EPA: Flame Retardant and Plasticizer TCEP Presents "Unreasonable Risk to Workers"

A final risk evaluation published by EPA on Sept. 23 identifies “unreasonable” risks to workers associated with the chemical Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) under certain conditions of use. According to the agency, TCEP is a colorless liquid that is currently used in the U.S. to manufacture paints and coatings for some structural and automotive applications. It’s also used as a flame retardant and plasticizer for some aerospace applications, including in polymers used in equipment and products in the industry. TCEP’s uses in laboratory chemicals, in paint and coating manufacturing, in paints and coatings for industrial and commercial use, and in aerospace and automotive applications are of concern to EPA, which stresses that the chemical “has the potential to cause kidney cancer, damage the nervous system and kidneys, and harm fertility.” Individuals who work with liquid formulations that contain TCEP are at unreasonable risk from both inhalation and dermal exposures, the agency explains.

“Workers with the greatest potential for exposure to TCEP are those who spray TCEP-containing paints or coatings, and workers who are involved in processing a [two]-part resin used in paints, coatings, and polyurethane resin castings for aerospace applications,” EPA states in its news release.

TCEP was designated as a “high-priority” substance by EPA in December 2019. Under the Toxic Substances Control Act, the agency must move ahead with risk management efforts now that it has determined TCEP to be an unreasonable risk. The agency plans to release a proposed rule under TSCA that aims to protect people and the environment from the risks identified in its final evaluation of the chemical.

To learn more or to download the final risk evaluation, visit EPA’s risk evaluation webpage for TCEP.