WASHINGTON - The EPA has issued a final rule setting emission limits for hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) generated by coating processes for wood building products, the NPCA reported. The regulation will affect 215 emissions sources and is designed to reduce emissions from such processes by 63%.

The rule, published May 28 in the Federal Register, allows paint shops and other facilities to meet emissions standards by using coatings with low HAP emissions levels or by installing emissions-control equipment. The rule applies to facilities that produce doors and windows, flooring, interior wall paneling and tileboard, other interior panels, and exterior siding, door-skins, and other wood building products.

Coatings used in such applications include paints, stains, primers, inks, and adhesives. The rule affects facilities that use more than 1,100 gallons of coatings per year. Existing facilities will have three years to comply with the rule's requirements.