EPA Identifies Worker Risks in Draft Evaluation of 1,1,2-Trichloroethane
Reference source : US EPA
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken a significant step in its review of 1,1,2-trichloroethane (CAS No. 79-00-5) by releasing a draft risk evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
1,1,2-Trichloroethane is a colorless liquid primarily used in industry as a solvent and as a building block in chemical manufacturing. EPA is assessing the substance to determine whether it poses unreasonable risks to human health or the environment.
Assessing Health and Environmental Impacts
1,1,2-Trichloroethane can enter the environment through industrial emissions, accidental spills, or improper disposal. As it evaporates into the air and can migrate into soil and groundwater, individuals may be exposed through workplace activities, near industrial sites, or through contaminated drinking water. EPA's review examines potential impacts on the nervous system, liver and kidneys, as well as other long-term health concerns associated with exposure.
Worker Safety Emerges as Key Concern
According to the draft evaluation, EPA identified significant contributions to unreasonable risk for workers in ten occupational conditions of use. These findings are primarily linked to inhalation and skin exposure during the industrial handling of the solvent. The assessment was based on scientific methods that included real-world monitoring data, exposure modeling, and systematic reviews of available research.
However, the agency noted that the draft review did not identify unreasonable risks to consumers, the general population, or the environment under current conditions of use.
Public Input Invited Before Final Decision
EPA is accepting public comments on the draft risk evaluation until 28 September 2026. Comments can be submitted through docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2018-042. In addition, the Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC) reviewed the technical documents supporting the draft evaluation during its August meetings.
Current regulatory safeguards remain unchanged while the review continues. Following peer review and public consultation, EPA will finalize its assessment and, if necessary, propose additional risk management measures under TSCA Section 6(a) to reduce or eliminate workplace exposure.