[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 227 (Monday, November 25, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 64765-64772]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-25412]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 82

[EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118; FRL-10002-51-OAR]
RIN 2060-AG12


Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Determination 35 for 
Significant New Alternatives Policy Program

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Determination of acceptability.

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SUMMARY: This determination of acceptability expands the list of 
acceptable substitutes pursuant to the U.S. Environmental Protection 
Agency's (EPA) Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program. This 
action lists as acceptable additional substitutes for use in the 
refrigeration and air conditioning sector.

DATES: This determination is applicable on November 25, 2019.

ADDRESSES: The EPA established a docket for this action under Docket ID 
No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 (continuation of Air Docket A-91-42). All 
electronic documents in the docket are listed in the index at 
www.regulations.gov. Although listed in the index, some information is 
not publicly available, i.e., Confidential Business Information (CBI) 
or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. 
Publicly available docket materials are available either electronically 
at www.regulations.gov or in hard copy at the EPA Air Docket (Nos. A-
91-42 and EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118), EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC), William J. 
Clinton West, Room 3334, 1301 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 
20460. The Public Reading Room is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number 
for the Public Reading Room is (202) 566-1744, and the telephone number 
for the Air Docket is (202) 566-1742.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:  Gerald Wozniak by telephone at (202) 
343-9624, by email at wozniak.gerald@epa.gov, or by mail at U.S. 
Environmental Protection Agency, Mail Code 6205T, 1200 Pennsylvania 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460. Overnight or courier deliveries should 
be sent to the office location at 1201 Constitution Avenue NW, 
Washington, DC 20004.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

[[Page 64766]]

Table of Contents

I. Listing of New Acceptable Substitutes: Refrigeration and Air 
Conditioning
    A. R-1224yd(Z)
    B. R-407H
    C. R-448A
    D. R-449A
    E. R-449B
    F. R-453A
II. Clarification of Refrigerated Transport--Refrigerated Trucks and 
Trailers End-Use Category

Appendix A: Summary of Decisions for New Acceptable Substitutes

I. Listing of New Acceptable Substitutes: Refrigeration and Air 
Conditioning

    This action list as acceptable additional substitutes for use in 
several end-uses in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector.
     R-1224yd(Z) in centrifugal and positive displacement 
chillers and industrial process refrigeration (new and retrofit);
     R-407H in multiple refrigeration and air conditioning end-
uses;
     R-448A in ice skating rinks (new equipment);
     R-449A in ice skating rinks (new equipment);
     R-449B in ice skating rinks (new equipment); and
     R-453A in refrigerated transport (new and retrofit).
    EPA's review of certain substitutes listed in this document is 
pending for other uses. Listing in the end-uses and applications in 
this document does not prejudge EPA's listings of these substitutes for 
other end-uses. The substitutes being added through this document to 
the acceptable lists for specific end-uses have a similar or lower risk 
than other substitutes already listed as acceptable in those end-uses. 
However, certain substitutes may have a higher overall risk than 
certain other substitutes already listed as acceptable or acceptable 
subject to restrictions. In such cases, those already-listed 
alternatives have not yet prove feasible in those specific end-uses.
    For additional information on SNAP, visit the SNAP portion of EPA's 
Ozone Layer Protection website at: www.epa.gov/snap. Copies of the full 
lists of acceptable substitutes for ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in 
all industrial sectors are available at www.epa.gov/snap/substitutes-sector. For more information on the Agency's process for administering 
the SNAP program or criteria for evaluation of substitutes, refer to 
the initial SNAP rulemaking published March 18, 1994 (59 FR 13044), 
codified at 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. SNAP decisions and the 
appropriate Federal Register citations are found at: www.epa.gov/snap/snap-regulations. Substitutes listed as unacceptable; acceptable, 
subject to narrowed use limits; or acceptable, subject to use 
conditions are also listed in the appendices to 40 CFR part 82, subpart 
G.
    The sections below discuss each substitute listing in detail. 
Appendix A contains tables summarizing each listing decision in this 
action. The statements in the ``Further Information'' column in the 
tables provide additional information but these are not legally binding 
under section 612 of the Clean Air Act (CAA). Although you are not 
required to follow recommendations in the ``Further Information'' 
column of the table to use a substitute consistent with section 612 of 
the CAA, some of these statements may refer to obligations that are 
enforceable or binding under federal or state programs other than the 
SNAP program. The identification of other enforceable or binding 
requirements should not be construed as a comprehensive list of such 
obligations. In many instances, the information simply refers to 
standard operating practices in existing industry standards and/or 
building codes. When using these substitutes in the identified end-use, 
EPA strongly encourages you to apply the information in the ``Further 
Information'' column. Many of these recommendations, if adopted, would 
not require significant changes to existing operating practices.
    You can find submissions to EPA for the substitutes listed in this 
document, as well as other materials supporting the decisions in this 
action, in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 at www.regulations.gov.

