On October 31, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) introduced a proposed risk management rule under Section 6 of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), aiming to prohibit most applications of Trichloroethylene (TCE) within one year after the final rule’s publication. Despite offering an extended transition period, the proposed rule prioritizes near-term worker protections to minimize exposures. The deadline for public comments on this proposal is set for December 15, 2023.
TCE, a volatile organic compound utilized in a broad spectrum of commercial and consumer products, including adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings, and applications in the automotive, transportation, security, and defense industries, is associated with significant non-cancer health effects. These effects include toxicity on organs such as the liver and kidney, reproductive and developmental toxicity, immune system impacts, neurotoxicity, and carcinogenicity through all exposure routes.
Due to its adverse health effects, TCE is subject to various federal laws and regulations in the United States. In a proactive measure, the EPA is taking actions to prevent the increasing contamination of soil and groundwater by TCE.
To address potential risks, the EPA’s proposed rule seeks to prohibit all manufacturing, including industrial and commercial imports, processing, and distribution of TCE. Additionally, it aims to restrict the disposal of TCE, providing a time-limited exemption for cleanup projects, and introduces recordkeeping and downstream notification requirements. The EPA asserts that within the proposed one-year timeframe, the majority of individuals likely to be exposed to TCE, including workers, consumers, and communities, would be protected.
In response to these regulatory developments, Compliance XL offers TCE compliance consulting services, assisting companies in declaration collections, and maintaining up-to-date supplier certificates as part of their comprehensive compliance data management strategy.
FAQs
1.What are the potential health risks of TCE?
TCE is highly toxic chemical known to cause serious health risks including cancer, neurotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity.
2.What are the few applications of TCE?
TCE is utilized in cleaning and furniture care products. It is also part of degreasers, brake cleaners, and tire repair sealants.
