The OEHHA is the lead agency responsible for implementing Proposition 65. OEHHA’s Science Advisory Board’s Carcinogenic Identification Committee provides professional expertise on chemicals’ carcinogenic properties through scientifically valid testing according to generally accepted principles. Those chemicals recognized as carcinogens by the CIC are added to the Proposition 65 list. As a result of research, it has been concluded that vinyl acetate inhalation or oral consumption may lead to cancer in humans. As a threshold carcinogen, vinyl acetate is considered carcinogenic only at high concentrations.
Under the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 (Proposition 65), the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has selected vinyl acetate for review by the Carcinogen Identification Committee (CIC). The deadline for data submissions is September 18, 2023. As part of the preparation of the cancer hazard identification materials on vinyl acetate, the OEHHA will review and consider the information collected during this period. The CIC selected vinyl acetate from its 2016 chemicals list.
Benefits/Effects/Impact
Vinyl acetate monomers can be used in a variety of plastic and food-contact materials, as well as in formulated coatings for food packaging. Polymers made from VAM are widely used in products such as water-based paints, printing inks, packaging adhesives, and other construction materials. Proposition 65 requires companies to provide warnings to Californians about significant exposures to chemicals that are carcinogens or can cause birth defects. It is possible to be exposed to these chemicals as a result of acquiring or consuming products containing these chemicals. The material vinyl acetate is highly flammable. It is imperative that workers are protected in an adequate manner.
ComplianceXL provides consulting services in Prop 65 compliance and Prop 65 supplier declaration collection. Additionally, as part of our compliance data management strategy, we assist customers in maintaining supplier certificates and declarations regularly. To ensure our customers remain compliant with Prop 65 regulations, we also provide ongoing monitoring and reporting.
FAQs
1. What are the industrial applications of vinyl acetate?
Polymers manufactured from Vinyl Acetate Monomer are broadly used in products like water-based paints, printing inks, adhesives for packaging and other construction materials. Vinyl acetate is also used as a coating in plastic films for food packaging and as a modifier of food starch.
2. What are the health problems caused by vinyl acetate?
Vinyl acetate can cause respiratory problems. It may also affect the nervous system.
