Federal regulators have identified health risks from common phthalate plasticizers used in flexible PVC, finding that certain workplace exposures and some consumer products may pose dangers, especially to reproductive health.
Britt E. Erickson reports for Chemical & Engineering News.
In short:
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's draft risk assessments found that workers face health risks from inhaling two widely used phthalates, DEHP and DBP, during manufacturing and handling of plastics, resins, and related chemicals, especially when personal protective equipment is not used.
- Consumers may be exposed to harmful levels of DBP through skin contact with products like automotive supplies, paints, adhesives, and cleaning agents, while DEHP in consumer items such as garden products and furnishings did not show similar risks.
- The EPA is updating its approach to assessing the cumulative risks of phthalates that can harm the male reproductive system and is seeking scientific input on its new methods, with further evaluations of related chemicals expected by the end of 2026.
Why this matters:
Phthalates are a family of chemicals used to soften plastics in countless everyday products, from vinyl flooring to car interiors and cleaning supplies. Decades of research link several phthalates to hormone disruption, reproductive problems, and developmental issues, particularly in children and pregnant women. While some uses are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, many industrial and household exposures fall under EPA oversight, creating a regulatory patchwork. Workers in manufacturing and construction may face higher risks from inhaling or handling these chemicals, especially if protective gear is lacking. For consumers, repeated skin contact with certain products can add to their daily chemical load.
Read more: Environmental toll of plastics
