WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released for public comment and peer review a draft risk assessment for 1-Bromopropane (1-BP)—also known as n-propyl bromide—used in spray adhesives, drycleaning (including spot cleaning) applications and degreasing uses.
“This draft assessment will provide workers and consumers with critical information about the risks associated with using 1-BP in these applications,” says Jim Jones, assistant administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.
“Public and scientific peer review is an integral piece to ensure we use the best available science in evaluating this chemical,” says Jones.
The draft assessment of 1-BP was conducted as part of EPA’s Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Chemical Work Plan assessment effort.
The chemical showed acute risks to women of childbearing age from adverse developmental effects, EPA says. Other non-cancer and cancer health risks were identified for workers with repeated and chronic exposures, including neurotoxicity; kidney, liver, and reproductive toxicity; and lung cancer.
EPA recommends the public carefully follow product label directions and take precautions that can reduce exposures, such as using the product outside or in an extremely well-ventilated area and wearing appropriate protective equipment to reduce exposure, particularly inhalation.
The EPA will accept public comment through May 9.
The notice can be viewed HERE via www.regulations.gov.
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