
cards to verify the certification of technicians. Those principles also 
apply to this rulemaking, and updating the information required on the 
certification card should improve clarity and should not result in any 
new administrative costs. EPA notes that the Agency is not requiring 
that currently certified technicians obtain new cards with the updated 
language. The new language applies only to cards issued to newly 
certified technicians. In the event where a technician is requesting a 
replacement for a lost card, EPA encourages that the certifying 
organization use the updated language whenever feasible.
6. Updates to Appendix D
    In this rulemaking, EPA is also finalizing minor edits to appendix 
D ``Standards for Becoming a Certifying Program for Technicians.'' EPA 
did not receive any comments on this element of the proposal and is 
finalizing the revisions as proposed. More specifically, EPA is 
updating the description of test content to include the environmental 
impact of not just ODS but also substitute refrigerants. EPA is 
removing paragraphs (i) through (k) on approval process, 
grandfathering, and sample application as they are outdated, redundant, 
or self-explanatory. EPA is removing the reference that EPA will 
periodically publish information on the fees charged by the programs as 
the Agency no longer collects this information. To protect the private 
information of technicians and minimize the potential for fraud, EPA is 
removing social security numbers as an acceptable form of 
identification for Type I technicians using the mail-in format and 
stating that social security numbers cannot be used in the unique 
certification number assigned to newly certified technicians. EPA also 
is requiring that certifying organizations provide a hand-out or 
electronic communication to technicians after they have taken the 
certification test explaining who provided the training, who to contact 
with questions regarding the certification process, and when they 
should expect to receive their score, and if they passed, their 
certification cards.

K. Revisions to the Reclamation Requirements in Sec.  82.164

1. Background
    The regulations at Sec.  82.164 required that anyone reclaiming 
used ODS refrigerant for sale to a new owner, except for people 
properly certified under subpart F prior to May 11, 2004, is required 
to reprocess refrigerant to standards laid out in appendix A (based on 
ARI Standard 700-1995, Specification for Fluorocarbons and Other 
Refrigerants), release no more than 1.5 percent of the refrigerant 
during the reclamation process, dispose of wastes from the reclamation 
process in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations, and 
adhere to specific recordkeeping and reporting requirements.
2. Extension to Additional Substitute Refrigerants
    In this final rule, EPA is extending the reclamation standards for 
refrigerants in appendix A to additional non-ozone depleting substitute 
refrigerants. Most of the refrigerants in appendix A were

[[Page 82338]]

single component ODS refrigerants or blends containing an ODS 
component. However, appendix A had previously contained a few commonly 
used substitute refrigerants that have been used for a long time, such 
as R-407C and R-410A. EPA is updating appendix A to include newer HFCs, 
PFCs, HFOs, and other refrigerants based on the standards contained in 
the latest AHRI Standard 700, Specifications for Refrigerants. EPA 
proposed to base appendix A on AHRI Standard 740-2015, with the 
exception that the Agency would maintain the current unsaturates limit 
of 0.5 percent by weight. Recently AHRI released Standard 740-2016 
which includes additional refrigerants and an impurity standard for R-
40. EPA is finalizing appendix A based on the recent AHRI Standard 740-
2016 by adding the new refrigerants, but not the unsaturates limit or 
R-40 impurity standard.
    The standard in the previously existing rules was adopted in 1995. 
It is appropriate to update this standard to ensure that refrigerants 
developed in the last twenty years are reclaimed properly. While 
industry has established standards for these new refrigerants, EPA's 
regulations have not kept pace. Therefore, reclaimers have not had a 
legal obligation to achieve such standards. Instilling confidence in 
the market that reclaimed refrigerant is as good as virgin refrigerant 
is crucial to its widespread use. Ensuring a healthy market for 
reclaimed refrigerant is also crucial to support the value of used 
refrigerant and provide incentives through market forces to recover 
used gas from appliances during their maintenance, servicing, repair, 
or disposal.
    Many refrigerant reclaimers and distributors commented that the 
current 0.5 percent unsaturates limit is appropriate. One commenter 
specifies that the reclamation industry as a whole has delivered more 
than 200 million pounds of reclaimed refrigerant at that unsaturates 
level without any known issues. Another commenter expressed concern 
that lowering the unsaturates limit will make successful reclamation 
impossible. Other commenters encouraged EPA to incorporate the AHRI 
Standard 700-2015, Specifications for Refrigerants, by reference and 
establish a process to automatically adopt the latest version of the 
AHRI-700 standard. These commenters explained that typically, the 
standard is updated to establish purity specifications for each new 
substitute refrigerant as it is developed and approved. The commenters 
state that this will prevent reclaimers from having to comply with 
regulations requiring that they reclaim new refrigerants without any 
EPA required standard for those refrigerants.
    EPA responds that it is not incorporating either the AHRI Standard 
700-2015, Specifications for Refrigerants, or the current AHRI Standard 
700-2016, Specifications for Refrigerants by reference. This is because 
ASHRAE and AHRI are still conducting further studies on whether and how 
to amend the unsaturates limit. It is important to maintain the 0.5 
percent unsaturates limit while the standard is still being debated. 
Accordingly, rather than incorporating the AHRI Standard 700-2016 by 
reference, EPA is updating appendix A to include HFCs, PFCs, HFOs, and 
other refrigerants based on the standards contained in AHRI Standard 
700-2016. In response to the comment about establishing a process to 
automatically update the standards, it is important to understand that 
EPA cannot automatically incorporate future standards by reference. EPA 
appreciates the commenters' concerns that the Agency has not updated 
the standard in twenty-one years. However, any updated standard must 
undergo notice and comment review prior to being adopted into the 
regulations.
    This final rule will extend the prior reporting requirements that 
are applicable to ODS to HFCs and other non-exempt substitutes. 
Reclaimers must report annually the aggregate quantity of material sent 
to them for reclamation (the combined mass of refrigerant and 
contaminants) by refrigerant type, the mass of each refrigerant 
reclaimed by type, and the mass of waste products. EPA has been 
publishing the aggregate total of each ODS refrigerant reclaimed each 
year on its Web site. After these revised reporting requirements take 
effect, EPA will begin collecting and making available reclamation data 
for non-exempt substitute refrigerants as well as ODS, which should 
provide EPA and the general public a greater understanding of the 
extent of HFC recovery and reclamation. One commenter encouraged EPA to 
publish data on the amount of refrigerant being sent to a reclaimer in 
addition to the amount reclaimed. The commenter does not believe that 
aggregated data is CBI and believes that sharing the data publicly will 
provide further justification for the actions taken in this rule. EPA 
responds that the Agency has aggregated and released the reported 
quantity of refrigerant received for reclamation, as well as the 
aggregate quantity of refrigerant reclaimed since 2010. This includes 
an aggregate of all of the different types of refrigerant reported to 
EPA as received and/or reclaimed. Because reporting on substitutes was 
previously not a requirement, the data on HFCs are incomplete and based 
only on reports from companies that chose to provide such data.
3. Revisions to Recordkeeping and Reporting
    Under the prior regulations at Sec.  82.164(b), reclaimers must 
certify that the refrigerant reclaimed meets the specifications in AHRI 
Standard 700-1995 using the analytical methodology prescribed in 
appendix A. In addition to updating the standard to AHRI Standard 700-
2016, EPA is finalizing revisions to the regulations to clarify that 
the analysis must be conducted on each batch of refrigerant being 
reclaimed and that reclaimers must maintain records of each analysis. 
Requiring reclaimers to maintain records helps to ensure that 
refrigerant is being reclaimed to the appropriate specifications. The 
standard practice for reclaimers currently is to analyze by batch, and 
to generate records when doing so, so these revisions update the 
regulations to reflect current practices and do not add additional 
burden. EPA is also requiring that all recordkeeping and reporting 
requirements for reclaimers be maintained and reported by refrigerant 
type (i.e., ASHRAE number). Information kept in this format will 
provide more clarity on the types and quantities of refrigerants being 
reclaimed when aggregated information is reported.
    EPA is also clarifying what aggregate information must be reported 
annually to the Agency, and removing a redundant recordkeeping 
provision related to that report. Currently, reclaimers provide data on 
ODS reclamation to EPA in multiple formats. EPA intends to develop an 
electronic form to standardize the reporting across all reclaimers. 
This should reduce burden on the Agency and on reclaimers as EPA must 
currently engage in a back and forth process to ensure that all 
required data have been reported properly. This will also allow the 
Agency to publish reclamation data in a more timely manner.
    Previously reclaimers were required to certify that the refrigerant 
reclaimed meets the specifications in AHRI Standard 700-1995 using the 
analytical methodology prescribed in appendix A. EPA proposed to 
specify that reclaimers must, ``[v]erify that each batch of refrigerant 
reclaimed meets these specifications using the analytical

[[Page 82339]]

methodology prescribed in appendix A,'' but did not propose a 
definition of the term batch. Multiple reclaimers supported testing 
each batch of refrigerant but suggested that EPA define the term batch. 
These commenters proposed identical or similar definitional language 
requesting that EPA define a batch of refrigerant as a single bulk 
cylinder containing the reclaimed refrigerant after all processing has 
been completed but prior to packaging or shipping to the market. EPA 
agrees that specifying what a batch is will assist reclaimers in 
complying with this requirement and is therefore adding batch to the 
defined terms in Sec.  82.152. This added definition is materially 
similar to what commenters suggested.
    One commenter suggested that a testing ID or batch number be placed 
on each cylinder packaged from the bulk cylinder to allow for 
traceability back to the analysis. EPA recognizes that some companies 
may want to do this for their own internal quality control. However, 
EPA is not presently convinced of the environmental benefit of making 
this change at this time.
    Multiple reclaimers requested that the reclaimed refrigerant be 
independently analyzed by an accredited laboratory. They stated that 
independently verifying that reclaimed refrigerant meets the required 
specifications reaffirms the appropriate industry standard already 
being followed by most reclaimers. One commenter found that it would 
not be necessary to require independent analysis since all reputable 
reclaimers already do this. EPA responds that it did not propose to 
require independent third-party testing of reclaimed refrigerant and 
does not presently have sufficient information to finalize such a 
requirement. Before requiring third-party testing, EPA would want to 
better understand the frequency with which such testing is done, the 
costs involved, whether such testing would improve the quality of the 
reclaimed refrigerant on the market, and which and how many companies 
conduct such testing. Therefore, at this time EPA is not requiring 
independent third-party testing. However, as discussed previously in 
this notice, ensuring the quality of reclaimed refrigerant is very 
important to its use and to further the goals of the section 608 
program and EPA may consider establishing such requirements in a future 
rulemaking.
    EPA requested comment on possible future proposed revisions to the 
reclamation requirements including establishing more stringent 
certification requirements for reclaimers; establishing a third-party 
certification or audit program for reclaimers; and requiring labeling 
of reclaimed refrigerant. Many reclaimers and other commenters provided 
input on these questions. Because EPA was merely seeking comment for 
potential future actions and did not propose any specific action for 
this rulemaking, EPA is not responding to those comments at this time 
and is not taking final action with respect to any of those comments. 
EPA will consider the information received for a potential future 
rulemaking.
4. Hazardous Wastes
    EPA received comments related to hazardous waste in the context of 
the safe disposal requirements, recovery equipment, and reclamation. 
Multiple commenters requested that EPA create new Resource Conservation 
and Recovery Act (RCRA) exclusions from the definition of hazardous 
waste for all recovered refrigerants, perhaps with the exception of 
ammonia. The commenters stated that classifying used refrigerant as a 
hazardous waste would prevent technicians from recovering and 
transporting used refrigerant and prevent reclaimers from accepting, 
processing, or reclaiming such refrigerant. As a result, commenters 
foresee less recovery and increased emissions because handling 
compounds classified as hazardous waste would be cost prohibitive. The 
commenters point to the exclusion EPA created for used CFCs at 40 CFR 
261.4(b)(12) as a model.
    EPA responds that to be a hazardous waste, a compound must either 
be specifically listed as a hazardous waste per 40 CFR 261 Subpart D or 
exhibit one of the following characteristics: Ignitability, reactivity, 
toxicity, or corrosivity per 40 CFR 261 Subpart C. In 1990, EPA revised 
the toxicity characteristic and as a result, became aware that certain 
CFCs may exhibit the toxicity characteristic. On February 13, 1991, the 
Agency issued an exclusion from the RCRA hazardous waste regulations 
for CFCs used as refrigerants, provided the refrigerant is reclaimed 
for further use. Most non-exempt substitute refrigerants are not listed 
nor do they exhibit any characteristics of a hazardous waste and 
therefore, are not considered hazardous wastes when they are recovered 
and reclaimed. However, some refrigerants are flammable (e.g., HFC-32), 
which are likely to exhibit the hazardous waste characteristic of 
ignitability.
5. Clarifications and Edits for Readability
    EPA is also finalizing revisions in this rule that consolidate 
provisions related to refrigerant reclaimers into a single section at 
Sec.  82.164. This rule also clarifies what is required of the 
reclaimer. The prior regulations required a reclaimer to certify that 
he or she will meet a certain set of standards and engage in certain 
behaviors. The revised regulations require first, that a reclaimer meet 
those standards and behaviors and second, that they certify to having 
done so. EPA is making this revision to improve the clarity and 
enforceability of these provisions. EPA did not receive any comments on 
this proposal.

L. Revisions to the Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements in Sec.  
82.166

1. Background
    The prior regulations included all recordkeeping and reporting 
provisions in one section of subpart F (Sec.  82.166). While having all 
the provisions in one place can be useful, they are separated from the 
required practices specific to that regulated entity. This can create 
difficulty for the regulated community in finding what records they 
must keep and what reports they must make to remain in compliance with 
the section 608 requirements. To improve the readability of the 
recordkeeping and reporting provisions, EPA is moving the requirements 
that were in Sec.  82.166 to the relevant section describing the 
required practices. The recordkeeping and reporting provisions that 
remain in Sec.  82.166 relate to the leak repair provisions in Sec.  
82.156(i) that are effective until January 1, 2019.
    EPA summarizes some of the key amended recordkeeping and reporting 
provisions for this rulemaking below and intends to prepare a guidance 
document for this rule that includes all of the recordkeeping and 
reporting requirements. Additional discussion of these provisions may 
be found in the section of this notice discussing the corresponding 
required practice. This summary is not exhaustive, so to determine all 
of recordkeeping requirements that apply to a particular requirement, 
you must consult the appropriate text in the revised regulations.
2. Summary of Recordkeeping Provisions
    A summary of some key, revised recordkeeping requirements for 
subpart F is included here. Unless otherwise noted, all records must be 
maintained for at least three years.
     Disposal of Small Appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like 
Appliances: Persons who take the final step in the disposal process of 
such appliances

[[Page 82340]]

must keep a copy of all the signed statements indicating refrigerant 
was recovered properly. This statement must include the name and 
address of the person who recovered the refrigerant and the date the 
refrigerant was recovered. Alternatively, the statement may be a signed 
contract stating either that the supplier will recover any remaining 
refrigerant from the appliance in accordance with Sec.  82.155 prior to 
delivery or will verify that the refrigerant has been properly 
recovered before receipt by the supplier.
     Disposal of Appliances Containing More than 5 and Less 
than 50 Pounds of Refrigerant: Persons evacuating refrigerant from 
appliances with a full charge of more than 5 and less than 50 pounds of 
refrigerant for purposes of disposal of that appliance must maintain 
records documenting their company name, location of the appliance, date 
of recovery, and type of refrigerant recovered for each appliance. They 
must also keep records of the quantity of refrigerant, by type, 
recovered from such appliances in each calendar month and the quantity 
and type of refrigerant transferred for reclamation, the person to whom 
it was transferred, and the date of transfer.
     Leak Inspection: Owners or operators of appliances with a 
full charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant must maintain 
documentation from quarterly or annual leak inspections that includes 
the date of inspection, method used for the inspection, a list of 
locations where leaks were discovered, and a certification that all 
visible and accessible parts of the appliance were inspected. 
Technicians conducting leak inspections must provide such documentation 
to the owner or operator. Alternatively, owners or operators may 
install an automatic leak detection system and maintain records for 
that system, including records showing that the system is audited or 
calibrated annually and records related to the leaks that the system 
identifies.
     Full Charge: Owners or operators of appliances with a full 
charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant must maintain records 
relating to the full charge of the appliance, including records 
documenting what the full charge amount is for such appliances, how it 
was determined, the range and its midpoint for the full charge, and any 
revisions to the full charge. The record for the current full charge 
must be maintained until three years after the appliance is retired.
     Service Records Provided by Technicians: Persons adding or 
removing refrigerant from an appliance with a full charge of 50 or more 
pounds of refrigerant must provide the owner or operator with 
documentation containing the identity and location of the appliance; 
the date and type of maintenance, service, repair, or disposal 
performed; the parts of the appliance serviced, maintained, repaired, 
or disposed of; the name of the person performing the maintenance, 
service, repair or disposal; and the amount and type of refrigerant 
added to or removed from the appliance. The appliance owner or operator 
must maintain service records provided by technicians.
     Verification Tests: Owners or operators of any appliance 
with a full charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant must maintain 
records relating to any verification tests, including records of the 
dates, types, and results of all initial and follow-up verification 
tests. Technicians conducting verification tests must provide 
documentation of such activities to the owner or operator.
     Retrofit/Retirement Plans: Owners or operators of 
appliances with a full charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant that 
are subject to retrofit/retirement requirements must maintain retrofit 
or retirement plans. The plan must contain the following information: 
Identification and location of the appliance; type and full charge of 
the refrigerant used; type and full charge of the refrigerant to which 
the appliance will be converted, if retrofitted; itemized procedure for 
converting the appliance to a different refrigerant, including changes 
required for compatibility with the new substitute, if retrofitted; 
plan for the disposition of recovered refrigerant; plan for the 
disposition of the appliance, if retired; and a schedule, not to exceed 
one year, for completion of the appliance retrofit or retirement.
     Requests to Extend the Deadline to Repair or Retrofit/
Retire Appliances: Owners or operators of appliances with a full charge 
of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant must maintain copies of extension 
requests.
     Chronically Leaking Systems: Owners or operators of 
appliances with a full charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant that 
leak 125 percent or more of the full charge in a calendar year period 
must maintain copies of reports submitted to EPA.
     Mothballing: Owners or operators of appliances with a full 
charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant that mothball an appliance 
must keep records documenting when the system was mothballed and when 
they add refrigerant back into the appliance.
     Purged Refrigerant: Owners or operators of appliances with 
a full charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant who exclude from 
their leak rate calculation purged refrigerant that is destroyed must 
maintain records related to the destruction of that purged refrigerant, 
including records that demonstrate that a 98 percent or greater 
destruction efficiency is met and that include flow rate, quantity or 
concentration of the refrigerant in the vent stream, and periods of 
purge flow.
     Seasonal Variances: Owners or operators of appliances with 
a full charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant who exclude additions 
of refrigerant due to seasonal variance from their leak rate 
calculation must maintain records stating that they are using the 
seasonal variance flexibility and documenting the amount added and 
removed.
     Lists of Certified Recovery Equipment and Testing Results: 
Organizations that are approved to certify refrigerant recovery and/or 
recycling equipment must maintain records of equipment testing and 
performance and a list of equipment that meets EPA requirements. These 
records must be maintained for three years after the equipment is no 
longer offered for sale.
     Proof of Certification for Technicians: Technicians who 
have passed the section 608 Type I, II, III or Universal test, must 
keep a copy of their certification at their place of business. These 
records must be maintained for three years after a certified individual 
no longer operates as a technician.
     Sales Restriction: Anyone selling ODS or a non-exempt 
substitute refrigerant must document the name of the purchaser, the 
date of sale, and the quantity of refrigerant purchased. In instances 
where the buyer employs a certified technician, the seller must keep 
the information provided by the buyer to demonstrate that at least one 
technician is properly certified. Copies of technician certifications 
must be maintained for three years after each purchase. These records 
would not apply to the sale of small cans of substitute refrigerant for 
servicing MVACs.
     Small Cans of Substitute Refrigerant for MVAC Servicing: 
Anyone manufacturing small cans of substitute refrigerant with a self-
sealing valve for use in an MVAC must maintain records verifying that 
the self-sealing valves do not leak more than 3.00 grams per year when 
the self-sealing valve is closed, consistent with appendix E to subpart 
F, as revised.
     Technician Certification Programs: Organizations that 
certify technicians must maintain records of who they

[[Page 82341]]

certify, the scores of all certification tests administered, and the 
dates and locations of all tests administered. These records must be 
maintained as long as they are in operation, not just for three years. 
If a previously approved technician certifying organization stops 
certifying technicians for any reason, they must ensure those records 
are transferred to another certifying program or EPA. The recordkeeping 
requirements can be found in section (g) of appendix D of this subpart.
     Reclaimers: Reclaimers must maintain records, by batch, of 
the analyses conducted to verify that reclaimed refrigerant meets the 
necessary specifications. On a transactional basis, reclaimers must 
maintain records of the names and addresses of persons sending them 
material for reclamation and the quantity of the material (the combined 
mass of refrigerant and contaminants) by refrigerant type sent to them 
for reclamation.
4. Summary of Reporting and Notification Provisions
    Reporting and notification are important components of the National 
Recycling and Emission Reduction Program and allow EPA to track 
compliance with the requirements. A summary of some key requirements is 
included here, and additional discussion may be found in other sections 
of this notice. Please consult the appropriate regulatory provision for 
a complete list of reporting and notification requirements. All of 
these reporting requirements are new for equipment containing non-
exempt substitutes. Unless the information is claimed as confidential 
business information or as otherwise noted, all notifications must be 
submitted electronically to 608reports@epa.gov. Electronic submission 
of reports should decrease burden on both EPA and the regulated 
community.
     Extensions to the 30-day or 120-day Leak Repair 
Requirement: Owners or operators of appliances with a full charge of 50 
or more pounds of refrigerant must request an extension from EPA when 
seeking additional time to complete repairs.
     Extensions to Retrofit or Retire Appliances: Owners or 
operators of appliances with a full charge of 50 or more pounds of 
refrigerant must request an extension from EPA when seeking additional 
time to complete a retrofit or retirement.
     Relief from the Obligation to Retrofit or Retire an 
Appliance: Owners or operators who are retrofitting or retiring an 
appliance with a full charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant may 
request that EPA relieve them of that obligation if they can establish 
within 180 days of the plan's date that the appliance no longer exceeds 
the applicable leak rate. The owner or operator must provide the 
retrofit or retirement plan; the date that the requirement to develop a 
retrofit or retirement plan was triggered; the leak rate; the method 
used to determine the leak rate and full charge; the location of the 
leak(s) identified in the leak inspection; a description of repair work 
that has been completed; a description of repair work that has not been 
completed; and a description of why the repair was not conducted within 
the required time frames.
     Chronically Leaking Systems: Owners or operators must 
submit a report to EPA for any appliance with a full charge of 50 or 
more pounds of refrigerant that leaks 125 percent or more of the full 
charge in a calendar year. This report must describe efforts to 
identify leaks and repair the appliance.
     Purged Refrigerant: The first time that owners or 
operators of appliances with a full charge of 50 or more pounds of 
refrigerant exclude purged refrigerant that has been destroyed from 
their leak rate calculation, they must provide a one-time report to EPA 
that includes the identification of the facility and a contact person; 
a description of the appliance; a description of the methods used to 
determine the quantity of refrigerant sent for destruction and type of 
records that are being kept; the frequency of monitoring and data-
recording; and a description of the control device, and its destruction 
efficiency.
     Previously Certified Recovery/Recycling Equipment: 
Organizations that are approved to certify refrigerant recovery and/or 
recycling equipment must inform EPA if subsequent tests indicate a 
previously certified model line for recovery and/or recycling devices 
does not meet EPA requirements.
     Technician Certification Programs: Organizations that 
certify technicians must publish online lists/databases of the people 
that they certify. Organizations must report to EPA twice a year the 
pass/fail rate and testing schedules. Organizations that receive 
records from a program that no longer offers the certification test 
must inform EPA within 30 days of receiving these records. The 
notification must include the name and address of the program to which 
the records have been transferred. The reporting requirements can be 
found in section (g) of appendix D of this subpart.
     Reclaimer Change of Business Information, Location or 
Contact Information: If a reclaimer changes address or management, they 
must notify EPA within 30 days. Since reclaimer certification is not 
transferable, if ownership changes, the new owner must certify to EPA 
that they will meet the reclaimer certification requirements.
     Amounts Reclaimed: Reclaimers must report annually the 
total aggregate quantity of material sent to them for reclamation (the 
combined mass of refrigerant and contaminants) by refrigerant type, the 
total mass of each refrigerant reclaimed, and the total mass of waste 
products.

M. Effective and Compliance Dates

    EPA proposed that the final rule become effective on January 1, 
2017, with later compliance dates for specific provisions that 
stakeholders may need additional time to implement. The ``effective 
date'' is the date that the regulatory text in the Code of Federal 
Regulations at 40 CFR part 82, subpart F will change. Unless otherwise 
specified, it is also the date by which the regulated community must 
comply with the revised regulation. Additional ``compliance dates'' are 
the dates by which the regulated community must comply with specific 
provisions of the revised regulation.
    One commenter stated that January 1, 2017, is too aggressive a 
compliance date, given the length of time needed to issue the final 
rule and the rule's size and complexity. EPA responds that while the 
Agency is finalizing an effective date of January 1, 2017, as proposed, 
it is also establishing later compliance dates for some new provisions 
as well as for the application of some existing provisions to non-
exempt substitutes. Where a later compliance date applies, the revised 
regulations explicitly specify that later compliance date.
    The existing provisions related to ODS that were not substantively 
modified by the rule continue to apply with respect to ODS. For minor 
changes to existing ODS provisions, the compliance date is the same as 
the effective date of the rule. Provisions in this final rule for which 
there is no delayed compliance date with respect to ODS include the 
sales restriction, technician certification requirements, safe disposal 
requirements, evacuation requirements, restriction on the sale of used 
refrigerant, requirement that appliances include a process stub or 
servicing aperture, and the recordkeeping associated with those 
provisions. While in most instances this

[[Page 82342]]

rule establishes a later compliance date for application of these 
provisions to non-exempt substitutes, the restriction on the sale of 
used substitute refrigerant and the requirement that appliances 
containing non-exempt substitutes include a process stub or servicing 
aperture apply for non-exempt substitutes as of January 1, 2017. In 
addition, the revised standards for the sale or import of recovery and/
or recycling equipment apply for both ODS and non-exempt substitutes as 
of January 1, 2017.
    This rule establishes a compliance date of January 1, 2018, for 
many provisions that are newly applicable to substitute refrigerants. 
These include the sales restriction, technician certification 
requirements, safe disposal requirements, evacuation requirements, and 
the recordkeeping associated with those provisions. The new requirement 
that small cans of substitute MVAC refrigerant be equipped with self-
sealing valves will also apply as of January 1, 2018. In addition, this 
rule establishes a compliance date of January 1, 2018, for the new 
recordkeeping requirement associated with the disposal of appliances 
containing more than five and less than 50 pounds of either ODS or non-
exempt substitute refrigerant.
    Lastly, this rule establishes a compliance date of January 1, 2019, 
for the revised leak repair provisions, regardless of whether the 
appliance contains an ODS or a non-exempt substitute refrigerant.
    The following sections discuss EPA's rationale for these staggered 
compliance dates.
1. Section 82.154(c)--Refrigerant Sales Restriction
    EPA proposed January 1, 2017, as the compliance date for the sales 
restriction of all refrigerant (non-exempt substitutes or ODS). EPA 
also proposed to require that small cans of MVAC refrigerant be 
manufactured with self-sealing valves by one year from the publication 
of the final rule and that the sale of small cans without self-sealing 
valves cease by two years from publication of the final rule.
    EPA is finalizing a compliance date of January 1, 2018, for the 
sales restriction as applied to non-exempt substitute refrigerants. 
Changes related to the sales restriction, as applied to ODS, apply 
January 1, 2017, as proposed. EPA is also finalizing a compliance date 
of January 1, 2018, to equip small cans with a self-sealing valve. EPA 
is not finalizing a sell-through requirement in this rule.
    EPA is delaying the compliance date for the sales restriction so 
that it matches the compliance dates for other aspects of the rule 
related to sales of non-exempt substitute refrigerants. Specifically, 
EPA proposed one year from the date of publication of the final rule as 
the date by which technicians working with appliances containing non-
exempt substitutes must be certified and the date by which small cans 
of MVAC refrigerant must be equipped with a self-sealing valve. As 
discussed below, EPA is finalizing January 1, 2018, as the compliance 
date for both of those provisions. To minimize potential conflicts by 
having different compliance dates, EPA is extending the compliance date 
for the sales restriction of substitute refrigerants to January 1, 
2018.
    With regards to small cans of MVAC refrigerant, manufacturers, 
distributors and retailers of automotive refrigerant supported the 
proposed ``manufacture-by'' date of one year from publication of the 
final rule, but commented that they oppose a sell-through date for 
small cans that do not have self-sealing valves. They commented that 
such a requirement would be inefficient, burdensome, costly, and 
environmentally problematic. It would require all retailers to know of 
the requirement and establish processes for returning unsold cans back 
to the manufacturer for destruction. More likely, the cans may be 
improperly disposed of, which would negate the environmental benefit of 
the new provisions. One commenter stated that a ``manufacture-by'' date 
would shift EPA's burden in ensuring compliance from a few 
manufacturers to thousands of retailers. Furthermore, commenters cited 
EPA's July 2015 SNAP rule (80 FR 42901; July 20, 2015) which listed 
HFC-134a as unacceptable for use as an aerosol as of a ``manufacture-
by'' date, rather than a ``sell-by'' date. CARB commented on EPA's 
proposal for a two-year sell-through period that a one-year sell-
through period has been found to be acceptable in their experience.
    EPA responds that to allow all entities in the distribution chain 
time to plan for and communicate changes to the sales restriction on 
non-exempt substitute refrigerants, as well as the requirement for 
self-sealing valves on small cans, EPA is finalizing a sales 
restriction date and ``manufacture-by'' or ``import-by'' date of 
January 1, 2018. This will provides slightly more time than one year 
from publication of the final rule, which EPA proposed for the self-
sealing valve requirement. Generally speaking, EPA has attempted to 
simplify the compliance dates so they do not fall in the middle of a 
month or during the middle of the cooling season.
    In response to the comments received on EPA's proposal to allow 
small cans manufactured and placed into initial inventory or imported 
before that date to be sold for one additional year, EPA is not 
finalizing the sell-through requirement and is finalizing only a date 
by which small cans must be manufactured or imported with a self-
sealing valve. EPA agrees that this is the least-burdensome option and 
that it avoids the potential for any unintended consequences of a 
``sell-by'' date.
2. Section 82.155--Safe Disposal of Small Appliances, MVAC, and MVAC-
Like Appliances
    EPA proposed that the extension of the requirements for the 
recovery of non-exempt substitute refrigerant prior to disposal/
recycling of small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances take 
effect one year from publication of the final rule. EPA proposed that 
changes related to ODS equipment be effective January 1, 2017.
    One commenter supported the proposed one-year extension to the 
compliance date for substitute refrigerants. EPA is finalizing a 
compliance date of January 1, 2018, for the extension to non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants. This will provide sufficient time for final 
disposers such as scrap recyclers to learn about the extension to non-
exempt substitutes and make any adjustments needed to start maintaining 
records associated with disposal of appliances containing non-exempt 
substitutes. Using January 1, 2018, rather than one year from 
publication will also make communicating the compliance date for the 
rule easier.
    Because EPA is not making substantive changes to the existing 
requirements for appliances containing ODS, EPA does not expect that 
final disposers will need extra time to adjust to the updates in this 
rule for those appliances. Accordingly, EPA is finalizing a compliance 
date for ODS appliances of January 1, 2017.
3. Section 82.156--Proper Evacuation of Refrigerant From Appliances
    EPA proposed that the extension of the requirements related to the 
evacuation of non-exempt substitute refrigerants before the 
maintenance, servicing, repair, or disposal of appliances apply one 
year from publication of the final rule. EPA proposed that changes 
related to ODS equipment apply January 1, 2017.
    Two commenters supported the proposed one year extension to the 
compliance date for non-exempt substitutes. Another commenter requested 
two years on the ground that

