P2 in Auto Body & Auto Repair
AUTO BODY
Paints, and paint strippers and cleaners used in auto body shops can be harmful to human health and the environment. It is important for owners and technicians to be aware of the health dangers of the products they’re using as well as viable options that exist for functional safer alternatives.
PPRC provides the following opportunities and assistance to auto body shops in EPA Region 10.
Spray efficiency trainings [link to spray page]
Promoting the transition from solvent-based paints to water-borne [link to waterborne page]
AUTO REPAIR
Solvents and degreasers, lubricants, anti-freeze, wheel cleaners, and other chemicals used in auto repair, can also pose harm to human health and the environment. There are many pollution prevention opportunities within the auto repair sector.
PPRC offers green business certification (via Ecobiz) for Auto Repair Shops in Oregon, however all shops can benefit from using the Ecobiz checklist and guide (downloadable here).
See PPRC’s interesting blog [link] and a success story [link] on alternatives to parts cleaning with solvents, utilizing ultrasonic and enzymatic cleaning.
Additional Resources (Updates and new topics are pending in 2022)
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Best Management Practices for Parts Cleaning –provides information on best management practices for parts cleaners (aka parts washers) as it relates to preparation, operations, and disposal of solvent in the washer.
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Parts Washers Comparison – Includes information on the advantages and disadvantages of several types of parts cleaners. This document, will be updated in the near future to include enzymatic parts washers.
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Floor Cleanup – Includes information on best management practices in floor cleanup and compliance rules and regulations in the state of Washington.
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Antifreeze Choices –minimize impacts of antifreeze use as it pertains to human health and the environment.
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Safer Alternatives in the Auto Repair Industry – Webinar featuring best practices from auto repair facilities including the City of Seattle, Seattle City Light, and Swedish Automotive, along with guidance from the Washington State Department of Ecology.