EPA releases draft risk assessment for chemical used in spray adhesives, dry cleaning and degreasing

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) detailed the potential health risks of a chemical used in spray adhesives, dry cleaning and for degreasing, which include adverse developmental effects for women of childbearing age, in a recently released draft risk assessment.

In addition to its acute risks to those women, 1-Bromopropane (1-BP), which is also called n-propyl bromide, presents a potential health risk to those chronically and repeatedly exposed to it, including lung cancer, neurotoxicity and kidney, liver and reproductive toxicity. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) also recently released a draft criteria document to govern worker exposure, and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATDSR) is also looking at its potential hazards.

The draft risk assessment is currently available for peer review and a 60-day public comment period. The EPA’s Chemical Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) will review the document this spring.

“This draft assessment will provide workers and consumers with critical information about the risks associated with using 1-BP in these applications,” Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Assistant Administrator Jim Jones said. “Public and scientific peer review is an integral piece to ensure we use the best available science in evaluating this chemical.”