Last week saw the release of the final screening assessments for 18 substances assessed in Batch 4 of Canada’s Chemicals Management Plan.
Of the substances assessed in Batch 4, one substance poses a risk to the environment (BNST) and is recommended for virtual elimination. Two substances pose a risk to human health (dimethyl sulfate and diethyl sulfate). The Ministers of Environment and Health have recommended all three substances be added to Schedule 1 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA), 1999.
BNST is used as an antioxidant in automotive oils as well as in commercial and industrial lubricants.
Dimethyl sulfate is used in Canada in the manufacture of substances which are then used in pharmaceuticals. It is also used in the production of dyes, fragrances and water/sewage flocculants. Diethyl sulfate is used mainly in Canada by the tissue paper industry as a softener. It may also be used to make products used in the manufacture of dyes, fragrances, agricultural chemicals, pharmaceuticals and textiles.
Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments on the recommended risk management approaches until September 29, 2009.
