Revised New York TCE Policy Adds Pressure For EPA Exposure Limits

摘要

New York state's decision to lower its risk guideline for trichloroethylene (TCE) and set an exposure limit to protect against cardiac birth defects from the solvent that backs EPA Region 9's controversial approach to the chemical could help press EPA headquarters to clarify national policy by setting exposure limits. In an August memo, New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) strengthened its risk guideline for TCE from 5 micrograms per cubic meter (ug/mˆ3) to 2 ug/mˆ3, adopting EPA's controversial Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) value for the substance. State health officials also set a 20 ug/mˆ3 limit for immediate action to reduce TCE in indoor air, a standard similar to one Region 9 promoted last year. Relevant documents are available on InsideEPA.com.See page 2 for details. (Doc. ID: 184375).