A. R-1224yd(Z)

    EPA's decision: EPA finds R-1224yd(Z) acceptable as a substitute 
for use in:

 Centrifugal chillers (new and retrofit equipment)
 Positive displacement chillers (new and retrofit equipment)
 Industrial process refrigeration (new and retrofit equipment)

    R-1224yd(Z), marketed under the trade name AMOLEATM yd, 
is also known as (Z)-1-chloro-2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene or HCFO-
1224yd(Z) (Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Number [CAS Reg. No.] 
111512-60-8).
    You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Materials for 
Notice 35 Listing of R-1224yd(Z) in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. 
SNAP Submission Received May 12, 2017.'' EPA performed assessments to 
examine the health and environmental risks of this substitute. These 
assessments are available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118:

 ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Centrifugal and Positive 
Displacement Chillers. Substitute: R-1224yd(Z)''
 ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Industrial Process 
Refrigeration. Substitute: R-1224yd(Z)''

    Environmental information: The submitter indicates that according 
to the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology 
(AIST) of Japan R-1224yd(Z) has an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of 
approximately 0.00012 and a 100-year integrated global warming 
potential (GWP) \1\ of about 1.\2\ R-1224yd(Z) is a very short-lived 
substance with an atmospheric lifetime of approximately 20 days.\3\ The 
ODP of R-1224yd(Z) is significantly less than the ODPs for the ODS 
subject to the phase out of production and consumption under 
regulations issued under sections 601-607 of the CAA and consistent 
with Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. 
Under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) defining volatile organic 
compounds (VOC) for the purpose of addressing the development of state 
implementation plans (SIPs) to attain and maintain the National Ambient 
Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), R-1224yd(Z) would be considered a VOC. 
That definition provides that ``any compound of carbon'' which 
``participates in atmospheric photochemical reactions'' is considered a 
VOC unless expressly excluded in that provision based on a 
determination of ``negligible photochemical reactivity.'' Knowingly 
venting or releasing this refrigerant blend is limited by the venting 
prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, codified at 40 CFR 
82.154(a)(1). This substitute is subject to a Toxic Substance Control 
Act (TSCA) section 5(e) Consent Order and any subsequent TSCA section 
5(a)(2) Significant New Use Rule (SNUR).
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    \1\ Unless otherwise stated, all GWPs in this document are 100-
year values from: IPCC, 2007: Climate Change 2007: The Physical 
Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth 
Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 
[Solomon, S., Qin, D., Manning, M., Chen, Z., Marquis, M., Averyt, 
K. B., Tignor M., and Miller, H. L. (eds.)]. Cambridge University 
Press, Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA. This 
document is accessible at www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/ar4/wg1/
en/contents.html.
    \2\ AIST
    \3\ AIST

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[[Page 64767]]

    Flammability information: R-1224yd(Z) is not flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to 
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may 
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. The substitute could 
cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a confined space. 
These potential health effects are common to many refrigerants.
    The Workplace Environmental Exposure Limit (WEEL) committee of the 
Occupational Alliance for Risk Science (OARS) recommends a WEEL for the 
workplace of 1,000 ppm on an eight-hour time-weighted average (8-hr 
TWA) for R-1224yd(Z). EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet 
the WEEL and address potential health risks by following requirements 
and recommendations in the manufacturer's safety data sheet (SDS), in 
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning 
Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 15, and other safety precautions common to 
the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    Comparison to other substitutes in these end-uses: R-1224yd(Z) has 
an ODP of 0.00012, comparable to or less than other listed substitutes 
in these end-uses, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.\4\
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    \4\ Unless otherwise stated, all ODPs in this document are from 
EPA's regulations at appendix A to subpart A of 40 CFR part 82.
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    For centrifugal and positive displacement chillers, R-1224yd(Z)'s 
GWP of about 1 is comparable to or lower than that of other acceptable 
substitutes such as, for new chillers, ammonia absorption, carbon 
dioxide (CO2), and hydrofluoroolefin (HFO)-1336mzz(Z), and 
for new and retrofit chillers, R-450A and R-513A, with GWPs ranging 
from 0 to 630.
    For industrial process refrigeration, R-1224yd(Z)'s GWP of about 1 
is comparable to or lower than that of other acceptable substitutes 
such as, for new equipment, ammonia absorption, and for new and 
retrofit equipment, CO2, R-450A, R-513A and 
hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)-23, with GWPs ranging from 0 to 14,800.
    Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than 
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the 
same end-uses. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with 
the OARS WEEL, ASHRAE 15, and other industry standards, recommendations 
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the 
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    EPA finds R-1224yd(Z) acceptable in the end-uses listed above 
because it does not pose greater overall environmental and human health 
risk than other available substitutes in the centrifugal and positive 
displacement chillers and industrial process refrigeration end-uses.

