ECSA press statement on the IARC classification of trichloroethylene and perchloroethylene (1995)
ECSA is concerned to hear about the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) evaluation that both trichloroethylene and perchloroethylene should be classified as "probably carcinogenic to humans." IARC have came to a different conclusion from other well respected bodies who have conducted reviews of the relevant information.
It should be stressed that the IARC evaluation is one of cancer HAZARD and not of RISK. ECSA believes that existing occupational control measures for both trichloroethylene and perchloroethylene take account of the relevant epidemiological data and are adequate for the protection of the health of exposed individuals. ‘Hazard’ reflects the intrinsic properties of the product, whereas ‘risk’ represents the potential human or environmental impact caused by exposure levels in practice.
Under the EU Existing Substances Regulation 793/93, Risk Assessment is being carried out on a number of chemical products by Member States in accordance with Regulation 1488/94. The UK is the responsible Member State for perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene, and final results are due by the end of 2005.
