EPA Washington, DC
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the final risk evaluation for asbestos, part 1: chrysotile asbestos. Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), EPA is required to evaluate the risks associated with exposure to existing chemicals in commerce using the best available science, and then take action to address any unreasonable risk identified. This announcement completes the first part of the final risk evaluation for asbestos. Part 1 of the risk evaluation for asbestos is specific to chrysotile asbestos.
EIA Managing Director Brent Kynoch comments “In releasing it’s final risk evaluation for asbestos: Part 1 Chrysotile, the EPA has finally acknowledged what we have all known for decades – Asbestos presents an unreasonable risk to any and all persons that are exposed. EPA still has work to do to address the risk posed by asbestos that currently exists in buildings, homes and facilities throughout the country, but this first determination is significant. We applaud EPA’s efforts, but we will continue to push for a thorough evaluation of “legacy” asbestos, including the other 5 forms of asbestos in addition to Chrysotile, which is the only subject of this Part 1 Risk Evaluation.”