[[Page 82343]]

recovery and reclamation equipment may need to be modified to meet the 
requirements of the final rule. EPA responds that the Agency is not 
requiring that existing recovery and/or recycling equipment be modified 
or replaced with new equipment.
    EPA is finalizing a compliance date of January 1, 2018, for the 
extension of the requirements to appliances containing non-exempt 
refrigerants. This will provide affected entities time to learn about 
the extension and make any adjustments needed to apply the required 
practices to the evacuation of appliances containing non-exempt 
substitutes. Because EPA is not making substantive changes to the 
existing requirements for appliances containing ODS, EPA does not 
expect that affected entities will need extra time to adjust to the 
updates in this rule for those appliances. Accordingly, EPA is 
finalizing a compliance date for ODS appliances of January 1, 2017.
    EPA is establishing a delayed compliance date of January 1, 2018, 
for the new requirement to keep records upon disposal of appliances 
containing either a class I, class II, or non-exempt substitute 
refrigerant. This is slightly more than one year from publication of 
the final rule, which was what EPA proposed. The delayed compliance 
date will allow affected entities to establish a recordkeeping program 
to track the amount of refrigerant recovered from appliances that are 
disposed of in the field. EPA expects that the same amount of time will 
be needed for ODS and non-ODS appliances because this is a new 
requirement, not an update to an existing requirement.
4. Section 82.157--Appliance Maintenance and Leak Repair
    This rule makes significant revisions to the leak repair 
provisions, including lowering the leak rates, requiring leak repair 
verification tests on new types of equipment, and modifying the 
recordkeeping and reporting requirements. In addition, owners and 
operators of appliances using non-exempt substitute refrigerants that 
were previously not covered by any subpart F required practices will 
have to familiarize themselves with the requirements. EPA is therefore 
establishing a later compliance date for the appliance maintenance and 
leak repair requirements than for most other provisions.
    EPA proposed a compliance date 18 months from publication of the 
final rule. One commenter suggested that EPA shorten the compliance 
date to 12 months and two commenters agreed that it should be at 
minimum 18 months. Five commenters recommended more than 18 months, 
with the longest extensions ranging from 24 to 36 months after the 
publication of the final rule. These commenters stated that later dates 
would decrease the costs of compliance and give companies adequate time 
to train employees and update current systems to meet the requirements 
of the rule. Extending the compliance dates would also allow more time 
for owners or operators to bring equipment up to the new standards, and 
avoid having to potentially conduct numerous repairs or replacements at 
once. Commenters who supported a 36-month extension noted constraints 
with the federal budget cycle and acquisition requirements or referred 
to Maximum Achievable Control Technology rules that typically provide 
three years to comply.
    Because the leak repair provisions already provide the opportunity 
for extensions for delays caused by the federal agency appropriations 
and/or procurement process, EPA disagrees with federal agencies 
requesting a 36 month extension to the compliance date. EPA agrees with 
commenters that additional time may be needed to understand the 
regulations and to make repairs on systems that have not previously 
been subject to the subpart F required practices. Therefore, EPA is 
establishing a compliance date of January 1, 2019. This date is two 
years from the effective date, and more than 24 months from publication 
of the final rule. This is sufficient time for owners and operators of 
appliances with 50 or more pounds of refrigerant to learn about the 
updated requirements; update systems, standard operating procedures, 
and training materials to best administer the requirements; and fix 
leakier systems.
    Until January 1, 2019, the leak repair provisions at Sec.  
82.156(i) and the associated recordkeeping requirements at Sec.  82.166 
continue to apply as specified to appliances containing ODS 
refrigerant. Those leak repair provisions use terminology contained in 
the definitions as they existed prior to this rulemaking. EPA has added 
those unmodified definitions to Sec.  82.156(j) for the purposes of 
implementing Sec.  82.156(i) until the new provisions take effect 
January 1, 2019.
5. Section 82.158--Recovery and Recycling Equipment
    EPA proposed that the standards for recovery and recycling 
equipment apply to the manufacture and import of equipment for non-
exempt substitutes as of January 1, 2017. One commenter requested 
additional time on the ground that recovery and recycling equipment may 
need to be modified to meet the requirements of the final rule. EPA 
responds that the Agency is not requiring that existing recovery and/or 
recycling equipment be modified or replaced with new equipment 
certified for use with non-exempt substitute refrigerants. Rather, EPA 
is requiring only that newly manufactured or imported recovery and/or 
recycling equipment meet the new standards upon the compliance date.
6. Section 82.161--Technician Certification Requirements
    EPA proposed that technicians be certified to handle non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants by one year from publication of the final rule. 
EPA proposed that changes related to ODS apply January 1, 2017.
    One commenter supported the one year extension to the compliance 
date for non-exempt substitute refrigerants. Another commenter 
requested two years so as to allow time for certifying organizations to 
write and review the certification test questions as well as train, or 
re-train, technicians on that new material.
    EPA is establishing a compliance date of January 1, 2018, for 
technicians to be certified to handle non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants. This is slightly more than the proposal of one year from 
publication of the final rule. This will provide time for EPA to update 
the test bank with questions related to non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants and for certifying organizations to update their testing 
materials to use the new questions. EPA does not anticipate that a two 
year extension would be necessary because HVACR contractors are 
generally working on both ODS refrigerants and non-exempt substitute 
refrigerants, and there is not likely to be a rush of contractors 
needing to be certified.
    EPA is also finalizing the compliance dates for the publication of 
lists of certified technicians as proposed. As such, any technician 
certified on or after January 1, 2017, must be included in a publicly 
accessible list of certified technicians or provided the ability to opt 
out. Technician certification programs must make these lists available 
starting January 1, 2018.

V. Possible Future Revisions to Subpart F

    EPA requested input on other aspects of the National Recycling and 
Emission Reduction Program that might be addressed in a future 
rulemaking. Specifically EPA requested feedback on (1) establishing a 
voluntary program for

[[Page 82344]]

supermarkets based on their corporate-wide average leak rate; (2) 
establishing more stringent certification requirements for reclaimers; 
(3) establishing a third-party certification or audit program for 
reclaimers; (4) requiring labeling of reclaimed refrigerant; (5) moving 
further upstream the responsibility to recapture refrigerant from 
appliances being disposed of; (6) requiring recertification of 
currently certified technicians; and (7) establishing a technician 
certification requirement or sales restriction for flammable 
refrigerants. EPA is not taking any final action on these topics in 
this rule but does greatly value the information provided by 
commenters. EPA has prepared a summary of these comments that is 
available in the docket for this rule.

VI. Economic Analysis

    For the reasons explained in Section III of this preamble, EPA 
considered economic factors in the development of this rule. EPA 
considered the costs of different actions that would achieve the goals 
of this rule to individual entities and the United States economy as a 
whole. While selecting regulatory actions that would achieve the goals 
of this rule, EPA elected to consider the costs of different actions to 
individual entities and the United States economy as a whole. Many 
commenters claimed that the benefits of the proposed regulatory 
provisions do not justify the costs, while four comments supported the 
cost effectiveness of the proposed rule. EPA has taken these comments 
into consideration and is finalizing several provisions that will be 
less burdensome than proposed. This section provides a brief overview 
of how the Agency calculated costs and then discusses major revisions 
to the final rule that affect EPA's economic analysis. A full 
description of the cost analyses is included in the technical support 
document Analysis of the Economic Impact and Benefits of Final 
Revisions to the National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program, 
which can be found in the docket.
    To estimate the incremental costs of the regulatory revisions, the 
Agency developed a set of model entities with a distribution of 
different model facilities, each of which could contain a set of model 
appliances. This set of model entities was used to represent the 
potentially affected entities in a variety of economic sectors in the 
United States, and they were developed based on EPA's Vintaging Model 
and cross-checked with the 2013 dataset of repair records developed 
under California's RMP. Each model entity reflects information about 
the typical number of facilities in a given sector and size category 
and the number of pieces of equipment in each equipment category that 
are likely to be owned and/or operated by each facility. By combining 
the model entities with economic data on potentially affected 
industries from the United States Census, EPA obtained a model for the 
potentially affected population. By applying the costs of leak 
inspections, repairs, recordkeeping and reporting, self-sealing cans 
for MVAC servicing, and other regulatory revisions to this population, 
EPA estimated the costs to individual entities and the total cost to 
the economy.
    Some regulatory revisions in this action, such as providing 
extensions to owners or operators of comfort cooling and commercial 
refrigeration before having to replace leaking appliances reduce the 
cost of compliance to owners of ODS-containing equipment. These 
reductions were included in the incremental cost of the action.
    As detailed more fully in the technical support document, the 
rulemaking includes new compliance costs of approximately $75.5 million 
split into approximately $32.5 million for owners and operators of 
equipment containing ODS and $43 million in non-ODS systems. Offsetting 
the new compliance costs are reductions in cost due to the removal of 
some regulatory requirements and increasing flexibility for repairs. 
These offsetting costs total $51 million, all related to equipment 
containing ODS. Taken together (the new compliance costs less the 
offsetting costs), EPA estimates that the net total cost to comply with 
the requirements of this final rule is $24.5 million per year (Table 3 
shows these net costs at both the rule component level and for the 
total rule).

                          Table 3--Incremental Annual Compliance Costs by Rule Component (2014$) With 7% and 3% Discount Rates
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Total incremental compliance costs (7%          Total incremental compliance costs (3%
                                                                          discount rate)                                  discount rate)
                     Rule component                      -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                HFC             ODS            Total            HFC             ODS            Total
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leak Repair:
    Comfort Cooling.....................................      $5,046,000    -$38,191,000    -$33,145,000      $2,437,000    -$18,705,000    -$16,268,000
    Commercial Refrigeration............................       1,709,000     -10,137,000      -8,428,000         823,000      -4,963,000      -4,139,000
    IPR.................................................         385,000          31,000         417,000         186,000          13,000         200,000
Leak Inspection.........................................      21,703,000      27,460,000      49,163,000      21,703,000      27,460,000      49,163,000
Reporting & Recordkeeping...............................      11,101,000       2,350,000      13,451,000      11,101,000       2,350,000      13,451,000
Self-sealing Valves on Small Cans.......................       3,070,000  ..............       3,070,000       3,070,000  ..............       3,070,000
rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
    Total...............................................      43,014,000    -$18,487,000      24,528,000      39,320,000       6,155,000      45,477,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals may not sum due to independent rounding.

    Some regulatory revisions, by reducing the amount of refrigerant 
lost to leaks, also result in savings for equipment owners or operators 
of the cost of purchasing replacement refrigerant. EPA estimates that 
affected entities would avoid spending over $44 million in refrigerant 
purchases alone due to the regulatory revisions. The compliance costs 
and refrigerant savings combined are estimated to be savings of $19.6 
million per year. Furthermore, costs could additionally be lower 
because appliances running with the correct amount of refrigerant are 
generally more energy efficient to operate and last longer.

[[Page 82345]]



               Table 4--Total Annual Refrigerant Savings (2014$) and Combined Annual Cost and Annual Savings 2ith 7% and 3% Discount Rate
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     Annual refrigerant savings                  7% Discount rate                3% Discount rate
                                           -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                             Combined                        Combined
              Rule component                                                                Incremental   annual savings    Incremental   annual savings
                                                 HFC            ODS            Total        compliance    and compliance    compliance    and compliance
                                                                                               costs           costs           costs           costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leak Repair:
    Comfort Cooling.......................   -$9,853,000    -$20,221,000    -$30,073,000    -$33,145,000    -$63,218,000    -$16,268,000    -$46,341,000
    Commercial Refrigeration..............    -3,439,000      -7,514,000     -10,953,000      -8,428,000     -19,381,000      -4,139,000     -15,092,000
    IPR...................................    -1,582,000      -1,533,000      -3,115,000         417,000      -2,698,000         200,000      -2,915,000
Leak Inspection...........................  ............  ..............  ..............      49,163,000      49,163,000      49,163,000      49,163,000
Reporting & Recordkeeping.................  ............  ..............  ..............      13,451,000      13,451,000      13,451,000      13,451,000
Self-sealing Valves on Small Cans.........  ............  ..............  ..............       3,070,000       3,070,000       3,070,000       3,070,000
                                           -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Total.............................   -14,874,000     -29,268,000     -44,141,000      24,528,000     -19,613,000      45,477,000       1,336,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals may not sum due to independent rounding.

    Several commenters questioned the validity of EPA's cost estimates 
and some provided examples of costs from their own business/
organizations. One commenter said that, given the amount of paperwork 
and added compliance requirements in the proposed rule, the cost 
estimates are implausibly low and call into question the fundamental 
integrity of the Agency's economic analysis. Another said that they 
would estimate the cost to implement the new requirements to be well in 
excess of $100 million just to repair and potentially replace IPR 
systems, noting that the replacement of a single complex IPR system can 
be as high as $10 million.
    EPA responds that the aggregate costs and savings for the economy 
as a whole would not be expected to be distributed evenly across 
affected entities. For example, owners of ODS-containing equipment with 
low leak rates might only incur costs for recordkeeping. On the other 
hand, owners of HFC-containing equipment with high leak rates might 
incur costs of repairing leaks, though they would also realize savings 
due to reduced refrigerant purchases. Owners of ODS-containing comfort 
cooling or commercial refrigeration appliance with high leak rates may 
also incur costs of repairing leaks but also substantial cost savings 
by not having to retrofit or retire the appliance if unable to repair 
within 30 days, given the extensions provided in the final rule.
    Several commenters claimed that requiring all systems to have 
annual or quarterly leak inspections would impose significant costs on 
owners of all systems including those systems that do not leak or leak 
very little. One commenter, using their estimate for the cost of each 
leak inspection of a particular facility's appliances, when taken 
quarterly across some 5,200 retail stores and supporting business 
units, stated that the impact on their company would exceed $10 
million. Another commenter called quarterly leak inspections redundant 
if it is already required that leaks be fixed in a timely manner. Two 
commenters supported leak inspections and trade group supported 
periodic leak inspections as a proactive means to detect leaks, reduce 
refrigerant emissions, and maintain energy efficiency of equipment.
    The Agency responds that a proactive plan of maintenance leads to 
reduced emissions of refrigerant and is part of the best practices for 
operation of these systems. Discussions with members of industry and 
reports from the GreenChill program support the effectiveness of a 
program of regular inspections to lower average leak rates. However, to 
allow for flexibility in how system owners and operators implement 
their refrigeration management programs, especially for the least leaky 
equipment, EPA is not finalizing a requirement that all systems undergo 
periodic leak inspections. Only systems that show a history of 
excessive emissions by exceeding the leak rate threshold will require 
periodic inspections, and then only for a limited time if the leak rate 
of the system is addressed effectively. This will reduce the burden on 
owners of systems that are not responsible for emissions, while 
focusing attention on systems that require it. EPA estimates that this 
will affect 282,000 appliances, compared to approximately 1.5 million 
under the proposed rule.
    EPA's analysis of the costs of leak inspection used the median 
hourly rate for heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics 
and installers provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, along with 
an additional 110% for overhead. EPA assumed that leak inspections 
could be carried out quickly because the proposal allowed employees and 
not certified technicians to conduct the inspections. However, as 
discussed previously, a number of stakeholders claimed that inspections 
by employees not specialized in refrigeration would be far less 
effective and pointed out that the standard practice for many entities 
is to hire technicians for inspections. EPA is requiring in this final 
rule that leak inspections be conducted by certified technicians. EPA's 
final analysis continues to use the average rate provided by the Bureau 
of Labor Statistics but has increased the number of hours for each 
inspection.
    Several commenters said that the costs of completely replacing a 
system if it leaked more than 75 percent of its full charge in two 
consecutive years were very high, and that these costs would not 
necessarily fall on those whose poor maintenance practices allowed for 
excessive emissions. They also commented that the provision was 
inefficient because all of the system components would need to be 
replaced, even those that were known not to be leaking, imposing 
additional costs with no additional benefit.
    In response to the potential significant costs that commenters said 
the proposed ``chronic leaker'' provision would incur, EPA is 
finalizing a modification of this provision that would instead require 
reporting to EPA rather than retirement

[[Page 82346]]

of an appliance. This will greatly reduce the costs on owners of 
systems with very high emissions. While EPA had not estimated the costs 
or benefits of the proposed chronic leaker provision, EPA has 
calculated the total annual reporting burden associated with the final 
provision to be $126,000.
    Two commenters said that requiring all leaks be fixed after a 
system exceeds the threshold leak rate would lead to high costs with 
diminishing returns as smaller and smaller leaks were repaired.
    EPA maintains that once a system has been evacuated for repair it 
is a best practice to repair any significant leaks. Doing so makes 
financial sense because allowing leaks to continue leads to the 
purchase of more refrigerant, reduced energy efficiency, possible 
increased service costs if the system must be shut down and repaired 
again, and increased risk of loss of cooling. However, EPA agrees that 
some leaks may allow very small amounts of refrigerant to escape and 
that some leaks are difficult to access or repair. Therefore, taking 
into account the comments, EPA is not finalizing the requirement that 
all identified leaks be repaired.
    Two commenters claimed that lowering the maximum leak rate for IPR 
systems to 20 percent would lead to significant economic burden for 
some businesses, and one of whom said that EPA has not provided 
adequate benefits to justify this requirement.
    EPA has estimated that lowering the maximum rate at which systems 
may be allowed to leak perpetually without being repaired protects the 
environment by reducing emissions of pollutants. EPA recognizes that 
maintenance of IPR systems presents particular challenges. These 
systems are often very large and complex, making finding leaks more 
difficult. They can also be extremely costly to shut down to allow for 
repairs. Therefore, in consideration of comments and other feedback 
from stakeholders, the Agency is finalizing a leak rate of 30 percent 
for IPR systems. While this will reduce benefits, we hope to strike a 
balance between the costs and benefits of this provision that will 
allow greater flexibility in the management of these systems. Under the 
proposed leak rate of 20 percent, the EPA estimates benefits of 0.63 
MMTCO2eq with costs of $7 million for leak inspections and 
repair. With the final leak rate of 30 percent, estimated benefits are 
0.44 MMTCO2eq with costs of $5.5 million.
    One commenter stated that there is substantial uncertainty in the 
transition pathway away from HFCs due to EPA's SNAP rule that changed 
the listing status for certain substitute refrigerants (80 FR 42870) 
(``SNAP Program Status Change Rule''). The commenter encouraged EPA to 
consider a wider range of possible baseline futures when calculating 
the 2020 and 2025 benefits of the rule.
    EPA responds that the Agency has considered that many end users 
will change the ODS substitutes being used because of the SNAP rule and 
EPA considered such change when estimating the benefits of this final 
action. EPA assumed transitions away from substitutes that are no 
longer acceptable in some end-uses, most notably in commercial 
refrigeration based on the most likely scenario detailed in Climate 
Benefits of the SNAP Program Status Change Rule found in docket number 
EPA-HQ-OAR-2014-0198-0239. However, many of the differences between the 
scenarios in that analysis have little or no effect on the estimated 
benefits of the present action. For example, the analysis of the SNAP 
rule looked only at transitions of MVAC units for exports, as it is 
assumed that the domestic market will already have transitioned away 
from HFC-134a by 2020 due to EPA's earlier Light Duty Vehicle rule. 
Therefore the SNAP rule would not be expected to introduce uncertainty 
in the benefits in 2020 or 2025 in MVAC servicing. As another example, 
the different SNAP scenarios assumed that low-temperature commercial 
refrigeration appliances would begin to transition from HFC-134a to R-
450A or R-513A in different years, but all three scenarios assume that 
transition will reach a maximum of 50 percent by 2020. Given the small 
differences in the expected equipment stock related to uncertainty in 
the effects of the SNAP Program Status Change Rule, we believe that 
assuming the effects of the ``most likely'' scenario from the SNAP 
analysis provides a model universe of appliances that is realistic and 
that avoids any possibility of double counting benefits between the two 
rules.
    Under the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act 
(SBREFA), federal agencies must consider the effects regulations may 
have on small entities. If a rule may have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities (SISNOSE), the Agency 
would be required to take certain steps to ensure that the interests of 
small entities were represented in the rulemaking process. To determine 
if this was necessary, EPA used the model entity analysis to ascertain 
the likelihood that the revisions would have a SISNOSE. EPA estimates 
that approximately 740 of the approximately 854,580 affected small 
businesses could incur costs in excess of 1 percent of annual sales and 
that fewer than 80 small businesses could incur costs in excess of 3 
percent of annual sales. These levels are below the thresholds used in 
other Title VI rulemakings under which it can be presumed that an 
action will have no SISNOSE. Nevertheless, EPA consulted numerous 
stakeholders, including small businesses, in the development of this 
rule.
    The full description of the cost analyses, including sensitivity 
analyses of key assumptions and alternate options, is included in the 
technical support document Analysis of the Economic Impact and Benefits 
of Final Revisions to the National Recycling and Emission Reduction 
Program, which can be found in the docket for this action.

VII. 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 a significant regulatory action that was submitted 
to OMB for review. This action was deemed to raise novel legal or 
policy issues. Any changes made in response to OMB recommendations have 
been documented in the docket. EPA prepared an economic analysis of the 
potential costs and benefits associated with this action. This analysis 
is summarized in Section VI of the notice and is available in the 
docket.

B. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The information collection activities in this rule have been 
submitted for approval to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 
under the PRA. The Information Collection Request (ICR) document that 
EPA prepared has been assigned EPA ICR number 1626.15. You can find a 
copy of the ICR in the docket for this rule, and it is briefly 
summarized here. The information collection requirements are not 
enforceable until OMB approves them.
    All recordkeeping and reporting requirements under this program are 
specifically described in Section IV.L of this notice. In order to 
facilitate compliance with and enforce the refrigerant management 
requirements of section 608 of the CAA, EPA requires reporting and 
recordkeeping by technicians, technician certification programs, 
refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment testing organizations, 
refrigerant wholesalers and purchasers, refrigerant reclaimers, 
refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment owners, and other 
establishments that perform

[[Page 82347]]

refrigerant removal, service, or disposal. EPA has used and will 
continue to use these records and reports to ensure that refrigerant 
releases are minimized during the recovery, recycling, and reclamation 
processes. The handling and confidentiality of the reporting 
requirements follow EPA's confidentiality regulations at 40 CFR 2.201 
et seq. for assuring computer data security, preventing disclosure, 
proper storage, and proper disposal.
    Respondents/affected entities: Entities required to comply with 
reporting and recordkeeping requirements include technicians; 
technician certification programs; refrigerant wholesalers; refrigerant 
reclaimers; refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment owners and/or 
operators; and other establishments that perform refrigerant removal, 
service, or disposal.
    Respondent's obligation to respond: Mandatory (40 CFR part 82, 
subpart F).
    Estimated number of respondents: The total number of respondents is 
estimated to be approximately 861,374.
    Frequency of response: The frequency of responses vary from once a 
year to daily. Public reporting burden for this collection of 
information is estimated to vary from one minute to 9.4 hours per 
response, including time for reviewing instructions and gathering, 
maintaining, and submitting information.
    Total estimated burden: The total estimated burden is 580,473 hours 
(per year). Burden is defined at 5 CFR 1320.3(b).
    Total estimated cost: The total estimated cost is $34,627,299 (per 
year). There are no estimated annualized capital or operation & 
maintenance costs associated with the reporting or recordkeeping 
requirements.
    Much of this burden is already covered by the existing requirements 
in 40 CFR part 82, subpart F, and the existing ICR, which was last 
approved by OMB in December 2014. The OMB control number for this 
information collection is 2060-0256.
    An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required 
to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a 
currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for the 
EPA's regulations in 40 CFR are listed in 40 CFR part 9. When OMB 
approves this ICR, the Agency will announce that approval in the 
Federal Register and publish a technical amendment to 40 CFR part 9 to 
display the OMB control number for the approved information collection 
activities contained in this final rule.

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. The 
small entities subject to the requirements of this action are 
businesses and small governmental jurisdictions that own or service 
comfort cooling, commercial refrigeration, or IPR equipment. EPA 
estimates that approximately 740 of the approximately 854,580 affected 
small businesses could incur costs in excess of 1 percent of annual 
sales and that fewer than 80 small businesses could incur costs in 
excess of 3 percent of annual sales. These levels are below the 
thresholds under which it can be presumed that an action will have no 
SISNOSE, as used in other Title VI rulemakings. Details of this 
analysis are presented in the Analysis of the Economic Impact and 
Benefits of Final Revisions to the National Recycling and Emission 
Reduction Program available in the docket.

D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA)

    This action does not contain an unfunded mandate of $100 million or 
more as described in UMRA, 2 U.S.C. 1531-1538, and does not 
significantly or uniquely affect small governments. This rule 
supplements the statutory self-effectuating prohibition against venting 
refrigerants by ensuring that certain service practices are conducted 
that reduce the emissions of ozone-depleting refrigerants and their 
substitutes. For example, this rule strengthens the leak repair 
requirements, establishes recordkeeping requirements for the disposal 
of appliances containing more than five and less than 50 pounds of 
refrigerant, and modifies the technician certification program.

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. This rule does not significantly or uniquely 
affect the communities of Indian tribal governments. This rule 
supplements the statutory self-effectuating prohibition against venting 
refrigerants by ensuring that certain service practices are conducted 
that reduce the emissions of ozone-depleting refrigerants and their 
substitutes. For example, this rule strengthens the leak repair 
requirements, establishes recordkeeping requirements for the disposal 
of appliances containing more than five and less than 50 pounds of 
refrigerant, and modifies the technician certification program. Thus, 
Executive Order 13175 does not apply to this action.

G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children From Environmental 
Health and Safety Risks

    This action is not subject to Executive Order 13045 (62 FR 19885, 
April 23, 1997) because it is not economically significant as defined 
in Executive Order 12866. Nonetheless, the environmental health or 
safety risk addressed by this action may have a disproportionate effect 
on children. Depletion of stratospheric ozone results in greater 
transmission of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation to the earth's 
surface. The following studies describe the effects of excessive 
exposure to UV radiation on children: (1) Westerdahl J, Olsson H, 
Ingvar C. ``At what age do sunburn episodes play a crucial role for the 
development of malignant melanoma,'' Eur J Cancer 1994: 30A: 1647-54; 
(2) Elwood JM Japson J. ``Melanoma and sun exposure: an overview of 
published studies,'' Int J Cancer 1997; 73:198-203; (3) Armstrong BK, 
``Melanoma: childhood or lifelong sun exposure,'' In: Grobb JJ, Stern 
RS Mackie RM, Weinstock WA, eds. ``Epidemiology, causes and prevention 
of skin diseases,'' 1st ed. London, England: Blackwell Science, 1997: 
63-6; (4) Whiteman D., Green A. ``Melanoma and Sunburn,'' Cancer Causes 
Control, 1994: 5:564-72; (5) Heenan, PJ. ``Does intermittent sun 
exposure cause basal cell carcinoma? A case control study in Western 
Australia,'' Int J Cancer 1995; 60: 489-94; (6) Gallagher, RP, Hill, 
GB, Bajdik, CD, et al. ``Sunlight exposure, pigmentary factors, and 
risk of nonmelanocytic skin cancer I, Basal cell carcinoma,'' Arch 
Dermatol 1995; 131: 157-63; (7) Armstrong, DK. ``How sun exposure 
causes skin cancer: an epidemiological perspective,'' Prevention of 
Skin Cancer. 2004. 89-116.

H. Executive Order 13211: Actions That Significantly Affect Energy 
Supply, Distribution, or Use

    This action is not a ``significant energy action'' because it is 
not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, 
distribution or use of energy.

