EPA Issues Amendments to SNURs Under TSCA for LCPFACs and Perfluoroalkyl Sulfonates
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently issued finalized amendments to significant new use rules (SNURs) for long-chain perfluroalkyl carboxylate chemical substances (LCPFACs) and perfluoroalkyl sulfonates. In this blog post, we present a brief overview of SNURs and discuss the key reasons for amending the SNURs for these chemicals.
About SNURs
SNURs are used to require notice to the EPA before chemicals (substances or mixtures) can be used in new ways that might yield concerns. If the EPA determines that a chemical's use constitutes a “significant new use”, parties are then required to give at least 90 days’ notice (significant new use notice) to the Agency before manufacturing, importing, or processing the chemical substance for any activity relative to that use. The EPA must assess associated risks, make a decision on the notice, and take appropriate actions (e.g., mitigating possible risks that may be detected).
LCPFACs and Perfluoroalkyl Sulfonates
For the SNURs being amended, LCPFACs refer to a category of long-chain perfluorinated carboxylate chemicals whose perfluorinated carbon chains are greater than or equal to seven (but less than or equal to 20) carbons long. Perfluoroalkyl sulfonates represent a group of perfluorinated sulfonate chemicals of any chain length.
Amending the SNURs
Amendments being finalized include:
- Amendments to the SNUR for long-chain perfluoroalkyl carboxylate chemical substances (LCPFACs)
- An amendment to invalidate the exemption for individuals who import certain LCPFACs as part of surface coatings
- An amendment to the SNUR for perfluoroalkyl sulfonate chemicals
A key goal of the amendments is to provide the EPA with sufficient early notice of future manufacturing of LCPFACs and perfluoroalkyl sulfonates for new uses. This means that companies are not permitted to manufacture those chemical substances unless they have submitted a significant new use notice (SNUN) to the Agency.
More information on the EPA’s actions regarding these SNURs may be accessed via the Agency’s website.
Accessing Additional Information
For professionals who deal with LCPFACs, perfluoroalkyl sulfonates, or hazardous chemicals of any type, having quick access to detailed information can be a highly valuable asset. ToxPlanet can help provide the information you need.
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