Notice of updated timelines for the draft screening assessment of phthalate substances was posted on the Chemical Substances website, August 15, 2014. The 14 phthalate substances included in this grouping are among those identified as priorities for action for the second phase of the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP).
The substances – many of which have a wide range of consumer applications – have been identified as potentially associated with reproductive and developmental effects; with potential ecological effects of concern; and/or as international priorities.
In March 2014, the Government of Canada hosted a multi-stakeholder technical workshop in Ottawa, ON, to obtain input on a proposed category and read-across approach for the human health effects portion of the planned assessment; and early thinking on approaches for a potential cumulative risk assessment for the human health assessment.
The planned assessment follows the release of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Chronic Hazard Advisory Panel’s Final Report on Phthalates and Phthalate Alternatives (released in July 2014). Health Canada plans to publish "State of the Science Reports" for substances in the Phthalate Grouping as well as a document outlining an approach for the human health and ecological cumulative risk assessment in spring 2015. A 60-day public comment period will follow. Draft screening assessments, including an assessment of cumulative risk as appropriate, are anticipated by spring 2016. Final screening assessment(s) are scheduled for publication in Canada Gazette by Spring 2017.
Pthalates are generally found in plastics and some personal care products. They have been detected in both drinking water and the environment although at extremely low levels. While the research and development of control mechanisms are in their early stages it is worth monitoring by our industry.
Canadian Water and Wastewater Association