Proposed Regulations: Spray Polyurethane Foam Systems with Unreacted Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanates as a Priority Product
DTSC proposes to list spray polyurethane foam systems with unreacted methylene diphenyl diisocyanates as a Priority Product. This action would amend the California Code of Regulations, Title 22 (22 CCR), Division 4.5, Chapter 55, section 69511, and adopt section 69511.2.
DTSC is taking this action to protect workers and consumers from exposure to unreacted methylene diphenyl diisocyanates that could occur during normal use of spray polyurethane foam systems. Inhalation and dermal exposure to unreacted MDI is associated with adverse health effects, including asthma and allergic sensitization. People who become sensitized to MDI may also experience life-threatening asthma attacks when subsequently exposed to extremely low levels of isocyanates.
The primary goal of DTSC’s Safer Consumer Products (SCP) program is to reduce human and environmental exposures to toxic chemicals in consumer products. We use a science-based process to evaluate the use of hazardous chemicals in consumer products and consider routes of exposure to these chemicals throughout the full life-cycle of the product. By listing SPF systems with unreacted methylene diphenyl diisocyanates as a Priority Product, DTSC is requiring manufacturers to answer two questions: 1) Is this chemical necessary? 2) Is there a safer alternative?
Public Comment Period
A public comment period for the Proposal to List Spray Polyurethane Foam Systems with Unreacted Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanates as a Priority Product opened March 24, 2017 and was extended through June 6, 2017. All rulemaking documents can be found on CalSAFER or DTSC’s Regulations page. All comments submitted are viewable from CalSAFER.
Public Hearing
DTSC held a public hearing on May 16, 2017 at the CalEPA Building on 1001 “I” Street, Sacramento, California.
Related Documents & Links
SCP Priority Products
Adopted
Proposed
Children's Foam-Padded Sleeping Products with TDCPP or TCEP
Effective as of 7/1/17
Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs )in Carpets and Rugs
Spray Polyurethane Foam with Unreacted MDI
Effective as of 7/1/18
Laundry Detergents Containing the Surfactants Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs)
Paint or Varnish Paint Strippers Containing Methylene Chloride
Effective as of 1/1/19