[[Page 82348]]

I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act

    This action involves technical standards. In some instances, EPA is 
deciding to use a modified version of an industry standard for purposes 
of this rule; in others, EPA is deciding to use an industry standard by 
reference exactly as written.
    EPA is incorporating by reference UL 1963, Supplement SB, 
Requirements for Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Equipment Intended for 
Use with a Flammable Refrigerant, Fourth Edition, June 1, 2011. This 
establishes standards for refrigerant recovery and refrigerant 
recovery/recycling equipment to ensure the equipment can be used safely 
with flammable refrigerants. The standard is available at www.comm-2000.com or by writing to Comm 2000, 151 Eastern Avenue, Bensenville, 
IL 60106. The cost is $798 for an electronic copy and $998 for 
hardcopy. UL also offers a subscription service to the Standards 
Certification Customer Library (SCCL) 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. Therefore, EPA concludes that the UL standard being 
incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
    EPA is incorporating by reference standards referenced in AHRI 
Standard 700-2016. Specifically, these standards are:

--2008 Appendix C for Analytical Procedures for AHRI Standard 700-2014-
Normative, 2008. This document establishes definitive test procedures 
for determining the quality of new, reclaimed and/or repackaged 
refrigerants in support of the standards established in AHRI-700. An 
electronic copy of the appendix is available at www.ahrinet.org. It is 
also available by mail at Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration 
Institute (AHRI), 2111 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 500, Arlington, VA 
22201. The cost of obtaining this standard is not a significant 
financial burden. Therefore, EPA concludes that the standard being 
incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
--2012 Appendix D for Gas Chromatograms for AHRI Standard 700-2014- 
Informative, 2012, Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration 
Institute. This appendix provides figures for the gas chromatograms 
used with Appendix C to AHRI Standard 700-2015: Analytical Procedures 
for AHRI Standard 700-2015, Normative, Specification for Fluorocarbon 
Refrigerants. An electronic copy of the appendix is available at 
www.ahrinet.org. It is also available by mail at Air-Conditioning, 
Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), 2111 Wilson Boulevard, 
Suite 500, Arlington, VA 22201. The cost of obtaining this standard is 
not a significant financial burden. Therefore, EPA concludes that the 
standard being incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
--Federal Specification for ``Fluorocarbon Refrigerants,'' BB-F-1421 B, 
dated March 5, 1982. This section of this standard establishes a method 
to determine the boiling point and boiling point range of a 
refrigerant. The standard is available in the docket for this 
rulemaking. Therefore, EPA concludes that the standard being 
incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
--GPA STD-2177, Analysis of Natural Gas Liquid Mixtures Containing 
Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide by Gas Chromatography, 2013, Gas Processors 
Association. This standard establishes methods for analyzing 
demethanized liquid hydrocarbon streams containing nitrogen/air and 
carbon dioxide, and purity products such as ethane/propane mix that 
fall within compositional ranges indicated in the standard. The 
standard is available at www.techstreet.com or by writing to 
Techstreet, 6300 Interfirst Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. The cost of 
this standard is $55 for an electronic copy or $65 for a printed 
edition. The cost of obtaining this standard is not a significant 
financial burden. Therefore, EPA concludes that the standard being 
incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
_ASTM Standard D1296-01-2012, Standard Test Method for Odor of 
Volatile Solvents and Diluents, July 1, 2012, ASTM International. This 
test method covers a comparative procedure for observing the 
characteristic and residual odors of volatile organic solvents and 
diluents to determine their odor acceptability in a solvent system. The 
standard is available at www.astm.org or by writing to ASTM, 100 Barr 
Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. The cost 
of this standard is $39. The cost of obtaining this standard is not a 
significant financial burden. Therefore, EPA concludes that the 
standard being incorporated by reference is reasonably available.

    EPA is incorporating by reference standards referenced in AHRI 
Standard 740-2016.
    Specifically, these standards are:

--ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 63.2-1996 (RA 2010) Method of Testing Liquid-
Line Filter Drier Filtration Capability, 2010, American National 
Standards Institute/American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-
Conditioning Engineers, Inc. The purpose of this standard is to 
prescribe a laboratory test method for evaluating the filtration 
capability of filters and filter driers used in liquid lines of 
refrigeration systems. The standard is available at www.ashrae.org or 
by mail at AHSRAE, 1791 Tullie Circle NE., Atlanta, GA 30329. The cost 
is $39 for an electronic copy or printed edition. The cost of obtaining 
this standard is not a significant financial burden. Therefore, EPA 
concludes that the standard being incorporated by reference is 
reasonably available.
--UL Standard 1963-2011, Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Equipment, 
Fourth Edition, 2011, American National Standards Institute/
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. This standard establishes safety 
requirements for and methods to evaluate refrigerant recovery and 
refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. The standard is available at 
https://www.comm-2000.com or by writing to Comm 2000, 151 Eastern 
Avenue, Bensenville, IL 60106. The cost is $798 for an electronic copy 
and $998 for hardcopy. UL also offers a subscription service to the 
Standards Certification Customer Library (SCCL) 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. Therefore, EPA concludes that the UL standard being 
incorporated by reference is reasonably available.
--AHRI Standard 110-2016, Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigerating 
Equipment Nameplate Voltages, 2016, Air-Conditioning, Heating, and 
Refrigeration Institute. This standard establishes voltage rating 
requirements, equipment performance requirements, and conformance 
conditions for air-conditioning, heating, and refrigerating equipment. 
A free electronic copy of this standard is available at 
www.ahrinet.org. It is also available by mail at Air-Conditioning, 
Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), 2111 Wilson Boulevard, 
Suite 500, Arlington, VA 22201. The cost of obtaining this standard is 
not a

[[Page 82349]]

significant financial burden. Therefore, EPA concludes that the 
standard being incorporated by reference is reasonably available.

--International Standard IEC 60038, IEC Standard Voltages, Edition 7.0, 
2009-06, International Electrotechnical Commission. This standard 
specifies standard voltage values which are intended to serve as 
preferential values for the nominal voltage of electrical supply 
systems, and as reference values for equipment and system design. The 
standard is available at https://www.iec.ch or by writing to Techstreet, 
6300 Interfirst Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. The cost of this standard 
is $50. The cost of obtaining this standard is not a significant 
financial burden. Therefore, EPA concludes that the standard being 
incorporated by reference is reasonably available.

    EPA is not incorporating by reference California Air Resources 
Board, Test Procedure for Leaks from Small Containers of Automotive 
Refrigerant, TP-503, as amended January 5, 2010. Rather EPA is basing 
the content found in appendix E on this standard. This standard 
establishes methods for assessing the leak rate from small containers 
of refrigerant. A copy of this standard is available in the docket and 
www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2009/hfc09/hfc09.htm.www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2009/hfc09/hfc09.htm.
    At this time EPA is not finalizing an incorporation by reference 
for the ASHRAE terminology found at https://www.ashrae.org/resources--
publications/free-resources/ashrae-terminology.

J. Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions To Address Environmental 
Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations

    EPA believes this action will not have disproportionately high and 
adverse human health or environmental effects on minority or low-income 
populations because it affects the level of environmental protection 
equally for all affected populations. This rule amends the leak repair 
requirements for appliances using ozone-depleting substances, thereby 
protecting human health and the environment from increased amounts of 
UV radiation and increased incidence of skin cancer. The effects of 
exposure to UV radiation and the estimated reduction in emissions of 
ozone-depleting substances from this rule is contained in Section 
II.D.1 of this notice.

K. Congressional Review Act (CRA)

    This action is subject to the CRA, and EPA will submit a rule 
report to each House of the Congress and to the Comptroller General of 
the United States. This action is not a ``major rule'' as defined by 5 
U.S.C. 804(2).

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 82

    Environmental protection, Air pollution control, Chemicals, 
Incorporation by reference, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    Dated: September 26, 2016.
Gina McCarthy,
Administrator.

    For the reasons set forth in the preamble, the Environmental 
Protection Agency amends 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.


0
2. Revise Sec.  82.150 to read as follows:


Sec.  82.150   Purpose and scope.

    (a) The purpose of this subpart is to reduce emissions of class I 
and class II refrigerants and their non-exempt substitutes to the 
lowest achievable level by maximizing the recapture and recycling of 
such refrigerants during the maintenance, service, repair, and disposal 
of appliances and restricting the sale of refrigerants consisting in 
whole or in part of a class I or class II ozone-depleting substance or 
their non-exempt substitutes in accordance with Title VI of the Clean 
Air Act.
    (b) This subpart applies to any person maintaining, servicing, or 
repairing appliances containing class I, class II or non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants. This subpart also applies to persons disposing 
of such appliances (including small appliances and motor vehicle air 
conditioners), refrigerant reclaimers, technician certifying programs, 
appliance owners and operators, manufacturers of appliances, 
manufacturers of recovery and/or recycling equipment, approved recovery 
and/or recycling equipment testing organizations, and persons buying, 
selling, or offering to sell class I, class II, or non-exempt 
substitute refrigerants.

0
3. Amend Sec.  82.152 by:
0
a. Adding definitions for ``Batch,'' ``Class I,'' ``Class II,'' 
``Comfort cooling,'' ``Component,'' ``Leak inspection,'' ``Mothball,'' 
``Normal operating characteristics and conditions,'' ``Reclaim,'' 
``Recover,'' ``Recycle,'' ``Retire,'' ``Retrofit,'' ``Seasonal 
variance,'' ``Self-sealing valve,'' and ``System receiver.''
0
b. Revising the definitions for ``Appliance,'' ``Apprentice,'' 
``Commercial refrigeration,'' ``Custom-built,'' ``Disposal,'' ``Follow-
up verification test,'' ``Full charge,'' ``High-pressure appliance,'' 
``Industrial process refrigeration,'' ``Industrial process shutdown,'' 
``Initial verification test,'' ``Leak rate,'' ``Low-loss fitting,'' 
``Low-pressure appliance,'' ``Medium-pressure appliance,'' ``MVAC-like 
appliance,'' ``One-time expansion device,'' ``Opening an appliance,'' 
``Recovery efficiency,'' ``Refrigerant,'' ``Self-contained recovery 
equipment,'' ``Small appliance,'' ``Substitute,'' ``Technician,'' and 
``Very high-pressure appliance.''
0
c. Removing the definitions for ``Critical Component,'' ``Normal 
operating characteristics or conditions,'' ``Normally containing a 
quantity of refrigerant,'' ``Reclaim refrigerant,'' ``Recover 
refrigerant,'' ``Recycle refrigerant,'' ``Suitable replacement 
refrigerant,'' ``System mothballing,'' and ``Voluntary certification 
program.''
    The revisions and additions to read as follows:


Sec.  82.152   Definitions.

    As used in this subpart, the term:
    Appliance means any device which contains and uses a class I or 
class II substance or substitute as a refrigerant and which is used for 
household or commercial purposes, including any air conditioner, motor 
vehicle air conditioner, refrigerator, chiller, or freezer. For a 
system with multiple circuits, each independent circuit is considered a 
separate appliance.
    Apprentice means any person who is currently registered as an 
apprentice in maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of appliances 
with the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship (or a 
State Apprenticeship Council recognized by the Office of 
Apprenticeship). A person may only be an apprentice for two years from 
the date of first registering with that office.
* * * * *
    Batch means a single bulk cylinder of refrigerant after all 
reclamation has been completed prior to packaging or shipping to the 
market.
    Class I refers to an ozone-depleting substance that is listed in 40 
CFR part 82 subpart A, appendix A.
    Class II refers to an ozone-depleting substance that is listed in 
40 CFR part 82 subpart A, appendix B.
    Comfort cooling means the air-conditioning appliances used to 
provide cooling in order to control heat and/or

[[Page 82350]]

humidity in occupied facilities including but not limited to 
residential, office, and commercial buildings. Comfort cooling 
appliances include but are not limited to chillers, commercial split 
systems, and packaged roof-top units.
    Commercial refrigeration means the refrigeration appliances used in 
the retail food and cold storage warehouse sectors. Retail food 
appliances include the refrigeration equipment found in supermarkets, 
convenience stores, restaurants and other food service establishments. 
Cold storage includes the refrigeration equipment used to store meat, 
produce, dairy products, and other perishable goods.
    Component means a part of the refrigerant circuit within an 
appliance including, but not limited to, compressors, condensers, 
evaporators, receivers, and all of its connections and subassemblies.
    Custom-built means that the industrial process equipment or any of 
its components cannot be purchased and/or installed without being 
uniquely designed, fabricated and/or assembled to satisfy a specific 
set of industrial process conditions.
    Disposal means the process leading to and including:
    (1) The discharge, deposit, dumping or placing of any discarded 
appliance into or on any land or water;
    (2) The disassembly of any appliance for discharge, deposit, 
dumping or placing of its discarded component parts into or on any land 
or water;
    (3) The vandalism of any appliance such that the refrigerant is 
released into the environment or would be released into the environment 
if it had not been recovered prior to the destructive activity;
    (4) The disassembly of any appliance for reuse of its component 
parts; or
    (5) The recycling of any appliance for scrap.
    Follow-up verification test means those tests that involve checking 
the repairs to an appliance after a successful initial verification 
test and after the appliance has returned to normal operating 
characteristics and conditions to verify that the repairs were 
successful. Potential methods for follow-up verification tests include, 
but are not limited to, the use of soap bubbles as appropriate, 
electronic or ultrasonic leak detectors, pressure or vacuum tests, 
fluorescent dye and black light, infrared or near infrared tests, and 
handheld gas detection devices.
    Full charge means the amount of refrigerant required for normal 
operating characteristics and conditions of the appliance as determined 
by using one or a combination of the following four methods:
    (1) Use of the equipment manufacturer's determination of the full 
charge;
    (2) Use of appropriate calculations based on component sizes, 
density of refrigerant, volume of piping, and other relevant 
considerations;
    (3) Use of actual measurements of the amount of refrigerant added 
to or evacuated from the appliance, including for seasonal variances; 
and/or
    (4) Use of an established range based on the best available data 
regarding the normal operating characteristics and conditions for the 
appliance, where the midpoint of the range will serve as the full 
charge.
    High-pressure appliance means an appliance that uses a refrigerant 
with a liquid phase saturation pressure between 170 psia and 355 psia 
at 104[emsp14][deg]F. Examples include but are not limited to 
appliances using R-22, R-407A, R-407C, R-410A, and R-502.
    Industrial process refrigeration means complex customized 
appliances that are directly linked to the processes used in, for 
example, the chemical, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, and manufacturing 
industries. This sector also includes industrial ice machines, 
appliances used directly in the generation of electricity, and ice 
rinks. Where one appliance is used for both industrial process 
refrigeration and other applications, it will be considered industrial 
process refrigeration equipment if 50 percent or more of its operating 
capacity is used for industrial process refrigeration.
    Industrial process shutdown means when an industrial process or 
facility temporarily ceases to operate or manufacture whatever is being 
produced at that facility.
    Initial verification test means those leak tests that are conducted 
after the repair is finished to verify that a leak or leaks have been 
repaired before refrigerant is added back to the appliance.
    Leak inspection means the examination of an appliance to determine 
the location of refrigerant leaks. Potential methods include, but are 
not limited to, ultrasonic tests, gas-imaging cameras, bubble tests as 
appropriate, or the use of a leak detection device operated and 
maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. Methods that determine 
whether the appliance is leaking refrigerant but not the location of a 
leak, such as standing pressure/vacuum decay tests, sight glass checks, 
viewing receiver levels, pressure checks, and charging charts, must be 
used in conjunction with methods that can determine the location of a 
leak.
    Leak rate means the rate at which an appliance is losing 
refrigerant, measured between refrigerant charges. The leak rate is 
expressed in terms of the percentage of the appliance's full charge 
that would be lost over a 12-month period if the current rate of loss 
were to continue over that period. The rate must be calculated using 
one of the following methods. The same method must be used for all 
appliances subject to the leak repair requirements located at an 
operating facility.
    (1) Annualizing Method. (i) Step 1. Take the number of pounds of 
refrigerant added to the appliance to return it to a full charge, 
whether in one addition or if multiple additions related to same leak, 
and divide it by the number of pounds of refrigerant the appliance 
normally contains at full charge;
    (ii) Step 2. Take the shorter of the number of days that have 
passed since the last day refrigerant was added or 365 days and divide 
that number by 365 days;
    (iii) Step 3. Take the number calculated in Step 1 and divide it by 
the number calculated in Step 2; and
    (iv) Step 4. Multiply the number calculated in Step 3 by 100 to 
calculate a percentage. This method is summarized in the following 
formula:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR18NO16.074

    (2) Rolling Average Method. (i) Step 1. Take the sum of the pounds 
of refrigerant added to the appliance over the previous 365-day period 
(or over the period that has passed since the last successful follow-up 
verification test

[[Page 82351]]

showing all identified leaks in the appliance were repaired, if that 
period is less than one year);
    (ii) Step 2. Divide the result of Step 1 by the pounds of 
refrigerant the appliance normally contains at full charge; and
    (iii) Step 3. Multiply the result of Step 2 by 100 to obtain a 
percentage. This method is summarized in the following formula:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR18NO16.075

    Low-loss fitting means any device that is intended to establish a 
connection between hoses, appliances, or recovery and/or recycling 
machines and that is designed to close automatically or to be closed 
manually when disconnected, minimizing the release of refrigerant from 
hoses, appliances, and recovery and/or recycling machines.
    Low-pressure appliance means an appliance that uses a refrigerant 
with a liquid phase saturation pressure below 45 psia at 
104[emsp14][deg]F. Examples include but are not limited to appliances 
using R-11, R-123, R-113, and R-245fa.
* * * * *
    Medium-pressure appliance means an appliance that uses a 
refrigerant with a liquid phase saturation pressure between 45 psia and 
170 psia at 104 [deg]F. Examples include but are not limited to 
appliances using R-114, R-124, R-12, R-134a, and R-500.
    Mothball means to evacuate refrigerant from an appliance, or the 
affected isolated section or component of an appliance, to at least 
atmospheric pressure, and to temporarily shut down that appliance.
* * * * *
    MVAC-like appliance means a mechanical vapor compression, open-
drive compressor appliance with a full charge of 20 pounds or less of 
refrigerant used to cool the driver's or passenger's compartment of 
off-road vehicles or equipment. This includes, but is not limited to, 
the air-conditioning equipment found on agricultural or construction 
vehicles. This definition is not intended to cover appliances using R-
22 refrigerant.
    Normal operating characteristics and conditions means appliance 
operating temperatures, pressures, fluid flows, speeds, and other 
characteristics, including full charge of the appliance, that would be 
expected for a given process load and ambient condition during normal 
operation. Normal operating characteristics and conditions are marked 
by the absence of atypical conditions affecting the operation of the 
appliance.
    One-time expansion device means an appliance that relies on the 
release of its refrigerant charge to the environment in order to 
provide a cooling effect. These are typically single releases but could 
also include products that are designed to release refrigerant to the 
environment through multiple individual charges.
    Opening an appliance means any maintenance, service, repair, or 
disposal of an appliance that would release any refrigerant in the 
appliance to the atmosphere. Connecting and disconnecting hoses and 
gauges to measure pressures, add refrigerant, or recover refrigerant 
from the appliance are not considered ``opening an appliance.''
* * * * *
    Reclaim means to reprocess recovered refrigerant to all of the 
specifications in appendix A of this subpart (based on AHRI Standard 
700-2016, Specifications for Refrigerants) that are applicable to that 
refrigerant and to verify that the refrigerant meets these 
specifications using the analytical methodology prescribed in section 5 
of appendix A of this subpart.
    Recover means to remove refrigerant in any condition from an 
appliance and to store it in an external container without necessarily 
testing or processing it in any way.
    Recovery efficiency means the percentage of refrigerant in an 
appliance that is recovered by a piece of recovery and/or recycling 
equipment.
    Recycle, when referring to refrigerant, means to extract 
refrigerant from an appliance (except MVACs) and clean it for reuse in 
equipment of the same owner without meeting all of the requirements for 
reclamation. In general, recycled refrigerant is cleaned using oil 
separation and single or multiple passes through devices, such as 
replaceable core filter-driers, which reduce moisture, acidity, and 
particulate matter.
    Refrigerant means, for purposes of this subpart, any substance, 
including blends and mixtures, consisting in part or whole of a class I 
or class II ozone-depleting substance or substitute that is used for 
heat transfer purposes and provides a cooling effect.
    Refrigerant circuit means the parts of an appliance that are 
normally connected to each other (or are separated only by internal 
valves) and are designed to contain refrigerant.
    Retire, when referring to an appliance, means the removal of the 
refrigerant and the disassembly or impairment of the refrigerant 
circuit such that the appliance as a whole is rendered unusable by any 
person in the future.
    Retrofit means to convert an appliance from one refrigerant to 
another refrigerant. Retrofitting includes the conversion of the 
appliance to achieve system compatibility with the new refrigerant and 
may include, but is not limited to, changes in lubricants, gaskets, 
filters, driers, valves, o-rings or appliance components.
    Seasonal variance means the removal of refrigerant from an 
appliance due to a change in ambient conditions caused by a change in 
season, followed by the subsequent addition of an amount that is less 
than or equal to the amount of refrigerant removed in the prior change 
in season, where both the removal and addition of refrigerant occurs 
within one consecutive 12-month period.
    Self-contained recovery equipment means refrigerant recovery and/or 
recycling equipment that is capable of removing the refrigerant from an 
appliance without the assistance of components contained in the 
appliance.
    Self-sealing valve means a valve affixed to a container of 
refrigerant that automatically seals when not dispensing refrigerant 
and meets or exceeds established performance criteria as identified in 
Sec.  82.154(c)(2).
    Small appliance means any appliance that is fully manufactured, 
charged, and hermetically sealed in a factory with five (5) pounds or 
less of refrigerant, including, but not limited to, refrigerators and 
freezers (designed for home, commercial, or consumer use), medical or 
industrial research refrigeration equipment, room air

[[Page 82352]]

conditioners (including window air conditioners, portable air 
conditioners, and packaged terminal air heat pumps), dehumidifiers, 
under-the-counter ice makers, vending machines, and drinking water 
coolers.
    Substitute means any chemical or product, whether existing or new, 
that is used as a refrigerant to replace a class I or II ozone-
depleting substance. Examples include, but are not limited to 
hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, hydrofluoroolefins, 
hydrofluoroethers, hydrocarbons, ammonia, carbon dioxide, and blends 
thereof. As used in this subpart, the term ``exempt substitutes'' 
refers to certain substitutes when used in certain end-uses that are 
specified in Sec.  82.154(a)(1) as exempt from the venting prohibition 
and the requirements of this subpart, and the term ``non-exempt 
substitutes'' refers to all other substitutes and end-uses not so 
specified in Sec.  82.154(a)(1).
* * * * *
    System receiver means the isolated portion of the appliance, or a 
specific vessel within the appliance, that is used to hold the 
refrigerant charge during the servicing or repair of that appliance.
    Technician means any person who in the course of maintenance, 
service, or repair of an appliance (except MVACs) could be reasonably 
expected to violate the integrity of the refrigerant circuit and 
therefore release refrigerants into the environment. Technician also 
means any person who in the course of disposal of an appliance (except 
small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances) could be reasonably 
expected to violate the integrity of the refrigerant circuit and 
therefore release refrigerants from the appliances into the 
environment. Activities reasonably expected to violate the integrity of 
the refrigerant circuit include but are not limited to: Attaching or 
detaching hoses and gauges to and from the appliance; adding or 
removing refrigerant; adding or removing components; and cutting the 
refrigerant line. Activities such as painting the appliance, rewiring 
an external electrical circuit, replacing insulation on a length of 
pipe, or tightening nuts and bolts are not reasonably expected to 
violate the integrity of the refrigerant circuit. Activities conducted 
on appliances that have been properly evacuated pursuant to Sec.  
82.156 are not reasonably expected to release refrigerants unless the 
activity includes adding refrigerant to the appliance. Technicians 
could include but are not limited to installers, contractor employees, 
in-house service personnel, and owners and/or operators of appliances.
    Very high-pressure appliance means an appliance that uses a 
refrigerant with a critical temperature below 104[emsp14][deg]F or with 
a liquid phase saturation pressure above 355 psia at 104[emsp14][deg]F. 
Examples include but are not limited to appliances using R-13, R-23, R-
503, R-508A, and R-508B.

0
4. Revise Sec.  82.154 to read as follows:


Sec.  82.154   Prohibitions.

    (a) Venting Prohibition. (1) No person maintaining, servicing, 
repairing, or disposing of an appliance or industrial process 
refrigeration may knowingly vent or otherwise release into the 
environment any refrigerant from such appliances. Notwithstanding any 
other provision of this subpart, the following substitutes in the 
following end-uses are exempt from this prohibition and from the 
requirements of this subpart:
    (i) Carbon dioxide in any application;
    (ii) Nitrogen in any application;
    (iii) Water in any application;
    (iv) Ammonia in commercial or industrial process refrigeration or 
in absorption units;
    (v) Chlorine in industrial process refrigeration (processing of 
chlorine and chlorine compounds);
    (vi) Hydrocarbons in industrial process refrigeration (processing 
of hydrocarbons);
    (vii) Ethane (R-170) in very low temperature refrigeration 
equipment and equipment for non-mechanical heat transfer;
    (viii) Propane (R-290) in retail food refrigerators and freezers 
(stand-alone units only); household refrigerators, freezers, and 
combination refrigerators and freezers; self-contained room air 
conditioners for residential and light commercial air-conditioning; 
heat pumps; and vending machines;
    (ix) Isobutane (R-600a) in retail food refrigerators and freezers 
(stand-alone units only); household refrigerators, freezers, and 
combination refrigerators and freezers; and vending machines;
    (x) R-441A in retail food refrigerators and freezers (stand-alone 
units only); household refrigerators, freezers, and combination 
refrigerators and freezers; self-contained room air conditioners for 
residential and light commercial air-conditioning; heat pumps; and 
vending machines.
    (2) De minimis releases associated with good faith attempts to 
recycle or recover refrigerants are not subject to this prohibition. 
Except for exempt substitutes, refrigerant releases are de minimis only 
if they occur when:
    (i) The applicable practices in Sec.  82.155, Sec.  82.156, and 
Sec.  82.157 are observed, recovery and/or recycling machines that meet 
the requirements in Sec.  82.158 are used whenever refrigerant is 
removed from an appliance, the technician certification provisions in 
Sec.  82.161 are observed, and the reclamation requirements in Sec.  
82.164 are observed; or
    (ii) The requirements in subpart B of this part are observed.
    (3) The knowing release of a class I or class II refrigerant or a 
non-exempt substitute refrigerant after its recovery from an appliance 
is a violation of the venting prohibition.
    (b) No person may maintain, service, repair, or dispose of an 
appliance containing a class I or class II refrigerant or a non-exempt 
substitute refrigerant without:
    (1) Observing the applicable practices in Sec.  82.155, Sec.  
82.156, and Sec.  82.157; and
    (2) Using recovery and/or recycling equipment that is certified for 
that type of refrigerant and appliance under Sec.  82.158.
    (c) Sales Restriction. (1) No person may sell or distribute, or 
offer for sale or distribution, any substance that consists in whole or 
in part of a class I or class II substance or, starting on January 1, 
2018, any non-exempt substitute for use as a refrigerant unless:
    (i) The buyer has been certified as a Type I, Type II, Type III, or 
Universal technician under Sec.  82.161;
    (ii) The buyer employs at least one technician who is certified as 
a Type I, Type II, Type III, or Universal technician under Sec.  82.161 
and provides proof of such to the seller;
    (iii) The buyer has been certified in accordance with 40 CFR part 
82, subpart B and the refrigerant is acceptable for use in MVACs under 
40 CFR part 82, subpart G;
    (iv) The buyer employs at least one person who is certified under 
40 CFR part 82, subpart B, and provides proof of such to the seller and 
the refrigerant is acceptable for use in MVACs under 40 CFR part 82, 
subpart G. Nothing in this provision relieves persons of the 
requirements of Sec.  82.34(b) or Sec.  82.42(b);
    (v) The refrigerant is sold only for eventual resale to persons 
certified under Sec.  82.161 or 40 CFR part 82, subpart B or to 
appliance manufacturers (e.g., sold by a manufacturer to a wholesaler, 
sold by a technician to a reclaimer);
    (vi) The refrigerant is sold to an appliance manufacturer;
    (vii) The refrigerant is contained in an appliance with a fully 
assembled refrigerant circuit or an appliance component;
    (viii) The refrigerant is charged into an appliance by a certified 
technician or an apprentice during maintenance, service, or repair of 
the appliance; or

[[Page 82353]]

    (ix) The non-exempt substitute refrigerant is intended for use in 
an MVAC and is sold in a container designed to hold two pounds or less 
of refrigerant, has a unique fitting, and has a self-sealing valve.
    (2) Self-sealing valve specifications. This provision applies 
starting January 1, 2018, for all containers holding two pounds or less 
of non-exempt substitute refrigerant for use in an MVAC that are 
manufactured or imported on or after that date.
    (i) Each container holding two pounds or less of non-exempt 
substitute refrigerant for use in an MVAC must be equipped with a 
single self-sealing valve that automatically closes and seals when not 
dispensing refrigerant.
    (ii) The leakage rate from each container must not exceed 3.00 
grams per year when the self-sealing valve is closed. This leakage rate 
applies to new, full containers as well as containers that may be 
partially full.
    (iii) The leakage rate must be determined using the standards 
described in appendix E (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
    (iv) All testing to demonstrate compliance with this paragraph must 
be conducted by an independent test laboratory in the United States. 
For purposes of this requirement, an independent test laboratory is one 
that is not owned, operated, or affiliated with the applicant 
certifying equipment and/or products.
    (3) Recordkeeping. (i) Persons who sell or distribute, or offer to 
sell or distribute, any class I or class II refrigerant, or, starting 
on January 1, 2018, any non-exempt substitute refrigerant must keep 
invoices that indicate the name of the purchaser, the date of sale, and 
the quantity of refrigerant purchased unless they are selling exempt 
substitutes (those substitutes used in the end-uses specified as exempt 
in paragraph (a)(1) of this section) or small cans of MVAC refrigerant 
in accordance with paragraph (c)(1)(ix) of this section. In instances 
where the buyer employs a person certified under Sec.  82.161 or 40 CFR 
part 82, subpart B, the seller must keep the documentation provided by 
the buyer to demonstrate such employment. All records must be kept for 
three years.
    (ii) Electronic or paper copies of all records described in 
appendix E must be maintained by manufacturers of containers holding 
two pounds or less of non-exempt substitute refrigerant for use in an 
MVAC to verify self-sealing valves meet the requirements specified in 
paragraph (c)(2) of this section. All records must be kept for three 
years after each purchase.
    (d) Sale of Used Refrigerant. No person may sell or distribute, or 
offer for sale or distribution, for use as a refrigerant any class I or 
class II substance or non-exempt substitute consisting wholly or in 
part of used refrigerant unless the refrigerant:
    (1) Has been reclaimed by a person who has been certified as a 
reclaimer under Sec.  82.164;
    (2) was used only in an MVAC or MVAC-like appliance and is to be 
used only in an MVAC or MVAC-like appliance and recycled in accordance 
with 40 CFR part 82, subpart B;
    (3) is contained in an appliance that is sold or offered for sale 
together with a fully assembled refrigerant circuit;
    (4) is being transferred between or among a parent company and one 
or more of its subsidiaries, or between or among subsidiaries having 
the same parent company; or
    (5) is being transferred between or among a Federal agency or 
department and a facility or facilities owned by the same Federal 
agency or department.
    (e) Manufacture and Sale of Appliances. (1) No person may sell or 
distribute, or offer for sale or distribution, any appliance (except 
small appliances and appliances containing only refrigerants that have 
been exempted under paragraph (a)(1) of this section) unless it is 
equipped with a servicing aperture to facilitate the removal of 
refrigerant at servicing and disposal.
    (2) No person may sell or distribute, or offer for sale or 
distribution, any small appliance (except appliances containing only 
refrigerants that have been exempted under paragraph (a)(1) of this 
section) unless it is equipped with a process stub to facilitate the 
removal of refrigerant at servicing and disposal.
    (f) One-time expansion devices. No person may manufacture or import 
a one-time expansion device unless the only refrigerants it contains 
have been exempted under paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
    (g) Rules stayed for consideration. Notwithstanding any other 
provisions of this subpart, the effectiveness of 40 CFR 82.154(c), only 
as it applies to refrigerant contained in appliances without fully 
assembled refrigerant circuits, is stayed from April 27, 1995, until 
EPA takes final action on its reconsideration of these provisions. EPA 
will publish any such final action in the Federal Register.

