For Release: December 23, 2020

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the final risk evaluation for n-methylpyrrolidone (NMP). Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), EPA is required to evaluate the risks associated with exposure to existing chemicals in commerce using the best available science, and then take action to address any unreasonable risks. Today’s final risk findings complete the risk evaluation process required by TSCA for NMP.

EPA used feedback received during the public comment period and the scientific peer review process carried out by the Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals to inform the final risk evaluation. The final risk evaluation for NMP shows that there are unreasonable risks to workers and consumers for 26 out of 37 conditions of use. Additionally, the final risk evaluation shows that there are no unreasonable risks to the environment, general population, bystanders, or occupational non-users from all conditions of use of the chemical.

The next step in the process required by TSCA is developing a plan to address the unreasonable risks identified in the final risk evaluation. EPA is moving immediately to risk management for this chemical and will work as quickly as possible to propose and finalize actions to protect against the unreasonable risks.

Potential actions EPA could take to address these risks include regulation of how the chemical is used, or limiting or prohibiting the manufacture, processing, distribution in the marketplace, use, or disposal of this chemical, as applicable. As with any chemical product, EPA strongly recommends that users of products containing NMP continue to carefully follow all instructions on the product’s label and safety data sheet.

View the NMP final risk evaluation and supporting documents. https://19january2021snapshot.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca/final-risk-evaluation-n-methylpyrrolidone-nmp

Background

NMP, also called n-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, or 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, is a chemical that is widely used during the manufacture and production of petrochemicals, electronics, and plastic materials. NMP is used for solvent cleaning, and for producing and removing paints, coatings and adhesives. Common consumer uses include paints and coatings, glues and adhesives, paint and adhesive removers, lubricants, and automotive care products.

Learn more about the risk evaluation process required by TSCA: https://19january2021snapshot.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca/how-epa-evaluates-safety-existing-chemicals