EPA Begins Process to Prioritize Five Chemicals for Risk Evaluation Under Toxic Substances Control Act

Summary:

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has begun the process to prioritize five toxic chemicals for risk evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The five chemicals identified for priority evaluation are:

1. Acetaldehyde
2. Acrylonitrile
3. Benzenamine
4. 4,4'-Methylene bis(2-chloroaniline) (MBOCA)
5. Vinyl Chloride

These chemicals were selected from the 2014 TSCA Work Plan, which identified chemicals for further assessment based on their hazards and potential for exposure. The EPA will conduct a 12-month prioritization process, during which it will review the hazard and exposure potential of each chemical, including its use, storage, and potential impact on susceptible sub-populations. If designated as High Priority Substances, the EPA will begin risk evaluations for these chemicals. Public comments on these chemicals are invited for a 90-day period. The EPA aims to create a sustainable and effective pace for risk evaluations, prioritizing five chemicals every year.