US EPA Finalizes Risk Assessment for Flame Retardant TCEP

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released its final risk assessment for the flame retardant Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), identifying significant risks to both human health and the environment. The findings link TCEP to kidney cancer, neurological and renal damage, and reduced fertility.

Focused Assessment on Vulnerable Populations

The assessment targets vulnerable groups including workers, pregnant women, infants that breastfed, children, and residents near chemical discharges, highlighting multiple health risks such as neurological, reproductive, and renal issues.

Key industrial applications posing health risks include:

1. Chemical production and importation;
2. Paints and coatings manufacturing;
3. Use in aerospace equipment and products;
4. Automotive and aviation parts;
5. Industrial and commercial paint applications; and
6. Laboratory chemical handling.

Risks and Environmental Impact

EPA points to serious concerns with TCEP residues in textiles, foam seating, and wood products, which increase inhalation risks from airborne dust. Additionally, TCEP contamination in fish poses health threats to fishermen and some tribal communities and endangers aquatic life, especially fish and invertebrates.

Despite no reports of TCEP production or importation in the US from 2016 to 2020, activities below the reporting threshold may occur.

Next Steps

The EPA plans to introduce new regulations under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to mitigate TCEP risks, urging active participation from stakeholders in the upcoming public comment period to ensure effective new measures.

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Further Information

EPA Notice