E.P.A. Suggests Rule to Protect Consumers from Harmful Chemicals Found in Homes and Schools

WASHINGTON - Today, E.P.A. is taking action to protect consumers from new uses and imports of the harmful chemicals Toluene Diisocyanates (TDI).

These chemicals are currently widely used in residual amounts in the production of polyurethanes and consumer products, such as coatings, elastomers, adhesives, and sealants and can be found in products used in and around homes or schools. Diisocyanates are well known dermal and inhalation sensitizers in the workplace and can cause asthma, lung damage, and in severe cases, death.

The suggested decision would give E.P.A. the opportunity to evaluate the use of, and if necessary, to take action to prohibit or limit all products containing over 0.1 percent of the chemical including imported products that make their way into the United States.

EPA's suggested action, a Significant New Use Rule (SNUR) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), would require manufacturers (including importers) to notify E.P.A. at least 90 days before starting or resuming new uses of these chemicals in consumer products at levels above 0.1 percent by weight. E.P.A. would then have the opportunity to evaluate the intended use of the chemicals and, if necessary, take action to prohibit or limit the activity.

Additional information on the suggested SNUR on TDI and related compounds and how to provide comments can be found at: http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/actionplans/tdi.html

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