B. R-407H

    EPA's decision: EPA finds R-407H acceptable as a substitute for use 
in:

 Retail food refrigeration--supermarket systems (new and 
retrofit equipment)
 Retail food refrigeration--refrigerated food processing and 
dispensing equipment (new and retrofit equipment)
 Refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks and trailers \5\ 
(new and retrofit equipment)
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    \5\ See Section II for clarification of this end-use.

    R-407H, marketed under the trade name D407, is a weighted blend of 
52.5 percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane 
(CAS Reg. No. 811-97-2); 32.5 percent HFC-32, which is also known as 
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); and 15 percent HFC-125, which 
is also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6).
    You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Documentation for 
Notice 33 Listing of R-407H in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. SNAP 
Submission Received January 26, 2017.'' EPA performed assessments to 
examine the health and environmental risks of this substitute. These 
assessments are available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118:

 ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Retail Food Refrigeration 
Substitute: R-407H''
 ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Refrigerated Transport 
Substitute: R-407H''

    EPA previously listed R-407H as an acceptable refrigerant in retail 
food refrigeration--remote condensing units (July 21, 2017, 82 FR 
33809).
    Environmental information: R-407H has an ODP of zero. Its 
components, HFC-134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, have GWPs of 1,430; 675; and 
3,500, respectively. If these values are weighted by mass percentage, 
then R-407H has a GWP of about 1,500. The components of R-407H are 
excluded from the definition of VOC under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 
51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain 
NAAQS. Knowingly venting or releasing this refrigerant blend is limited 
by the venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, codified 
at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
    Flammability information: R-407H, as formulated and even 
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not 
flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to 
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may 
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high 
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The 
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a 
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many 
refrigerants.
    The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) has established 
WEELs of 1,000 ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, 
the components of R-407H. The manufacturer of R-407H recommends an 
acceptable exposure limit (AEL) of 1,000 ppm on an 8-hr TWA for the 
blend. EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet each of the AIHA 
WEELs and the manufacturer's AEL and address potential health risks by 
following requirements and recommendations in the manufacturer's SDS, 
in ASHRAE 15, and other safety precautions common to the refrigeration 
and air conditioning industry.
    Comparison to other substitutes in these end-uses: R-407H has an 
ODP of zero, comparable to or lower than the other listed substitutes 
in these end-uses, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
    R-407H's GWP of 1,500 is lower than or comparable to that of 
acceptable substitutes for retail food refrigeration--refrigerated food 
processing and dispensing equipment (new and retrofit), such as a 
number of HFC blends with GWPs in the range of 1,500 to 1,700. The GWP 
of R-407H is higher than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for 
retail food refrigeration--refrigerated food processing and dispensing 
equipment (new and retrofit), including CO2, R-450A, and R-
513A with GWPs ranging from one to 630.
    R-407H's GWP of 1,500 is lower than or comparable to that of 
acceptable substitutes for retail food refrigeration--supermarket 
systems (new and retrofit), such as a number of HFC blends with GWPs in 
the range of 1,500 to 2,630. The GWP of R-407H is higher than the GWPs 
of other acceptable substitutes for retail food refrigeration--
supermarket systems (new and retrofit), including

[[Page 64768]]

CO2, R-450A, and R-513A with GWPs ranging from one to 630.
    R-407H's GWP of 1,500 is lower than or comparable to that of 
acceptable substitutes for refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks 
and trailers such as R-404A, R-507A, and a number of HFC refrigerant 
blends with GWPs in the range of 1,500 to 3,990. R-407H's GWP is higher 
than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for refrigerated 
transport--refrigerated trucks and trailers, including ammonia 
absorption, CO2, R-450A, and R-513A with GWPs ranging from 
zero to 630. Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower 
than flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in 
the same end-uses. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent 
with the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards, 
recommendations in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions 
common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    EPA finds R-407H acceptable in the end-uses listed above because it 
does not pose greater overall environmental and human health risk than 
other available substitutes in the same end-uses.

C. R-448A

    EPA's decision: EPA finds R-448A acceptable as a substitute for use 
in:

 Ice skating rinks (new equipment)