0
5. Add Sec.  82.155 to subpart F to read as follows:


Sec.  82.155   Safe disposal of appliances.

    Until January 1, 2018, this section applies only to disposal of 
appliances containing class I and class II refrigerants. Starting on 
January 1, 2018, this section applies to disposal of appliances 
containing any class I or class II refrigerant or any non-exempt 
substitute refrigerant.
    (a) Persons recovering refrigerant from a small appliance, MVAC, or 
MVAC-like appliance for purposes of disposal of these appliances must 
evacuate refrigerant to the levels in Sec.  82.156(b) through (d) using 
recovery equipment that meets the standards in Sec.  82.158(e) through 
(g), or 40 CFR part 82 subpart B, as applicable.
    (b) The final processor--i.e., persons who take the final step in 
the disposal process (including but not limited to scrap recyclers and 
landfill operators) of a small appliance, MVAC, or MVAC-like 
appliance--must either:
    (1) Recover any remaining refrigerant from the appliance in 
accordance with paragraph (a) of this section; or
    (2) Verify using a signed statement or a contract that all 
refrigerant that had not leaked previously has been recovered from the 
appliance or shipment of appliances in accordance with paragraph (a) of 
this section. If using a signed statement, it must include the name and 
address of the person who recovered the refrigerant and the date the 
refrigerant was recovered. If using a signed contract between the 
supplier and the final processor, it must either state that the 
supplier will recover any remaining refrigerant from the appliance or 
shipment of appliances in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section 
prior to delivery or verify that the refrigerant had been properly 
recovered prior to receipt by the supplier.
    (i) It is a violation of this subpart to accept a signed statement 
or contract if the person receiving the statement or contract knew or 
had reason to know that the signed statement or contract is false.
    (ii) The final processor must notify suppliers of appliances that 
refrigerant must be properly recovered in accordance with paragraph (a) 
of this section before delivery of the items to the facility. The form 
of this notification may be signs, letters to suppliers, or other 
equivalent means.
    (iii) If all the refrigerant has leaked out of the appliance, the 
final processor must obtain a signed statement that all the refrigerant 
in the appliance had leaked out prior to delivery to the final 
processor and recovery is not possible. ``Leaked out'' in this context 
means those situations in which the refrigerant has escaped because of 
system failures, accidents, or other unavoidable occurrences not caused 
by a person's

[[Page 82354]]

negligence or deliberate acts such as cutting refrigerant lines.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The final processor of a small appliance, MVAC, 
or MVAC-like appliance must keep a copy of all the signed statements or 
contracts obtained under paragraph (b)(2) of this section on site, in 
hard copy or in electronic format, for three years.

0
6. Amend Sec.  82.156 by:
0
(a) Revising the section heading;
0
(b) Adding an introductory paragraph;
0
(c) Revising paragraphs (a) through (h); and
0
(d) Adding paragraph (i) introductory text; and
0
(e) Adding paragraph (j).
    The revisions and additions to read as follows:


Sec.  82.156   Proper evacuation of refrigerant from appliances.

    Until January 1, 2018, this section applies only to evacuation of 
refrigerant from appliances containing class I or class II 
refrigerants. Starting on January 1, 2018, this section applies to 
evacuation of refrigerant from appliances containing any class I or 
class II refrigerant or any non-exempt substitute refrigerant, 
excluding paragraph (i) of this section which applies only to 
appliances containing class I or class II refrigerants until January 1, 
2019. Starting January 1, 2019, the provisions in Sec.  82.157 apply in 
lieu of paragraph (i) of this section.
    (a) Appliances (except small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like 
appliances). Before opening appliances (except small appliances, MVACs, 
and MVAC-like appliances) or disposing of such appliances, technicians 
must evacuate the refrigerant, including all the liquid refrigerant, to 
the levels in Table 1 using a recovery and/or recycling machine 
certified pursuant to Sec.  82.158 unless the situations in paragraphs 
(a)(1) or (2) of this section apply. Technicians may evacuate either 
the entire appliance or the part to be serviced, if the refrigerant in 
the part can be isolated to a system receiver. A technician must verify 
that the applicable level of evacuation has been reached in the 
appliance or the part before it is opened.
    (1) If evacuation of the appliance to the atmosphere is not to be 
performed after completion of the maintenance, service, or repair, and 
if the maintenance, service, or repair is not major as defined at Sec.  
82.152, the appliance must:
    (i) Be evacuated to a pressure no higher than 0 psig before it is 
opened if it is a medium-, high- or very high-pressure appliance;
    (ii) Be pressurized to a pressure no higher than 0 psig before it 
is opened if it is a low-pressure appliance. Persons must cover 
openings when isolation is not possible. Persons pressurizing low-
pressure appliances that use refrigerants with boiling points at or 
below 85 degrees Fahrenheit at 29.9 inches of mercury (standard 
atmospheric pressure), must not use methods such as nitrogen that 
require subsequent purging. Persons pressurizing low-pressure 
appliances that use refrigerants with boiling points above 85 degrees 
Fahrenheit at 29.9 inches of mercury, must use heat to raise the 
internal pressure of the appliance as much as possible, but may use 
nitrogen to raise the internal pressure of the appliance from the level 
attainable through use of heat to atmospheric pressure; or
    (iii) For the purposes of oil changes, be evacuated or pressurized 
to a pressure no higher than 5 psig, before it is opened; or drain the 
oil into a system receiver to be evacuated or pressurized to a pressure 
no higher than 5 psig.
    (2) If leaks in the appliance make evacuation to the levels in 
Table 1 unattainable or would substantially contaminate the refrigerant 
being recovered, persons opening or disposing of the appliance must:
    (i) Isolate leaking from non-leaking components wherever possible;
    (ii) Evacuate non-leaking components to be opened or disposed of to 
the levels specified in Table 1; and
    (iii) Evacuate leaking components to be opened or disposed of to 
the lowest level that can be attained without substantially 
contaminating the refrigerant. This level may not exceed 0 psig.
    (3) Recordkeeping. As of January 1, 2018, technicians evacuating 
refrigerant from appliances with a full charge of more than 5 and less 
than 50 pounds of refrigerant for purposes of disposal of that 
appliance must keep records documenting the following for three years:
    (i) The company name, location of the appliance, date of recovery, 
and type of refrigerant recovered for each appliance;
    (ii) The total quantity of refrigerant, by type, recovered from all 
disposed appliances in each calendar month; and
    (iii) The quantity of refrigerant, by type, transferred for 
reclamation and/or destruction, the person to whom it was transferred, 
and the date of transfer.

                              Table 1--Required Levels of Evacuation for Appliances
                         [Except for small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         Inches of Hg vacuum  (relative to standard atmospheric pressure of 29.9
                                                                       inches Hg)
                                       -------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Type of appliance              Using recovery and/or recycling      Using recovery and/or recycling
                                        equipment manufactured or  imported  equipment manufactured or  imported
                                             before  November 15, 1993          on or after  November 15, 1993
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Very high-pressure appliance..........  0..................................  0.
High-pressure appliance, or isolated    0..................................  0.
 component of such appliance, with a
 full charge of less than 200 pounds
 of refrigerant.
High-pressure appliance, or isolated    4..................................  10.
 component of such appliance, with a
 full charge of 200 pounds or more of
 refrigerant.
Medium-pressure appliance, or isolated  4..................................  10.
 component of such appliance, with a
 full charge of less than 200 pounds
 of refrigerant.
Medium-pressure appliance, or isolated  4..................................  15.
 component of such appliance, with a
 full charge of 200 pounds or more of
 refrigerant.
Low-pressure appliance................  25 mm Hg absolute..................  25 mm Hg absolute.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 82355]]

    (b) Small appliances. Before opening a small appliance or when 
disposing of a small appliance, persons must recover refrigerant, using 
a recovery and/or recycling machine certified pursuant to Sec.  82.158, 
according to the following conditions:
    (1) When using recovery equipment manufactured before November 15, 
1993, recover 80 percent of the refrigerant in the small appliance; or
    (2) When using recovery equipment manufactured on or after November 
15, 1993, recover 90 percent of the refrigerant in the appliance when 
the compressor in the appliance is functioning, or 80 percent of the 
refrigerant in the appliance when the compressor in the appliance is 
not functioning; or
    (3) Evacuate the appliance to four inches of mercury vacuum.
    (c) MVAC-like appliances. Persons may only open MVAC-like 
appliances while properly using, as defined at Sec.  82.32(e), recovery 
and/or recycling equipment certified pursuant to Sec.  82.158(f) or 
Sec.  82.36, as applicable. All persons recovering refrigerant from 
MVAC-like appliances for purposes of disposal of these appliances must 
evacuate the appliance in accordance with 40 CFR part 82, subpart B or 
reduce the system pressure to or below 102 mm of mercury vacuum.
    (d) MVACs. All persons recovering refrigerant from MVACs for 
purposes of disposal of these appliances must evacuate the appliance in 
accordance with 40 CFR part 82, subpart B or reduce the system pressure 
to or below 102 mm of mercury vacuum.
    (e) System-dependent equipment may not be used with appliances with 
a full charge of more than 15 pounds of refrigerant, unless the system-
dependent equipment is permanently attached to the appliance as a pump-
out unit.
    (f) Persons who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of only 
appliances that they own and that contain pump-out units are exempt 
from the requirement to use certified, self-contained recovery and/or 
recycling equipment.
    (g) All recovery and/or recycling equipment must be used in 
accordance with the manufacturer's directions unless such directions 
conflict with the requirements of this subpart.
    (h) Refrigerant may be returned to the appliance from which it is 
recovered or to another appliance owned by the same person without 
being recycled or reclaimed, unless the appliance is an MVAC or MVAC-
like appliance.
    (i) The provisions in this paragraph (i) apply to owners and 
operators of appliances containing 50 or more pounds of class I and 
class II refrigerants only until January 1, 2019. The definitions in 
paragraph (j) of this section apply for purposes of this paragraph (i) 
in lieu of the definitions in Sec.  82.152.
* * * * *
    (j) Definitions for the leak repair provisions in 82.156(i). These 
definitions are not applicable to any other portion of subpart F other 
than 82.156(i). Along with paragraph (i) of this section, the 
definitions in this section apply only until January 1, 2019.
    Appliance means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) of this section, 
any device which contains and uses a refrigerant and which is used for 
household or commercial purposes, including any air conditioner, 
refrigerator, chiller, or freezer.
    Commercial refrigeration means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) 
of this section, the refrigeration appliances utilized in the retail 
food and cold storage warehouse sectors. Retail food includes the 
refrigeration equipment found in supermarkets, convenience stores, 
restaurants and other food service establishments. Cold storage 
includes the equipment used to store meat, produce, dairy products, and 
other perishable goods. All of the equipment contains large refrigerant 
charges, typically over 75 pounds.
    Critical component means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) of this 
section, a component without which industrial process refrigeration 
equipment will not function, will be unsafe in its intended 
environment, and/or will be subject to failures that would cause the 
industrial process served by the refrigeration appliance to be unsafe.
    Custom-built means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) of this 
section, that the equipment or any of its critical components cannot be 
purchased and/or installed without being uniquely designed, fabricated 
and/or assembled to satisfy a specific set of industrial process 
conditions.
    Follow-up verification test means, for the purposes of paragraph 
(i) of this section, those tests that involve checking the repairs 
within 30 days of the appliance's returning to normal operating 
characteristics and conditions. Follow-up verification tests for 
appliances from which the refrigerant charge has been evacuated means a 
test conducted after the appliance or portion of the appliance has 
resumed operation at normal operating characteristics and conditions of 
temperature and pressure, except in cases where sound professional 
judgment dictates that these tests will be more meaningful if performed 
prior to the return to normal operating characteristics and conditions. 
A follow-up verification test with respect to repairs conducted without 
evacuation of the refrigerant charge means a reverification test 
conducted after the initial verification test and usually within 30 
days of normal operating conditions. Where an appliance is not 
evacuated, it is only necessary to conclude any required changes in 
pressure, temperature or other conditions to return the appliance to 
normal operating characteristics and conditions.
    Full charge means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) of this 
section, the amount of refrigerant required for normal operating 
characteristics and conditions of the appliance as determined by using 
one or a combination of the following four methods:
    (i) Use the equipment manufacturer's determination of the correct 
full charge for the equipment;
    (ii) Determine the full charge by making appropriate calculations 
based on component sizes, density of refrigerant, volume of piping, and 
other relevant considerations;
    (iii) Use actual measurements of the amount of refrigerant added or 
evacuated from the appliance; and/or
    (iv) Use an established range based on the best available data 
regarding the normal operating characteristics and conditions for the 
appliance, where the midpoint of the range will serve as the full 
charge, and where records are maintained in accordance with Sec.  
82.166(q).
    Industrial process refrigeration means, for the purposes of 
paragraph (i) of this section, complex customized appliances used in 
the chemical, pharmaceutical, petrochemical and manufacturing 
industries. These appliances are directly linked to the industrial 
process. This sector also includes industrial ice machines, appliances 
used directly in the generation of electricity, and ice rinks. Where 
one appliance is used for both industrial process refrigeration and 
other applications, it will be considered industrial process 
refrigeration equipment if 50 percent or more of its operating capacity 
is used for industrial process refrigeration.
    Industrial process shutdown means, for the purposes of paragraph 
(i) of this section, that an industrial process or facility temporarily 
ceases to operate or manufacture whatever is being produced at that 
facility.
    Initial verification test means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) 
of this section, those leak tests that are conducted as soon as 
practicable after the repair is

[[Page 82356]]

completed. An initial verification test, with regard to the leak 
repairs that require the evacuation of the appliance or portion of the 
appliance, means a test conducted prior to the replacement of the full 
refrigerant charge and before the appliance or portion of the appliance 
has reached operation at normal operating characteristics and 
conditions of temperature and pressure. An initial verification test 
with regard to repairs conducted without the evacuation of the 
refrigerant charge means a test conducted as soon as practicable after 
the conclusion of the repair work.
    Leak rate means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) of this section, 
the rate at which an appliance is losing refrigerant, measured between 
refrigerant charges. The leak rate is expressed in terms of the 
percentage of the appliance's full charge that would be lost over a 12-
month period if the current rate of loss were to continue over that 
period. The rate is calculated using only one of the following methods 
for all appliances located at an operating facility.
    (i) Method 1. (A) Step 1. Take the number of pounds of refrigerant 
added to the appliance to return it to a full charge and divide it by 
the number of pounds of refrigerant the appliance normally contains at 
full charge;
    (B) Step 2. Take the shorter of the number of days that have passed 
since the last day refrigerant was added or 365 days and divide that 
number by 365 days;
    (C) Step 3. Take the number calculated in Step 1. and divide it by 
the number calculated in Step 2.; and
    (D) Step 4. Multiply the number calculated in Step 3. by 100 to 
calculate a percentage. This method is summarized in the following 
formula:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR18NO16.076

    (ii) Method 2. (A) Step 1. Take the sum of the quantity of 
refrigerant added to the appliance over the previous 365-day period (or 
over the period that has passed since leaks in the appliance were last 
repaired, if that period is less than one year),
    (B) Step 2. Divide the result of Step 1. by the quantity (e.g., 
pounds) of refrigerant the appliance normally contains at full charge, 
and
    (C) Step 3. Multiply the result of Step 2. by 100 to obtain a 
percentage. This method is summarized in the following formula:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR18NO16.077

    Normal operating characteristics or conditions means, for the 
purposes of paragraph (i) of this section, temperatures, pressures, 
fluid flows, speeds and other characteristics that would normally be 
expected for a given process load and ambient condition during 
operation. Normal operating characteristics and conditions are marked 
by the absence of atypical conditions affecting the operation of the 
refrigeration appliance.
    Normally containing a quantity of refrigerant means, for the 
purposes of paragraph (i) of this section, containing the quantity of 
refrigerant within the appliance or appliance component when the 
appliance is operating with a full charge of refrigerant.
    Refrigerant means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) of this 
section, any substance consisting in part or whole of a class I or 
class II ozone-depleting substance that is used for heat transfer 
purposes and provides a cooling effect.
    Substitute means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) of this 
section, any chemical or product, whether existing or new, that is used 
by any person as an EPA approved replacement for a class I or II ozone-
depleting substance in a given refrigeration or air-conditioning end-
use.
    Suitable replacement refrigerant means, for the purposes of 
paragraph (i) of this section, a refrigerant that is acceptable under 
section 612(c) of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 and all 
regulations promulgated under that section, compatible with other 
materials with which it may come into contact, and able to achieve the 
temperatures required for the affected industrial process in a 
technically feasible manner.
    System mothballing means, for the purposes of paragraph (i) of this 
section, the intentional shutting down of a refrigeration appliance 
undertaken for an extended period of time by the owners or operators of 
that facility, where the refrigerant has been evacuated from the 
appliance or the affected isolated section of the appliance, at least 
to atmospheric pressure.

0
7. Add Sec.  82.157 to Subpart F to read as follows:


Sec.  82.157   Appliance maintenance and leak repair.

    (a) Applicability. This section applies as of January 1, 2019. This 
section applies only to appliances with a full charge of 50 or more 
pounds of any class I or class II refrigerant or any non-exempt 
substitute refrigerant. Unless otherwise specified, the requirements of 
this section apply to the owner or operator of the appliance.
    (b) Leak Rate Calculation. Persons adding or removing refrigerant 
from an appliance must, upon conclusion of that service, provide the 
owner or operator with documentation that meets the applicable 
requirements of paragraph (l)(2) of this section. The owner or operator 
must calculate the leak rate every time refrigerant is added to an 
appliance unless the addition is made immediately following a retrofit, 
installation of a new appliance, or qualifies as a seasonal variance.
    (c) Requirement to Address Leaks through Appliance Repair, or 
Retrofitting or Retiring an Appliance. (1) Owners or operators must 
repair appliances with a leak rate over the

[[Page 82357]]

applicable leak rate in this paragraph in accordance with paragraphs 
(d) through (f) of this section unless the owner or operator elects to 
retrofit or retire the appliance in compliance with paragraphs (h) and 
(i) of this section. If the owner or operator elects to repair leaks, 
but fails to bring the leak rate below the applicable leak rate, the 
owner or operator must create and implement a retrofit or retirement 
plan in accordance with paragraphs (h) and (i) of this section.
    (2) Leak Rates:
    (i) 20 percent leak rate for commercial refrigeration equipment;
    (ii) 30 percent leak rate for industrial process refrigeration 
equipment; and
    (iii) 10 percent leak rate for comfort cooling appliances or other 
appliances with a full charge of 50 or more pounds of refrigerant not 
covered by (c)(2)(i) or (ii) of this section.
    (d) Appliance Repair. Owners or operators must identify and repair 
leaks in accordance with this paragraph within 30 days (or 120 days if 
an industrial process shutdown is required) of when refrigerant is 
added to an appliance exceeding the applicable leak rate in paragraph 
(c) of this section.
    (1) A certified technician must conduct a leak inspection, as 
described in paragraph (g) of this section, to identify the location of 
leaks.
    (2) Leaks must be repaired such that the leak rate is brought below 
the applicable leak rate. This must be confirmed by the leak rate 
calculation performed upon the next refrigerant addition. The leaks 
will be presumed to be repaired if there is no further refrigerant 
addition for 12 months after the repair or if the leak inspections 
required under paragraph (g) do not find any leaks in the appliance. 
Repair of leaks must be documented by both an initial and a follow-up 
verification test or tests.
    (3) The time frames in paragraphs (d) through(f) of this section 
are temporarily suspended when an appliance is mothballed. The time 
will resume on the day additional refrigerant is added to the appliance 
(or component of an appliance if the leaking component was isolated).
    (e) Verification tests. The owner or operator must conduct both 
initial and follow-up verification tests on each leak that was repaired 
under paragraph (d) of this section.
    (1) Initial verification test. Unless granted additional time, an 
initial verification test must be performed within 30 days (or 120 days 
if an industrial process shutdown is required) of an appliance 
exceeding the applicable leak rate in paragraph (c) of this section. An 
initial verification test must demonstrate that leaks where a repair 
attempt was made are repaired.
    (i) For repairs that can be completed without the need to open or 
evacuate the appliance, the test must be performed after the conclusion 
of the repair work and before any additional refrigerant is added to 
the appliance.
    (ii) For repairs that require the evacuation of the appliance or 
portion of the appliance, the test must be performed before adding any 
refrigerant to the appliance.
    (iii) If the initial verification test indicates that the repairs 
have not been successful, the owner or operator may conduct as many 
additional repairs and initial verification tests as needed within the 
applicable time period.
    (2) Follow-up verification test. A follow-up verification test must 
be performed within 10 days of the successful initial verification test 
or 10 days of the appliance reaching normal operating characteristics 
and conditions (if the appliance or isolated component was evacuated 
for the repair(s)). Where it is unsafe to be present or otherwise 
impossible to conduct a follow-up verification test when the system is 
operating at normal operating characteristics and conditions, the 
verification test must, where practicable, be conducted prior to the 
system returning to normal operating characteristics and conditions.
    (i) A follow-up verification test must demonstrate that leaks where 
a repair attempt was made are repaired. If the follow-up verification 
test indicates that the repairs have not been successful, the owner or 
operator may conduct as many additional repairs and verification tests 
as needed to bring the appliance below the leak rate within the 
applicable time period and to verify the repairs.
    (f) Extensions to the appliance repair deadlines. Owners or 
operators are permitted more than 30 days (or 120 days if an industrial 
process shutdown is required) to comply with paragraphs (d) and (e) of 
this section if they meet the requirements of (f)(1) through (4) of 
this section or the appliance is mothballed. The request will be 
considered approved unless EPA notifies the owners or operators 
otherwise.
    (1) One or more of the following conditions must apply:
    (i) The appliance is located in an area subject to radiological 
contamination or shutting down the appliance will directly lead to 
radiological contamination. Additional time is permitted to the extent 
needed to conduct and finish repairs in a safe working environment.
    (ii) Requirements of other applicable Federal, state, or local 
regulations make a repair within 30 days (or 120 days if an industrial 
process shutdown is required) impossible. Additional time is permitted 
to the extent needed to comply with the pertinent regulations.
    (iii) Components that must be replaced as part of the repair are 
not available within 30 days (or 120 days if an industrial process 
shutdown is required). Additional time is permitted up to 30 days after 
receiving delivery of the necessary components, not to exceed 180 days 
(or 270 days if an industrial process shutdown is required) from the 
date the appliance exceeded the applicable leak rate.
    (2) Repairs to leaks that the technician has identified as 
significantly contributing to the exceedance of the leak rate and that 
do not require additional time must be completed and verified within 
the initial 30 day repair period (or 120 day repair period if an 
industrial process shutdown is required);
    (3) The owner or operator must document all repair efforts and the 
reason for the inability to make the repair within the initial 30 day 
repair period (or 120 day repair period if an industrial process 
shutdown is required); and
    (4) The owner or operator must request an extension from EPA at the 
address specified in paragraph (m) of this section within 30 days (or 
120 days if an industrial process shutdown is required) of the 
appliance exceeding the applicable leak rate in paragraph (c) of this 
section. Extension requests must include: Identification and address of 
the facility; the name of the owner or operator of the appliance; the 
leak rate; the method used to determine the leak rate and full charge; 
the date the appliance exceeded the applicable leak rate; the location 
of leak(s) to the extent determined to date; any repair work that has 
been performed thus far, including the date that work was completed; 
the reasons why more than 30 days (or 120 days if an industrial process 
shutdown is required) are needed to complete the repair; and an 
estimate of when the work will be completed. If the estimated 
completion date is to be extended, a new estimated date of completion 
and documentation of the reason for that change must be submitted to 
EPA within 30 days of identifying that the completion date must be 
extended. The owner or operator must keep a dated copy of this 
submission.
    (g) Leak Inspections. (1) The owner or operator must conduct a leak 
inspection in accordance with the following schedule on any appliance 
exceeding

[[Page 82358]]

the applicable leak rate in paragraph (c)(2) of this section.
    (i) For commercial refrigeration and industrial process 
refrigeration appliances with a full charge of 500 or more pounds, leak 
inspections must be conducted once every three months until the owner 
or operator can demonstrate through the leak rate calculations required 
under paragraph (b) of this section that the appliance has not leaked 
in excess of the applicable leak rate for four quarters in a row.
    (ii) For commercial refrigeration and industrial process 
refrigeration appliances with a full charge of 50 or more pounds but 
less than 500 pounds, leak inspections must be conducted once per 
calendar year until the owner or operator can demonstrate through the 
leak rate calculations required under paragraph (b) of this section 
that the appliance has not leaked in excess of the applicable leak rate 
for one year.
    (iii) For comfort cooling appliances and other appliances not 
covered by paragraphs (g)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section, leak 
inspections must be conducted once per calendar year until the owner or 
operator can demonstrate through the leak rate calculations required 
under paragraph (b) of this section that the appliance has not leaked 
in excess of the applicable leak rate for one year.
    (2) Leak inspections must be conducted by a certified technician 
using method(s) determined by the technician to be appropriate for that 
appliance.
    (3) All visible and accessible components of an appliance must be 
inspected, with the following exceptions:
    (i) Where components are insulated, under ice that forms on the 
outside of equipment, underground, behind walls, or are otherwise 
inaccessible;
    (ii) Where personnel must be elevated more than two meters above a 
support surface; or
    (iii) Where components are unsafe to inspect, as determined by site 
personnel.
    (4) Quarterly or annual leak inspections are not required on 
appliances, or portions of appliances, continuously monitored by an 
automatic leak detection system that is audited or calibrated annually. 
An automatic leak detection system may directly detect refrigerant in 
air, monitor its surrounding in a manner other than detecting 
refrigerant concentrations in air, or monitor conditions of the 
appliance.
    (i) For systems that directly detect the presence of a refrigerant 
in air, the system must:
    (A) Only be used to monitor components located inside an enclosed 
building or structure;
    (B) Have sensors or intakes placed so that they will continuously 
monitor the refrigerant concentrations in air in proximity to the 
compressor, evaporator, condenser, and other areas with a high 
potential for a refrigerant leak;
    (C) Accurately detect a concentration level of 10 parts per million 
of vapor of the specific refrigerant or refrigerants used in the 
refrigeration appliance(s); and
    (D) Alert the owner or operator when a refrigerant concentration of 
100 parts per million of vapor of the specific refrigerant or 
refrigerants used in the refrigeration appliance(s) is reached.
    (ii) For a system that monitors its surrounding in a manner other 
than detecting refrigerant concentrations in air or monitor conditions 
of the appliance, the system must automatically alert the owner or 
operator when measurements indicate a loss of 50 pounds of refrigerant 
or 10 percent of the full charge, whichever is less.
    (iii) When automatic leak detection equipment is only being used to 
monitor portions of an appliance, the remainder of the appliance 
continues to be subject to any applicable leak inspection requirements.
    (h) Retrofit or retirement plans. (1) The owner or operator must 
create a retrofit or retirement plan within 30 days of:
    (i) an appliance leaking above the applicable leak rate in 
paragraph (c) of this section if the owner or operator intends to 
retrofit or retire rather than repair the leak;
    (ii) an appliance leaking above the applicable leak rate in 
paragraph (c) of this section if the owner or operator fails to take 
any action to identify or repair the leak; or
    (iii) an appliance continues to leak above the applicable leak rate 
after having conducted the required repairs and verification tests 
under paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section.
    (2) A retrofit or retirement plan must, at a minimum, contain the 
following information:
    (i) Identification and location of the appliance;
    (ii) Type and full charge of the refrigerant used in the appliance;
    (iii) Type and full charge of the refrigerant to which the 
appliance will be converted, if retrofitted;
    (iv) Itemized procedure for converting the appliance to a different 
refrigerant, including changes required for compatibility with the new 
substitute, if retrofitted;
    (v) Plan for the disposition of recovered refrigerant;
    (vi) Plan for the disposition of the appliance, if retired; and
    (vii) A schedule, not to exceed one-year, for completion of the 
appliance retrofit or retirement.
    (3) The retrofit or retirement plan must be signed by an authorized 
company official, dated, accessible at the site of the appliance in 
paper copy or electronic format, and available for EPA inspection upon 
request.
    (4) All identified leaks must be repaired as part of any retrofit 
under such a plan.
    (5)(i) Unless granted additional time, all work performed in 
accordance with the plan must be finished within one year of the plan's 
date (not to exceed 13 months from when the plan was required in 
paragraph (h)(1) of this section).
    (ii) The owner or operator may request that EPA relieve it of the 
obligation to retrofit or retire an appliance if the owner or operator 
can establish within 180 days of the plan's date that the appliance no 
longer exceeds the applicable leak rate and if the owner or operator 
agrees in writing to repair all identified leaks within one year of the 
plan's date consistent with paragraph (h)(4) and (h)(5)(i) of this 
section. The owner or operator must submit to EPA the retrofit or 
retirement plan as well as the following information: The date that the 
requirement to develop a retrofit or retirement plan was triggered; the 
leak rate; the method used to determine the leak rate and full charge; 
the location of the leak(s) identified in the leak inspection; a 
description of repair work that has been completed; a description of 
repair work that has not been completed; a description of why the 
repair was not conducted within the time frames required under 
paragraphs (d) and (f) of this section; and a statement signed by an 
authorized official that all identified leaks will be repaired and an 
estimate of when those repairs will be completed (not to exceed one 
year from date of the plan). The request will be considered approved 
unless EPA notifies the owners or operators within 60 days of receipt 
of the request that it is not approved.
    (i) Extensions to the one-year retrofit or retirement schedule. 
Owners or operators may request more than one year to comply with 
paragraph (h) of this section if they meet the requirements of this 
paragraph. The request will be considered approved unless EPA notifies 
the owners or

