The Member State Committee (MSC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has identified triphenyl phosphate (TPhP) as a substance of very high concern (SVHC) due to its endocrine disrupting properties in the environment. This decision was reached during MSC's October 2024 meeting, and the substance will be added to the Candidate List in early November 2024.
Triphenyl Phosphate and SVHC Status
Triphenyl phosphate (EC 204-112-2) has been recognised for its adverse effects on environmental health, particularly due to its endocrine-disrupting (ED) properties. According to ECHA, TPhP affects the endocrine system in organisms, posing a risk to reproductive health and overall population stability in aquatic environments. The consistency between endocrine activity and observed reproductive effects in fish was a central factor in the decision to categorise the substance as an SVHC under Article 57(f) of the REACH Regulation.
Comprehensive Review of Data
The identification process began earlier in June 2024 when the MSC deferred its decision to allow for the consideration of new data from a Japanese Ministry of Environment study on fish reproduction. This data, combined with evidence on TPhP's estrogenic and androgenic activities, ultimately reinforced the decision to list TPhP due to the significant environmental risks it poses.
ECHA's assessment also took into account various public comments, including concerns from industry stakeholders. However, MSC concluded that the adverse effects observed could disrupt population stability, making the substance a candidate for further regulatory action.
Next Steps: Adding to the Candidate List
Following the unanimous agreement at the October meeting, ECHA is set to officially include triphenyl phosphate on the Candidate List of SVHCs in early November 2024. The addition of a substance to this list is the first step toward potential further regulatory actions, such as restrictions or authorisation requirements under the REACH framework.
Industry and Environmental Implications
The identification of triphenyl phosphate as an SVHC has significant implications for industries that use this chemical in manufacturing. As TPhP is commonly found in products like flame retardants and plastics, companies using the substance may face stricter regulatory requirements, including increased scrutiny and potential substitution with safer alternatives.