    R-448A, marketed under the trade name Solstice[supreg] N-40, is a 
weighted blend of 26 percent HFC-32, which is also known as 
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); 26 percent HFC-125, which is 
also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); 21 
percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (CAS 
Reg. No. 811-97-2); 20 percent HFO-1234yf, which is also known as 
2,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (CAS Reg. No 754-12-1); and seven percent 
HFO-1234ze(E), which is also known as trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-
ene (CAS Reg. No. 29118-24-9).You may find the redacted submission in 
Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 at www.regulations.gov under the name, 
``Supporting Documentation for Notice 30 Listing of R-448A (N-40) in 
Certain Refrigeration and Air Conditioning End-Uses Submission Received 
May 29, 2014.'' EPA performed an assessment to examine the health and 
environmental risks of this substitute. This assessment is available in 
Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Ice Skating 
Rinks (New Equipment) Substitute: R-448A.''
    EPA previously listed R-448A as an acceptable refrigerant in a 
number of other refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, including 
retrofit use in ice skating rinks (e.g., July 16, 2015, 80 FR 42053; 
October 11, 2016, 81 FR 70029; July 21, 2017, 82 FR 33809; October 4, 
2018, 83 FR 50026).
    Environmental information: R-448A has an ODP of zero. Its 
components, HFC-32, HFC-125, HFC-134a, HFO-1234yf, and HFO-1234ze(E) 
have GWPs of 675; 3,500; 1,430; one to four; 6 7 and one to 
six; \8\ respectively. If these values are weighted by mass percentage, 
then R-448A has a GWP of about 1,390. The components of R-448A are 
excluded from the definition of VOC under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 
51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain 
the NAAQS. Knowingly venting or releasing this refrigerant blend is 
limited by the venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, 
codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
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    \6\ Hodnebrog [Oslash]., Etminan, M., Fuglestvedt, J.S., 
Marston, G., Myhre, G., Nielsen, C.J., Shine, K.P., Wallington, 
T.J.: Global Warming Potentials and Radiative Efficiencies of 
Halocarbons and Related Compounds: A Comprehensive Review, Reviews 
of Geophysics, 51, 300-378, doi:10.1002/rog.20013, 2013
    \7\ Nielsen, O. J., Javadi, M. S., Sulbaek Andersen, M. P., 
Hurley, M. D., Wallington, T. J., Singh, R. Atmospheric chemistry of 
CF3CF=CH2: Kinetics and mechanisms of gas-
phase reactions with Cl atoms, OH radicals, and O3. 
Chemical Physics Letters 439, 18-22, 2007.
    \8\ Hodnebrog et al., 2013 and Atmospheric chemistry of trans-
CF3CH=CHF: products and mechanisms of hydroxyl radical and chlorine 
atom initiated oxidation'', M.S. Javadi, R. S[oslash]ndergaard, O.J. 
Nielsen, M.D., Hurley, and T.J. Wellington, Atmospheric Chemistry 
and Physics Discussions 8, 1069-1088, 2008.
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    Flammability information: R-448A, as formulated and even 
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not 
flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to 
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may 
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high 
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The 
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a 
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many 
refrigerants.
    The AIHA has established WEELs of 1,000 ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-
32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a; 500 ppm for HFO-1234yf; and 800 ppm for HFO-
1234ze(E), the components of R-448A. The manufacturer of R-448A 
recommends an AEL of 890 ppm on an 8-hr TWA for the blend. EPA 
anticipates that users will be able to meet the AIHA WEELs and 
manufacturer's AEL and address potential health risks by following 
requirements and recommendations in the manufacturer's SDS, in ASHRAE 
15, and other safety precautions common to the refrigeration and air 
conditioning industry.
    Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: R-448A has an ODP 
of zero, comparable to or lower than other listed substitutes in this 
end-use, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
    R-448A's GWP of 1,390 is lower than or comparable to that of 
acceptable substitutes for ice skating rinks (new), such as HFC-134a, 
R-407C, and R-507A, with GWPs ranging from 1,430 to 3,990. R-448A's GWP 
is higher than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for ice skating 
rinks (new), including ammonia absorption, CO2, R-450A, and 
R-513A with GWPs ranging from zero to 630.
    Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than 
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the 
same end-use. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with 
the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards, recommendations 
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the 
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    EPA finds R-448A acceptable in the ice skating rinks (new) end-use 
because it does not pose greater overall environmental and human health 
risk than other available substitutes in this end-use.

D. R-449A

    EPA's decision: EPA finds R-449A acceptable as a substitute for use 
in:

 Ice skating rinks (new equipment)

    R-449A, marketed under the trade name Opteon[supreg] XP 40, is a 
weighted blend of 24.3 percent HFC-32, which is also known as 
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); 24.7 percent HFC-125, which is 
also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); 25.7 
percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (CAS 
Reg. No. 811-97-2); and 25.3 percent HFO-1234yf, which is also known as 
2,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (CAS Reg. No. 754-12-1).
    You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Documentation for 
Notice 30 Listing of R-449A (XP40) in Certain Refrigeration and Air 
Conditioning End-Uses. SNAP Submission Received August 6, 2014.'' EPA 
performed an assessment to examine the health and environmental risks 
of this substitute. This assessment is available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-

[[Page 64769]]