[[Page 82359]]

operators within 60 days of receipt of the request that it is not 
approved. The request must be submitted to EPA at the address specified 
in Sec.  82.157(m) within seven months of discovering the appliance 
exceeded the applicable leak rate. The request must include the 
identification of the appliance; name of the owner or operator; the 
leak rate; the method used to determine the leak rate and full charge; 
the date the appliance exceeded the applicable leak rate; the location 
of leaks(s) to the extent determined to date; any repair work that has 
been finished thus far, including the date that work was finished; a 
plan to finish the retrofit or retirement of the appliance; the reasons 
why more than one year is necessary to retrofit or retire the 
appliance; the date of notification to EPA; and an estimate of when 
retrofit or retirement work will be finished. A dated copy of the 
request must be available on-site in either electronic or paper copy. 
If the estimated completion date is to be revised, a new estimated date 
of completion and documentation of the reason for that change must be 
submitted to EPA at the address specified in Sec.  82.157(m) within 30 
days. Additionally, the time frames in paragraphs (h) and (i) of this 
section are temporarily suspended when an appliance is mothballed. The 
time will resume running on the day additional refrigerant is added to 
the appliance (or component of an appliance if the leaking component 
was isolated).
    (1) Extensions available to any appliance. Owners or operators of 
commercial refrigeration, industrial process refrigeration, comfort-
cooling, or other equipment are automatically allowed 18 months to 
retire an appliance if the replacement appliance uses a substitute 
refrigerant exempted under Sec.  82.154(a).
    (2) Extensions available to industrial process refrigeration. 
Owners or operators of industrial process refrigeration equipment may 
request additional time beyond the one-year period in paragraph (h) of 
this section to finish the retrofit or retirement under the following 
circumstances.
    (i) Requirements of other applicable Federal, state, or local 
regulations make a retrofit or retirement within one year impossible. 
Additional time is permitted to the extent needed to comply with the 
pertinent regulations;
    (ii) The new or the retrofitted equipment is custom-built as 
defined in this subpart and the supplier of the appliance or one of its 
components has quoted a delivery time of more than 30 weeks from when 
the order is placed. The appliance or appliance components must be 
installed within 120 days after receiving delivery of the necessary 
parts; or
    (iii) After receiving an extension under paragraph (i)(2)(ii) of 
this section, owners or operators may request additional time if 
necessary to finish the retrofit or retirement of equipment. The 
request must be submitted to EPA before the end of the ninth month of 
the initial extension and must include the same information submitted 
for that extension, with any necessary revisions. A dated copy of the 
request must be available on-site in either electronic or paper copy. 
The request will be considered approved unless EPA notifies the owners 
or operators within 60 days of receipt of the request that it is not 
approved.
    (3) Extensions available to Federally owned equipment. Owners or 
operators of federally owned commercial or comfort-cooling equipment 
may request an additional year beyond the one-year period in paragraph 
(h) of this section to finish the retrofit or retirement under the 
following circumstances:
    (i) A delivery time of more than 30 weeks from the beginning of the 
official procurement process is quoted due to complications presented 
by the Federal agency appropriations and/or procurement process;
    (ii) The appliance is located in an area subject to radiological 
contamination and creating a safe working environment will require more 
than 30 weeks; or
    (iii) After receiving a one-year extension under paragraphs 
(i)(3)(i) or (ii) of this section, additional time may be requested if 
necessary to finish the retrofit or retirement of equipment. The 
request must be submitted to EPA before the end of the ninth month of 
the one-year extension and must include the same information submitted 
for that one-year extension, with any necessary revisions. A dated copy 
of the request must be available on-site in either electronic or paper 
copy. The request will be considered approved unless EPA notifies the 
owners or operators within 60 days of receipt of the request that it is 
not approved.
    (j) Chronically leaking appliances. Owners or operators of 
appliances containing 50 pounds or more of refrigerant that leak 125 
percent or more of the full charge in a calendar year must submit a 
report to EPA at the address in paragraph (m) of this section. This 
report must be submitted by March 1 of the subsequent year and describe 
efforts to identify leaks and repair the appliance.
    (k) Purged refrigerant. In calculating annual leak rates, purged 
refrigerant that is destroyed at a verifiable destruction efficiency of 
98 percent or greater will not be counted toward the leak rate.
    (l) Recordkeeping. All records identified in this paragraph must be 
kept for at least three years in electronic or paper format, unless 
otherwise specified.
    (1) Owners or operators must determine the full charge of all 
appliances with 50 or more pounds of refrigerant and maintain the 
following information for each appliance until three years after the 
appliance is retired:
    (i) The identification of the owner or operator of the appliance;
    (ii) The address where the appliance is located;
    (iii) The full charge of the appliance and the method for how the 
full charge was determined;
    (iv) If using method 4 (using an established range) for determining 
full charge, records must include the range for the full charge of the 
appliance, its midpoint, and how the range was determined;
    (v) Any revisions of the full charge, how they were determined, and 
the dates such revisions occurred.
    (2) Owners or operators must maintain a record including the 
following information for each time an appliance with a full charge of 
50 or more pounds is maintained, serviced, repaired, or disposed of, 
when applicable. If the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal is 
done by someone other than the owner or operator, that person must 
provide a record containing the following information, with the 
exception of (l)(2)(vii) and (viii) of this section, to the owner or 
operator:
    (i) The identity and location of the appliance;
    (ii) The date of the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal 
performed;
    (iii) The part(s) of the appliance being maintained, serviced, 
repaired, or disposed;
    (iv) The type of maintenance, service, repair, or disposal 
performed for each part;
    (v) The name of the person performing the maintenance, service, 
repair, or disposal;
    (vi) The amount and type of refrigerant added to, or in the case of 
disposal removed from, the appliance;
    (vii) The full charge of the appliance; and
    (viii) The leak rate and the method used to determine the leak rate 
(not applicable when disposing of the appliance, following a retrofit, 
installing a new appliance, or if the refrigerant addition qualifies as 
a seasonal variance).
    (3) Owners or operators must keep records of leak inspections that 
include

[[Page 82360]]

the date of inspection, the method(s) used to conduct the leak 
inspection, a list of the location of each leak that was identified, 
and a certification that all visible and accessible parts of the 
appliance were inspected. Technicians conducting leak inspections must, 
upon conclusion of that service, provide the owner or operator of the 
appliance with documentation that meets these requirements.
    (4) If using an automatic leak detection system, the owner or 
operator must maintain records regarding the installation and the 
annual audit and calibration of the system, a record of each date the 
monitoring system identified a leak, and the location of the leak.
    (5) Owners or operators must maintain records of the dates and 
results of all initial and follow-up verification tests. Records must 
include the location of the appliance, the date(s) of the verification 
tests, the location(s) of all repaired leaks that were tested, the 
type(s) of verification test(s) used, and the results of those tests. 
Technicians conducting initial or follow-up verification tests must, 
upon conclusion of that service, provide the owner or operator of the 
appliance with documentation that meets these requirements.
    (6) Owners or operators must maintain retrofit or retirement plans 
developed in accordance with paragraph (h) of this section.
    (7) Owners or operators must maintain retrofit and/or extension 
requests submitted to EPA in accordance with paragraph (i) of this 
section.
    (8) Owners or operators that suspend the deadlines in this section 
by mothballing an appliance must keep records documenting when the 
appliance was mothballed and when additional refrigerant was added to 
the appliance (or isolated component).
    (9) Owners or operators who exclude purged refrigerants that are 
destroyed from annual leak rate calculations must maintain records to 
support the amount of refrigerant claimed as sent for destruction. 
Records must be based on a monitoring strategy that provides reliable 
data to demonstrate that the amount of refrigerant claimed to have been 
destroyed is not greater than the amount of refrigerant actually purged 
and destroyed and that the 98 percent or greater destruction efficiency 
is met. Records must include flow rate, quantity or concentration of 
the refrigerant in the vent stream, and periods of purge flow. Records 
must include:
    (i) The identification of the facility and a contact person, 
including the address and telephone number;
    (ii) A description of the appliance, focusing on aspects relevant 
to the purging of refrigerant and subsequent destruction;
    (iii) A description of the methods used to determine the quantity 
of refrigerant sent for destruction and type of records that are being 
kept by the owners or operators where the appliance is located;
    (iv) The frequency of monitoring and data-recording; and
    (v) A description of the control device, and its destruction 
efficiency.
    (10) Owners or operators that exclude additions of refrigerant due 
to seasonal variance from their leak rate calculation must maintain 
records stating that they are using the seasonal variance flexibility 
and documenting the amount added and removed under Sec.  82.157(l)(2).
    (11) Owners or operators that submit reports to EPA in accordance 
with paragraph (m) of this section must maintain copies of the 
submitted reports and any responses from EPA.
    (m) Reporting. All notifications must be submitted electronically 
to 608reports@epa.gov unless the notification contains confidential 
business information. If the notification contains confidential 
business information, the information should be submitted to: Section 
608 Program Manager; Stratospheric Protection Division; Mail Code: 
6205T; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20460.
    (1) Owners or operators must notify EPA at this address in 
accordance with paragraph (f) of this section when seeking an extension 
of time to complete repairs.
    (2) Owners or operators must notify EPA at this address in 
accordance with paragraph (h)(5)(ii) of this section when seeking 
relief from the obligation to retrofit or retire an appliance.
    (3) Owners or operators must notify EPA at this address in 
accordance with paragraph (i) of this section when seeking an extension 
of time to complete the retrofit or retirement of an appliance.
    (4) Owners or operators must notify EPA at this address in 
accordance with paragraph (j) of this section for any appliance that 
leaks 125 percent or more of the full charge in a calendar year.
    (5) When excluding purged refrigerants that are destroyed from 
annual leak rate calculations, owners or operators must notify EPA at 
this address within 60 days after the first time the exclusion is used 
by the facility where the appliance is located. The report must include 
the information included in paragraph (l)(9) of this section.

0
8. Revise Sec.  82.158 to read as follows:


Sec.  82.158   Standards for recovery and/or recycling equipment.

    Starting January 1, 2017, this section applies to recovery and/or 
recycling equipment for use during the maintenance, service, repair, or 
disposal of appliances containing any class I or class II refrigerant 
or any non-exempt substitute refrigerant.
    (a) No person may manufacture or import recovery and/or recycling 
equipment for use during the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal 
of appliances unless the equipment is certified in accordance with this 
section.
    (b) No person may alter the design of certified refrigerant 
recovery and/or recycling equipment in a way that would affect the 
equipment's ability to meet the certification standards in this section 
without resubmitting the altered design for certification testing. 
Until it is tested and shown to meet the certification standards in 
this section, equipment so altered will be considered uncertified.
    (c) Recovery and/or recycling equipment manufactured or imported 
before November 15, 1993, intended for use during the maintenance, 
service, repair, or disposal of appliances (except small appliances, 
MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances) will be considered certified if it is 
capable of achieving the level of evacuation specified in Table 2 of 
this section when tested using a properly calibrated pressure gauge.
    (d) Manufacturers and importers of recovery and/or recycling 
equipment must have such equipment certified by an approved equipment 
testing organization as follows:
    (1) Recovery and/or recycling equipment manufactured or imported on 
or after November 15, 1993, and before September 22, 2003, intended for 
use during the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of appliances 
(except small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances) must be 
certified by an approved equipment testing organization as being 
capable of achieving the level of evacuation specified in Table 2 of 
this section under the conditions of appendix B1 of this subpart (based 
upon the ARI Standard 740-1993, Performance of Refrigerant Recovery, 
Recycling and/or Reclaim Equipment).
    (2) Recovery and/or recycling equipment manufactured or imported on 
or after September 22, 2003, and

[[Page 82361]]

before January 1, 2017, intended for use during the maintenance, 
service, repair, or disposal of appliances (except small appliances, 
MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances) must be certified by an approved 
equipment testing organization as being capable of achieving the level 
of evacuation specified in Table 2 of this section under the conditions 
of appendix B2 of this subpart (based upon the ARI Standard 740-1995, 
Performance of Refrigerant Recovery, Recycling and/or Reclaim 
Equipment).
    (3) Recovery and/or recycling equipment manufactured or imported on 
or after January 1, 2017, intended for use during the maintenance, 
service, repair, or disposal of appliances (except small appliances, 
MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances) must be certified by an approved 
equipment testing organization as being capable of achieving the level 
of evacuation specified in Table 2 of this section under the conditions 
of appendix B3 (for non-flammable refrigerants) based upon AHRI 
Standard 740-2016 or appendix B4 (for flammable refrigerants) of this 
subpart.

           Table 2--Levels of Evacuation Which Must Be Achieved by Recovery and/or Recycling Equipment
                         [Except for small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances.]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         Inches of Hg vacuum  (relative to standard atmospheric pressure of 29.9
 Type of appliance with which recovery                                 inches Hg)
 and/or recycling machine is intended  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
              to be used                  Manufactured or  imported before     Manufactured or  imported on or
                                                 November 15, 1993                 after  November 15, 1993
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HCFC-22 appliances, or isolated         0..................................  0.
 component of such appliances, with a
 full charge of less than 200 pounds
 of refrigerant.
HCFC-22 appliances, or isolated         4..................................  10.
 component of such appliances, with a
 full charge of 200 pounds or more of
 refrigerant.
Very high-pressure appliances.........  0..................................  0.
Other high-pressure appliances, or      4..................................  10.
 isolated component of such
 appliances, with a full charge of
 less than 200 pounds of refrigerant.
Other high-pressure appliances, or      4..................................  15.
 isolated component of such
 appliances, with a full charge of 200
 pounds or more of refrigerant.
Medium-pressure appliances, or          4..................................  10.
 isolated component of such
 appliances, with a full charge of
 less than 200 pounds of refrigerant.
Medium-pressure appliances, or          4..................................  15.
 isolated component of such
 appliances, with a full charge of 200
 pounds or more of refrigerant.
Low-pressure appliances...............  25 mm Hg absolute..................  25 mm Hg absolute.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (4) Recovery and/or recycling equipment whose recovery efficiency 
cannot be tested according to the procedures in appendix B1, B2, B3, or 
B4 of this subpart as applicable may be certified if an approved third-
party testing organization adopts and performs a test that 
demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Administrator, that the 
recovery efficiency of that equipment is equal to or better than that 
of equipment that:
    (i) Is intended for use with the same type of appliance; and
    (ii) Achieves the level of evacuation in Table 2. The 
manufacturer's instructions must specify how to achieve the required 
recovery efficiency, and the equipment must be tested when used 
according to these instructions.
    (5) The equipment must meet the minimum requirements for 
certification under appendix B1, B2, B3, or B4 of this subpart as 
applicable.
    (6) If the equipment is equipped with a noncondensables purge 
device, the equipment must not release more than 3 percent of the 
quantity of refrigerant being recycled through noncondensables purging 
under the conditions of appendix B1, B2, B3, or B4 of this subpart as 
applicable.
    (7) The equipment must be equipped with low-loss fittings on all 
hoses.
    (8) The equipment must have its liquid recovery rate and its vapor 
recovery rate measured under the conditions of appendix B1, B2, B3, or 
B4 as applicable, unless the equipment has no inherent liquid or vapor 
recovery rate.
    (e) Small Appliances. Equipment used during the maintenance, 
service, repair, or disposal of small appliances must be certified by 
an approved equipment testing organization to be capable of recovering 
90 percent of the refrigerant in the test stand when the compressor of 
the test stand is operational and 80 percent of the refrigerant when 
the compressor of the test stand is not operational, when used in 
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions under the conditions of 
appendix C, Method for Testing Recovery Devices for Use with Small 
Appliances.
    (1) Equipment manufactured or imported before November 15, 1993, 
will be considered certified if it is capable of either recovering 80 
percent of the refrigerant in the system, whether or not the compressor 
of the test stand is operational, or achieving a four-inch vacuum when 
tested using a properly calibrated pressure gauge.
    (2) Equipment manufactured or imported on or after November 15, 
1993, may also be certified if it is capable of achieving a four-inch 
vacuum under the conditions of appendix B1 of this subpart, based upon 
ARI Standard 740-1993.
    (3) Equipment manufactured or imported on or after September 22, 
2003, and before January 1, 2017, may also be certified if it is 
capable of achieving a four-inch vacuum under the conditions of 
appendix B2 of this subpart, based upon ARI Standard 740-1995.
    (4) Equipment manufactured or imported on or after January 1, 2017, 
may also be certified if it is capable of achieving a four-inch vacuum 
under the conditions of appendix B3 of this subpart (for non-flammable 
refrigerants), based upon AHRI Standard 740-2016 or appendix B4 of this 
subpart (for flammable refrigerants), based upon both AHRI Standard 
740-2016 and UL 1963, Supplement SB, Requirements for Refrigerant 
Recovery/Recycling Equipment Intended for Use with a Flammable 
Refrigerant, Fourth Edition, June 1, 2011.
    (5) Equipment used to evacuate any class I or class II refrigerant 
or any non-exempt substitute refrigerant from small

[[Page 82362]]

appliances before they are disposed of may also be certified if it is 
capable of achieving a four-inch vacuum when tested using a properly 
calibrated pressure gauge.
    (f) MVAC-like appliances. (1) Manufacturers and importers of 
recovery and/or recycling equipment intended for use during the 
maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of MVAC-like appliances must 
certify such equipment in accordance with subpart B of this part.
    (2) Equipment manufactured or imported before November 15, 1993, 
intended for use during the maintenance, service, or repair of MVAC-
like appliances must be capable of reducing the system pressure to 102 
mm of mercury vacuum under the conditions of appendix A of subpart B of 
this part.
    (g) MVACs. Manufacturers and importers of recovery and/or recycling 
equipment intended for use during the maintenance, service, repair, or 
disposal of MVACs must certify such equipment in accordance with 
subpart B of this part.
    (h) Labeling. (1) Manufacturers and importers of equipment 
certified under paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section must place a 
label on each piece of equipment stating the following:


THIS EQUIPMENT HAS BEEN CERTIFIED BY [APPROVED EQUIPMENT TESTING 
ORGANIZATION] TO MEET EPA's MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR RECYCLING OR 
RECOVERY EQUIPMENT INTENDED FOR USE WITH [APPROPRIATE CATEGORY OF 
APPLIANCE].

    (2) The label must also show the date of manufacture and the serial 
number (if applicable) of the equipment. The label must be affixed in a 
readily visible or accessible location, be made of a material expected 
to last the lifetime of the equipment, present required information in 
a way that it is likely to remain legible for the lifetime of the 
equipment, and be affixed in such a way that it cannot be removed from 
the equipment without damage to the label.
    (i) Retesting. At least once every three years, manufacturers or 
importers of certified recovery and/or recycling equipment intended for 
use during the maintenance, service, or repair of appliances (except 
MVACs or MVAC-like appliances) or during the disposal of appliances 
(except small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances) must have 
approved equipment testing organizations conduct either:
    (1) Retests of certified recovery and/or recycling equipment in 
accordance with paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section; or
    (2) Inspections of recovery and/or recycling equipment at 
manufacturing facilities to ensure that each equipment model line that 
has been certified under this section continues to meet the 
certification criteria.
    (j) Revocation. An equipment model line that has been certified 
under this section may have its certification revoked if it is 
subsequently determined to fail to meet the certification criteria. In 
such cases, the Administrator must give notice to the manufacturer or 
importer setting forth the basis for the determination.
    (k) Equipment that is advertised or marketed as ``recycling 
equipment'' must be capable of recycling the standard contaminated 
refrigerant sample of appendix B2, B3, or B4 of this subpart (as 
applicable) to the levels in the following table when tested under the 
conditions of appendix B2, B3 or B4 of this subpart:

       Maximum Levels of Contaminants Permissible in Refrigerant Processed Through Equipment Advertised as
                                             ``Recycling'' Equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    Low-pressure (R-11, R-
           Contaminants              123, R-113) systems       R-12 systems             All other systems
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acid Content (by wt.).............  1.0 PPM..............  1.0 PPM.............  1.0 PPM.
Moisture (by wt.).................  20 PPM...............  10 PPM..............  20 PPM.
Noncondensable Gas (by vol.)        N/A..................  2.0%................  2.0%.
High Boiling Residues (by vol.)     1.0%.................  0.02%...............  0.02%.
Chlorides by Silver Nitrate Test..  No turbidity.........  No turbidity........  No turbidity.
Particulates......................  Visually clean.......  Visually clean......  Visually clean.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


0
9. Revise Sec.  82.160 to read as follows:


Sec.  82.160   Approved equipment testing organizations.

    (a) Any equipment testing organization may apply for approval by 
the Administrator to certify equipment under the standards in Sec.  
82.158 and appendices B2, B3, B4, or C of this subpart. Applications 
must be sent to 608reports@epa.gov, or if containing confidential 
business information, mailed to: Section 608 Program Manager, 
Stratospheric Protection Division, Mail Code: 6205T, U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20460.
    (b) Applications for approval must include:
    (1) A list of equipment present at the organization that will be 
used for equipment testing.
    (2) Verification of the organization's expertise in equipment 
testing and the technical experience of the organization's personnel.
    (3) Verification of the organization's knowledge of the standards 
and recordkeeping and reporting requirements of this subpart.
    (4) A description of the organization's program for verifying the 
performance of certified recovery and/or recycling equipment 
manufactured over the long term, specifying whether retests of 
equipment or inspections of equipment at manufacturing facilities will 
be used.
    (5) Verification that the organization has no conflict of interest 
and receives no direct or indirect financial benefit from the outcome 
of certification testing.
    (6) Agreement to allow the Administrator access to records and 
personnel to verify the information contained in the application.
    (c) Organizations may not certify equipment before receiving 
approval from EPA. If approval is denied under this section, the 
Administrator must give written notice to the organization setting 
forth the basis for the determination.
    (d) If an approved testing organization conducts certification 
tests in a way not consistent with the representations made in its 
application or with the provisions of this subpart, the Administrator 
may revoke approval in accordance with Sec.  82.169. In such cases, the 
Administrator must give notice to the organization setting forth the 
basis for the determination.
    (e) Recordkeeping and reporting. (1) Approved equipment testing 
organizations must maintain records of

[[Page 82363]]

equipment testing and performance and a list of equipment that meets 
EPA requirements. This list must include the name of the manufacturer 
and the name and/or serial number of the model line. Approved equipment 
testing organizations must publish online a list of all certified 
equipment that includes the information specified above and update the 
list annually.
    (2) Approved equipment testing organizations must notify EPA at 
608reports@epa.gov if retests of equipment or inspections of 
manufacturing facilities conducted under to Sec.  82.158(i) show that a 
previously certified model line fails to meet EPA requirements. Such 
notification must be received within thirty days of the retest or 
inspection.
    (3) All records must be maintained for three years after the 
equipment is no longer offered for sale. Online lists must contain 
certified equipment until three years after that equipment is no longer 
offered for sale.

0
10. Revise Sec.  82.161 to read as follows:


Sec.  82.161   Technician certification.

    Until January 1, 2018, this section applies only to technicians and 
organizations certifying technicians that maintain, service, or repair 
appliances containing class I or class II refrigerants. Starting on 
January 1, 2018, this section applies to technicians and organizations 
certifying technicians that maintain, service, or repair appliances 
containing any class I or class II refrigerant or any non-exempt 
substitute refrigerant.
    (a) Certification Requirements. (1) Any person who could be 
reasonably expected to violate the integrity of the refrigerant circuit 
during the maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of appliances (as 
follows in this paragraph) containing a class I or class II refrigerant 
or a non-exempt substitute refrigerant must pass a certification exam 
offered by an approved technician certification program.
    (i) Persons who maintain, service, or repair small appliances must 
be certified as Type I technicians.
    (ii) Persons who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of medium-, 
high-, or very high-pressure appliances (except small appliances, 
MVACs, and MVAC-like appliances) must be certified as Type II 
technicians.
    (iii) Persons who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of low-
pressure appliances must be certified as Type III technicians.
    (iv) Persons who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of all 
appliances described in paragraph (a)(1)(i) through (iii) of this 
section must be certified as Universal technicians.
    (v) Technicians who maintain, service, or repair MVAC-like 
appliances must either be certified as Type II technicians or be 
certified in accordance with 40 CFR part 82, subpart B.
    (vi) Persons who maintain, service, or repair MVAC appliances for 
consideration must be certified in accordance with 40 CFR part 82, 
subpart B.
    (vii) Persons who dispose of small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-like 
appliances are not required to be certified.
    (2) Apprentices are exempt from the requirement in paragraph (a)(1) 
of this section provided the apprentice is closely and continually 
supervised by a certified technician while performing any maintenance, 
service, repair, or disposal that could reasonably be expected to 
release refrigerant from an appliance into the environment, except 
those substitute refrigerants exempted under paragraph (a)(1) of this 
section. The supervising certified technician and the apprentice have 
the responsibility to ensure that the apprentice complies with this 
subpart.
    (3) The Administrator may require technicians to demonstrate at 
their place of business their ability to perform proper procedures for 
recovering and/or recycling refrigerant, except those substitute 
refrigerants exempted under paragraph (a)(1) of this section. Failure 
to demonstrate or failure to properly use the equipment may result in 
revocation or suspension of the certificate. Failure to abide by any of 
the provisions of this subpart may also result in revocation or 
suspension of the certificate. If a technician's certificate is 
revoked, the technician would need to recertify before maintaining, 
servicing, repairing, or disposing of any appliances.
    (4) (i) Technicians certified under this section must keep a copy 
of their certificate at their place of business.
    (ii) Technicians must maintain a copy of their certificate until 
three years after no longer operating as a technician.
    (5) Recertification. The Administrator reserves the right to 
specify a requirement for technician recertification at some future 
date, if necessary, by placing a notice in the Federal Register.
    (b) Requirements for Technician Certification Programs. (1) No 
technician training or testing program may issue certificates under 
this section unless the program complies with all the standards of this 
section and appendix D, and has been granted approval by the 
Administrator.
    (2) Program Approval. Persons may seek approval of any technician 
certification program (program), in accordance with this paragraph, by 
submitting to the Administrator at the address in Sec.  82.160(a) 
verification that the program meets all the standards listed in 
appendix D of this subpart. The Administrator reserves the right to 
consider other relevant factors to ensure the effectiveness of 
certification programs. If approval is denied under this section, the 
Administrator must give written notice to the program setting forth the 
basis for the determination.
    (3) Alternative Examinations. Programs are encouraged to make 
provisions for non-English speaking technicians by providing tests in 
other languages or allowing the use of a translator when taking the 
test. A test may be administered orally to any person who makes this 
request, in writing, to the program at least 30 days before the 
scheduled date for the examination. The written request must explain 
why the request is being made.
    (4) Proof of Certification. Programs certifying technicians must 
provide technicians with identification cards in accordance with 
section (f) of appendix D of this subpart.
    (5) Programs certifying technicians must maintain records in 
accordance with section (g) of appendix D of this subpart.
    (6) Starting January 1, 2018, programs certifying technicians, 
excluding Federally-run programs, must publish online a list of all 
technicians they have certified on or after January 1, 2017. Certifying 
organizations must update these lists at least annually.
    (i) The list must include the first name, middle initial, and last 
name of the certified technician, the technician's city of residence 
when taking the test, the type(s) of certification received, and the 
date each certification was received.
    (ii) Programs certifying technicians must provide notice to 
technicians that such information will be published online in 
compliance with any other Federal, state or local regulations, and 
allow technicians to opt out of being included in such lists.
    (7) If an approved program violates any of the above requirements, 
the Administrator may revoke approval in accordance with Sec.  82.169. 
In such cases, the Administrator must give notice to the organization 
setting forth the basis for the determination.
    (c) Test Subject Material. A bank of test questions developed by 
the Administrator consists of groups, including a core group and 
technical groups. The Administrator will release this bank of questions 
only to approved technician certification programs. Each test for each 
type of certification must

[[Page 82364]]

include at least 25 questions drawn from the core group and at least 25 
questions drawn from each relevant technical group. These questions 
must address the subject areas in appendix D of this subpart.


Sec.  82.162  [Removed and Reserved]

0
11. Remove and reserve Sec.  82.162.

0
12. Revise Sec.  82.164 to read as follows:


Sec.  82.164   Reclaimer certification.

    (a) All persons reclaiming used class I or II refrigerant or non-
exempt substitute refrigerant for sale to a new owner must meet the 
following requirements:
    (1) Reclaim such refrigerant to all the specifications in appendix 
A of this subpart (based on AHRI Standard 700-2016, Specifications for 
Refrigerants) that are applicable to that refrigerant;
    (2) Verify that each batch of such refrigerant reclaimed meets 
these specifications using the analytical methodology prescribed in 
appendix A of this subpart, which includes the primary methodologies 
included in appendix A of AHRI Standard 700-2016;
    (3) Release no more than 1.5 percent of the refrigerant during the 
reclamation process;
    (4) Dispose of wastes from the reclamation process in accordance 
with all applicable laws and regulations; and
    (5) Maintain records and submit reports in accordance with 
paragraph (d) of this section.
    (b) The owner or a responsible officer reclaiming used refrigerant 
for sale to a new owner, except for persons who properly certified 
under this section before May 11, 2004, must certify to the 
Administrator at the address in Sec.  82.160(a) that they will meet the 
requirements in paragraph (a) of this section. The certification must 
include the name and address of the reclaimer and a list of equipment 
used to reclaim the refrigerant to the required standard, and to 
analyze the refrigerant to ensure it meets these specifications.
    (c) Certificates are not transferable. In the event of a change in 
ownership of an entity which reclaims refrigerant, the new owner of the 
entity must certify with the Administrator within 30 days of the change 
that they will meet the reclaimer certification requirements. In the 
event of a change in business management, location, or contact 
information, the owner of the entity must notify EPA within 30 days of 
the change at the address in Sec.  82.160(a).
    (d) Recordkeeping and reporting. (1) Reclaimers must maintain 
records, by batch, of the results of the analysis conducted to verify 
that reclaimed refrigerant meets the necessary specifications in 
paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
    (2) Reclaimers must maintain records of the names and addresses of 
persons sending them material for reclamation and the quantity of the 
material (the combined mass of refrigerant and contaminants) by 
refrigerant type sent to them for reclamation. Such records must be 
maintained on a transactional basis for three years.
    (3) Reclaimers must report to the Administrator annually by 
February 1 of the next calendar year the total annual quantity of 
material (the combined mass of refrigerant and contaminants) by 
refrigerant type sent to them for reclamation, the total annual mass of 
each refrigerant reclaimed, and the total annual mass of waste 
products.
    (e) Failure to abide by any of the provisions of this subpart may 
result in revocation or suspension of the certification of the 
reclaimer in accordance with Sec.  82.169. In such cases, the 
Administrator must give notice to the organization setting forth the 
basis for the determination.

0
13. Amend Sec.  82.166 by:
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Adding the introductory paragraph;
0
c. Removing and reserving paragraphs (a) through (i), and (l); and
0
d. Revising paragraph (m) and the introductory text of paragraph (q).
    Revisions and addition to read as follows:


Sec.  82.166   Reporting and recordkeeping requirements for leak 
repair.

