EPA Bans Cancer Causing TCE and PCE

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a sweeping ban on two widely used but hazardous industrial solvents: trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE). The decision marks a significant step in addressing the long-standing health risks posed by these chemicals, commonly found in everyday products and industrial processes.

Understanding TCE: A Decades-Long Hazard

A Ubiquitous Industrial Solvent

Trichloroethylene, or TCE, has been a staple in industrial applications since the 1920s. This colorless volatile organic compound (VOC) is valued for its nonflammable properties, making it an ideal cleaning agent, degreaser, and additive in paints, sealants, and coatings. Industries that manufacture refrigerants and auto products such as brake cleaners also heavily rely on TCE.

However, widespread use has resulted in extensive environmental contamination. The EPA estimates that between 4.5% and 18% of drinking water sources in the U.S. contain TCE, exposing approximately 19 million people annually to the chemical.

Health Impacts of TCE

TCE exposure has been linked to severe health issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, neurological damage, and immune system impairments as potential outcomes. Even at low concentrations, it can harm the reproductive system, kidneys, and liver.

Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base in North Carolina, exemplifies the devastating effects of TCE contamination. From 1975 to 1985, water supplies at the base contained TCE levels 70 times higher than permissible limits. Marines stationed there had a 70% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease compared to counterparts at other posts. These findings have led to hundreds of thousands of claims against the federal government.

EPA’s TCE Regulations

The new ban prohibits most uses of TCE within one year. Some industries will receive extensions to phase out the chemical under controlled conditions. Notable exceptions include:

• Aircraft and medical device cleaning.
• Manufacturing of battery separators and refrigerants.
• Use in defense, transportation, and security systems.

In these cases, strict worker safety protocols will be required.

PCE: The Persistent Threat in Dry Cleaning

Industrial Reliance on PCE

Perchloroethylene, also known as PCE or PERC, is another human-made solvent with a long history of use. Its applications range from dry cleaning and metal finishing to the production of adhesives and water repellents. Like TCE, PCE is nonflammable, making it a preferred cleaning agent.

PCE, however, poses significant health risks. Studies have connected it to cancers of the brain, kidney, liver, and testes. Prolonged exposure can damage the liver, kidneys, immune system, and nervous system.

Environmental and Workplace Exposure

Most PCE exposure occurs through inhalation, as it readily evaporates into the air. The chemical also leaches into groundwater, contaminating drinking water supplies. According to government data, over 5% of the U.S. population relies on water systems with PCE levels exceeding regulatory standards.

EPA’s Plan for PCE Phaseout

The EPA has set a 10-year timeline for eliminating PCE in most dry-cleaning operations. The phasing out schedule depends on the age of the equipment, with older machines required to transition sooner. Starting six months after the rule takes effect, new dry-cleaning machines will no longer be allowed to use PCE.

For other industrial and commercial uses, PCE must be phased out within three years, with exceptions for critical industries like aviation and national security. These exceptions will include strict guidelines to protect workers from exposure.

Advocacy and Industry Reactions

Environmental groups have long campaigned for the elimination of TCE and PCE. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) hailed the EPA’s decision as a significant public health victory. Dr. Tasha Stoiber, a senior scientist with the EWG, noted, “The EPA’s final rule will help to finally end most uses of this dangerous chemical.”

The EPA emphasized the availability of safer alternatives, pointing out that many industries have already begun transitioning away from these solvents.

Future Challenges and Protections

The new regulations represent a major shift in chemical safety standards, but they face potential challenges under the Congressional Review Act. This law allows a new Congress to overturn rules finalized late in an outgoing administration.

Safer Water with Reverse Osmosis Systems

For communities grappling with TCE and PCE contamination, reverse osmosis (RO) filtration offers an effective solution. RO systems remove VOCs and other pollutants from drinking water, ensuring safer consumption. Paired with whole-home water conditioners, these systems enhance overall water quality, offering long-term protection against chemical exposure.

Source: ABC13