EPA Postpones Industrial Exemptions for Trichloroethylene (TCE)—But Eurofins Is Ready for Testing

In August 2025, the EPA issued another postponement of Section 6(g) exemptions under TSCA’s risk management rule for trichloroethylene (TCE), extending implementation to November 17, 2025. This delay offers short‑term relief but doesn’t alter the long‑term trend toward stricter exposure control. At Eurofins Built Environment Testing, we’re not waiting—our team is already prepared to deliver TCE air monitoring using validated industrial hygiene methods.

Regulatory Background: TCE Phase‑Out & Delayed Exemptions

• December 2024: EPA finalized the TCE rule under TSCA Section 6(a), prohibiting most consumer and commercial uses.
• Early to mid‑2025: Multiple federal delays due to administrative and legal actions deferred effective dates for industrial exemption provisions (Section 6(g)).
• August 2025: Another extension pushed the compliance deadline for these exemptions to November 17, 2025.

While the exemption delay provides flexibility, the regulatory direction remains unchanged: stricter limits—including a Workplace Chemical Protection Program and a 0.2 ppm 8-hour TWA—are on the horizon.

Why This Matters to CIHs & EHS Professionals

• Regulations are still coming: Postponements are temporary; planning must align with future expectations.
• Operational readiness is critical: Start preparing now through sampling, exposure monitoring, and alternative strategies.
• Testing builds defensible compliance: Occupational exposure data supports proactive decision-making and documentation.

Eurofins Built Environment Testing: Proactive and Prepared

Eurofins Built Environment Testing specializes in industrial hygiene testing to help organizations stay ahead of regulatory changes and protect worker health.

Key Capabilities:

• Occupational Sampling with NIOSH Methods:
  We use NIOSH Method 1022 and a modification to let us achieve the lower proposed exposure standard, implementing active air sampling with charcoal tubes and calibrated pumps and also passive badges for personal and area monitoring of TCE.
• Technical Oversight:
  Our experts support everything from sampling logistics, pump calibration, to data analysis against OSHA PELs and the anticipated 0.2 ppm TWA (time weighted average) under the WCPP.
• Regulatory-Ready Results:
  Data is delivered in formats suitable for OSHA, EPA, or internal compliance documentation—complete with QA/QC and technical interpretation.
• Strategic Support:
  Whether you're establishing baseline exposures, validating control measures, or preparing for exemption compliance, our sampling strategies align with your operations and timeline.

Despite regulatory postponements, Eurofins Built Environment Testing is actively monitoring TCE exposures in critical industries such as aerospace, medical device manufacturing, battery production, and defense.

How Eurofins Supports Your TCE Compliance Strategy

The EPA’s delay until November 17, 2025 doesn’t change the eventual outcome: TCE oversight is increasing, and exposure control will become more stringent. But you don’t need to wait to act.

Eurofins Built Environment Testing is ready today. Whether for sampling setup, exposure analysis, or strategic planning, our team is equipped to help you stay compliant, safe, and forward-looking.