In a significant move that could impact several industries, the U.S. EPA has proposed a ban on the use of 1-bromopropane, a common industrial and commercial solvent.
This proposed rule targets the elimination of a chemical linked to several health issues, including cancer. The potential ban is the latest example in regulatory changes that aim to protect public health, while at the same time, raises questions about how businesses that use the chemical will respond.
As companies prepare for this regulatory shift, it’s important to understand the implications and ask an important question: What’s next?
What Is The Proposed 1-Bromopropane Ban?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposed rule last month that would focus on banning.png?width=300&height=251&name=Insurance%20Solutions%20(8).png)
the solvent, 1-bromopropane (1-BP). The rule would fall under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and would aim to better protect public health.
Found in many cleaning products, 1-bromopropane is a brominated organic solvent used in various industrial and commercial applications.
Research has shown exposure to this chemical can cause serious health effects like skin, lung and intestinal cancer, as well as damage to the liver, kidneys and nervous system. It can also impact reproductive systems that can then cause infertility.
1-BP is the seventh existing chemical that the EPA has proposed banning since 2016 due to unreasonable risks they pose. If approved, the ban on consumer uses would begin within six months after the final rule is published, according to the EPA. The ban would be fully enforced within 15 months.
What Products Would Be Impacted?
The EPA is proposing banning all consumer uses of 1-BP except in insulation. According to the agency, it determined that use of 1-bromopropane does not create an unreasonable risk to people.
Industrial and commercial uses prohibited under the proposed ban include:
- Dry cleaning, spot cleaning and stain removers
- Adhesives and sealants
- Coin and scissor cleaners
- Automotive care products used as engine degreasers, brake cleaners and refrigerant flushes
- Anti-adhesive agents used for mold cleaning and release products
- Functional fluids used as refrigerants or cutting oils
- Arts, crafts and hobby materials
The proposed rule would also require worker protections in situations where 1-bromopropane is still permitted. For example, workers may be required to wear chemical-resistant gloves. Employers may also be required to implement a Workplace Chemical Protection Program.
What’s Next For Your Business?
As a business, it’s important to be prepared for changes in regulations as they evolve. If you currently manufacture 1-bromopropane or use chemicals that contain 1-bromopropane, it’s a good idea to start preparing now for what you will do with these chemicals once they can no longer be used.
An experienced waste disposal company can help you with this process and be an invaluable partner … now and down the road when more regulations inevitably evolve.
The top hazardous waste management companies specialize in handling toxic materials and can provide the expertise you need to ensure they are safely and legally disposed of according to the law.
Hazardous waste disposal companies can assist with:
- Assessing your waste: Determining the classification and handling requirements for your chemical waste
- Regulatory compliance updates: Ensuring your disposal practices meet all local, state and federal regulations now and down the road
- Safe transport: Providing secure transportation of hazardous waste to treatment, storage and disposal facilities (TSDF)
- Disposal Methods: Utilizing environmentally sound disposal methods, such as incineration or chemical treatment
An experienced hazardous waste disposal company will also offer you a free quote so that you can plan accordingly for these upcoming changes. Working with a reputable waste disposal company helps to ensure that your chemical waste is managed responsibly. In the end, this benefits your company because it both reduces your liability and protects the environment.
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