WASHINGTON (April 20, 2023) – Today, the American Chemistry Council (ACC) released the following statement in response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposal to limit the use of methylene chloride:
“Dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) is an important compound used in the production of many of the products and items we rely on every day.
”The ACC is concerned that the proposed rule will create regulatory uncertainty and confusion with existing OSHA exposure limits for methylene chloride. Additional limits already exist for this particular chemical. EPA has not determined whether additional, independent occupational exposure limits are required.
“Additionally, we are concerned that the EPA has not yet fully assessed the supply chain impacts of its proposals. Most of the changes will be fully implemented within 15 months, amounting to a ban of 52% of annual production of products covered by TSCA,” the EPA says on its website. End use. Cutting production at such a rapid scale could have a significant impact on the supply chain if the manufacturer has contractual obligations that need to be met, or if the manufacturer decides to cease production entirely.
”These ripple effects could impact critical applications, including the pharmaceutical supply chain, as well as certain safety-critical and corrosion-sensitive critical applications identified by the Environmental Protection Agency. EPA must carefully and thoroughly evaluate these unintended but potentially serious consequences.
“If occupational exposures that pose unreasonable risks can be adequately controlled through effective workplace safety programs, then these are the best regulatory options that EPA should reconsider.”
The mission of the American Chemistry Council is to champion the people, policies and chemistry products that make the United States a global leader in innovation and production. To achieve this goal, we: Advocate for evidence-based policy decisions at all levels of government; Ensure continuous performance improvement to protect employees and communities through Responsible Care®; We promote the development of sustainable practices in ACC member companies; Working honestly with the community Discuss problems and solutions to achieve safer, healthier and more sustainable lifestyles. Our vision is to make the world a better place through chemistry so that future generations can safely and sustainably live happier, healthier and more prosperous lives.
The Agency’s delay in reviewing TSCA will force manufacturers to manufacture and introduce new chemicals outside the United States.
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