What is the TSCA?
In the manufacturing industry, we come into contact with chemicals on a daily basis and trust that they are safe for humans and the environment. Fortunately, the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) is conducting risk evaluations for chemicals under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), as amended by the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act. The risk evaluation serves to determine whether a chemical substance presents an unreasonable risk to one’s health or to the environment.
How Does These Chemicals Affect My Business?
The EPA made an announcement on 12/19/16 of the first 10 chemicals to undergo these risk evaluations. On this list is perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene which are known as chlorinated solvents. Some of the commercial and industrial uses for chlorinated solvents include cleaning solutions, degreasers, paint thinners, adhesives, chemical intermediates, clothes, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and textile processing. Workers can be exposed to these chlorinated solvents through skin contact and inhalation.
Do I Have Alternatives To These Chemicals Now?
Although these solvents are found on the market, some manufactures have become proactive and are not waiting for the results of the risk evaluations. One of our manufacturers, Slide Products, found effective alternatives to all of their chlorinated solvents over a decade ago. Henkel, another one of our partners, has also removed chlorinated solvents from their LOCTITE® adhesives and sealants. So, yes, there are alternatives to using these chemicals now; you do not have to wait for the results of the risk evaluations to see advancements toward your protection from these substances. Steel Sales applauds the work of the EPA and the manufacturers who are putting your health and the environment first.
How Can I Find The Safest Products For My Business?
Steel Sales will continue to pass on information that has an impact on your industry and provide you with the best products on the market for your business needs. Call us today at (501) 375-3338 or contact us online for your MRO supplies.
Sources:
https://www.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca/risk-evaluations-existing-chemicals-under-tsca
http://www.worker-health.org/chlorinatedsolvents.html
Slide Products. (2017). EPA takes next step in evaluation of trichloroethylene and “perc” perchloroethylene solvents. Sticky Situations, 1(21).
http://www.loctiteproducts.com/p/pl_ca_prem/overview/Loctite-PL-Premium-Polyurethane-Construction-Adhesive.htm
