AIHA Guideline Foundation Seeks Comments on Proposed ERPGs

The Emergency Response Planning Committee of the AIHA Guideline Foundation seeks public comments on newly proposed Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (ERPGs), which are air concentration guidelines for single exposures to agents. The committee is proposing ERPGs for the chemical chloroacetyl chloride. The NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards describes chloroacetyl chloride as a “colorless to yellowish liquid with a strong, pungent odor.” Symptoms of exposure to chloroacetyl chloride can include irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory system; eye and skin burns; and difficulty breathing. In 2016, NIOSH published an Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) value profile for chloroacetyl chloride, which can be viewed on the agency’s website.

The AIHA Guideline Foundation will soon share additional proposed ERPGs for phosgene, which NIOSH says is used in many industries, including in the manufacture of other chemicals, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals.

The AIHA Guideline Foundation’s proposed ERPGs for chloroacetyl chloride are available in a PDF download from the foundation’s website under the subheading “Call for Public Comments.” In addition to comments, the committee encourages individuals to share additional references or resources for consideration. Feedback will be accepted until close of business on Jan. 12, 2023.

ERPGs are intended for use as tools to assess the adequacy of accident prevention and emergency response plans, including transportation emergency planning, community emergency response plans, and incident prevention and mitigation. For more information, please email AIHA’s Michele Twilley, DrPH, CIH, or call AIHA at (703) 849-8888.