NIOSH, EPA documents on risks of 1-Bromopropane open for comment

Washington – NIOSH and the Environmental Protection Agency are seeking public comments on worker exposure to 1-Bromopropane, a potentially hazardous chemical found in certain industries.

The chemical 1-Bromopropane, also known as 1-BP and n-propyl bromide, may be found in manufacturing processes, spray adhesives, dry cleaning applications and degreasing activities. NIOSH says excessive exposure to the chemical may cause a variety of health problems, including eye and skin irritation; headaches; dizziness; loss of consciousness; slurred speech; confusion; and other issues.

On March 8, NIOSH announced it is seeking public comment on a newly released draft criteria document that summarizes 1-BP health concerns, exposure data, risk assessments and recommendations for limiting workplace exposures. NIOSH has proposed a recommended exposure limit of 0.3 parts per million for 1-BP.

Public comments on the NIOSH draft document are due April 29. NIOSH has scheduled a public meeting for March 30 to discuss the draft document.

EPA also is investigating health hazards associated with 1-BP. The agency is seeking public comment and peer review for a draft risk assessment. Comments on EPA’s assessment are due May 9.

“This draft assessment will provide workers and consumers with critical information about the risks associated with using 1-BP,” Jim Jones, EPA’s assistant administrator for the office of chemical safety and pollution prevention, said in a press release. “Public and scientific peer review is an integral piece to ensure we use the best available science in evaluating this chemical.”