Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released two draft risk-evaluation assessments that address the phthalates butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) and di-isobutyl phthalate (DIBP). Both reports concluded that the chemicals pose a “unreasonable risk” to the environment and human health under specific usage circumstances.

Risk Evaluation

EPA published its tentative risk assessment for DIBP on July 31. Four of the 24 conditions of use (COUs) that were evaluated present an unacceptable danger to the environment, and two present an unreasonable risk to workers’ health; the other 22 COUs do not currently carry a significant risk. The Agency points out that the identified worker risks could be reduced with the use of the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). There were no irrational health concerns to the public or customers.

BBP: On August 1, EPA released the preliminary risk assessment for BBP. Four of the 24 COUs pose an unreasonable risk to the environment, and 16 pose an unreasonable risk to workers’ health; two of these situations are considered important for both the environment and human health. Like DIBP, EPA claims that PPE can lower worker exposures and that no irrational health concerns to consumers or the public at large were found.

Public Comment

EPA will publish a Federal Register notice in the coming days that opens a 60-day public-comment period. Comments may be submitted through the TSCA docket system:

· DIBP – Docket ID EPA-HQ-OPPT-2018-0434

· BBP – Docket ID EPA-HQ-OPPT-2018-0501

Next Steps

The DIBP and BBP drafts will not be subjected to a separate peer review by EPA’s Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC). Rather, the Committee is now studying the DBP, DEHP, and DCHP drafts as well as several technical documents that support the BBP and DIBP assessments. Before releasing final risk, assessments and determining if further regulatory actions are necessary, EPA will consider both SACC recommendations and public input.

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