The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today the release of a draft risk evaluation for formaldehyde, initiating a public comment and peer review period under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This evaluation preliminarily identifies formaldehyde as a potential unreasonable risk to human health, though it notes that risks vary and are subject to uncertainties.
Sources and Health Impacts of Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a common environmental compound, produced naturally and through human activities. It emanates from the decay of organic materials, combustion processes, and is used in manufacturing various consumer goods. Its presence in both indoor and outdoor environments leads to widespread exposure, which at high levels can cause a range of health issues, from sensory irritation to serious conditions like cancer.
Scope of the EPA’s Risk Evaluation
The EPA's draft specifically assesses formaldehyde risks from TSCA-regulated product use, excluding biogenic sources and certain excluded products. The evaluation covered 62 conditions of use across different life stages and exposure scenarios, aiming to discern the contribution of commercial formaldehyde sources to the overall risk profile.
Key Findings on Formaldehyde Risks
The draft highlights that the greatest risk of formaldehyde exposure occurs in workplaces where it is used without protective measures. Consumers frequently using products containing formaldehyde and those living near industrial sources also face heightened risks. Despite these findings, the EPA indicates that environmental risks from formaldehyde are minimal, due to its transient nature in natural settings.
Public Participation and Review Process
The EPA invites public commentary on the draft for a 60-day period through the docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2023-0613 at www.regulations.gov. The document will also be reviewed by the EPA’s Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC), with a virtual public meeting scheduled for 20-23 May 2024, to further discuss the evaluation. A preparatory public meeting on 7 May aims to clarify the draft's scope and questions.
