11/02/1998
Of the 2,800 most widely-used chemicals, complete data on health effects is available for only 7 percent. The Chemical Manufacturers Association as agreed to test these chemicals for environmental and health effects over the next six years, as opposed to the 50 years it would normally take. These chemicals are produced or imported at a volume of more than one million pounds per year.
Under the agreement, companies will voluntarily test the chemicals they manufacture and make the information available to the public. Cost estimates for the program range from $500-700 million. The American Petroleum Institute, whose members produce many of the chemicals, endorsed the agreement. The program is much cheaper and more efficient from industry's perspective, and faster and more comprehensive from the public's perspective.
The EPA will use its regulatory power to require more testing if companies do not voluntarily provide information in a timely manner.
The site is not active yet, but results will be posted as they become available: http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/chemtrk