    This section contains leak repair reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements that apply to owners and operators of appliances 
containing 50 or more pounds of class I or class II refrigerants until 
January 1, 2019. Starting January 1, 2019, the recordkeeping and 
reporting requirements in the leak repair provisions in Sec.  82.157(l) 
and (m) apply to owners and operators of appliances containing 50 or 
more pounds of class I or class II refrigerants or non-exempt 
substitutes.
    (a)-(i) [Reserved]
* * * * *
    (l) [Reserved]
    (m) All records required to be maintained pursuant to this section 
must be kept for a minimum of three years unless otherwise indicated.
* * * * *
    (q) Owners or operators choosing to determine the full charge as 
defined in Sec.  82.156(j) of an affected appliance by using an 
established range or using that methodology in combination with other 
methods for determining the full charge as defined in Sec.  82.156(j) 
must maintain the following information:
* * * * *

0
14. Add Sec.  82.168 to read as follows:


Sec.  82.168   Incorporation by Reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. You can obtain the material from the 
sources listed below. You may inspect a copy of the approved material 
at U.S. EPA's Air and Radiation Docket; EPA West Building, Room 3334, 
1301 Constitution Ave. NW., Washington, DC, or at the National Archives 
and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability 
of this material at NARA, call (202) 741-6030 or go to https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (b) Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), 
2111 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 500, Arlington, VA 22201, www.ahrinet.org.
    (1) AHRI Standard 110-2016, 2016 Standard for Air-Conditioning, 
Heating and Refrigerating Equipment Nameplate Voltages, copyright 2016, 
into Appendix B3 to subpart F.
    (2) 2008 Appendix C to AHRI Standard 700-2014, 2008 Appendix C for 
Analytical Procedures for AHRI Standard 700-2014--Normative, copyright 
2008, into Appendix A to subpart F.
    (3) 2008 Appendix D to AHRI Standard 700-2014, 2012 Appendix D for 
Gas Chromatograms for AHRI Standard 700-2014--Informative, copyright 
2012, into Appendix A to subpart F.
    (c) American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning 
Engineers, Inc., (ASHRAE), 1791 Tullie Circle NE., Atlanta, GA 30329, 
U.S.A.
    (1) ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 63.2-1996 (RA 2010), Method of Testing 
Liquid-Line Filter Drier Filtration Capability, Reaffirmed June 26, 
2010, into Appendix B3 to subpart F.
    (d) ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West 
Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, www.astm.org.
    (1) ASTM D1296-01 (Reapproved 2012), Standard Test Method for Odor 
of Volatile Solvents and Diluents, approved July 1, 2012, into Appendix 
A to subpart F.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (e) Gas Processors Association, 6526 East 60th Street, Tulsa, 
Oklahoma 74145.

[[Page 82365]]

    (1) GPA Standard STD-2177-13, Analysis of Natural Gas Liquid 
Mixtures Containing Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide by Gas Chromatography, 
Revised, copyright 2013, into Appendix A to subpart F.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (f) General Services Administration, 301 7th St. SW., Washington, 
DC 20410.
    (1) BB-F-1421B, Federal Specification for ``Fluorocarbon 
Refrigerants,'' dated March 5, 1982, IBR approved for Appendix A to 
subpart F.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (g) International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), 3, rue de 
Varemb[eacute], P.O. Box 131. CH-1211 Geneva 20--Switzerland, 41 22 919 
02 11, https://www.iec.ch.
    (1) IEC 60038, IEC Standard Voltages, Edition 7.0, 2009-06, into 
Appendix B3 to subpart F.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (h) Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, 
IL 60062, 847-272-8800, https://www.ul.com.
    (1) UL 1963, Standard for Safety Requirements for Refrigerant 
Recovery/Recycling Equipment, Fourth Edition (with revisions through 
October 13, 2013), June 1, 2011, in appendix B3 to subpart F, appendix 
B4 to subpart F.
    (2) [Reserved]

0
15. Amend subpart F by revising appendix A to read as follows:

Appendix A to Subpart F of Part 82--Specifications for Refrigerants

    This appendix is based on the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and 
Refrigeration Institute Standard 700-2016, Specifications for 
Refrigerants.

Section 1. Purpose

    1.1 Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to evaluate and 
accept/reject refrigerants regardless of source (i.e., new, 
reclaimed and/or repackaged) for use in new and existing 
refrigeration and air-conditioning products as required under 40 CFR 
part 82.
    1.1.1 Intent. This standard is intended for the guidance of the 
industry including manufacturers, refrigerant reclaimers, 
repackagers, distributors, installers, servicemen, contractors and 
for consumers.
    1.1.2 Review and Amendment. This standard is subject to review 
and amendment as the technology advances.

Section 2. Scope

    2.1 Scope. This standard specifies acceptable levels of 
contaminants (purity requirements) for various fluorocarbon and 
other refrigerants regardless of source and lists acceptable test 
methods. These refrigerants are as referenced in the ANSI/ASHRAE 
Standard 34 with Addenda:
    2.1.1 Single-Component Fluorocarbon Refrigerants: R-11, R-12, R-
13, R-22, R-23, R-32, R-113, R-114, R-115, R-116, R-123, R-124, R-
125, R-134a, R-141b, R-142b, R-143a, R-152a, R-218, R-227ea, R-
236fa, R-245fa, R-1233zd(E), R-1234yf, R-1234ze(E);
    2.1.2 Single Component Hydrocarbon Refrigerants: R-50, R-170, R-
E170, R-290, R-600, R-600a, R-601, R-601a, R-610, R-1150, R-1270;
    2.1.3 Carbon Dioxide Refrigerant: R-744;
    2.1.4 Zeotropic Blend Refrigerants: R-401A, R-401B, R-402A, R-
402B, R-403A, R-403B, R-404A, R-405A, R-406A, R-407A, R-407B, R-
407C, R-407D, R-407E, R-407F, R-408A, R-409A, R-409B, R-410A, R-
410B, R-411A, R-411B, R-412A, R-413A, R-414A, R-414B, R-415A, R-
415B, R-416A, R-417A, R-417B, R-417C, R-418A, R-419A, R-419B, R-
420A, R-421A, R-421B, R-422A, R-422B, R-422C, R-422D, R-422E, R-
423A, R-424A, R-425A, R-426A, R-427A, R-428A, R-429A, R-430A, R-
431A, R-434A, R-435A, R-437A, R-438A, R-439A, R-440A, R-442A, R-
444A, R-444B, R-445A, R-446A, R-447A, R-448A, R-449A, R-450A;
    2.1.5 Zeotropic Hydrocarbon Blend Refrigerants: R-432A, R-433A, 
R-433B, R-433C, R-436A, R-436B, R-441A, R-443A; and
    2.1.6 Azeotropic Blend Refrigerants: R-500, R-502, R-503, R-
507A, R-508A, R-508B, R-509A, R-510A, R-511A, and R-512A.

Section 3. Definitions

    3.1 Definitions. All terms in this appendix will follow the 
definitions in Sec.  82.152 unless otherwise defined in this 
appendix.
    3.2 Shall, Should, Recommended, or It Is Recommended shall be 
interpreted as follows:
    3.2.1 Shall. Where ``shall'' or ``shall not'' is used for a 
provision specified, that provision is mandatory if compliance with 
this appendix is claimed.
    3.2.2 Should, Recommended, or It is Recommended is used to 
indicate provisions which are not mandatory but which are desirable 
as good practice.

Section 4. Characterization of Refrigerants and Contaminants

    4.1 Characterization. Characterization of single component 
fluorocarbon (Table 1A) and zeotropic/azeotropic blend (Table 2A/3) 
refrigerants and contaminants are listed in the following general 
classifications:
    4.1.1 Isomer content (see Table 1A)
    4.1.2 Air and other non-condensables (see Tables 1A, 2A, 3)
    4.1.3 Water (see Tables 1A, 2A, 3)
    4.1.4 All other volatile impurities (see Tables 1A, 2A, 3)
    4.1.5 High boiling residue (see Tables 1A, 2A, 3)
    4.1.6 Halogenated unsaturated volatile impurities (see Table 1A)
    4.1.7 Particulates/solids (see Tables 1A, 2A, 3)
    4.1.8 Acidity (see Tables 1A, 2A, 3)
    4.1.9 Chloride (see Tables 1A, 2A, 3)
    4.2 Hydrocarbon Characterization. Characterization of 
hydrocarbon refrigerants (Tables 1B and 2B) and contaminants are 
listed in the following general classifications:
    4.2.1 Nominal composition
    4.2.2 Other allowable impurities
    4.2.3 Air and other non-condensables
    4.2.4 Sulfur odor
    4.2.5 High boiling residue
    4.2.6 Particulates/solids
    4.2.7 Acidity
    4.2.8 Water
    4.2.9 All other volatile impurities
    4.2.10 Total C3, C4, and C5 polyolefins
    4.3 Carbon Dioxide Characterization. Characterization of carbon 
dioxide (Table 1C) and its contaminants are listed in the following 
general classifications:
    4.3.1 Purity
    4.3.2 Air and other non-condensables
    4.3.3 Water
    4.3.4 High boiling residue
    4.3.5 Particulates/solids

Section 5. Sampling and Summary of Test Procedures

    5.1 Referee Test. The referee test methods for the various 
contaminants are summarized in the following paragraphs. Detailed 
test procedures are included in 2008 Appendix C to AHRI Standard 
700-2014 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168). If 
alternative test methods are employed, the user must be able to 
demonstrate that they produce results at least equivalent to the 
specified referee test method.
    5.2 Refrigerant Sampling
    5.2.1 Sampling Precautions. Special precautions should be taken 
to ensure that representative samples are obtained for analysis. 
Sampling shall be done by qualified personnel following accepted 
sampling and safety procedures. Refrigerants with critical 
temperatures near or below ambient temperature cannot be reliably 
sampled for both liquid and vapor phase without special handling.
    Note: Flammable refrigerants which are ASHRAE 34 class 2L, 2, or 
3 present additional safety challenges and require additional 
measures for sampling safety procedures compared to nonflammable 
halocarbons documented in this standard.
    5.2.2 Cylinder Preparation. Place a clean, empty sample cylinder 
with the valve open in an oven at 110 [deg]C (230 [deg]F) for one 
hour. Remove it from the oven while hot, immediately connect it to 
an evacuation system and evacuate to less than 56 kPa. Close the 
valve and allow it to cool. Weigh the empty cylinder.
    5.2.3 Vapor Phase Sampling. A vapor phase sample shall be 
obtained for determining the non-condensables. The source 
temperature shall be measured and recorded at the time the sample is 
taken.
    5.2.3.1 Special Handling for Low Critical Temperature 
Refrigerant. A vapor phase sample is required to determine non-
condensables and volatile impurities, including other refrigerants. 
The vapor phase sample is obtained by regulating the sample 
container temperature to 5 K or more above the refrigerant critical 
temperature.
    5.2.3.2 Handling for Liquid Refrigerants with Boiling Points 
Near or Above Room Temperature. Since R-11, R-113, R-123, R-141b, R-
245fa, and R-1233zd(E) have normal boiling points near or above room 
temperature, non-condensable determination is not required for these 
refrigerants.
    Note: Non-condensable gases, if present, will concentrate in the 
vapor phase of the

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refrigerant; care must be exercised to eliminate introduction of 
either air or liquid phase refrigerant during the sample transfer.
    5.2.4 Liquid Phase Sampling. A liquid phase sample is required 
for all tests listed in this standard except the test for non-
condensables.
    5.2.4.1 Liquid Sampling. Accurate analysis requires that the 
sample cylinder, at ambient temperature, be filled to at least 60 
percent by volume; however, under no circumstances should the 
cylinder be filled to more than 80 percent by volume. This can be 
accomplished by weighing the empty cylinder and then the cylinder 
with refrigerant. When the desired amount of refrigerant has been 
collected, close the valve(s) and immediately disconnect the sample 
cylinder.
    Note: Care should be taken to ensure that all connections and 
transfer lines are dry and evacuated to avoid contaminating the 
sample.
    Note: Low critical temperature refrigerants can have extremely 
high pressure and the sampling vessel, all connections, and transfer 
lines must be designed to handle high pressures.
    5.2.4.2 Special Handling for Low Critical Temperature 
Refrigerant. A liquid phase sample is required for all testing 
except volatile impurities, including other refrigerants. The liquid 
phase sample is obtained by regulating the sample cylinder 
temperature to 2 [deg]C below the critical temperature of the 
refrigerant.
    Note: If free water is present in the sample, cooling to below 0 
[deg]C may result in the formation of ice. Clathrates may form at 
temperatures above 0 [deg]C with some fluorocarbon refrigerants.
    5.2.4.3 Record Weight. Check the sample cylinder for leaks and 
record the gross weight.
    5.3 Refrigerant Identification. The required method shall be gas 
chromatography (GC) as described in 2008 Appendix C to AHRI Standard 
700-2014 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168) with the 
corresponding gas chromatogram figures as illustrated in 2012 
Appendix D to AHRI Standard 700-2014 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  82.168). The chromatogram of the sample shall be compared to 
known standards.
    5.3.2 Alternative Method. Determination of the boiling point and 
boiling point range is an acceptable alternative test method which 
can be used to characterize refrigerants. The test method shall be 
that described in section 4.4.3 of BB-F-1421B (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  82.168).
    5.3.3 Required Values. The required values for boiling point and 
boiling point range are given in Table 1A, Physical Properties of 
Single Component Refrigerants; Table 1B, Physical Properties of 
Zeotropic Blends (400 Series Refrigerants); and Table 1C, Physical 
Properties of Azeotropic Blends (500 Series Refrigerants).
    5.4 Water Content.
    5.4.1 Method. The Coulometric Karl Fischer Titration shall be 
the primary test method for determining the water content of 
refrigerants. This method is described in 2008 Appendix C to AHRI 
Standard 700-2014 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168). 
This method can be used for refrigerants that are either a liquid or 
a gas at room temperature. For all refrigerants, the sample for 
water analysis shall be taken from the liquid phase of the container 
to be tested.
    5.4.2 Limits. The value for water content shall be expressed in 
parts per million (ppm) by weight and shall not exceed the maximum 
specified in Tables 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, and 3.
    5.5 Conductivity. (Alternative to chloride and acidity tests).
    5.5.1 Method. A refrigerant may be tested for conductivity as an 
indication of the presence of acids, metal chlorides, and any 
compound that ionizes in water. This alternative procedure is 
intended for use with new or reclaimed refrigerants, however, 
significant amounts of oil can interfere with the test results.
    5.5.2 Limits. The value for conductivity shall be converted to 
and expressed in ppm by weight calculated as HCl and shall be 
compared with the maximum acidity value specified (see in Tables 1A, 
1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, and 3). If the conductivity is above this amount, 
then the chloride and acidity tests shall be conducted. If the 
conductivity is not greater than this amount, then the chloride and 
acidity tests may be omitted.
    5.6 Chloride. The refrigerant shall be tested for chloride as an 
indication of the presence of hydrochloric acid and/or metal 
chlorides. The referee procedure is intended for use with new or 
reclaimed halogenated refrigerants; however, high boiling residue in 
excess of the amounts in Tables 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, and 3 can 
interfere with the test results.
    5.6.1 Method. The test method shall be that described in 2008 
Appendix C to AHRI Standard 700-2014 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  82.168). The test will show noticeable turbidity at chloride 
levels of about 3 ppm or greater by weight.
    5.5.2 Limits. The results of the test shall not exhibit any sign 
of turbidity. Report the results as ``pass'' or ``fail.''
    5.7 Acidity.
    5.7.1 Method. The acidity test uses the titration principle to 
detect any compound that is soluble in water and ionizes as an acid. 
The test method shall be that described in 2008 Appendix C to AHRI 
Standard 700-2014 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168). 
This test may not be suitable for determination of high molecular 
weight organic acids; however these acids will be found in the high 
boiling residue test outlined in Section 5.8. The test requires a 50 
to 60 gram sample and has a detection limit of 0.1 ppm by weight 
calculated as HCl.
    5.7.2 Limits. The value for acidity shall be expressed in ppm by 
weight as HCl and shall not exceed the limits in Tables 1A, 1B, 2A, 
2B, and 3.
    5.8 High Boiling Residue.
    5.8.1 Method. High boiling residue shall be determined by either 
volume or weight. The volume method measures the residue from a 
standard volume of refrigerant after evaporation. The gravimetric 
method is described in 2008 Appendix C to AHRI Standard 700-2014 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168). Oils and/or organic 
acids will be captured by these methods.
    5.8.2 Limits. The value for high boiling residue shall be 
expressed as a percentage by volume or weight and shall not exceed 
the maximum percent specified in Tables 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, and 3.
    5.9 Particulates and Solids.
    5.9.1 Method. A measured amount of sample shall be placed in a 
Goetz bulb under controlled temperature conditions. The 
particulates/solids shall be determined by visual examination of the 
Goetz bulb prior to the evaporation of refrigerant. For details of 
this test method, refer to Part 3 of 2008 Appendix C to AHRI 
Standard 700-2014 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
    Note: R-744 will partially sublimate when measuring a known 
amount of liquid sample into the dry Goetz bulb and the solid R-744 
will interfere with the visual examination of particulates/solids. 
Determining the particulates/solids shall be completed by visual 
examination of the Goetz bulb after the evaporation of the 
refrigerant.
    5.9.2 Limits. Visual presence of dirt, rust, or other 
particulate contamination is reported as ``fail.''
    5.10 Non-Condensables.
    5.10.1 Method. A vapor phase sample shall be used for 
determination of non-condensables. Non-condensable gases consist 
primarily of air accumulated in the vapor phase of refrigerants 
where the solubility of air in the refrigerant liquid phase is 
extremely low and air is not significant as a liquid phase 
contaminant. The presence of non-condensable gases may reflect poor 
quality control in transferring refrigerants to storage tanks and 
cylinders.
    The test method shall be gas chromatography with a thermal 
conductivity detector as described in 2008 Appendix C to AHRI 
Standard 700-2014 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
    5.10.2 Limits. The maximum level of non-condensables in the 
vapor phase of a test sample shall not exceed the maximum at 25 
[deg]C as shown in Tables 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, and 3.
    5.11 All Other Volatile Impurities and/or Other Refrigerants.
    5.11.1 Method. The amount of volatile impurities including other 
refrigerants in the subject refrigerant shall be determined by gas 
chromatography as described in 2008 Appendix C to AHRI Standard 700-
2014 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
    5.11.2 Limits. The test sample shall not contain more than 0.5 
percent by weight of volatile impurities including other 
refrigerants as shown in Tables 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B and 3.
    5.12 Total C3, C4 and C5 Polyolefins in Hydrocarbon 
Refrigerants.
    5.12.1 Method. The amount of polyolefin impurities in the 
hydrocarbon shall be determined by gas chromatography as described 
in GPA Standard 2177-13 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
82.168).
    5.12.2 Limits. The test sample shall not contain more than 0.05 
percent by weight in the hydrocarbon sample as shown in Tables 1B 
and 2B. Report the results as ``pass'' or ``fail.''
    5.13 Sulfur Odor in Hydrocarbon Refrigerants.
    5.13.1 Method. The amount of sulfur containing compounds or 
other compounds

[[Page 82367]]

with an odor shall be determined by ASTM D1296-01 (Reapproved 2012) 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
    5.13.2 Limits. The test sample paper shall not emit a residual 
sulfur odor as shown in Tables 1B and 2B.

Section 6. Reporting Procedure

    6.1 Reporting Procedure. The source (manufacturer, reclaimer, or 
repackager) of the packaged refrigerant shall be identified. The 
refrigerant shall be identified by its accepted refrigerant number 
and/or its chemical name. Maximum allowable levels of contaminants 
are shown in Tables 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, and 3. Test results shall be 
tabulated in a similar manner.
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Section 7.0 References--Normative

    Listed here are all standards, handbooks, and other publications 
essential to the formation and implementation of the standard. All 
references in this appendix are considered as part of this standard.

ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2013, Designation and Safety Classification 
of Refrigerants, with Addenda, American National Standards 
Institute/American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-
Conditioning Engineers.
2008 Appendix C to AHRI Standard 700-2014, 2008 Appendix C for 
Analytical Procedures for AHRI Standard 700-2014--Normative, 
copyright 2008 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
ASTM D1296-01 (Reapproved 2012), Standard Test Method for Odor of 
Volatile Solvents and Diluents, approved July 1, 2012, (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
BB-F-1421B, Federal Specification for ``Fluorocarbon Refrigerants,'' 
dated March 5, 1982, (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
GPA Standard 2177-13, Analysis of Natural Gas Liquid Mixtures 
Containing Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide by Gas Chromatography, 
Revised, copyright 2013, (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
82.168).
REFPROP Reference Fluid Thermodynamic and Transport Properties NIST 
Standard Reference Database 23 version 9.1, 2013, U.S. Department of 
Commerce, Technology Administration, National Institute of Standards 
and Technology.

Section 8.0 References--Informative

    Listed here are standards, handbooks, and other publications 
which may provide useful information and background but are not 
considered essential.

2012 Appendix D to AHRI Standard 700-2014, 2012 Appendix D for Gas 
Chromatograms for AHRI Standard 700-2014--Informative, copyright 
2012, (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).

0
16. Amend subpart F by adding appendix B3 to read as follows:

Appendix B3 to Subpart F of Part 82--Performance of Refrigerant 
Recovery, Recycling, and/or Reclaim Equipment

    This appendix is based on the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and 
Refrigeration Institute Standard 740-2016, Performance Rating of 
Refrigerant Recovery Equipment and Recovery/Recycling Equipment.

Section 1. Purpose

    1.1 The purpose of this standard is to establish methods of 
testing for rating and evaluating the performance of refrigerant 
recovery, and/or recycling equipment and general equipment 
requirements (herein referred to as ``equipment'') for contaminant 
or purity levels, capacity, speed and purge loss to minimize 
emission into the atmosphere of designated refrigerants.

Section 2. Scope

    2.1 This standard applies to equipment for recovering and/or 
recycling single refrigerants, azeotropes, zeotropic blends, and 
their normal contaminants from refrigerant systems. This standard 
defines the test apparatus, test gas mixtures, sampling procedures 
and analytical techniques that will be used to determine the 
performance of refrigerant recovery and/or recycling equipment 
(hereinafter, ``equipment''). Appendix B4 of this subpart 
establishes standards for recovery/recycling equipment used with 
flammable refrigerants.

Section 3. Definitions

    3.1 Definitions. All terms in this appendix will follow the 
definitions in Sec.  82.152 unless otherwise defined in this 
appendix.
    3.2 Clearing Refrigerant. Procedures used to remove trapped 
refrigerant(s) from equipment before switching from one refrigerant 
to another.
    3.3 High Temperature Vapor Recovery Rate. For equipment having 
at least one designated refrigerant (see Section 11.2 of this 
appendix) with a boiling point in the range of -50 to +10 [deg]C, 
the rate will be measured for R-22, or the lowest boiling point 
refrigerant if R-22 is not a designated refrigerant.
    3.4 Published Ratings. A statement of the assigned values of 
those performance characteristics, under stated rating conditions, 
by which a unit may be chosen to fit its application. These values 
apply to all units of like nominal size and type (identification) 
produced by the same manufacturer. As used herein, the term 
``published rating'' includes the rating of all performance 
characteristics shown on the unit or published in specifications, 
advertising, or other literature controlled by the manufacturer, at 
stated rating conditions.
    3.5 Push/Pull Liquid Recovery. The push/pull refrigerant 
recovery method is defined as the process of transferring liquid 
refrigerant from a refrigeration system to a receiving vessel by 
lowering the pressure in the vessel and raising the pressure in the 
system, and by connecting a separate line between the system liquid 
port and the receiving vessel.
    3.6 Recycle Flow Rate. The amount of refrigerant processed 
divided by the time elapsed in the recycling mode. For equipment 
which uses a separate recycling sequence, the recycle rate does not 
include the recovery rate (or elapsed time). For equipment which 
does not use a separate recycling sequence, the recycle rate is a 
rate based solely on the higher of the liquid or vapor recovery 
rate, by which the contaminant levels were measured.
    3.7 Residual Trapped Refrigerant. Refrigerant remaining in 
equipment after clearing refrigerant.
    3.8 Shall, Should, Recommended or It Is Recommended shall be 
interpreted as follows:
    3.8.1 Shall. Where ``shall'' or ``shall not'' is used for a 
provision specified, that provision is mandatory if compliance with 
this appendix is claimed.
    3.8.2 Should, Recommended or It Is Recommended is used to 
indicate provisions which are not mandatory but which are desirable 
as good practice.
    3.9 Standard Contaminated Refrigerant Sample. A mixture of new 
or reclaimed refrigerant and specified quantities of identified 
contaminants which constitute the mixture to be processed by the 
equipment under test. These contaminant levels are expected only 
from severe service conditions.
    3.10 Trapped Refrigerant. The amount of refrigerant remaining in 
the equipment after the recovery or recovery/recycling operation but 
before clearing refrigerant.
    3.11 Vapor Recovery Rate. The average rate that refrigerant is 
withdrawn from the mixing chamber between two pressures as vapor 
recovery rate is changing depending on the pressure. The initial 
condition is vapor only at saturation pressure and temperature at 
either 24 [deg]C or at the boiling point at 100 kPa, whichever is 
higher. The final pressure condition is 10 percent of the initial 
pressure, but not lower than the equipment final recovery vacuum and 
not higher than 100 kPa.

Section 4. General Equipment Requirements

    4.1 Equipment Information. The equipment manufacturer shall 
provide operating instructions, necessary maintenance procedures, 
and source information for replacement parts and repair.
    4.2 Filter Replacement. The equipment shall indicate when any 
filter/drier(s) needs replacement. This requirement can be met by 
use of a moisture transducer and indicator light, by use of a sight 
glass/moisture indicator, or by some measurement of the amount of 
refrigerant processed such as a flow meter or hour meter. The 
equipment manufacturer must provide maximum quantity recycled or 
filter change interval in its written instructions.
    4.3 Purge of Non-Condensable. If non-condensables are purged, 
the equipment shall either automatically purge non-condensables or 
provide an indicating means to guide the purge process. Recycling 
equipment must provide purge means.
    4.4 Purge Loss. The total refrigerant loss due to purging non-
condensables, draining oil, and clearing refrigerant (see Section 
9.5) shall be less than 3 percent (by weight) of total processed 
refrigerant.
    4.5 Permeation Rate. High pressure hose assemblies \5/8\ in. (16 
mm) nominal and smaller shall not exceed a permeation rate of 3.9 g/
cm\2\/yr (internal surface) at a temperature of 48.8 [deg]C. Hose 
assemblies that UL recognized as having passed UL 1963, 2011 
requirements shall be accepted without testing. See Section 7.1.4 of 
this appendix.
    4.6 Clearing Trapped Refrigerant. For equipment rated for more 
than one refrigerant, the manufacturer shall provide a method and 
instructions which will accomplish connections and clearing within 
15 minutes. Special equipment, other than a vacuum pump or manifold 
gauge set, shall be furnished. The clearing procedure shall not rely 
upon the storage cylinder below saturated pressure conditions at 
ambient temperature.
    4.7 Temperature. The equipment shall be evaluated at 24 [deg]C 
with additional limited evaluation at 40 [deg]C. Normal operating 
conditions range from 10 [deg]C to 40 [deg]C.
    4.8 Exemptions. Equipment intended for recovery only shall be 
exempt from Sections 4.2 and 4.3.