2003-0118 ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Ice Skating Rinks (New 
Equipment) Substitute: R-449A.''
    EPA previously listed R-449A as an acceptable refrigerant in a 
number of other refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, including 
retrofit use in ice skating rinks (e.g., July 16, 2015, 80 FR 42053; 
October 11, 2016, 81 FR 70029; July 21, 2017, 82 FR 33809; October 4, 
2018, 83 FR 50026).
    Environmental information: R-449A has an ODP of zero. Its 
components, HFC-32, HFC-125, HFC-134a, and HFO-1234yf, have GWPs of 
675; 3,500; 1,430; and one to four,\9\ respectively. If these values 
are weighted by mass percentage, then R-449A has a GWP of about 1,400. 
The components of R-449A are excluded from the definition of VOC under 
CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of 
SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS. Knowingly venting or releasing 
this refrigerant blend is limited by the venting prohibition under 
section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
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    \9\ Hodnebrog et al., 2013 and Nielsen et al., 2007. Op. cit.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Flammability information: R-449A, as formulated and even 
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not 
flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to 
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may 
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high 
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The 
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a 
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many 
refrigerants.
    The AIHA has established WEELs of 1,000 ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-
32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a and 500 ppm for HFO-1234yf, the components of 
R-449A. The manufacturer of R-449A recommends an AEL of 830 ppm on an 
8-hr TWA for the blend. EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet 
each of the AIHA WEELs and the manufacturer's AEL and address potential 
health risks by following requirements and recommendations in the 
manufacturer's SDS, in ASHRAE 15, and other safety precautions common 
to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: R-449A has an ODP 
of zero, comparable to or lower than the other listed substitutes in 
this end-use, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
    R-449A's GWP of 1,400 is lower than or comparable to that of 
acceptable substitutes for ice skating rinks (new), such as HFC-134a, 
R-407C, and R-507A with GWPs ranging from 1,430 to 3,990. R-449A's GWP 
is higher than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for ice skating 
rinks (new), including ammonia absorption, CO2, R-450A, and 
R-513A with GWPs ranging from zero to 630.
    Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than 
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the 
same end-use. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with 
the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards, recommendations 
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the 
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    EPA finds R-449A acceptable in the ice skating rinks (new) end-use 
because it does not pose greater overall environmental and human health 
risk than other available substitutes in the same end-use.

E. R-449B

    EPA's decision: EPA finds R-449B acceptable as a substitute for use 
in:

 Ice skating rinks (new equipment)

    R-449B, marketed under the trade name Forane[supreg] 449B, is a 
weighted blend of 25.2 percent HFC-32, which is also known as 
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); 24.3 percent HFC-125, which is 
also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); 27.3 
percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (CAS 
Reg. No. 811-97-2); and 23.2 percent HFO-1234yf, which is also known as 
2,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (CAS Reg. No. 754-12-1).
    You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Documentation for 
Notice 32 Listing of R-449B in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. SNAP 
Submission Received October 2, 2015.'' EPA performed an assessment to 
examine the health and environmental risks of this substitute. This 
assessment is available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 ``Risk Screen on 
Substitutes in Ice Skating Rinks (New Equipment) Substitute: R-449B.''
    EPA previously listed R-449B as an acceptable refrigerant in a 
number of other refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, including 
retrofit use in ice skating rinks (e.g., October 11, 2016, 81 FR 70029; 
July 21, 2017, 82 FR 33809; October 4, 2018, 83 FR 50026).
    Environmental information: R-449B has an ODP of zero. Its 
components, HFC-32, HFC-125, HFC-134a, and HFO-1234yf, have GWPs of 
675; 3,500; 1,430; and one to four,\10\ respectively. If these values 
are weighted by mass percentage, then R-449B has a GWP of about 1,410. 
The components of R-449B are excluded from the definition of VOC under 
CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of 
SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS. Knowingly venting or releasing 
this refrigerant blend is limited by the venting prohibition under 
section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ Hodnebrog et al., 2013 and Nielsen et al., 2007. Op. cit.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Flammability information: R-449B, as formulated and even 
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not 
flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to 
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may 
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high 
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The 
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a 
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many 
refrigerants.
    The AIHA has established WEELs of 1,000 ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-
32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a and 500 ppm for HFO-1234yf, the components of 
R-449B. The manufacturer of R-449B recommends an AEL of 865 ppm on an 
8-hr TWA for the blend. EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet 
each of the AIHA WEELs and the manufacturer's AEL and address potential 
health risks by following requirements and recommendations in the 
manufacturer's SDS, in ASHRAE 15, and other safety precautions common 
to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: R-449B has an ODP 
of zero, comparable to or lower than the other listed substitutes in 
this end-use, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
    R-449B's GWP of 1,410 is lower than or comparable to that of 
acceptable substitutes for ice skating rinks (new), such as HFC-134a, 
R-407C, and R-507A with GWPs ranging from 1,430 to 3,990. R-449B's GWP 
is higher than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for ice skating 
rinks (new), including ammonia absorption, CO2, R-450A, and 
R-513A with GWPs ranging from zero to 630.

[[Page 64770]]

    Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than 
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the 
same end-use. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with 
the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards, recommendations 
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the 
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    EPA finds R-449B acceptable in the ice skating rinks (new) end-use 
because it does not pose greater overall environmental and human health 
risk than other available substitutes in this end-use.

