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PA TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS

Release Date: 06/21/96
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PA TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS

FOR RELEASE: FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 1996

EPA PROPOSES INDUSTRY TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR HEALTH EFFECTS OF 21 HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS

EPA has proposed that manufacturers and processors of 21 chemical substances listed as hazardous air pollutants under the Clean Air Act test the substances for human health effects and report the results to the Agency. The data from these tests would be used to assess residual risk from the 21 chemicals after Clean Air Act requirements are implemented. These health effects data would enhance EPA's Right-toKnow program and public access to information on toxic chemical hazards in communities. The data would also assist other federal agencies in making risk management decisions. Fifteen of the 21 chemicals are candidates for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Permissible Exposure Limit update. The 21 chemicals are: biphenyl, carbonyl sulfide, chlorine, chlorobenzene, chloroprene, cresols [3 isomers], diethanolamine, ethylbenzene, ethylene dichloride, ethylene glycol, hydrochloric acid, hydrogen fluoride, maleic anhydride, methyl isobutyl ketone, methyl methacrylate, naphthalene, phenol, phthalic anhydride, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, 1,1,2-trichloroethane, and vinylidene chloride. The data generated by this reporting rule would cover a wide range of health endpoints; to include effects on the reproductive system and the developing fetus, and the nervous, respiratory and immune systems. Some pollutants would be tested for their potential to cause cancer. EPA is proposing this requirement under Section 4 of the Toxic Substances Control Act. Public comment on the proposed rule must be submitted within 180 days after publication in the Federal Register the week of June 24. Comments should be sent to Susan B. Hazen, Director, EPA's Environmental Assistance Division, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Room E-543B (7408), 401 M St. S.W., Washington, D.C. 20460. For more information, call Gary Timm at 202-260-1859.