Year: 2016
Type: article
Abstract: Trichloroethylene (TCE) would no longer be permitted in aerosol degreasers and stain removers, which are used by dry-cleaning facilities, under a regulation proposed Dec. 7 by EPA. The action marks the first time in more than 20 years that EPA has tried to use its authority under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to restrict the use of a hazardous chemical. EPA concluded in 2014 that TCE in spot cleaning agents and aerosol spray degreasers could pose health risks to workers and consumers. TCE is a known human carcinogen, and studies have associated the chemical with neurological, developmental, and immunological toxicity. The agency’s 2014 assessment also found risks associated with the use of TCE in commercial vapor degreasing, but EPA is working on a separate regulation to address those risks. The chemical industry is strongly opposed to restricting that particular use. TCE is one of the first 10 chemicals that
Source: C&EN Global Enterprise
Author: Britt Erickson
Language: English
Subfield: Chemical Health and Safety
Field: Chemical Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2987699648