On February 3, 2021, EPN presented testimony on the final draft risk evaluation of asbestos, part 1: chrysotile asbestos, under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) at an EPA public webinar. Asbestos is a heat-resistant mineral used in fire-resistant materials that causes cancer and other serious health problems. It is unsafe even at very low concentrations. Risk evaluations are conducted to determine whether a chemical substance like asbestos presents unreasonable risks to health or the environment. EPA is now moving to risk management for this chemical, the next step in the process required by TSCA. EPN’s testimony reflects its May 2020 comments calling for a proposal to ban the importation, manufacture, processing, distribution and use of asbestos for all commercial and consumer uses in the U.S. on an expedited timeline. There is no excuse for delaying action on a comprehensive ban any further.
Read EPN’s testimony written by Penny Fenner-Crisp, former Senior Science Advisor to the Director, EPA Office of Pesticide Programs.