An Introduction to the U.S. TSCA Inventory

Most manufacturers, processors, and importers all have one thing in common: the regular handling of chemical substances. That isn’t limited to harmful substances, either; many manufacturers handle a number of nontoxic organic substances on a daily basis. The Toxic Substances Control Act, otherwise known as the TSCA, is one way for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate these chemicals. Read on to find out more about the U.S. TSCA Inventory and what it means for your business.

An Introduction to the U.S. TSCA Inventory

What Is the U.S. TSCA Inventory?

Since 1976, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) has given the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to regulate certain chemical substances. The TSCA addresses a number of chemical substances in the United States, and requires detailed reporting and record-keeping surrounding these substances. The TSCA Inventory is an important part of that record-keeping. The Inventory is a running list that includes more than 86,000 chemical substances that are manufactured or processed, helping to regulate most industrial chemicals in the U.S., including those handled by manufacturers, processors, and importers. The Inventory also contains “flags” for certain chemical substances that may be subject to manufacturing restrictions.

What Is a TSCA “Chemical Substance?”

The TSCA defines a “chemical substance” as “any organic or inorganic substance of a particular molecular identity, including any combination of these substances occurring in whole or in part as a result of a chemical reaction or occurring in nature, and any element or uncombined radical.” In simpler terms, a “chemical substance” might include anything from an organic or inorganic compound to a broad range of polymers and biological materials. There are, of course, many chemical substances that are governed by other statutes – tobacco products, cosmetics, and nuclear materials, for example. These chemicals have their own reporting and regulatory standards to meet. All other applicable chemicals are held within the Inventory. The non-confidential portion of the Inventory is updated roughly every six months and is available for interested parties to view online.

What Does the TSCA Inventory Mean for My Business?

Complying with the TSCA requires a deep knowledge of the ins and outs of your product. For example, if you work in manufacturing, you will need to regularly check with your suppliers to learn more about the substances in your supply chain. If any substances in your supply chain meet TSCA criteria, you’re responsible for reporting that information through official channels. Additionally, if any substances in your supply chain should change, you’re responsible for that knowledge as well. Finally, as a business owner, you are required to stay abreast of the growing list of TSCA regulatory requirements, which could change from year to year. Fortunately, experts like Environmental Works can help keep you compliant.

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The U.S. TSCA Inventory already contains more than 86,000 chemicals, and the Inventory is growing constantly. Fortunately, the experts at EWI are here as your regulatory experts. We can help you stay ahead of any changes to TSCA Inventory reporting requirements, so you never have to worry about compliance. Focus on growing your business and knowing your products, and Environmental Works will focus on keeping up with EPA requirements.

Are you in need of further information on the U.S. TSCA Inventory? When you’re ready, you can contact EWI online or call 877-827-9500 for more information. We have in-house experts ready to help walk you through the specifics of your organization’s chemical reporting needs. Our team can work with you to develop a plan for your business to ensure ongoing environmental responsibility and compliance, particularly as it pertains to maintaining TSCA compliance. That way, you never have to worry about falling behind.