The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) extended for an additional 90 days the postponement of certain provisions in its final rule regulating trichloroethylene (TCE), according to an April 21 announcement.
This decision affects manufacturers and users of TCE, as it changes the timeline for compliance with new restrictions under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The extension provides more time for affected parties to adapt to regulatory requirements related to specific uses that had been granted exemptions.
The EPA said that effective February 17, conditions imposed on uses with TSCA section 6(g) exemptions are now postponed until May 18, 2026. The original rule was issued on December 17, 2024 and prohibited all TCE uses under TSCA section 6(a), including manufacturing and processing for nearly all commercial and all consumer products. Most bans were set to take effect within one year.
Limited exemptions were included in the final rule, allowing some extended phaseouts and workplace restrictions. The initial effective date had been January 16, 2025 before this postponement was announced.
UL Solutions said it helps manufacturers, retailers and brands stay informed about evolving regulations so they can continue providing compliant products.
