EPA finalizes health assessment for tetrachloroethylene

Paul Anastas, Assistant Administrator, Research and Development, EPA.

WASHINGTON, US:  US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) posted the final health assessment for tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene or Perc) to EPA’s integrated risk information system (IRIS) database. Confirming longstanding scientific understanding and research, the final assessment characterizes perc as a ‘likely human carcinogen.’ The assessment provides estimates for both cancer and non-cancer effects associated with exposure to perc over a lifetime. EPA has already taken several significant actions to reduce exposure to perc. EPA has clean air standards for dry cleaners that use perc, including requirements that will phase-out the use of perc by dry cleaners in residential buildings by 21 December 2020. EPA also set limits for the amount of perc allowed in drinking water.  

EPA continues to strengthen IRIS as part of an ongoing effort to ensure the best possible science is used to protect human health and the environment. In July 2011, EPA announced further changes to strengthen the IRIS programme in response to recommendations from the National Academy of Sciences. “The perc health assessment released will provide valuable information to help protect people and communities from exposure to perc in soil, water and air. This assessment emphasizes the value of the IRIS database in providing strong science to support government officials as they make decisions to protect the health of the American people,” said Paul Anastas, Assistant Administrator, Research and Development, EPA.

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