A recent amendment of Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) requires the EPA to label ten high priority chemicals for risk assessment. These ten high priority chemicals will be investigated starting December 22, 2016 and finished by mid-June 2017. This legislation also gives the EPA deadlines for the completion of additional risk assessments.
TSCA has completed risk assessments for various chemicals including trichloroethylene (TCE) used in spot cleaning, and methylene chloride (MC) used in adhesives, paint stripping and aerosols. A draft risk assessment for 1-bromopropane (1-BP) which is used in spot cleaners, aerosol cleaners, and degreasing materials is currently being completed. The risk assessments include detailed information on human exposure and hazard risk. TCE is a confirmed carcinogen and linked to developmental toxicity. MC is linked to neurotoxicity and cancer. In chronic exposure 1-BP is thought to cause developmental toxicity and cancer.
Chemicals from common household items could be listed by EPA. Some examples previously linked for probable health risks that may be investigated are:
* tetrachloroethylene (PERC) used in spot removers and water repellents
* p-chlorobenzene found in moth balls and deodorant blocs
* 1,1,2-trichloroethane used in the synthesis of plastic wraps
* diethylhydroxylamine (DEHA) found in PVC and plastic wrap
* phthalates found in plastics
* bisphenol A (BPA) found in plastics and receipt paper
* asbestos
* chlorinated phosphate flame retardants
Paying close attention to risk assessments and problem formulations will help prevent potentially hazardous environments.
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