Understanding the Risks of DIDP and DINP
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released draft risk evaluation documents of Diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP) and Diisononyl phthalate (DINP) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The primary uses of these chemicals are as plasticizers in PVC for various applications. The EPA’s early findings suggest that DIDP poses a limited risk to human health, while DINP has the potential to cause cancer at higher exposure levels.
The Use and Exposure of DIDP and DINP
DIDP is used in building materials, automotive care products, and other consumer goods. It can be released into the environment during manufacture and usage, posing potential risk to human health. EPA determined that DIDP exposure might lead to developmental toxicity and liver damage. However, previous evaluations have found inadequate evidence that DIDP causes cancer.
DINP, while having similar applications to DIDP, is deemed more toxic, capable of causing cancer at high exposure levels. EPA is conducting a peer review on the hazards of DINP before releasing a full draft risk evaluation later this year.
Next Steps for Pesticide Applicators
EPA is accepting public comments on the draft documents for 60 days. This step aims to gather valuable inputs from the public, pesticide applicators, and other stakeholders to inform the final risk evaluations for DIDP and DINP. The agency will also hold a virtual public meeting for the Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC) to discuss the draft documents.
For Pesticide Applicators: Understanding the risks associated with the chemicals we use is crucial to ensuring safety in our industry. Based on the EPA’s draft risk assessment, we recommend handling DIDP and DINP with the utmost care. It is also crucial to stay updated and participate in discussions surrounding these chemicals. Remember, your on-the-ground observations could be valuable for the final risk evaluations.
Read the draft risk evaluation for DIDP
Read the draft risk evaluation for DINP
Read the charge questions for peer review
Please share this information within your network to promote a safer environment for everyone. Don’t forget to leave your comments and insights on the EPA’s draft documents.