F. R-453A

    EPA's decision: EPA finds R-453A acceptable as a substitute for use 
in:

 Refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks and trailers \11\ 
(new and retrofit equipment)

    \11\ See Section II for clarification of this end-use.

    R-453A, marketed under the trade name RS-70, is a weighted blend of 
53.8 percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane 
(CAS Reg. No. 811-97-2); 20.0 percent HFC-32, which is also known as 
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); and 20 percent HFC-125, which 
is also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); 
five percent HFC-227ea, which is also known as 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-
heptafluoropropane (CAS Reg. No. 75-28-5); 0.6 percent R-600, which is 
also known as butane (CAS Reg. No. 75-28-5); and 0.6 percent R-601a, 
which is also known as isopentane (CAS Reg. No. 78-78-4).
    You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Documentation for 
Notice 33 Listing of R-453A in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. SNAP 
Submission Received March 12, 2015.'' EPA performed an assessment to 
examine the health and environmental risks of this substitute. This 
assessment is available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 ``Risk Screen on 
Substitutes in Refrigerated Transport--Substitute: R-453A.''
    EPA previously listed R-453A as an acceptable refrigerant in a 
number of other refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, including 
use in retail food refrigeration--remote condensing units, industrial 
process refrigeration, and cold storage warehouses (July 21, 2017, 82 
FR 33809).
    Environmental information: R-453A has an ODP of zero. Its 
components, HFC-134a, HFC-32, HFC-125, HFC-227ea, butane, and 
isopentane have GWPs of 1,430; 675; 3,500; 3,220; 4; and 5, 
respectively. If these values are weighted by mass percentage, then R-
453A has a GWP of about 1,770. Except for butane and isopentane, which 
together make up 1.2 percent of the blend, the components of R-453A are 
excluded from the definition of VOC under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 
51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain 
the NAAQS.\12\ Knowingly venting or releasing this refrigerant blend is 
limited by the venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, 
codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \12\ EPA's analysis of the local air quality impacts of 
potential emissions of HCs when used as refrigerant substitutes in 
all end-uses in the refrigeration and AC sector estimated that 
saturated HCs, such as butane and isopentane, have little impact on 
local air quality. 81 FR at 86792; December 1, 2016.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Flammability information: R-453A, as formulated and even 
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not 
flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to 
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may 
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high 
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The 
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a 
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many 
refrigerants.
    For the components of R-453A, AIHA has established WEELs of 1,000 
ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-134a, HFC-32, HFC-125, and HFC-227ea, and 
the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) 
has established a Threshold Limit Value (TLV) of 1,000 ppm for R-600 
and a TLV of 600 ppm for R-601a, both as an 8-hr TWA. The manufacturer 
of R-453A recommends an AEL of 1,000 ppm on an 8-hr TWA for the blend. 
EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet each of the AIHA WEELs, 
the ACGIH's TLVs, and the manufacturer's AEL and address potential 
health risks by following requirements and recommendations in the 
manufacturer's SDS, in ASHRAE 15, and other safety precautions common 
to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: R-453A has an ODP 
of zero, comparable to or lower than the other listed substitutes in 
this end-use, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
    R-453A's GWP of 1,770 is lower than or comparable to that of 
acceptable substitutes for refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks 
and trailers such as R-404A, R-507A, and a number of HFC refrigerant 
blends with GWPs in the range of 1,770 to 3,990. R-453A's GWP is higher 
than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for refrigerated 
transport--refrigerated trucks and trailers, including ammonia 
absorption, CO2, R-450A, and R-513A with GWPs ranging from 
zero to 630.
    Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than 
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the 
same end-uses. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with 
the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards, recommendations 
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the 
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
    EPA finds R-453A acceptable in the refrigerated transport--
refrigerated trucks and trailers end-use because it does not pose 
greater overall environmental and human health risk than other 
available substitutes in this end-use.

II. Clarification of Refrigerated Transport--Refrigerated Trucks and 
Trailers End-Use Category

    In this action, EPA is listing multiple refrigerants as acceptable 
substitutes in the ``refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks and 
trailers'' end-use category. EPA first introduced this end-use category 
in prior listings for the refrigerants R-452A and R-452C (July 21, 
2017, 82 FR 33809). In response to a request for clarification, we are 
providing a more thorough description of the types of equipment 
included in the refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks and 
trailers end-use category. As previously specified, this end-use 
category covers a subset of on-road vehicles, i.e., refrigerated trucks 
and trailers with a separate autonomous refrigeration unit with the 
condenser typically located at the front of a refrigerated trailer. 
This end-use category also covers domestic trailer refrigeration units 
that contain an integrated motor (i.e., does not require a separate 
electrical power system or separate generator set to operate) that are 
transported as part of a truck, on truck trailers, and on railway flat 
cars. Other types of containers, such as sea-going ones that are 
connected to a ship's electrical system or require a separate generator 
that is not an integral part of the refrigeration unit to operate, are 
not included. This end-use category also does not include (i) 
refrigerated vans or other vehicles where a single system also supplies 
passenger comfort cooling,

[[Page 64771]]

(ii) refrigerated containers that are less than 8 feet 4 inches in 
width, (iii) refrigeration units used on containers that require a 
separate generator to power the refrigeration unit, or (iv) ship holds.

