This page last reviewed January 24, 2008

The Air Resources Board's Coatings Program is to provide suggested control measures that act as model rules to assist the districts in the rule development process and to develop airborne toxic control measures to reduce the public health impacts from toxics in coatings. Developing, adopting and enforcing rules and regulations that will control these emissions is primarily the responsibility of the local air districts.

• What Are Organic Coatings?
  Organic coatings are materials that are applied to protect or beautify a surface. Coatings include, but are not limited to: paints, varnishes, stains, industrial maintenance coatings and they can be applied to stationary and/or mobile sources. When applied, the solvents in organic coatings can evaporate into the atmosphere and contribute to volatile organic compound and airborne toxic emissions.

• What Are Inorganic Coatings?
  Inorganic coatings are generally metallic materials that can provide corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and functional capabilities, such as thermal insulation. Inorganic coatings can also generate toxic emissions when metal particles are released during the spraying process.