The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released it’s final risk evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for formaldehyde. EPA has determined that formaldehyde presents an unreasonable risk of injury to human health. Under TSCA, EPA must initiate risk management actions to address its unreasonable risk determination. EPA’s options for risk management include labelling requirements, use restrictions, phase outs, and bans.  

Of note to the mattress industry, the report lists textiles, foam bedding/seating, furniture, adhesives, sealants and composite wood products as consumer product categories that may use formaldehyde. Notably, formaldehyde is also naturally occurring and produced during combustion and the decomposition of organic matter.  

This risk evaluation was completed under the Biden Administration’s EPA. However, the incoming Trump Administration will determine the risk management actions taken through rulemaking. Due to this, EPA’s next steps are unclear.  

Nevertheless, ISPA will keep you apprised of any significant developments throughout the rulemaking process. Please contact ISPA’s GA Team (Alison Keane, Grant Johnson, and Marty Salamone) if you have any questions or concerns on this matter.