Phenol, isopropyl phosphate (3:1) (hereinafter referred to as PIP (3:1)), and decabromodiphenyl ether (DecaBDE) are one of the five PBT substances listed in the final rules issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). PBT stands for Persistent, Bioaccumulatory, and Toxic. Substances with these properties can cause harm to human health and the environment. Therefore, TSCA Section 6 (h) specifies the control requirements for PBT substances to reduce their harm.
Recently, EPA announced a rule update for TSCA! According to the latest regulations, EPA has adjusted the compliance timeline for specific industries, including electronics, nuclear energy, transportation, construction, life sciences, and semiconductor industries. The following are the 2024 revised rules related to the electronics and electrical industry:
Revised rules for PIP (3:1) in 2024:
Prohibit the processing and distribution of lubricants and greases for aviation and turbine use in commerce, as well as lubricants and greases containing PIP (3:1) for non turbine and non aerospace applications after 15 years.
When processing and distributing finished products or items made of plastic in business, this rule does not apply if these plastics are recycled or reused from finished products or items containing PIP (3:1) and no new PIP (3:1) has been added.
For PIP (3:1) used in circuit boards and harnesses, as well as circuit boards and harnesses containing PIP (3:1), this rule does not apply in commercial processing and distribution.
For repair or maintenance purposes, this rule does not apply to items containing PIP (3:1) during processing and distribution, as well as to items without newly added PIP (3:1).
Parts for new motor vehicles will be prohibited from use after 15 years; For replacement parts, their use will be prohibited after 30 years.
Starting from October 31, 2026, the distribution of items containing PIP (3:1) in commercial activities will be prohibited.
Revised rules for decabromodiphenyl ether (DecaBDE) in 2024:
Require the posting of signs at facilities that process DecaBDE plastic transport pallets.
Prohibit the release of DecaBDE into water bodies during the manufacturing, processing, and distribution of DecaBDE and its products, and require compliance with relevant applicable regulations.
*Control requirements only apply to substances and mixtures
These control measures will take effect 60 days after their official publication in the Federal Register, without affecting the requirements for the other three PBT substances covered by the original rules in January 2021. Given the continued attention of the US Environmental Protection Agency to these 5 PBT substance control rules, relevant companies need to prepare in advance. According to TSCA Part 15, any failure to comply with any rule requirements issued by TSCA will be prohibited.
