The use of trichloroethylene
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a volatile organic compound widely used in industrial, commercial, and consumer solvents, including hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) production, steam and aerosol degreasing, as well as lubricants, greases, adhesives, and sealants.
Hazards of trichloroethylene
EPA research has found that TCE can cause liver cancer, kidney cancer, and non Hodgkin's lymphoma, causing damage to the central nervous system, liver, kidneys, immune system, genitalia, and posing a risk to fetal development. These risks exist even in very low TCE concentrations. The EPA also found that people living near manufacturing and using TCE facilities have a higher risk of developing these health diseases.
Prohibited measures
Therefore, trichloroethylene (TCE) has posed an unreasonable health risk. To address the identified unreasonable risks, the EPA has proposed the following measures:
- Prohibit the manufacturing, import, processing, and commercial distribution of TCE for all purposes, as well as the use of TCE in industrial and commercial fields;
- For certain purposes, set a longer transition period. For example, as a manufacturing, import, and processing intermediate for the production of HFC-134A, the transition period is 8.5 years;
- For TCE use with longer transition periods and limited time exemptions, strict workplace control is required, and TCE Workplace Chemical Protection Plan (WCPP) must be followed, including restrictions on TCE inhalation exposure and skin protection;
- It is prohibited to dispose of TCE in industrial pre-treatment, industrial treatment, or public treatment facilities, but a 50 year exemption period will be set for cleaning projects;
- Establish record keeping and downstream notification requirements.
