The Decorative Hardwoods Association (DHA) has voiced criticism of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) finalized formaldehyde risk evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The evaluation, released on January 2, highlighted health risks under formaldehyde's conditions of use, particularly for workers in manufacturing and handling processes.
In a statement published on its website, Keith A. Christman, President of DHA, expressed frustration with the administration’s regulatory timeline and occupational exposure limits. “The Biden administration continues to rush regulatory action out in its final days. One of the latest is EPA's finalization of the risk evaluation for formaldehyde under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Fortunately, EPA concluded that wood products in use do not contribute to unreasonable risk, but EPA's decision about occupational exposure could be a challenge. DHA opposed the originally proposed occupational limits, which were raised slightly in this final risk evaluation. When it comes to regulations, January 20 can't come soon enough.”
The EPA's finalized evaluation set occupational exposure thresholds at 110 and 170 parts per billion (ppb), higher than the 11 ppb originally proposed. Despite the adjustment, DHA remains concerned about potential impacts on workers and manufacturers. While the agency found no unreasonable risks associated with regulated wood products, its conclusions on occupational exposure suggest the need for heightened workplace protections.