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 82

    Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure, 
Air pollution control, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    Dated: October 31, 2019.
Christopher Grundler,
Director, Office of Atmospheric Programs.

Appendix A: Summary of Decisions for New Acceptable Substitutes

                                       Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            End-use                   Substitute               Decision              Further information \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Centrifugal chillers (new and   R-1224yd(Z)...........  Acceptable............  R-1224yd(Z) has an ozone
 retrofit equipment).                                                            depletion potential (ODP) of
                                                                                 approximately 0.00012 and a 100-
                                                                                 yr global warming potential
                                                                                 (GWP) of approximately 1. R-
                                                                                 1224yd(Z) is also known as (Z)-
                                                                                 1-chloro-2,3,3,3-
                                                                                 tetrafluoropropene (CAS Reg.
                                                                                 No. 111512-60-8).
                                                                                R-1224yd(Z) is not flammable.
                                                                                The Occupational Alliance for
                                                                                 Risk Science (OARS) recommends
                                                                                 a Workplace Environmental
                                                                                 Exposure Limit (WEEL) of 1,000
                                                                                 ppm on an eight-hour time-
                                                                                 weighted average (8-hr TWA) for
                                                                                 R-1224yd(Z).
Ice skating rinks (new          R-448A................  Acceptable............  R-448A has a 100-yr GWP of
 equipment).                                                                     approximately 1,390. This
                                                                                 substitute is a blend of HFC-32
                                                                                 which is also known as
                                                                                 difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No.
                                                                                 75-10-5); HFC-125, which is
                                                                                 also known as 1,1,1,2,2-
                                                                                 pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No.
                                                                                 354-33-6); HFC-134a, which is
                                                                                 also known as 1,1,1,2-
                                                                                 tetrafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No.
                                                                                 811-97-2); HFO-1234yf, which is
                                                                                 also known as 2,3,3,3-
                                                                                 tetrafluoro-prop-l-ene (CAS
                                                                                 Reg. No. 754-12-1); and HFO-
                                                                                 1234ze(E) which is also known
                                                                                 as trans-1,3,3,3-
                                                                                 tetrafluoroprop-l-ene (CAS Reg.
                                                                                 No. 29118-24-9).
                                                                                The blend is nonflammable.
                                                                                The American Industrial Hygiene
                                                                                 Association (AIHA) has
                                                                                 established WEELs of 1,000 ppm
                                                                                 on an 8-hr TWA basis for HFC-
                                                                                 32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a; 500
                                                                                 ppm for HFO-1234yf; and 800 ppm
                                                                                 for HFO-1234ze(E). The
                                                                                 manufacturer recommends an
                                                                                 acceptable exposure limit (AEL)
                                                                                 for the workplace for R-448A of
                                                                                 890 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Ice skating rinks (new          R-449A................  Acceptable............  R-449A has a 100-year GWP of
 equipment).                                                                     approximately 1,400. This
                                                                                 substitute is a blend of HFC-32
                                                                                 (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); HFC-125
                                                                                 (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); HFC-
                                                                                 134a (CAS Reg. No. 811-97-2);
                                                                                 and HFO-1234yf (CAS Reg. No.
                                                                                 754-12-1).
                                                                                The blend is nonflammable.
                                                                                The AIHA has established WEELs
                                                                                 of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
                                                                                 32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a; and
                                                                                 500 ppm for HFO-1234yf. The
                                                                                 manufacturer recommends an AEL
                                                                                 for the workplace for R-449A of
                                                                                 830 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Ice skating rinks (new          R-449B................  Acceptable............  R-449B has a 100-year GWP of
 equipment).                                                                     approximately 1,410. This
                                                                                 substitute is a blend of HFC-32
                                                                                 (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); HFC-125
                                                                                 (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); HFC-
                                                                                 134a (CAS Reg. No. 811-97-2);
                                                                                 and HFO-1234yf (CAS Reg. No.
                                                                                 754-12-1).
                                                                                The blend is nonflammable.
                                                                                The AIHA has established WEELs
                                                                                 of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
                                                                                 32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a; and
                                                                                 500 ppm for HFO-1234yf. The
                                                                                 manufacturer recommends an AEL
                                                                                 for the workplace for R-449B of
                                                                                 865 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Industrial process              R-1224yd(Z)...........  Acceptable............  R-1224yd(Z) has an ODP of
 refrigeration (new and                                                          approximately 0.00012 and a GWP
 retrofit equipment).                                                            of approximately 1. R-1224yd(Z)
                                                                                 is also known as (Z)-1-chloro-
                                                                                 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (CAS
                                                                                 Reg. No. 111512-60-8).
                                                                                R-1224yd(Z) is not flammable.
                                                                                The OARS recommends a WEEL of
                                                                                 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for R-
                                                                                 1224yd(Z).
Positive Displacement chillers  R-1224yd(Z)...........  Acceptable............  R-1224yd(Z) has an ODP of
 (new and retrofit equipment).                                                   approximately 0.00012 and a GWP
                                                                                 of approximately 1. R-1224yd(Z)
                                                                                 is also known as (Z)-1-chloro-
                                                                                 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (CAS
                                                                                 Reg. No. 111512-60-8).
                                                                                R-1224yd(Z) is not flammable.
                                                                                The OARS recommends a WEEL of
                                                                                 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for R-
                                                                                 1224yd(Z).
Refrigerated transport--        R-407H................  Acceptable............  R-407H has a 100-year GWP of
 refrigerated trucks and                                                         approximately 1,500. This
 trailers (new and retrofit                                                      substitute is a blend of HFC-
 equipment).                                                                     134a (CAS Reg. No.811-97-2);
                                                                                 HFC-32 (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5);
                                                                                 and HFC-125 (CAS Reg. No. 354-
                                                                                 33-6).
                                                                                This blend is nonflammable.
                                                                                The AIHA has established WEELs
                                                                                 of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
                                                                                 134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125. The
                                                                                 manufacture recommends an AEL
                                                                                 for the workplace for R-407H of
                                                                                 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA).

