OTC FAQs

What is the Ozone Transport Commission (OTC)?

  • Multi-state organization responsible for advising EPA on regional solutions to reduce air pollution.
  • OTC members: Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Virginia.

Why is the OTC developing regulations?

  • Pollution generated in the Midwest drifts to the east causing high levels of pollutants.
  • EPA has mandated strict air quality standards for the Northeast Region that currently are not being met.
  • OTC has amended one Model Rule and developed another to address this issue.
  • Model Rules are based on regulations currently in effect in California.
  • Purpose: To reduce VOC emissions through sale and manufacture restrictions that limit the VOC content of specified adhesives, sealants and primers sold in each state.

Which Model Rules will specifically affect ITW Polymers Sealants finished products?

  • Model Rule for Consumer Products
  • Most Northeast states already have a consumer regulation in effect
  • Amendments were proposed to further reduce VOC emissions
  • Model Rule for Adhesives and Sealants
  • New rule implementing VOC limits on adhesives and sealants depending on application.

What is a Consumer Adhesive Product?

  • Consumer Product Definition: a chemically formulated product used by household and institutional consumers including, but not limited to, detergents, cleaning compounds, polishes, floor finishes, cosmetics, personal care products, home, lawn and garden products, disinfectants, sanitizers, aerosol paints, and automotive specialty products. Includes Aerosol Adhesives used for consumer, industrial or commercial uses.
  • Contact adhesives – one (1) gallon or less
  • Other Adhesives – 16 fluid ounces or less or one (1) pound or less
  • Maximum VOC content in percent (%) by weight
  • Banned Substances:
    • Methylene Chloride
    • 1,1,1-Trichloroethylene
    • Perchloroethylene