ISPA, the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA), and the Business + Institutional Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) submitted public comments in support of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Updated Draft Risk Calculation Memorandum (Draft Memorandum) to inform a Revised Draft Risk Evaluation for Formaldehyde Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This PDF summarizes notable changes proposed in the Draft Memorandum that align the EPA’s Formaldehyde Risk Evaluation with the scientific consensus on formaldehyde risks. The Draft Memorandum does not change EPA’s determination that formaldehyde presents an unreasonable risk to human health.  

Next, as part of the TSCA risk management process, the EPA will convene a Small Business Advocacy Review (SBAR) Panel to obtain input on a proposed risk management rule for formaldehyde. ISPA is collaborating with a coalition of manufacturers convened by the American Chemistry Council (ACC) to prepare for the formaldehyde SBAR panel. The coalition’s goals are to educate the EPA on how its risk management actions will affect small businesses. EPA’s options for risk management include labelling requirements, use restrictions, phase-outs, and bans.       

ISPA will remain closely engaged throughout the EPA’s formaldehyde risk management process as textiles, foam bedding and seating, furniture, adhesives, and sealants are listed as consumer product categories that may use formaldehyde. Please contact ISPA’s GA Team (Alison Keane and Marty Salamone) if you have any questions or concerns on this matter.