[[Page 64772]]

 
Refrigerated transport--        R-453A................  Acceptable............  R-453A has a 100-year GWP of
 refrigerated trucks and                                                         approximately 1,770. This
 trailers (new and retrofit                                                      substitute is a blend of HFC-
 equipment).                                                                     32, which is also known as
                                                                                 difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No.
                                                                                 75-10-5); HFC-125, which is
                                                                                 also known as 1,1,1,2,2-
                                                                                 pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No.
                                                                                 354-33-6); HFC-134a, which is
                                                                                 also known as 1,1,1,2-
                                                                                 tetrafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No.
                                                                                 811-97-2); HFC-227ea, which is
                                                                                 also known as 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-
                                                                                 heptafluoropropane (CAS Reg.
                                                                                 No. 439-89-0); R-600, which is
                                                                                 also known as butane (CAS Reg.
                                                                                 No. 75-28-5); and R-601a, which
                                                                                 is also known as isopentane
                                                                                 (CAS Reg. No. 78-78-4).
                                                                                The blend is nonflammable.
                                                                                The AIHA has established WEELs
                                                                                 of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
                                                                                 32, HFC-125, HFC-134a, and HFC-
                                                                                 227ea, and the American
                                                                                 Conference of Governmental
                                                                                 Industrial Hygienists has
                                                                                 established a Threshold Limit
                                                                                 Value (TLV) of 1,000 ppm for R-
                                                                                 600 and a TLV of 600 ppm for R-
                                                                                 601a, both as an 8-hr TWA. The
                                                                                 manufacturer recommends an AEL
                                                                                 for the workplace for R-453A of
                                                                                 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Retail food refrigeration--     R-407H................  Acceptable............  R-407H has a 100-year GWP of
 refrigerated food processing                                                    approximately 1,500. This
 and dispensing equipment (new                                                   substitute is a blend of HFC-
 and retrofit equipment).                                                        134a (CAS Reg. No.811-97-2);
                                                                                 HFC-32 (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5);
                                                                                 and HFC-125 (CAS Reg. No. 354-
                                                                                 33-6).
                                                                                This blend is nonflammable.
                                                                                The AIHA has established WEELs
                                                                                 of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
                                                                                 134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125. The
                                                                                 manufacture recommends an AEL
                                                                                 for the workplace for R-407H of
                                                                                 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Retail food refrigeration--     R-407H................  Acceptable............  R-407H has a 100-year GWP of
 supermarket systems (new and                                                    approximately 1,500. This
 retrofit equipment).                                                            substitute is a blend of HFC-
                                                                                 134a (CAS Reg. No.811-97-2);
                                                                                 HFC-32 (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5);
                                                                                 and HFC-125 (CAS Reg. No. 354-
                                                                                 33-6).
                                                                                This blend is nonflammable.
                                                                                The AIHA has established WEELs
                                                                                 of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
                                                                                 134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125. The
                                                                                 manufacture recommends an AEL
                                                                                 for the workplace for R-407H of
                                                                                 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Observe recommendations in the manufacturer's SDS and guidance for all listed refrigerants.


[FR Doc. 2019-25412 Filed 11-22-19; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6560-50-P


