TSCA Update: Draft Risk Evaluation for 1,1,2-Trichloroethane

On July 24, EPA released a Draft Risk Evaluation for 1,1,2-Trichloroethane for public review. In the draft risk evaluation, EPA finds that 1,1,2-Trichloroethane poses an unreasonable risk to workers engaged in ten specific occupational uses of the chemical, who may be exposed via inhalation or through their skin. The evaluation did not identify unreasonable risk to public health or the environment.

The occupational uses of the chemical which pose an unreasonable risk to workers include manufacturing, processing, repackaging, recycling, industrial and commercial use (solvents, adhesives, and sealants), and disposal.

Comments on the draft risk evaluation are due September 28, 2026. More information can be found on the Agency’s website.

What’s Next?

Because the risk evaluation identified 10 occupational uses that contribute to an “unreasonable risk” to workers’ health, EPA must now develop regulatory requirements to address the occupational risks. New risk management requirements (under TSCA) can include standards for respirator use, chemical reporting responsibilities, and restrictions or “bans” on activities involving the chemical.

Compliance Dates Extended: PCE and CTC

With a Final Rule published on July 28, EPA extended the compliance dates for facilities to implement TSCA Workplace Chemical Protection Programs (WCPPs) for perchloroethylene (PCE) and/or carbon tetrachloride (CTC).

For PCE and CTC, the Final Rule: 

• Extends the compliance date for non-federal entities to begin initial exposure monitoring to June 21, 2027
• Extends the compliance date for non-federal entities to meet existing chemical exposure limits (ECELs), establish a regulated area, provide required respiratory PPE, and establish a respiratory PPE program, to September 20, 2027

For PCE only, the rule also: 

• Extends the deadline for federal and non-federal entities to institute a workplace information and training program to September 20, 2027
• Extends the deadline for non-federal entities to establish and implement an exposure control plan to December 20, 2027. 

Under EPA’s TSCA risk management regulations, the term “federal entities” refers to facilities operated by the US government or government contractors. All other facilities are “non-federal entities.”  

Tracking TSCA Updates from EPA

Keep track of updates from the US EPA affecting chemical risk management regulations, evaluation of chemical risks, and/or prioritization of chemicals for evaluation as mandated by the Toxic Substances Control Act with Lion's free TSCA Activity Tracker.

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