EPA Science Advisory Committee Reviews Formaldehyde Risk Evaluation

Background

Formaldehyde is a widely used chemical in various industries, but its potential health risks have been a concern for many years. The EPA's draft risk evaluation aims to assess these risks comprehensively. The SACC, established under the Federal Advisory Committee Act and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), provides scientific advice to the EPA Administrator on chemicals and chemical-related issues.

Key Discussion Points

1. Human Health Hazard
   • The human health hazard section of the evaluation focused on both acute and chronic non-cancer impacts of formaldehyde exposure. The committee emphasised the need for thorough documentation of key studies and a clear rationale for the points of departure (PODs) used in the risk assessment.
   • Sensory irritation as a POD for acute inhalation was a significant topic of debate. Some members questioned its validity as an adverse effect, while others noted its potential to impact normal functioning in occupational settings.
2. Water and Land Pathway
   • The committee highlighted the importance of considering formaldehyde degradation products in the environmental risk assessment. They recommended robust monitoring data and model validation to ensure accurate exposure assessments.
   • Aggregate environmental exposure and probabilistic risk assessments were suggested to enhance understanding and management of formaldehyde's environmental impacts.
3. Occupational Assessment
   • Detailed data on workers' tasks and movements were recommended to improve occupational exposure assessments. Integration of data from OSHA and other sources was also advised.
   • The committee stressed the need for a unified approach to both cancer and non-cancer effects in occupational settings, considering the best available science for dose-response evaluations.
4. Consumer Assessment
   • The committee recommended conservative exposure estimates and expanded scenarios to better capture long-term and aggregate risks to consumers.
   • The inclusion of chronic exposure assessments and a more thorough discussion of uncertainties related to formaldehyde sources were suggested to enhance the robustness of the consumer risk evaluation.
5. Indoor Air Assessment
   • Comprehensive evaluation of indoor sources of formaldehyde and the impact of recent emission standards were discussed. The committee supported ongoing monitoring to ensure regulatory measures are effective.
   • The importance of using existing data for exposure factors and applying probabilistic models to handle aggregated exposure scenarios was emphasised.
6. Ambient Outdoor Air Assessment
   • The committee noted that indoor sources might pose a greater relative risk compared to industrial emissions. Enhanced environmental monitoring and regulation of formaldehyde precursors were recommended.
   • Collaboration with other EPA offices was suggested to improve the assessment of formaldehyde exposure in ambient air.
7. Aggregate Assessment
   • A quantitative aggregate assessment was recommended to better define the relative contributions of various exposure sources. This approach would help identify situations where mitigation strategies are necessary.
   • The committee emphasised the need to focus on vulnerable populations and to use frameworks like RISK21 for a unified risk management strategy.

Public Involvement

The meeting also included public comments from various stakeholders, including industry representatives, environmental groups, and individual citizens. These comments provided additional perspectives on the potential impacts of formaldehyde and the importance of thorough risk evaluations.

The SACC's review of the 2024 Draft Risk Evaluation for Formaldehyde highlights the complexity and significance of this assessment. The committee's recommendations aim to improve the accuracy and reliability of the risk evaluation, ultimately contributing to better protection of human health and the environment. The EPA is expected to incorporate these recommendations into the final risk evaluation, ensuring it reflects the best available science and addresses the concerns of all stakeholders.