In a critical move to protect public health and the environment, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a draft risk evaluation for the flame retardant Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP). This assessment, part of the agency's duty under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), signals potential hazards associated with TCEP, marking it as a high-priority substance for regulatory action.
Key Findings of the EPA's Evaluation
The EPA's preliminary findings highlight TCEP's unreasonable risk to human health and the environment, using the best available science. This chemical, commonly used in paints, coatings, aerospace applications, and other products, is linked to serious health issues like kidney cancer and various developmental and neurological effects.
Despite a significant decrease in U.S. production since 2014, TCEP's continued use in specific sectors raises concerns, particularly due to its ability to leach into the environment. The risk evaluation underscores the chemical's presence in water, soil, and air, resulting from both manufacturing processes and product degradation.
Risks to Specific Populations
The EPA's assessment points to heightened risks for workers, consumers, and certain subpopulations. Workers face increased risk due to inhalation and dermal exposures, with a critical look at the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and workplace safety practices. Consumers, particularly infants and children, might be at risk from breathing or ingesting TCEP emitted from various household items.
Furthermore, the evaluation sheds light on the risks to subsistence fishers and Tribal populations, who rely heavily on fish for sustenance and cultural practices. These groups face a higher risk due to TCEP accumulation in aquatic environments.
Public Engagement and Next Steps
The EPA is actively seeking public engagement on this issue. Comments and additional exposure data can be submitted via docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2023-0265 at www.regulations.gov for a 60-day period following the Federal Register notice publication. The agency also plans a letter peer review process involving independent scientific and technical experts, with a public call for nominations and a virtual preparatory meeting scheduled for 5 March 2024.
The EPA intends to use the feedback from this process to inform the final risk evaluation. If the final assessment confirms the unreasonable risks associated with TCEP, the agency will quickly develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to safeguard public health and the environment.
