EPA allows more time for comments on degreaser, spot cleaner rulemaking
Posted February 16, 2017
EPA is extending the comment period for two proposed rules that would ban certain uses of the chemical trichloroethylene (TCE).
The comment period for the proposed rule published in the December 16, 2016, Federal Register has been extended to March 16, 2017.
The comment period for the proposed rule published in the January 19, 2017, Federal Register has been delayed to April 19, 2017.
Both proposed rules, issued under section 6 of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) would prohibit the manufacture (including importing), processing, and distribution in commerce of TCE for use in aerosol degreasing, spot cleaning in dry cleaning facilities, and vapor degreasing.
In addition, manufacturers, processors, and distributors would be required to notify downstream users of these prohibitions across the entire supply chain – except for retailers – and to keep limited records.
A 2014 assessment identified serious health risks to workers and consumers exposed to TCE, including risks for cancer, development and cognitive effects, and liver damage.
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