EPA Publishes Final Risk Evaluation For 1,3-Butadiene, Intends To Regulate 11 COUs To Protect Workers

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on January 5, 2026, the availability of the final risk evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for 1,3-butadiene. 91 Fed. Reg. 264. EPA states in its December 31, 2025, press release that it found "potential unreasonable health risks for workers who breathe in this chemical at their jobs in 11 specific industrial settings." As required by TSCA, EPA will now develop a risk management rule to protect workers from the identified risks. According to EPA, "[t]his process will include meticulous consideration of health effects, exposure levels, economic impacts, and benefits of use, with extensive stakeholder engagement to ensure the resulting rules are both protective and practical."