Proposed Measures to Reduce Potential Environmental Harm for four substituted phenols

In accordance with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA), the Government of Canada is actively engaged in the comprehensive evaluation of substances to assess their potential risks to human health and the environment. This process involves a thorough examination of both the intrinsic hazardous properties of the substances and the extent of their exposure to humans and the environment. 

Focus on four substituted phenols 

As part of this ongoing effort, the government is currently focusing on a group of 15 substances in the substituted phenols group. Four substances in this group, CAS RNs 118-82-1, 128-37-0, 36443-68-2, and 61788-44-1, have been identified as potential sources of environmental concern. These four substances have the potential to cause adverse effects to organisms if released into the environment. 

To address these concerns, the Government of Canada is considering a range of regulatory and non-regulatory options for industrial formulation activities involving these substances. The objective is to minimize their release into the environment and thereby reduce potential harm. 

Safety of remaining substances 

It is important to note that the remaining 11 substances in the group have not been found to pose harm to the environment. The ecological hazard and exposure potential of these substances has been assessed using the Ecological Risk Classification of Organic Substances (ERC) approach. 

While some substances within this group may be associated with health effects, the assessment does not indicate any harm to human health when exposure levels are taken into account. These substances, which are used as antioxidants, can come into contact with humans through various routes, such as drinking water, food, food packaging, and consumer products, including cosmetics. 

Ongoing commitment and future actions 

The Government of Canada remains committed to its role in assessing and managing the risks associated with various substances under CEPA to protect both the environment and public health. Further actions and risk management strategies will be developed as deemed necessary to mitigate potential harm from these substances.