TBBPA

Currently the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is running a "Design for the Environment" programme for Printed Circuit Boards. It is a voluntary partnership programme working with industry and other interested parties it aims to develop information on environmental and human health impacts, performance, and potential costs of alternative technologies and approaches for PCB manufacture.

The EPA is monitoring scientific developments on TBBPA, including disposal and recycling practices. Based on a forthcoming review the EPA will evaluate whether further action on TBBPA is needed; the options include additional studies of environmental fate, exposure pathways, and/or toxicology, assessments of hazard and dose-response, or a full risk assessment.

No legislation restricts the use of TBBPA in the US.

In Canada, the peer-review process of the risk assessment is underway and it is expected to be finalized in 2009. BSEF members are participating in this peer-review.