EPA Releases Draft Risk Evaluation for Flame Retardant TBBPA

EPA’s draft risk evaluation for 4,4'-(1-methylethylidene)bis[2, 6-dibromophenol], or TBBPA, finds that inhalation exposure presents “unreasonable risk to workers” in three conditions of use, including manufacturing, import, and repackaging. TBBPA is used as a flame retardant in plastic material and resin manufacturing, and EPA notes that it is also found in electrical and electronic products; batteries; fabric, textile, and leather products; and laboratory chemicals. According to the agency’s draft occupational exposure assessment for TBBPA (PDF), inhalation exposures are highest during manufacturing and repackaging. For example, workers may inhale TBBPA dusts when repackaging TBBPA powder or during activities like product sampling, equipment cleaning, container cleaning, and packaging and loading TBBPA into reactors or transport containers for shipment.

The draft risk evaluation includes an “existing chemical occupational exposure value” for inhalation exposures to TBBPA of 0.077 ppm, or 1.72 mg/m3, as an eight-hour, time-weighted average. The draft document explains that EPA calculated this value “for consideration in workplace settings” and may use it “to support risk management efforts for TBBPA under TSCA section 6(a).” 

EPA is seeking input on the draft risk evaluation for TBBPA until Aug. 17. During the comment period, the agency hopes to receive specific input on topics including its exposure assumptions for occupational exposure scenarios.

The draft risk evaluation and technical support documents can be found on EPA’s risk evaluation webpage for TBBPA. Further details and instructions for submitting comments are available in the Federal Register.