EPA Releases Draft Exposure Assessment Documents for Two Solvents

EPA has published draft exposure assessment documents for the solvents trans‑1,2‑dichloroethylene and 1,2‑dichloropropane. According to the agency, trans‑1,2‑dichloroethylene is primarily used in processing and in formulations for cleaning and degreasing, whereas 1,2-dichloropropane is primarily used in organic chemical manufacturing. These new technical support documents are intended to explain how EPA estimates exposures to these substances and provide insight into the methods and data behind the agency’s risk evaluations.

The agency’s draft chemistry, fate, release, and exposure assessments for both trans‑1,2‑dichloroethylene (PDF) and 1,2‑dichloropropane (PDF) explain that EPA considered occupational exposures for workers who directly handle these substances and for “occupational non-users,” or ONUs, the agency’s term for those who may be exposed while working near where the substances are being used. EPA states that vapors, particulates, or mists containing these substances may enter ONUs’ breathing zones, so the agency evaluated inhalation exposures to trans‑1,2‑dichloroethylene and 1,2‑dichloropropane for both workers and ONUs. EPA examined dermal exposures only for workers who handle the substances.

EPA’s draft risk evaluations for trans‑1,2‑dichloroethylene and 1,2‑dichloropropane are forthcoming. The agency notes that stakeholders will be able to comment on its new draft exposure assessment documents alongside the risk evaluations, once those are released.

For more information, read EPA’s news article or visit the agency’s risk evaluation webpages for trans‑1,2‑dichloroethylene and 1,2‑dichloropropane.