EPA Consults on 1,2-Dichloropropane Risk Evaluation

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking comments on a draft risk evaluation for 1,2-dichloropropane (CAS 78-87-5) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The notice was published on 4 September 2026, with comments due by 3 November 2026.

The assessment covers industrial and commercial activities, including use as a chemical intermediate and laboratory chemical, as well as use in certain cleaning products, polishes and waxes. EPA has preliminarily identified unreasonable risks to human health from certain uses.

Why this matters for product suppliers

Although EPA reports that 1,2-dichloropropane has not been used in US-manufactured products since 2022, it has retained relevant product uses in the assessment because imported products may still contain the substance.

The evaluation is therefore relevant not only to chemical manufacturers and industrial users, but also to companies importing or supplying affected mixtures in the US. Composition information from suppliers can help establish whether the substance is present, while information on how a product is used is needed to understand its relevance to the assessment.

A risk assessment, not a new restriction

Under TSCA, EPA evaluates whether a chemical presents an unreasonable risk to health or the environment under its conditions of use. These assessments can form the basis for later risk management measures.

This draft does not introduce a ban, a product concentration limit or a new reporting requirement. It also does not set a deadline for withdrawing the substance from products. Any future restrictions would require a separate regulatory step.

Comments and next steps

EPA is requesting feedback on the draft evaluation and its supporting information. Following public comment and scientific review, the agency will prepare its final evaluation.

Comments should be submitted by 3 November 2026 through Regulations.gov, using docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2018-0428.

Sources: Federal Register – 1,2-Dichloropropane Draft Risk Evaluation Under TSCA ; EPA announcement and background .