EPA Extends Comment Period for Draft Scope Document for Part Two of Asbestos Risk Evaluation

On February 10, 2022, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) extended the comment period on the draft scope of a risk evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for Asbestos Part 2: Supplemental Evaluation Including Legacy Uses and Associated Disposals of Asbestos. 87 Fed. Reg. 7833. As reported in our December 30, 2021, memorandum, in the Part 2 risk evaluation, EPA will evaluate the conditions of use of asbestos (including other types of asbestos fibers in addition to chrysotile) that EPA had excluded from Part 1 as legacy uses and associated disposals, as well as any conditions of use of asbestos in talc and talc-containing products. The draft scope includes the conditions of use, hazards, exposures, and the potentially exposed or susceptible subpopulations (PESS) that EPA plans to consider in conducting the risk evaluation for this chemical substance. EPA seeks additional data or information that could be useful to EPA in preparing the final scope of the risk evaluation. Comments are now due March 1, 2022.