EPA Seeks Comments On DBP, DEHP Draft Risk Report
Understanding the Health and Environmental Risks of DBP and DEHP
EPA is seeking comments from the public on draft risk evaluations released in June 2025 under TCSA for dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP). These phthalate compounds are primarily used as plasticizers in polyvinyl chloride (PVC), as well as in adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings, and other applications.
EPA has preliminarily determined that DBP represents an unreasonable risk of injury to human health for workers, consumers, and the environment. DBP is regarded as an endocrine disruptor, is listed on the EPA’s Priority Pollutant List and California’s Prop 65 list, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission has considered DBP exposures in children’s products, personal care products, diet, and consumer products. EPA identified a non-cancer risk to the male reproductive system, and has concluded that DBP is a potential carcinogen for humans.
EPA believes DEHP also presents an unreasonable risk of injury to human health and the environment, and has concluded that the chemical can cause developmental and reproductive toxicity in males. Like DBP, DEHP is also an EPA Priority Pollutant and is listed on California’s Prop 65 list.
Comments are due to EPA by August 4, 2025, after which EPA will evaluate the comments and issue a final risk evaluation for DBP and DEHP.
Materials Analytical Services, LLC can test your products via chemical analysis for the presence of these and other phthalates. Please contact us through our website www.mastest.com for more information.
Resources
A recent Fox 4 News report highlighted a recall of countertop ovens due to a burn hazard, after consumers reported incidents involving hot contents and unexpected breakage or failure of components. Although the specific product and brand may change from recall to recall, the underlying message is consistent: product safety issues tied to materials, coatings or construction can quickly become public, expensive and damaging to a brand.
Sustainability has moved from a niche talking point to a central expectation in the furniture industry. Designers, manufacturers, retailers, and buyers are all rethinking what “good furniture” means – not just in terms of style and comfort, but in terms of materials, emissions, durability, and end‑of‑life impact.
MAS’s VOC testing program has been assisting manufacturers of building/construction products and furniture for over 20 years in meeting LEED requirements as a way to increase their sales to the green building market.
A new bipartisan bill, "Esther's Law," seeks to ban hazardous water beads in children's toys due to their severe risks when ingested. Materials Analytical Services (MAS) plays a crucial role in ensuring toy safety through rigorous testing and analysis. MAS helps identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with safety standards, preventing dangerous products from reaching the market. Learn how MAS contributes to safeguarding children's health and promoting a safer environment for play.
NEED A CUSTOM ANALYSIS?
We welcome you to take full advantage of our highly specialized lab and expertise.
Resources
A recent Fox 4 News report highlighted a recall of countertop ovens due to a burn hazard, after consumers reported incidents involving hot contents and unexpected breakage or failure of components. Although the specific product and brand may change from recall to recall, the underlying message is consistent: product safety issues tied to materials, coatings or construction can quickly become public, expensive and damaging to a brand.
Sustainability has moved from a niche talking point to a central expectation in the furniture industry. Designers, manufacturers, retailers, and buyers are all rethinking what “good furniture” means – not just in terms of style and comfort, but in terms of materials, emissions, durability, and end‑of‑life impact.