What: On April 14, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published draft risk evaluations for 1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethylcyclopenta [ g ]-2-benzopyran (HHCB) and phthalic anhydride. The agency also announced two virtual public meetings of the Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC).
Why: Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), the purpose of a draft risk evaluation is to determine whether a chemical substance presents an unreasonable risk of injury to human health or the environment.
HHCB is primarily used as a synthetic musk compound found widely in fragrances and is utilized in household products such as detergents, cleaners, and air fresheners. HHCB is also a key ingredient in perfumes, cosmetics, and personal care products due to its long-lasting scent properties.
Phthalic anhydride is primarily used as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of plasticizers and resins. It is also found as an ingredient in paints and coatings and as a hardener in adhesives and sealants.
The SACC will meet virtually on May 26, 2026, to discuss the scope and clarity of the draft charge questions for the peer review of the HHCB and phallic anhydride draft risk evaluations. The SACC will also meet June 8-12, 2026, to consider the draft risk evaluations for HHCB and phthalic anhydride as well as the draft hazard assessments of o-dichlorobenzene (o-DCB) and p-dichlorobenzene (p-DCB).
O-DCB is a solvent used in the manufacturing of printing ink, paints and coatings, synthetic dyes and pigments. P-DCB is used in deodorizers, automotive care products and pesticides.
Action: Comments on the HHCB and phallic anhydride draft risk evaluations are due June 15, 2026. The SACC virtual public meetings are on May 26, 2026, and June 8-12, 2026.
If you are a small entity that uses HHCB, phallic anhydride, o-DCB, or p-DCB please reach out to the Office of Advocacy.
FEDERAL REGISTER NOTICE:
DRAFT HHCB RISK EVALUATION:
HHCB. Draft Risk Evaluation. Public Release. March 2026
DRAFT PHTHALIC ANHYDRIDE RISK EVALUATION:
Draft Risk Evaluation for Phthalic Anhydride
SACC MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Notice of SACC Meeting; Availability of Draft Documents and Request for Comment
REGISTER FOR SACC MEETINGS:
Peer Review for Evaluating HHCB, phthalic anhydride, o-DCB, and p-DCB
CONTACT: Nick Goldstein
EMAIL: nick.goldstein@sba.gov
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