Better address health risks associated with DINP – have your say!

Important new stakeholder consultation launches to improve Global GreenTag International Certification Standards

Global GreenTag International is inviting stakeholders to provide feedback on proposed recommendations and consultation questions to help shape the future direction of managing DINP Risks in the Global GreenTag Certification Standards.

Email all responses to Dr Nana Bortsie-Aryee, Program Director - Global GreenTag International

Comments close Friday, May 16. 2025.

Please read the following and we look forward to your feedback

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Background

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized its risk evaluation for diisononyl phthalate (DINP) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Key findings include:

• Unreasonable risks to workers exposed to high concentrations of DINP, especially in mist form.

• Health risks identified: developmental toxicity, liver damage, cancer, and phthalate syndrome, which affects male reproductive health.

• Primary uses of DINP: As a plasticizer in flexible PVC, building materials, adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings, automotive products, and electronics.

• Consumer exposure: Minimal risk, but occupational exposure is a significant concern.

Research Findings

• DINP exposure occurs primarily through inhalation of mist during industrial applications of adhesives, sealants, paints, and coatings.

• Health effects include developmental harm to the male reproductive system, liver damage, and cancer.

• The EPA identified that workplace exposure is the primary factor contributing to health risks.

EPA Recommendations

The EPA will initiate risk management under TSCA Section 6 to address occupational exposure risks. Proposed measures include:

• Enhanced worker protections: PPE, ventilation, and exposure monitoring in industrial settings.

• Focus on cumulative risks: Addressing DINP as part of a broader analysis of six phthalates linked to adverse effects.

Recommendations for the GGTI Standard

1. Address gaps in current guidance: The GGTI standard currently provides general guidance for toxic chemicals (e.g., isocyanates) but does not specifically address DINP risks in mist applications.

2. Expand criteria for spray-applied applications: Incorporate stricter requirements for adhesives, sealants, paints, and coatings, similar to isocyanates under SAC-3 (HealthRate).

3. Phased restriction of DINP: Gradually restrict DINP use, focusing on high-risk applications with occupational exposure.

4. Classification under ESCAP: Include DINP in ESCAP, with clear warning labels, disclosure of risks, and precautionary measures.

5. Certification adjustments:

• Limit high-risk applications to lower certification tiers (e.g., Level C or Bronze) unless mitigation measures are in place.
• Require effective risk management for DINP-containing products (e.g., PPE, exposure monitoring).

6. Occupational health and safety (OHS) guidance: Develop a manufacturing manual to outline processes to lower DINP exposure risks.

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Consultation Questions

1. Risk Evaluation and Priority

• Do you agree with the identified health risks associated with DINP exposure in industrial settings? Are there additional risks we should consider?
• How should the GGTI certification standard prioritize addressing these risks?

2. Expansion of Certification Criteria

• Should the GGTI standard explicitly address DINP in spray-applied applications? If so, what specific measures (e.g., stricter controls, mandatory monitoring) should be required?
• Are there other high-risk scenarios where DINP exposure should be more strictly regulated within the standard?

3. Phased Restriction and Certification Tiers

• What is your perspective on implementing a phased restriction on DINP, particularly for high-exposure applications?
• Should high-risk applications of DINP automatically qualify for lower certification tiers (e.g., Level C or Bronze), and under what conditions should higher-tier certifications be granted?

4. Worker Safety and OHS Guidelines

• What key elements should be included in a manufacturing manual to lower worker exposure risks to DINP?
• Are there existing best practices or frameworks we should reference for occupational health and safety measures?

5. ESCAP Classification and Transparency

• Should DINP be classified under the ESCAP process with mandatory disclosure and precautionary measures?
• What labeling or risk communication strategies would be most effective for certified products containing DINP?

6. Implementation and Industry Readiness

• What challenges or barriers might industries face in implementing stricter DINP controls within the GGTI certification process?
• What support or resources would be helpful for stakeholders to comply with new requirements?

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Next Steps

Send your feedback to Dr Nana Bortsie-Aryee, Program Director - Global GreenTag International

Comments close Friday, May 16. 2025.