[[Page 82384]]

Section 5. Contaminated Refrigerants

    5.1 Sample Characteristics. The standard contaminated 
refrigerant sample shall have the characteristics specified in Table 
1, except as provided in Section 5.2 of this appendix. Testing shall 
be conducted at an ambient temperature of 24 [deg]C  1 
[deg]C except high temperature vapor recovery shall be 40 [deg]C 
 1 [deg]C.
    5.2 Recovery-only Testing. Recovery equipment not rated for 
removal of contaminants shall be tested with new or reclaimed 
refrigerant.
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Section 6. Test Apparatus

    6.1 General Recommendations. The recommended test apparatus is 
described in the following paragraphs. If alternate test apparatus 
are employed, the user shall be able to demonstrate that they 
produce results equivalent to the specified reference apparatus.
    6.2 Self-Contained Equipment Test Apparatus. The apparatus, 
shown in Figure 1, shall consist of:
    6.2.1 Mixing Chamber. A mixing chamber consisting of a tank with 
a conical-shaped bottom, a bottom port and piping for delivering 
refrigerant to the equipment, various ports and valves for adding 
refrigerant to the chamber, and stirring means for mixing.
    6.2.2 Filling Storage Cylinder. The storage cylinder to be 
filled by the refrigerant transferred shall be cleaned and at the 
pressure of the recovered refrigerant at the beginning of the test. 
It will not be filled over 80 percent, by volume.
    6.2.3 Vapor Feed. Vapor refrigerant feed consisting of 
evaporator, control valves and piping to create a 3.0 [deg]C 
superheat condition at an evaporating temperature of 21 [deg]C 
 2 [deg]C.
    6.2.4 Alternative Vapor Feed. An alternative method for vapor 
feed shall be to pass the refrigerant through a boiler and then 
through an automatic pressure regulating valve set at different 
saturation pressures, moving from saturated pressure at 24 [deg]C to 
final pressure of recovery.
    6.2.5 Liquid Feed. Liquid refrigerant feed consisting of control 
valves, sampling port, and piping.
    6.2.6 Instrumentation. Instrumentation capable of measuring 
weight, temperature, pressure, and refrigerant loss, as required.
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    6.3 Size. The size of the mixing chamber and filling storage 
cylinder used during testing shall correspond to the size of the 
equipment being tested per Section 6.3.1 or 6.3.2:
    6.3.1 For equipment utilizing nominal \1/4\'' or \3/8\'' flare 
ports and hoses, the mixing chamber shall be 0.09 m\3\ and all 
ports, valves, mixing valves, and piping shall be \1/2\'' or larger, 
reduced down to the port size of the equipment by fittings at the 
connection ports of the mixing chamber. The filling storage cylinder 
used during testing shall be a nominal 50-pound water capacity DOT 
4Bx cylinder with \1/4\'' flare liquid and vapor ports.
    6.3.2 For equipment utilizing \1/2\'' or larger flare ports and 
hoses, the mixing chamber shall be 0.45 m\3\ (or nominal 1000-pound 
water capacity DOT 4Bx cylinder) and all ports, valves, mixing 
valves, and piping shall be 1\1/2\'' or larger, reduced down to the 
port size of the equipment by fittings at the connection ports of 
the mixing chamber. The filling storage cylinder used during testing 
shall be a nominal 1000-pound water capacity DOT 4Bx cylinder with 
liquid and vapor ports, valves and piping sized \3/4\'' NPT and 
reduced or increased to the port size of the equipment by fittings 
at the connection ports of the filling storage cylinder.
    6.4 System Dependent Equipment Test Apparatus. This test 
apparatus is to be used for final recovery vacuum rating of all 
system dependent equipment.
    6.4.1 Test Setup. The test apparatus shown in Figure 2 consists 
of a complete refrigeration system. The manufacturer shall identify 
the refrigerants to be tested. The test apparatus can be modified to 
facilitate operation or testing of the system dependent equipment if 
the modifications to the

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apparatus are specifically described within the manufacturer's 
literature. A 6.3 mm balance line shall be connected across the test 
apparatus between the high- and low-pressure sides, with an 
isolation valve located at the connection to the compressor high 
side. A 6.3 mm access port with a valve core shall be located in the 
balance line for the purpose of measuring final recovery vacuum at 
the conclusion of the test.
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Section 7. Performance Testing Procedures

    7.1 General Testing.
    7.1.1 Temperatures. Testing shall be conducted at an ambient 
temperature of 24 [deg]C  1 [deg]C except high 
temperature vapor recovery shall be at 40 [deg]C  1 
[deg]C. The evaporator conditions of Section 6.2.3 shall be 
maintained as long as liquid refrigerant remains in the mixing 
chamber.
    7.1.2 Refrigerants. The equipment shall be tested for all 
designated refrigerants (see Section 11.2). All tests in Section 7 
shall be completed for each refrigerant before starting tests with 
the next refrigerant.
    7.1.3 Selected Tests. Tests shall be as appropriate for the 
equipment type and ratings parameters selected (see Sections 9.9, 
11.1 and 11.2).
    7.1.4 Hose Assemblies. For the purpose of limiting refrigerant 
emissions to the atmosphere, hose assemblies shall be tested for 
permeation according to UL Standard 1963 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  82.168).
    7.2 Equipment Preparation and Operation. The equipment shall be 
prepared and operated per the operating instructions.
    7.3 Test Batch. The test batch consisting of refrigerant sample 
(see Section 5) of the test refrigerant shall be prepared and 
thoroughly mixed. Continued mixing or stirring shall be required 
during the test while liquid refrigerant remains in the mixing 
chamber. The mixing chamber shall be filled to 80 percent level by 
volume.
    7.3.1 Control Test Batch. Prior to starting the test for the 
first batch for each refrigerant, a liquid sample will be drawn from 
the mixing chamber and analyzed per Section 8 to assure that 
contaminant levels match Table 1 within 10 ppm for 
moisture, 20 ppm for oleic acid and 0.5 
percent for oil.
    7.4 Recovery Tests (Recovery and Recovery/Recycling Equipment)
    7.4.1 Determining Recovery Rates. The liquid and vapor 
refrigerant recovery rates shall be measured during the first test 
batch for each refrigerant (see Sections 9.1, 9.2 and 9.4). 
Equipment preparation and recovery cylinder changeover shall not be 
included in elapsed time measurements for determining vapor recovery 
rate and liquid refrigerant recovery rate. Operations such as 
subcooling the recovery cylinder shall be included. The recovery 
cylinder shall be the same size as per Section 6.3 or as furnished 
by the equipment manufacturer. Oversized tanks shall not be 
permitted.
    7.4.1.1 Liquid Refrigerant Recovery Rate. If elected, the 
recovery rate using the liquid refrigerant feed means (see Section 
6.2.5) shall be determined. After the equipment reaches stabilized 
conditions of condensing temperature and/or recovery cylinder 
pressure, the recovery process shall be stopped and an initial 
weight shall be taken of the mixing chamber (see Section 9.2). The 
recovery process shall be continued for a period of time sufficient 
to achieve the accuracy in Section 9.4. The recovery process shall 
be stopped and a final weight of the mixing chamber shall be taken.
    7.4.1.2 Vapor Refrigerant Recovery Rate. If elected, the average 
vapor flow rate shall be measured to accuracy requirements in 
Section 9.4 under conditions with no liquid

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refrigerant in the mixing chamber. The liquid recovery feed means 
shall be used. At initial conditions of saturated vapor at the 
higher of 24 [deg]C or the boiling temperature (100 kPa), the weight 
of the mixing chamber and the pressure shall be recorded. At final 
conditions representing pressure in the mixing chamber of 10 percent 
of the initial condition, but not less than the final recovery 
vacuum (see Section 9.6) nor more than 100 kPa, measure the weight 
of the mixing chamber and the elapsed time. At initial conditions, 
the recovery cylinder shall be at saturation pressure at ambient 
conditions.
    7.4.1.3 High Temperature Vapor Recovery Rate. This is applicable 
for equipment having at least one designated refrigerant (see 
Section 11.2) with a boiling point between -50 [deg]C and +10 
[deg]C. Measure the rate for R-22, or the refrigerant with the 
lowest boiling point if R-22 is not a designated refrigerant. Repeat 
the test in Section 7.4.1.2 at saturated conditions at 40 [deg]C and 
continue to operate equipment to assure it will operate at this 
condition (see Section 7.4.3). At initial conditions, the recovery 
cylinder shall be at saturated pressure at 40 [deg]C.
    7.4.1.4 Push/Pull Liquid Refrigerant Recovery Rate. If elected, 
the average liquid push/pull flow rate shall be measured to accuracy 
requirements in Section 9.4. The mixing chamber and filling storage 
cylinder shall be filled with refrigerant vapor at initial 
conditions of saturated vapor at the higher of 24 [deg]C or the 
boiling temperature at 100 kPa. An amount of liquid refrigerant 
shall be added to the mixing chamber equivalent to 80 percent by 
weight of the capacity of the filling storage cylinder. The pressure 
between the mixing chamber and filling storage cylinder shall be 
equalized and stabilized at initial conditions of saturated vapor at 
the higher of 24 [deg]C or the boiling temperature at 100 kPa. The 
initial weight of the mixing chamber and the pressure shall be 
recorded. The equipment is then operated in push/pull liquid 
recovery mode and the weight change of the mixing chamber is 
recorded over time until all of the liquid has been transferred.
    7.4.2 Recovery Operation. This test is for determining the final 
recovery vacuum and the ability to remove contaminants as 
appropriate. If equipment is rated for liquid recovery (see Section 
7.4.1.3), liquid recovery feed means described in Section 6.2.5 
shall be used. If not, vapor recovery means described in Sections 
6.2.3 or 6.2.4 shall be used. Continue recovery operation until all 
liquid is removed from the test apparatus and vapor is removed to 
the point where equipment shuts down by automatic means or is 
manually shut off per operating instructions.
    7.4.2.1 Oil Draining. Capture oil from the equipment at 
intervals as required in the instructions. Record the weight of the 
container. Completely remove refrigerant from oil by evacuation or 
other appropriate means. The weight difference shall be used in 
Section 7.5.2.
    7.4.3 Final Recovery Vacuum. At the end of the first test batch 
for each refrigerant, the liquid valve and vapor valve of the 
apparatus shall be closed. After waiting 1 minute, the mixing 
chamber pressure shall be recorded (see Section 9.6).
    7.4.4 Residual Refrigerant. This test will measure the mass of 
remaining refrigerant in the equipment after clearing and therefore 
the extent of mixing different refrigerants (see Section 9.6).
    7.4.4.1 Initial Conditions. At the end of the last test for each 
batch for each refrigerant, the equipment shall be disconnected from 
the test apparatus (Figure 1). Recycle per Section 7.5, if 
appropriate. Perform refrigerant clearing operations as called for 
in the instruction manual. Capture and record the weight of any 
refrigerant which would have been emitted to the atmosphere during 
the clearing process for use in Section 9.5. If two loops are used 
for recycling, trapped refrigerant shall be measured for both.
    7.4.4.2 Residual Trapped Refrigerant. Evacuate an empty test 
cylinder to 1.0 kPa. Record the empty weight of the test cylinder. 
Open all valves to the equipment so as to provide access to all 
trapped refrigerant. Connect the equipment to the test cylinder and 
operate valves to recover the residual refrigerant. Record the 
weight of the test cylinder using a recovery cylinder pressure no 
less than specified in Section 6.2.2. Place the test cylinder in 
liquid nitrogen for a period of 30 minutes or until a vacuum of 1000 
microns is reached, whichever occurs first.
    7.5 Recycling Tests (Recovery/Recycling Equipment).
    7.5.1 Recycling Operation. As each recovery cylinder is filled 
in Section 7.4.2, recycle according to operating instructions. There 
will not necessarily be a separate recycling sequence. Note non-
condensable purge measurement in Section 9.5.
    7.5.1.1 Recycle Flow Rate. While recycling the first recovery 
cylinder for each refrigerant, determine the recycling flow rate by 
appropriate means (see Section 9.3) to achieve the accuracy required 
in Section 9.4.
    7.5.2 Non-Condensable Sample. After completing Section 7.4.3, 
prepare a second test batch (see Section 7.3). Recover per Section 
7.4.2 until the current recovery cylinder is filled to 80 percent 
level by volume. Recycle per Section 7.5.1. Mark this cylinder and 
set aside for taking the vapor sample. For equipment having both an 
internal tank of at least 3 kg refrigerant capacity and an external 
recovery cylinder, two recovery cylinders shall be marked and set 
aside. The first is the cylinder described above. The second 
cylinder is the final recovery cylinder after filling it to 80 
percent level by volume and recycling.
    7.5.2.1 Push/Pull Liquid Refrigerant Recovery Rate. This rate 
shall be measured by weight change of the mixing chamber divided by 
elapsed time (see Section 7.4.1.4). The units shall be kg/min and 
the accuracy shall be per Section 9.4.
    7.5.3 Liquid Sample for Analysis. Repeat steps in Sections 7.3, 
7.4.2 and 7.5.1 with further test batches until indication means in 
Section 4.2 show the filter/drier(s) need replacing.
    7.5.3.1 Multiple Pass. For equipment with a separate recycling 
circuit (multiple pass), set aside the current cylinder and draw the 
liquid sample (see Section 7.4) from the previous cylinder.
    7.5.3.2 Single Pass. For equipment with the single pass 
recycling circuit, draw the liquid sample (see Section 7.4) from the 
current cylinder.
    7.6 Measuring Refrigerant Loss. Refrigerant loss due to non-
condensables shall be determined by appropriate means (see Section 
9.5.1). The loss could occur in Sections 7.4.1, 7.4.2 and 7.5.1.

Section 8. Sampling and Chemical Analysis Methods

    8.1 Chemical Analysis. Chemical analysis methods shall be 
specified in appropriate standards such as AHRI Standard 700, 2008 
Appendix C for Analytical Procedures for AHRI Standard 700-2014- 
Normative, and Addendum 700-1 to Appendix C. If alternate test 
methods are employed, the laboratory must be able to demonstrate 
that they produce results equivalent to the specified referee 
method.
    8.2 Refrigerant Sampling.
    8.2.1 Moisture Content. The water content in refrigerant shall 
be measured by the Karl Fischer Coulometric Titration technique. 
Report the moisture level in parts per million by weight.
    8.2.2 Chloride Ions. Chloride ions shall be measured by 
turbidity tests. At this time, quantitative results have not been 
defined. Report chloride content as ``pass'' or ``fail.'' In the 
future, when quantitative results are possible, report chloride 
content as parts per million by weight.
    8.2.3 Acid Content. The acidity test uses the titration 
principle. Report the acidity in parts per million by weight (mg 
KOH/kg) of sample.
    8.2.4 High Boiling Residue. High boiling residues shall use 
measurement of the volume of residue after evaporating a standard 
volume of refrigerant. Using weight measurement and converting to 
volumetric units is acceptable. Report high boiling residues as 
percent by volume.
    8.2.5 Particulates/Solids. The particulates/solids measurement 
employs visual examination. Report results as ``pass'' or ``fail.''
    8.2.6 Non-condensables. The level of contamination by non-
condensable gases in the base refrigerant being recycled shall be 
determined by gas chromatography. Report results as percent by 
volume.

Section 9. Performance Calculations for Ratings

    9.1 Vapor Refrigerant Recovery Rate. This rate shall be measured 
by weight change of the mixing chamber divided by elapsed time (see 
7.4.1.2). The units shall be kg/min and the accuracy shall be per 
Section 9.4.
    9.1.1 High Temperature Vapor Recovery Rate. This rate shall be 
measured by measured weight change of the mixing chamber divided by 
elapsed time (see Section 7.4.1.3). The units shall be kg/min and 
the accuracy shall be per Section 9.4.
    9.2 Liquid Refrigerant Recovery Rate. This rate shall be 
measured by weight change of the mixing chamber divided by elapsed 
time (see 7.4.1.3). The units shall be kg/min and the accuracy shall 
be per Section 9.4.
    9.3 Recycle Flow Rate. The recycle flow rate shall be as defined 
in Section 3.12,

[[Page 82389]]

expressed in kg/min, and the accuracy shall be per Section 9.4.
    9.3.1 For equipment using multi-pass recycling or a separate 
sequence, the recycle rate shall be determined by dividing the net 
weight, W, of the refrigerant to be recycled by the actual time T 
required to recycle. Any set-up or operator interruptions shall not 
be included in the time T.
    9.3.2 If no separate recycling sequence is used, the recycle 
rate shall be the higher of the vapor refrigerant recovery rate or 
the liquid refrigerant recovery rate. The recycle rate shall match a 
process which leads to contaminant levels in Section 9.9. 
Specifically, a recovery rate determined from bypassing a 
contaminant removal device cannot be used as a recycle rate when the 
contaminant levels in Section 9.9 are determined by passing the 
refrigerant through the contaminant removal device.
    9.4 Accuracy of Flow Rates. The accuracy of test measurements in 
Sections 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3 shall be 008 kg/min for flow 
rates up to 0.42 kg/min and 2.0 percent for flow rates 
larger than 0.42 kg/min. Ratings shall be expressed to the nearest 
0.02 kg/min.
    9.5 Refrigerant Loss. This calculation will be based upon the 
net loss of refrigerant which would have been eliminated in the non-
condensable purge process (see Section 7.5.1), the oil draining 
process (see Section 7.4.2.1) and the refrigerant clearing process 
(see Section 7.4.4.1), all divided by the net refrigerant content of 
the test batches. The refrigerant loss shall not exceed 3 percent by 
weight.
    9.5.1 Non-Condensable Purge. Evacuate an empty container to 2 
kPa. Record the empty weight of the container. Place the container 
in a dry ice bath. Connect the equipment purge connection to the 
container and operate purge according to operating instructions so 
as to capture the non-condensables and lost refrigerant. Weigh the 
cylinder after the recycling is complete. Equivalent means are 
permissible.
    For units which either recycle or publish (list) non-condensable 
removal, non-condensable gases are purged, operating the recycle 
device per the manufacturer's instructions through an evaporator 
pressure regulator (EPR) valve into a liquid nitrogen-chilled 
cylinder. This combination will simulate the atmosphere while 
allowing the capture of purge gases. The cylinder is weighed before 
and after the purge procedure.
    9.5.2 Oil Draining. Refrigerant removed from the oil after 
draining shall be collected and measured in accordance with Section 
7.4.2.1.
    9.5.3 Clearing Unit. Refrigerant captured during the clearing 
process shall be measured in accordance with Section 7.4.4.1.
    9.6 Final Recovery Vacuum. The final recovery vacuum shall be 
the mixing chamber pressure in Section 7.4.3 expressed in kPa at 24 
[deg]C. The accuracy of the measurement shall be within 0.33 kPa.
    9.7 Residual Trapped Refrigerant. The amount of residual trapped 
refrigerant shall be the final weight minus the initial weight of 
the test cylinder in Section 7.4.4.2, expressed in kg. The accuracy 
shall be 0.02 kg and reported to the nearest 0.05 kg.
    9.8 Refrigerant Processed. The amount of refrigerant processed 
before changing filters (see Section 7.5.3) shall be expressed in kg 
to an accuracy of 1 percent.
    9.9 Contaminant Levels. The contaminant levels remaining after 
testing shall be published as follows:

Moisture content, ppm by weight
Chloride ions, pass/fail
Acid Content, ppm by weight
High boiling residue, percent (by volume)
Particulates/solids, pass/fail (visual examination)
Non-condensables, percent (by volume)

    9.10 Minimum Data Requirements for Published Ratings. Published 
ratings shall include all of the parameters as shown in Tables 2 and 
3 for each refrigerant designated by the manufacturer.

Section 10. Tolerances

    10.1 Tolerances. Performance related parameters shall be equal 
to or better than the published ratings.

Section 11. Marking and Nameplate Data

    11.1 Marking and Nameplate Data. The nameplate shall display the 
manufacturer's name, model designation, type of equipment (Recovery 
or Recovery/Recycling and Self-Contained or System Dependent), 
designated refrigerant(s), capacities, and electrical 
characteristics where applicable. The nameplate shall also conform 
to the labeling requirements established for certified recycling and 
recovery equipment established at 40 CFR 82.158(h).
    Recommended nameplate voltages for 60 Hertz systems shall 
include one or more of the equipment nameplate voltages shown in 
Table 1 of AHRI 110-2016 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
82.168). Recommended nameplate voltages for 50 Hertz systems shall 
include one or more of the utilization voltages shown in Table 1 of 
IEC 60038 (English version) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
82.168).
    11.2 Data for Designated Refrigerants. For each refrigerant 
designated, the manufacturer shall include all the following that 
are applicable per Table 2:

a. Liquid Recovery Rate, kg/min
b. Vapor Recovery Rate, kg/min
c. High Temperature Vapor Recovery Rate, kg/min
d. Push/Pull Liquid Recovery Rate, kg/min
e. Final Recovery Vacuum Level, kPa
f. Recycle Flow Rate, kg/min
g. Refrigerant Loss, kg
h. Residual Trapped Refrigerant, kg
i. Quantity of Refrigerant Processed at Rated Conditions, kg

           Table 2--Performance Ratings for Refrigerant Recovery and Recovery/Recycling Equipment 4 5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       Type of equipment
                                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Parameter                                                                           System
                                                  Recovery        Recovery/        Recycling        dependent
                                                                  recycling                         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liquid Refrigerant Recovery Rate, kg/min....           X 1 4             X\1\          N/A \5\              N/A
Vapor Refrigerant Recovery Rate, kg/min.....           X \1\            X \1\              N/A              N/A
High Temperature Vapor Recovery Rate, kg/min           X \1\            X \1\              N/A              N/A
Push/Pull Liquid Recovery Rate, kg/min......           X \1\            X \1\              N/A              N/A
Final Recovery Vacuum Level, kPa............               X                X              N/A                X
Recycle Flow Rate, kg/min...................             N/A                X                X              N/A
Refrigerant Loss, kg........................           X \2\                X                X            X \3\
Residual Trapped Refrigerant, kg............           X \3\            X \2\            X \2\            X \2\
Quantity of Refrigerant Processed at Rated               N/A                X                X              N/A
 Conditions, kg.............................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ For a recovery or recovery/recycle unit, one must rate either liquid refrigerant recovery rate or vapor
  refrigerant recovery rate or one can rate for both. If rating only one, the other shall be indicated by N/A,
  ``not applicable.''
\2\ Mandatory rating if multiple refrigerants, oil separation or non-condensable purge are rated.
\3\ Mandatory rating for equipment tested for multiple refrigerants.
\4\ ``X'' denotes mandatory rating or equipment requirements.
\5\ ``N/A'' indicates ``Not Applicable'' for a parameter that does not have a rating.


[[Page 82390]]


       Table 3--Contaminant Removal Ratings for Refrigerant Recovery and Recovery/Recycling Equipment 1 2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       Type of equipment
                                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                 Contaminant                                                                          System
                                                  Recovery        Recovery/        Recycling        dependent
                                                                  recycling                         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moisture Content, ppm by weight.............         N/A \2\            X \1\                X              N/A
Chloride Ions, pass/fail....................             N/A                X                X              N/A
Acid Content, ppm by weight.................             N/A                X                X              N/A
High Boiling Residue, % by volume...........             N/A                X                X              N/A
Particulates/solids, pass/fail..............             N/A                X                X              N/A
Non-condensables, % by volume...............             N/A                X                X              N/A
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ ``X'' denotes mandatory rating.
\2\ ``N/A'' indicates ``Not Applicable'' for a parameter that does not have a rating.

Section 12. References

    Listed here are all standards, handbooks, and other publications 
essential to the formation and implementation of the standard. All 
references in this appendix are considered as part of this standard.

 UL 1963, Standard for Safety Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling 
Equipment, Fourth Edition (with revisions through October 13, 2013), 
dated June 1, 2011, (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
 AHRI 110-2016, 2016 Standard for Air-Conditioning, Heating 
and Refrigerating Equipment Nameplate Voltages, copyright 2016 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).
 AHRI Standard 700-2015, Specifications for Refrigerants, 
Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute
 IEC 60038 IEC Standard Voltages, Edition 7.0, 2009-06 
(English version) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).

Section 13.0. Particulate Used in Standard Contaminated Refrigerant 
Sample

    13.1 Particulate Specification
    13.1.1 The particulate material (pm) will be a blend of 50 
percent coarse air cleaner dust as received, and 50 percent retained 
on a 200-mesh screen. The coarse air cleaner dust is available from: 
AC Spark Plug Division; General Motors Corporation; Flint, Michigan.
    13.1.2 Preparation of Particulate Materials. To prepare the 
blend of contaminant per ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 63.2-1996 (RA 2010), 
first wet screen a quantity of coarse air cleaner dust on a 200-mesh 
screen (particle retention 74 [micro]m). This is done by placing a 
portion of the dust on a 200-mesh screen and running water through 
the screen while stirring the dust with the fingers. The fine 
contaminant particles passing through the screen are discarded. The 
larger than 200-mesh particles collected on the screen are removed 
and dried for one hour at 110 [deg]C. The blend of standard 
contaminant is prepared by mixing 50 percent by weight of coarse air 
cleaner dust as received (after drying for one hour at 110 [deg]C) 
with 50 percent by weight of the larger than 200-mesh screened dust.
    13.1.3 Particle Size Analysis. The coarse air cleaner dust as 
received and the blend used as the standard contaminant have the 
following approximate particle size analysis:

Table B1--Weight Percentage in Various [micro]m Size Ranges for Particle
                              Size Analysis
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                        As
               Size range ([micro]m)                 received  Blend (wt
                                                      (wt %)       %)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0-5...............................................         12          6
5-10..............................................         12          6
10-20.............................................         14          7
20-40.............................................         23         11
40-80.............................................         30         32
80-200............................................          9         38
------------------------------------------------------------------------


0
17. Amend subpart F by adding appendix B4 to read as follows:

Appendix B4 to Subpart F of Part 82--Performance and Safety of 
Flammable Refrigerant Recovery and/or Recycling Equipment

    This appendix is based on the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and 
Refrigeration Institute Standard 740-2016, Performance Rating of 
Refrigerant Recovery Equipment and Recovery/Recycling Equipment, and 
Underwriters Laboratories Standard 1963-2011 (Fourth Edition), 
Standard for Safety: Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Equipment, 
including Supplement SB (added October 11, 2013), Requirements for 
Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Equipment Intended for Use with a 
Flammable Refrigerant.

Section 1. Purpose

    1.1 The purpose of this standard is to establish methods of 
testing for rating and evaluating the performance and safety of 
refrigerant recovery and/or recycling equipment and general 
equipment requirements (herein referred to as ``equipment'') for 
contaminant or purity levels, capacity, speed and purge loss to 
minimize emission into the atmosphere of designated refrigerants, as 
well as safety for use with flammable refrigerants.

Section 2. Scope

    2.1 This standard applies to equipment for recovering and/or 
recycling flammable single refrigerants, azeotropes, zeotropic 
blends, and their normal contaminants from refrigerant systems. This 
standard defines the test apparatus, test gas mixtures, sampling 
procedures, analytical techniques, and equipment construction that 
will be used to determine the performance and safety of refrigerant 
recovery and/or recycling equipment (hereinafter, ``equipment'').

Section 3. Definitions

    3.1 All terms in this appendix will follow the definitions in 
Sec.  82.152 and Appendix B3 to Subpart F of Part 82 unless 
otherwise defined in this appendix.
    3.2 All definitions used in UL 1963, including the definitions 
in Supplement SB, as applicable, are incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  82.168.

Section 4. Evaluation of Performance

    4.1 Performance Ratings. All recovery and/or recycling equipment 
to be tested under this appendix must follow the procedures and meet 
all requirements established in Appendix B3 to Subpart F of Part 82 
to determine the performance ratings in addition to the safety 
evaluation conducted under the rest of this appendix.
    4.2 Safety. All recovery and/or recycling equipment to be tested 
under this appendix must follow the procedures and meet all 
requirements in Supplement SB (added October 11, 2013), Requirements 
for Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Equipment Intended for Use with a 
Flammable Refrigerant in Underwriters Laboratories Standard 1963-
2011 (Fourth Edition), Standard for Safety: Refrigerant Recovery/
Recycling Equipment (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  82.168).

0
18. Amend subpart F by revising appendix D to read as follows:

Appendix D to Subpart F of Part 82--Standards for Becoming a Certifying 
Program for Technicians

    a. Test Preparation. Technicians must pass an EPA-approved test, 
provided by an EPA-approved certifying program to be certified as a 
Type I technician. Organizations providing Type I certification only 
may choose either an on-site format or a mail-in format similar to 
what is permitted under the MVACs program.
    Technicians must pass a closed-book, proctored test, 
administered in a secure environment, by an EPA-approved certifying 
program to be certified as a Type II or Type III technician.
    Technicians must pass a closed-book, proctored test (or series 
of tests), administered in a secure environment, by an

[[Page 82391]]

EPA-approved certifying program to be certified as a Universal 
technician. Mail-in format Type I tests cannot be used toward a 
Universal certification.
    Each certifying program must assemble tests by choosing a 
prescribed subset from the EPA test bank. EPA will have a test bank 
with more questions than are needed for an individual test, which 
will enable the certifying program to generate multiple tests in 
order to discourage cheating. Each test must include 25 questions 
drawn from Group 1 and 25 questions drawn from each relevant 
technical Group. Tests for Universal technicians will include 100 
questions (25 from Group 1 and 25 from each relevant technical 
Group). Universal tests may be taken all at once, or by combining 
passing scores on separate Type I, Type II, and Type III tests. 
Questions should be divided in order to sufficiently cover each 
topic within the Group.
    Certifying programs must provide a paper hand-out or electronic 
form of communication to technicians after they have completed their 
certification test that contains the following information:

--Which certifying program is providing the testing;
--Contact information for the certifying program;
--The name and contact information of the proctor; and
--When they should expect to receive their score and, if they 
passed, their certification card.

    Each certifying program must show a method of randomly choosing 
which questions will be on the tests. Multiple versions of the test 
must be used during each testing event. Test answer sheets must 
include the name and address of the applicant, the name and address 
of the certifying program, and the date and location at which the 
test was administered.
    Training material accompanying mail-in Type I tests must not 
include sample test questions mimicking the language of the 
certification test. All mail-in material will be subject to review 
by EPA.
    Certifying programs may charge individuals reasonable fees for 
the administration of the tests. EPA will publish a list of all 
approved certifying programs.
    b. Proctoring. A certifying program for Type I (if in-person), 
Type II, Type III, and Universal technicians must designate at least 
one proctor registered for every 50 people taking tests at the same 
time at a given site.
    The certification test for Type I (if taken as part of a 
Universal certification), Type II, Type III, and Universal 
technicians is a closed-book exam. The proctors must ensure that the 
applicants for certification do not use any notes or training 
materials during testing. Desks or work space must be placed in a 
way that discourages cheating. The space and physical facilities are 
to be conducive to continuous surveillance by the proctors and 
monitors during testing.
    The proctor may not receive any benefit from the outcome of the 
testing other than a fee for proctoring. Proctors cannot know in 
advance which questions are on the tests they are proctoring.
    Proctors are required to verify the identity of individuals 
taking the test by examining photo identification. Acceptable forms 
of identification include but are not limited to drivers' licenses, 
government identification cards, passports, and military 
identification.
    Certifying programs for Type I technicians using the mail-in 
format, must take sufficient measures at the test site to ensure 
that tests are completed honestly by each technician. Each test for 
Type I certification must provide a means of verifying the 
identification of the individual taking the test. Acceptable forms 
of identification include but are not limited to drivers' licenses 
and passports.
    c. Test Security. A certifying program must demonstrate the 
ability to ensure the confidentiality and security of the test 
questions and answer keys through strict accountability procedures. 
An organization interested in developing a technician certification 
program will be required to describe these test security procedures 
to EPA.
    After the completion of a test, proctors must collect all test 
forms, answer sheets, scratch paper and notes. These items are to be 
placed in a sealed envelope.
    d. Test Content. All Type I, Type II and Type III, certification 
tests will include 25 questions from Group I and 25 questions from 
Group II. Universal certification tests will include 25 questions 
from Group I and 75 questions from Group II (with 25 from each of 
the three sector-specific areas).
    Group I will ask questions in the following areas:

1. Environmental impact of CFCs, HCFCs, and substitute refrigerants
2. Laws and regulations
3. Changing industry outlook

    Group II will ask questions covering sector-specific (i.e., Type 
I, Type II, Type III) issues in the following areas:

4. Leak detection
5. Recovery Techniques
6. Safety
7. Shipping
8. Disposal

    e. Grading. Tests must be graded objectively. Certifying 
programs must inform the applicant of their test results no later 
than 30 days from the date of the test. Type I certifying programs 
using the mail-in format must notify the applicants of their test 
results no later than 30 days from the date the certifying programs 
received the completed test and any required documentation.
    The passing score for the closed-book Type I, Type II, Type III 
and Universal certification test is 70 percent. The passing score 
for Type I certification tests using the mail-in format is 84 
percent.
    f. Proof of Certification. Certifying programs must issue a 
standard wallet-sized identification card no later than 30 days from 
the date of the test. Type I certifying programs using mail-in 
formats must issue cards to certified technicians no later than 30 
days from the date the certifying program receives the completed 
test and any required documentation.
    Each wallet-sized identification card must include, at a 
minimum, the name of the certifying program including the date the 
certifying program received EPA approval, the name of the person 
certified, the type of certification, a unique number for the 
certified person that does not include a technician's social 
security number, and the following text:

    [name of person] has successfully passed a [Type I, Type II, 
Type III and/or Universal--as appropriate] exam on how to 
responsibly handle refrigerants as required by EPA's National 
Recycling and Emissions Reduction Program.

    g. Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements. Certifying programs 
must maintain records of the names and addresses of all individuals 
taking the tests, the scores of all certification tests 
administered, and the dates and locations of all tests administered. 
These records must be maintained indefinitely, unless transferred to 
another certifying program or EPA.
    EPA must receive an activity report from all approved certifying 
programs by every January 30 and July 30, which covers the previous 
six months of certifications. The first report must be submitted 
following the first full six-month period for which the program has 
been approved by EPA. This report includes the pass/fail rate. If 
the certifying program believes a test bank question needs to be 
modified, information about that question should also be included.
    Approved certifying programs will receive a letter of approval 
from EPA. Each testing center must display a copy of that letter at 
their place of business.
    Approved technician certification programs that voluntarily plan 
to stop providing the certification test must forward all records 
required by this appendix and Sec.  82.161 to another program 
currently approved by EPA in accordance with this appendix and with 
Sec.  82.161. Approved technician certification programs that 
receive records of certified technicians from a program that no 
longer offers the certification test, and the program that is 
voluntarily withdrawing from being a technician certification 
program must inform EPA at the address listed in Sec.  82.160 within 
30 days of receiving or transferring these records. The notification 
must include the name and address of the program to which the 
records have been transferred. If another currently approved program 
willing to accept the records cannot be located, these records must 
be submitted to EPA at the address listed at Sec.  82.160.
    Technician certification programs that have had their 
certification revoked in accordance with Sec.  82.169 must forward 
all records required by this appendix and Sec.  82.161 to EPA at the 
address listed in Sec.  82.160. Failure to do so is a violation of 
40 CFR part 82, subpart F.
    h. Additional Requirements. EPA may periodically inspect testing 
sites to ensure compliance with EPA regulations. If testing center 
discrepancies are found, they must be corrected within a specified 
time period. If discrepancies are not corrected, EPA may suspend or 
revoke the certifying program's approval. The inspections will 
include but are not limited to a review of the certifying program's 
provisions for test security, the availability of space and 
facilities to conduct the administrative requirements and ensure

[[Page 82392]]

the security of the tests, the availability of adequate testing 
facilities and spacing of the applicants during testing, a review of 
the proper procedures regarding accountability, and that there is no 
evidence of misconduct on the part of the certifying programs, their 
representatives and proctors, or the applicants for certification.
    If the certifying programs offer training or provide review 
materials to the applicants, these endeavors are to be considered 
completely separate from the administration of the certification 
test.

