SG 10/22
Multiple Prop 65 settlement agreements have been reached for phthalate(s) in a variety of products. Many of these allow a Prop 65 warning as an alternative.
California Proposition 65 (Prop 65) is the ‘Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986’, a ballot initiative passed overwhelmingly by Californian residents in November 1986. It requires the state to publish a list of chemicals that are known to cause cancer, birth defects and/or reproductive harm. First published in 1987, the list has evolved to more than 900 chemicals.
In Prop 65, one important provision for companies doing business in California is to provide a clear and reasonable warning before knowingly and intentionally exposing anyone to a listed chemical. Unless exempt, businesses have 12 months to comply with this requirement once a chemical is listed.
Among the list of Prop 65 chemicals are six phthalates known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, other reproductive harm or a combination of these toxicities. These are:
- Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP, CAS 117-81-7) – listed since 1988
- Butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP, CAS 85-68-7), di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP, CAS 84-74-2) and di-n-hexyl phthalate (DnHP, CAS 84-75-3) – all listed since 2005
- Di-isodecyl phthalate (DIDP, CAS 68515-49-1 and 26761-40-0) – listed in 2007
- Diisononyl phthalate (DINP) – listed in 2013
It is interesting to note that many of these settlements also allow a Prop 65 warning as an alternative.
Throughout a global network of laboratories, SGS offers comprehensive testing, product assessment and consultancy services related to California Proposition 65 to help you manage risk in your supply chain for consumer goods such as DIYs, electrical and electronics, hardgoods products, juvenile products, and textile & toy products. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Contact us for more information or visit our website.
For inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Hingwo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
t: (+852) 2774 7420
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