The method of choice for safety markings and layout lines in the construction industry is to use aerosol paint, otherwise known as "spray" paint. Volatile organic compound (VOC) limits for aerosol paints appear to be specifically excluded from Green Seal Standard GS-11 and the South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1113. Because VOC limits for aerosol paints are not specified by the reference standards or the USGBC LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide, please clarify: Are such aerosol "spray" paints excluded from the scope of EQ Credit 4.2?
The project team is seeking guidance on whether aerosol "spray" paint is included in the scope of this credit. As noted in the inquiry, aerosol paints are not specifically identified in Green Seal Standard GS-11 and the South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1113. The product can therefore be excluded from this credit. Note, that while not a new requirement, please consider that the Environmental Protection Agency does have a new standard in place for aerosol coatings, EPA 40 CFR Parts 51 and 59: National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standards for Aerosol Coatings (effective December 13, 2007). Applicable Internationally.