0
19. Amend subpart F by adding appendix E to read as follows:

Appendix E to Subpart F of Part 82--Test Procedure for Leaks From 
Containers Holding Two Pounds or Less of Refrigerant for Use in an MVAC

    This appendix is based on the California Air Resources Board 
(CARB) standard TP-503: Test Procedure for Leaks from Small Cans of 
Automotive Refrigerant, as amended on January 5, 2010; and CARB 
standard BP-A1: Balance Protocol for Gravimetric Determination of 
Sample Weights using a Precision Balance, as amended January 5, 
2010.

Section 1. Applicability

    This test procedure is used by manufacturers of containers 
holding two pounds or less of refrigerant for use in a motor vehicle 
air conditioner (MVAC) to determine the leakage rate of small 
containers of automotive refrigerant that are subject to the 
requirements of 40 CFR part 82, subpart F. Specifically, this test 
procedure will specify the equipment, procedures, and calculations 
to determine if a container holding two pounds or less of 
refrigerant for use in an MVAC complies with the leakage rate 
specified in Sec.  82.154(c)(2)(ii). All terms in this appendix will 
follow the definitions in Sec.  82.152 unless otherwise defined in 
this appendix.
    All containers holding two pounds or less of refrigerant for use 
in an MVAC must comply with other applicable codes and regulations 
such as local, state, or Federal safety codes and regulations.
    This test procedure involves the use of materials under pressure 
and operations and should only be used by or under the supervision 
of those familiar and experienced in the use of such materials and 
operations. Appropriate safety precautions should be observed at all 
times while performing this test procedure.

Section 2. Principle and Summary of Test Procedure

    This procedure is used to determine the leakage rate of 
containers holding two pounds or less of refrigerant for use in an 
MVAC (small cans). Testing will involve subjecting both full and 
partially empty cans in both upright and inverted positions at two 
temperatures: 73[emsp14][deg]F and 130[emsp14][deg]F.
    Thirty small cans are tested under each condition for a total of 
240 small cans tested. Small cans are brought to temperature 
stability, weighed, then stored for 30 days under specified 
conditions of temperature, orientation, and state of fill, then re-
weighed. Leakage rate (grams/year) is estimated by (weight loss in 
grams) x 365/(days duration). The leakage rate is then compared to a 
standard of 3.00 grams/year to determine if a given small can 
complies with the leakage rate specified in Sec.  82.154(c)(2)(ii).

Section 3. Biases and Interferences

    3.1 Contaminants on the operator's hands can affect the weight 
of the small can and the ability of the small can to absorb 
moisture. To avoid contamination of the small can, the balance 
operator should wear gloves while handling the small cans.
    3.2 Weight determinations can be interfered with by moisture 
condensing on the small can and by thermal currents generated by 
temperature differences between the small can and the room 
temperature. The small cans cool during discharge and could cause 
condensation. For these reasons, small cans must be equilibrated to 
balance room temperature for at least four hours before weighing.
    3.3 Variations in the temperature, pressure, and humidity of the 
ambient air will cause variations in the buoyancy of the small can. 
These variations should typically be less than 25 mg for a small 
can. If the small can is not leaking at all, then the uncorrected 
weight changes will be within the range of 0  25 mg, 
which is about ten percent of the 247 mg loss expected after thirty 
days for a can leaking at 3 g/yr. In that case buoyancy corrections 
can be omitted. If the absolute value of the uncorrected weight 
change exceeds 25 mg, then all calculations must be made using 
weights corrected for buoyancy based on the temperature, pressure, 
and humidity of the weighing room.
    3.4 Some electronic balances are sensitive to the effects of 
small static charges. The small can should be placed directly on the 
balance pan, ensuring metal to metal contact. If the balance pan is 
not grounded, the small can and balance pan should be statically 
discharged before weighing.

Section 4. Sensitivity and Range

    The mass of a full small can could range from roughly 50 g to 
1000 g depending on the container capacity. A top loading balance, 
capable of a maximum weight measurement of not less than 1,000 g and 
having a minimum readability of 0.001 g, reproducibility and 
linearity of  0.002 g, must be used to perform mass 
measurements.

Section 5. Equipment

    5.1 A top loading balance that meets the requirements of Section 
4 above.
    5.2 A NIST traceable working standard mass for balance 
calibration. A NIST traceable working standard mass for a balance 
linearity check. A reference mass to serve as a ``blank'' small can.
    5.3 An enclosure capable of controlling the internal air 
temperature from 73[emsp14][deg]F  5[emsp14][deg]F, and 
an enclosure capable of controlling the internal air temperature to 
130[emsp14][deg]F  5[emsp14][deg]F.
    5.4 A temperature instrument capable of measuring the internal 
temperature of the temperature conditioning enclosures and the 
balance room with a sensitivity of  2[emsp14][deg]F.
    5.5 A barometric pressure instrument capable of measuring 
atmospheric pressure at the location of the balance to within  0.02 inches of mercury.
    5.6 A relative humidity measuring instrument capable of 
measuring the relative humidity (RH) at the location of the balance 
with a sensitivity of  2 percent RH.
    5.7 A hose with appropriate fitting for dispensing refrigerant 
from the small can to a recovery machine.
    5.8 A refrigerant recovery machine to collect the discharged 
refrigerant from small cans being tested.

Section 6. Calibration Procedures

    6.1 Calibrations are applied to the balance and to the support 
equipment such as temperature, humidity, and pressure monitoring 
equipment. Procedures for calibration are not spelled out here. 
General calibration principals for the support equipment and the 
balance are described in Section 11, Quality Assurance/Quality 
Control. Detailed calibration procedures for measurements made using 
the balance are contained in Attachment A: ``Balance Protocol for 
Gravimetric Determination of Sample Weights using a Precision 
Balance.''

Section 7. Small Can Preparation

    7.1 Receive a batch of 240 small cans of one design to be 
tested. These may include several SKUs from different manufacturers 
if the container and valve combination are the same.
    7.2 Clean small cans with Alkanox solution or equivalent and dry 
with a lint free towel.
    7.3 Confirm that the sample ID sticker on the small can matches 
the sample ID on the chain of custody forms.
    7.4 Select a reference mass similar to the weight of a full 
small can. If multiple sets of similar sized small cans are being 
tested, only one reference mass is needed; it can be used with all 
sets. Store the reference mass in the balance area.
    7.5 Evacuate the contents of one half of the small cans (120 
cans) into the refrigerant recovery machine using normal DIY 
dispensing procedures until each small can is approximately half 
full.
    7.6 Select a reference mass similar to the weight of the half-
full small can. If multiple sets of similar size small cans are 
being tested, only one reference mass is needed; it can be used with 
all sets. Store the reference mass in the balance area.

Section 8. Small Can Weighing

    Weighing cans on the balance is done in accordance with 
Attachment A to this appendix. Attachment A describes how to conduct 
weight determinations including appropriate calibration and QC data. 
This section, ``Small Can Weighing,'' describes the overall process, 
not the details of how to use the balance.

Initial Weights

    8.1 Put on gloves. Check the small cans for contamination.
    8.2 Place the 240 small cans into a location where they can 
equilibrate to balance room temperature. Record the small can test 
IDs and the equilibration start time

[[Page 82393]]

on the Small Can Test Data Forms available on EPA's Web site in sets 
of thirty, one form for each of the eight test conditions.
    8.3 Let cans equilibrate for at least four hours.
    8.4 Weigh the set of 240 small cans and the reference weights 
using Attachment A and log the results to the Balance Weighing Log 
Form available on EPA's Web site.
    8.5 Transfer data from the Balance Weighing Log Form to the 
Small Can Test Data Form in sets of 30, one set for each of the 
eight conditions to be tested.

Thirty-Day Soak

    8.6 Place each set of 30 small cans into the appropriate 
orientation and temperature for soaking:

30 full small cans--73[emsp14][deg]F, upright
30 full small cans--73[emsp14][deg]F, inverted
30 full small cans--130[emsp14][deg]F, upright
30 full small cans--130[emsp14][deg]F, inverted
30 half-full small cans--73[emsp14][deg]F, upright
30 half-full small cans--73[emsp14][deg]F, inverted
30 half-full small cans--130[emsp14][deg]F, upright
30 half-full small cans--130[emsp14][deg]F, inverted

    8.7 Soak the small cans for 30 days undisturbed.

Final Weighing

    8.8 Place the 240 small cans into a location where they can 
equilibrate to balance room temperature.
    8.9 Let the small cans equilibrate for at least four hours.
    8.10 Weigh the set of 240 small cans, the reference weights, and 
any additional sets of small cans using Attachment A.
    8.11 Transfer data from the Balance Weighing Log Form to the 
corresponding Small Can Test Data Forms.

Section 9. Calculations

Corrections for Buoyancy

    The calculations in this section are described in terms of 
``weight.'' Mass is a property of the small can, whereas weight is a 
force due to the effects of buoyancy and gravity. Procedures for 
correcting the effect of buoyancy are given in Attachment B of this 
appendix. Ignoring buoyancy, i.e., using weight data uncorrected for 
buoyancy effects, is acceptable for a thirty day test if the 
absolute magnitude of the weight change is less than 25 mg. If the 
uncorrected weight change exceeds 25 mg for any small can, then 
correct all small can weights for buoyancy using the procedures in 
Attachment B before performing the calculations described below.

Calculation of Leak Rate

    The emission rate in grams/day for each small can is calculated 
by subtracting the final weight from the initial weight and then 
dividing the weight difference by the time difference measured in 
days to the nearest hour (nearest 1/24 of a day). The emission rate 
in g/day is multiplied by 365 to determine emission rate in grams/
yr. If the annual emission rate for any small can exceeds the entire 
small can contents, then the annual emission rate for that small can 
is adjusted to equal the entire small can contents/year (e.g., about 
350 g/yr for a 12 ounce small can). The annual emission rate for the 
purpose of the test is calculated by averaging the 240 individual 
adjusted annual emission rates and rounding to two decimal places. 
The cans fail the test if the adjusted annual emission rate averaged 
over 240 cans is greater than 3.00 g/yr. The calculations are 
described below.
    Loss rate for each small can

Eidaily = (Wifinal - Wiinitial)/
(Difinal - Diinitial) g/day
Eiannual = 365 x Eidaily g/year
Eiadjusted = Minimum of (Eiadjusted, Ci/year) 
g/yr

Where,

Ei = emission rate
Wifinal = weight of can i after soaking (grams)
Wiinitial = weight of can I before soaking (grams)
Difinal = date/time of final weight measurements (days)
Diinitial = date/time of initial weight measurements 
(days)
Ci = original factory mass of refrigerant in can i

    Note: Date/Times are measured in days. Microsoft Excel stores 
dates and times in days, and the calculations can be made directly 
in Excel. If calculations are made manually, calculate serial days 
to the nearest hour for each date and time as follows:

D = Julday + Hour/24

Where,

Julday = serial day of the year: Jan 1 = 1, Jan 31 = 31, Feb 1 = 32, 
etc.
Hour = hour of day using 24-hour clock, 0 to 23

    Calculate the average loss rate for the 240 small cans as 
follows:

Emean = [Sum (Eadjustedi), i = 1 to 240]/240

Section 10. Recordkeeping

    During small can weighing, record the small can weights and 
date/times on the Balance Weighing Log Form. After each weighing 
session, transfer the measured weights and date/times from the 
Balance Weighing Log Form to the Small Can Test Data Form.
    At the end of the test, complete the calculations described in 
Section 9, Calculations, and record the results on the Small Can 
Test Data Form.

Section 11. Quality Assurance/Quality Control

    11.1 All temperature, pressure, and humidity instruments should 
be calibrated annually against NIST traceable laboratory standards. 
The main purpose of the NIST traceable calibration is to establish 
the absolute accuracy of the device. The instruments should also be 
checked periodically such as weekly, monthly, or quarterly against 
intermediate standards or against independent instruments. For 
example, a thermocouple can be checked weekly against a wall 
thermometer. A barometer or pressure gauge can be checked weekly by 
adjusting to sea level and comparing with local airport data. The 
main purpose of the frequent checks is to verify that the device has 
not failed in some way. This is especially important for electronic 
devices such as a digital thermometer, but even a liquid filled 
thermometer can develop a problem such as a bubble.
    11.2 The balance should be serviced and calibrated annually by 
an independent balance service company or agency using NIST 
traceable reference masses. Servicing verifies accuracy and 
linearity, and the maintenance performed helps ensure that a 
malfunction does not develop.
    11.3 The balance must also be calibrated and its linearity 
checked with working standards before and after each weighing 
session, or before and after each group of 24 small cans if more 
than 24 small cans are weighed in a session. Procedures for 
calibrating and using the balance, as well as recording balance 
data, are described in the accompanying balance weighing protocol. 
These procedures include zero checks, calibration checks, and 
reference mass checks. Procedures for calculating quality control 
data from those checks are described in Attachment A.
    11.4 The small cans are cleaned then handled using gloves to 
prevent contamination. All equilibration and soaking must be done in 
a dust free area.

Section 12. Balance Protocol for Gravimetric Determination of Sample 
Weights Using a Precision Balance

    12.1 Scope and application
    This Protocol summarizes a set of procedures and tolerances for 
weighing objects in the range of 0 to 1,000 g with a resolution of 
0.001 g. This protocol only addresses balance operations, it does 
not address project requirements for equilibration, sample hold time 
limits, sample collection etc.
    12.2 Summary of method
    The balance is zeroed and calibrated using procedures defined 
herein. Object weight determinations are conducted along with 
control object weight determinations, zero checks, calibration 
checks, sensitivity checks, and replicate weightings in a defined 
sequence designed to control and quantitatively characterize 
precision and accuracy.
    12.3 Definitions
    N/A.
    12.4 Interferences
    Object weights can be affected by temperature and relative 
humidity of their environment, air currents, static electricity, 
gain and loss of water vapor, gain or loss of and loss of volatile 
compounds directly from the sample or from contaminants such as 
finger prints, marker ink, and adhesive tape.
    Contamination, transfer of material to or from the samples, is 
controlled by conducting operations inside a clean area dedicated to 
the purpose and having a filtered laminar air flow where possible; 
by wearing gloves while handling all samples and related balance 
equipment; by using forceps to handle small objects, and by keeping 
the balance and all related equipment inside the clean area.
    Air currents are controlled by conducting weighing operations 
inside a closed chamber or glove box and by allowing the substrates 
to reach temperature and relative humidity equilibrium. The chamber 
is maintained at 40 percent relative humidity and 25 [deg]C by a 
continuous humidity and temperature control system. The temperature 
and RH

[[Page 82394]]

conditions are recorded at least once per weighing sessions. 
Equilibration times for samples that are particularly sensitive to 
humidity or to loss of semi-volatiles species are specified by 
project requirements.
    Static electric charges on the walls of the balance and the 
weighed objects, including samples, controls, and calibration 
weights, can significantly affect balance readings. Static is 
avoided by the operator ground himself and test objects as described 
in the balance manual.
    12.5 Personnel health and safety
    N/A
    12.6 Equipment and supplies
     Filtered, temperature and humidity controlled weighing 
chamber.
     Precision Balance
     Plastic forceps
     Nylon fabric gloves.
     Working calibration weights: ANSI Class 2, 1000g and 
500 g
     Working sensitivity weight: 50 mg
     Reference objects: references are one or more objects 
that are typical of the objects to be weighed during a project, but 
that are stored permanently inside the balance glove box. Reference 
objects are labeled Test1, Test2, Test3, etc.
    12.7 Reagents and standard
    N/A
    12.8 Sample collection, preservation, and storage
    N/A. See relevant project requirements and SOPs.
    12.9 Quality control
    Data quality is controlled by specifying frequencies and 
tolerances for Zero, Calibration, Linearity, and Sensitivity checks. 
If checks do not meet tolerance criteria, then samples must be re-
weighed. In addition, the procedures specify frequencies for Control 
Object Checks.
    Data quality is quantitatively characterized using Zero Check, 
Calibration Check, and Control Check data. These data are summarized 
monthly in statistics and QC charts.
    12.10 Calibration and standardization
    The absolute accuracy of the balance is established by 
calibration against an ANSI Class 2, stainless steel working weight: 
1000.000 g  0.0025 g. Linearity is established checking 
the midpoint against an ANSI Class 2 stainless steel working weight: 
500.000  0.0012 g. Sensitivity is established using and 
ANSI Class 2 stainless steel or aluminum working weight: 50 mg. 
Precision is checked by periodically checking zero, calibration, and 
reference object weights.
    12.11 Procedure
    12.11.1 Overview of Weighing Sequence
    Weighing a series of substrates consists of performing the 
following procedures in sequence, while observing the procedures for 
handling and the procedures for reading the balance:

1. Initial Adjustment
2. Weigh eight samples
3. Zero Check
4. Weigh eight samples
5. Zero Check
6. Weigh eight samples
7. Calibration Check
8. Return to step 2.
9. If less than 24 cans are weighed, perform a final Calibration 
Check at the end of weighing.

    This sequence is interrupted and samples are reweighed if QC 
check tolerances are not met. Each of these procedures along with 
procedures for handling and reading the balance are described below. 
The QC tolerances referred to in these procedures are listed in 
Table 1.
    12.11.2 Handling
    1. Never touch samples, weights, balance pans, etc. with bare 
hands. Wear powder free gloves to handle the weights, controls, and 
samples.
    12.11.3 Reading the Balance
    1. Close the door. Wait for the balance stabilization light to 
come on, and note the reading.
    2. Watch the balance reading for 30 sec (use a clock). If the 
reading has not changed by more than 0.001 g from the reading noted 
in step 1, then record the reading observed at the end of the 30 sec 
period.
    3. If the reading has drifted more than 0.001 g note the new 
balance reading and go to step 2.
    4. If the balance reading is flickering back and forth between 
two consecutive values choose the value that is displayed more often 
than the other.
    5. If the balance reading is flickering equally back and forth 
between two consecutive values choose the higher value.
    12.11.4 Initial Adjustment

1. Empty the sample pan Close the door. Select Range 1000 g
2. Wait for a stable reading
3. Record the reading with QC code IZC (initial zero check)
4. Press the Tare button
5. Record the reading in the logbook with QC code IZA (initial zero 
adjust)
6. Place the 1,000 g working calibration weight on the balance pan
7. Wait for a stable reading.
8. Record the reading with QC code ICC (initial cal check)
9. Press the Calibrate button
10. Record the reading with QC code ICA (initial cal adjust)
11. Remove the calibration weight.
12. Wait for a stable reading.
13. Record the reading with QC code IZC.
14. If the zero reading exceeds  0.002 g, go to step 4.
15. Place the 500 g calibration weight on the balance pan
16. After a stable reading, record the reading with QC code C500. Do 
not adjust the balance.
17. Add the 0.050 g weight to 500 g weight on the balance pan.
18. After a stable reading, record the reading with QC code C0.05. 
Do not adjust the balance.
19. Weigh reference object TEST1, record reading with QC code T1.
20. Weigh the reference object TEST2, TEST3, etc. that is similar in 
weight to the samples that you will be weighing. Record with QC code 
T2, T3, etc.

    12.11.5 Zero Check

1. Empty the sample pan. Close the door.
2. Wait for a stable reading
3. Record the reading with QC code ZC
4. If the ZC reading is less than or equal to the zero adjustment 
tolerance shown in Table 1, return to weighing and do not adjust the 
zero. If the ZC reading exceeded the zero adjustment tolerance, 
proceed with steps 5 through 7.
5. Press the Tare button
6. Record the reading in the logbook with QC code ZA.
7. If the ZC reading exceeded the zero re-weigh tolerance, change 
the QC code recorded in step 3 from ZC to FZC. Then enter a QC code 
of FZ into the QC code column of all samples weights obtained after 
the last valid zero check. Re- weigh all of those samples, recording 
new data in new rows of the logbook.

    12.11.6 Calibration Check

1. First, follow procedures for Zero Check. If the ZC was within 
tolerance, tare the balance anyway (i.e., follow steps 5 and 6 of 
the Zero Check method)
2. Place the 1,000 g working calibration weight on the sample pan, 
wait for a stable reading.
3. Record the reading with QC code C1000
4. If the C1000 reading is less than or equal to the calibration 
adjustment tolerances, skip steps 5 through 8 and proceed to step 9. 
Do not adjust the calibration.
5. If the C100 reading exceeded the calibration adjust tolerance, 
press the Calibrate button.
6. Record the reading in the logbook with QC code CA
7. Perform a Zero Check (follow the Zero Check method)
8. If the C1000 reading exceeded the calibration re-weigh tolerance, 
change the code recorded in step 3 from C1000 to FC1000. Enter FC 
into the QC column for all sample weights obtained after the last 
valid calibration check. Re-weigh all of those samples, recording 
new data in new rows of the logbook.

    12.11.7 Replicate Weighing Check
    1. This protocol does not include reweigh samples to obtain 
replicates. The projects for which this protocol is intended already 
include procedures multiple weightings of each sample.

       Table 1--QC Tolerances and Frequencies for Balance Protocol
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           Reading Tolerance:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.001 g, stable for 30 sec..............................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Adjustment Tolerances:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zero:.....................................  -0.003 to +0.003 g.
Calibration:..............................  999.997 to 1000.003 g.
Controls:.................................  none.
Replicates:...............................  none.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Re-weigh Tolerances:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zero:.....................................  -0.005 to +0.005 g.
Calibration:..............................  999.995 to 1000.005 g.
Controls:.................................  none.
Replicates:...............................  none.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 82395]]

 
                           Reference Objects:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Test 1--A reference object weighing about 400 g.........................
Test 2--A reference object weighing about 200 g.........................
Test 3--A reference object weighing about 700 g.........................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             QC Frequencies:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zero Checks:..............................  once per 8 samples.
Calibration Checks:.......................  once per 24 samples.
Repeat weighings:.........................  none (test method includes
                                             replicate determinations).
Control objects:..........................  once per weighing session.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    12.12 Data analysis and calculations
    For Zero Checks, let Z equal the recorded Zero Check value. For 
control checks let T1, T2, etc. equal the recorded value for control 
object Test 1, Test 2, etc. For Calibration Checks, let C1000 equal 
C1000 reading minus 1000, M = C500--500, S = .C.050--C500--.050. For 
Replicate Checks, let D equal the loss that occurred between the 
first and second measurements. In summary:

T1 = T1
T2 = T2
T3 = T3
Z = ZC--0
C = C1000--1000
M = C500--500
G = C050--C500--.050

    Tabulate the mean and standard deviation for each of the 
following: Z, C, M, G. T1, T2, T3. Depending on the number of 
operators using the balance and the number of protocols in use, 
analyze the data by subcategories to determine the effects of 
balance operator and protocol. Each of these standard deviations, 
SZ, SC, etc. is an estimate of the precision 
of single weight measurement.
    For Z, C, M, and G, check the mean value for statistical 
difference from 0. If the means are statistically different than 
zero, troubleshooting to eliminate bias may be called for. For Z, C, 
M, G, T1, T2, T3, check that the standard deviations are all 
comparable. If there are systematic differences, then 
troubleshooting to eliminate the problem may be called for.
    Note that the precision of a weight gain, involves two weight 
determinations, and therefore is larger than S by a factor of 
sqrt(2). On the other hand replicate weighings improves the 
precision of the determinations by a factor of sqrt(N). If N = 2, 
i.e., duplicates, then the factors cancel each other.
    To estimate the overall uncertainty in a weight determination, a 
conservative estimate might be to combine the imprecision 
contributed by the zero with the imprecision contributed by the 
calibration.

U = Sqrt(SZ\2\ + SC\2\)

    The uncertainty in a weight gain from N replicates is then given 
by:

Ugain = Sqrt(2) x Sqrt(SZ\2\ + 
SC\2\)/Sqrt(N)

    But due to the balance adjustment and reweigh tolerances, we 
expect SZ to approximately equal SC, to 
approximately equal SM, etc. tolerances, so that the 
equation above becomes:

Ugain = 2 x S/Sqrt(N)

Where S is any individual standard deviation; or better, a pooled 
standard deviation.

    12.13 Method performance
    The data necessary to characterize the accuracy and precision of 
this method are still being collected. The method is used primarily 
to weigh objects before and after a period of soaking to determine 
weight loss by subtraction. Given the reweigh tolerances, we expect 
that the precision of weight gain determinations will be on the 
order of 0.006 g at the 1-sigma level. Bias in the weight gain 
determination, due to inaccuracy of the calibration weight and to 
fixed non-linearity of the balance response is on the order 0.005 
percent of the gain.
    12.14 Pollution prevention
    When discharging half the can contents during can preparation, 
do not vent the contents of the small can to the atmosphere. Use an 
automotive recovery machine to transfer small can contest to a 
recovery cylinder.
    12.15 Waste management
    Dispose of the contents of the recycle cylinder through a 
service that consolidates waste for shipment to EPA certified 
facilities for reclaiming or destruction.

Section 13. Compensation of Weight Data for Buoyancy and Gravity 
Effects

    13.1 Gravity
    Variations in gravity are important only when weighing objects 
under different gravitational fields, i.e., at different locations 
or at different heights. Since the balance procedures calibrate the 
balance against a known mass (the calibration ``weight'') at the 
same location where sample objects are weighed, there is no need to 
correct for location. Although both the sample and the calibration 
weight are used at the same location, there will be a difference in 
the height of the center of gravity of the sample object (small can) 
and the center of gravity of the reference mass (calibration 
weight). However, this difference in height is maintained during 
both the initial weights and final weights, affecting the initial 
and final weights by the same amount, and affecting the scale of the 
weight difference by only a few ppm. In any event, the magnitude of 
this correction is on the order of 0.3 ug per kg per mm of height 
difference. A difference on the order of 100 mm would thus yield a 
weight difference of about 0.03 mg, which is insignificant compared 
to our balance resolution which is 0.001 g or 1 mg.
    Based on the discussion above, no corrections for gravity are 
necessary when determining weight changes in small cans.
    13.2 Buoyancy
    Within a weighing session, the difference in density between the 
sample object and the calibration weight will cause the sample 
object weight value to differ from its mass value due to buoyancy. 
For a 1-liter object in air at 20 [deg]C and at 1 atm, the buoyant 
force is about 1.2 g. The volume of a 1 kg object with a density of 
8 g/cm\3\ (e.g., a calibration weight), is about 0.125 liters, and 
the buoyancy force is about 0.15 g. Variations in air density will 
affect both of these values in proportion. The net value being 
affected by variations in air density is thus on the order of 1.2 - 
0.15 = 1.05 g. Air density can vary up or down by 2 percent or more 
due to variations in barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity. 
The buoyancy force will then vary up or down by 0.02 g, or 20 mg. 
This is significant compared to the weight change expected after one 
week for a can leaking at 3 grams per year, which is 57 mg.
    Based on the discussion above, buoyancy corrections must be 
made.
    Variables measured or calculated:

Vcan = volume of can (cm\3\). Estimate to within 10 
percent by measuring the can dimensions or by water displacement. 
Error in the can volume will cause an error in the absolute amount 
of the buoyancy force, but will have only a small effect on the 
change in buoyancy force from day to day.
Wcan = nominal weight of a can (g), used to calculate the 
nominal density of the can.
[rho]can = nominal density of a small can (g/cm\3\). The 
nominal values can be applied to corrections for all cans. It is not 
necessary to calculate a more exact density for each can. Calculate 
once for a full can and once for a half full can as follows:

[rho]can = Wcan /Vcan
T = Temperature in balance chamber (degrees Celsius).
RH = Relative humidity in balance chamber (expressed a number 
between 0 and 100).
Pbaro = Barometric pressure in balance chamber 
(millibar). Use actual pressure, NOT pressure adjusted to sea level.
[rho]air = density of air in the balance chamber (g/
cm\3\). Calculate using the following approximation:
[rho]air = 0.001*[0.348444*Pbaro-(RH/100) x 
(0.252 x T-2.0582)]/(T + 273.15)
[rho]ref = the reference density of the calibration 
weight (g/cm\3\). Should be 8.0 g/cm\3\.
Equation to correct for buoyancy: Wcorrected = 
Wreading x (1--[rho]air/[rho]ref)/
(1--[rho]air/[rho]can)

[FR Doc. 2016-24215 Filed 11-17-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6560-50-P