LaGrange, Ga.—The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has issued a Safe Use Determination (SUD) under Prop 65 for diisononyl phthalate (DINP) in vinyl flooring products. The finding is based on OEHHA’s determination that vinyl flooring products containing 18.9% or less of DINP by weight do not expose occupants of residences and commercial buildings to DINP exceeding “safe harbor levels.” Therefore, a Prop 65 consumer warning for qualifying products is not required. DINP has been used as a plasticizer in many products, including vinyl floors, to make them flexible.
The Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI) asked OEHHA in November 2014 to evaluate exposure to DINP in vinyl flooring and issue an SUD after the chemical was added to the state’s Prop 65 list in December 2013. The request was the first SUD sought since late 2007. OEHHA issued the SUD on June 21, 2016.
“We are pleased that OEHHA has reviewed exposure levels of DINP in virgin and recycled vinyl flooring and found that qualifying products do not require a Prop 65 warning,” said Dean Thompson, RFCI president. “OEHHA’s decision confirms that DINP in vinyl flooring not exceeding the 18.9% threshold is safe and appropriate for homes and commercial buildings. DINP is a thoroughly studied compound that enhances the flexibility, resiliency, and long-lasting performance of many vinyl products.”
For more information about RFCI, visit rfci.com.