Credit Updates and CARB VOC Limit Alternative Interpretation

I have positive news to share with regards to this credit. The October, 2013 batch of LEED Interpretations included use of the CARB 2007 Suggested Control Measure (SCM) for Architectural Coatings as an alternative to the paint and coating categories listed in the original credit language. Why this is important: The CARB SCM is incorporated by reference in the IgCC, CALGreen, ICC-700, in a CHPS technical update and an upcoming ASHRAE 189.1 update. It is the basis for near future state regulations in the Northeast. Use of the CARB 2007 SCM categories and table of standards in LEED 2009 will help assure consistency with jurisdictional regulatory, code and standard requirements. Essentially, it becomes a one stop shop for project teams trying to navigate conformance with multiple standards. As an added benefit, most of the category VOC limits are lower than in the original credit language. The Interpretation is available in the new USGBC Credit Library structure or direct at this location: http://www.usgbc.org/leed-interpretations?keys=10295 The SCAQMD Rule 1113 Rule 2004 categories and limits may still be utilized, however, the category definitions, names and limits are not always consistent with the CARB 2007 SCM. GBCI staff is aware that every category and limit from both referenced standards are available for demonstration of credit conformance. The Applicable VOC Limits table is still simplified, but it includes clarifications on the scope of GS-11 and GC-03 as incorporated by reference. Specialty products, including high-performance primers and industrial maintenance coatings, can be drawn from the full Table of Standards in Rule 1113 (January 1, 2004 column) or the CARB 2007 SCM. Revised Table 1: http://www.usgbc.org/sites/default/files/BDC%20IDC%20IEQc4.2%20Table%201.pdf All of the original reference standards, including the 2004 version of SCAQMD Rule 1113, are located in the Credit Library: http://www.usgbc.org/node/1732511?view=resources The CARB 2007 SCM is readily available through the ARB website at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/coatings/arch/Approved_2007_SCM.pdf If you want a serious overdose of information about the three yearlong CARB rulemaking process, the main page is at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/coatings/arch/docs.htm I hope this interpretation and easy availability of referenced standards is a help to project teams.