Canada proposes adding methyl acetate to toxic substances list

On March 24, 2022, Chemical Watch reported that the Canadian government proposed adding the solvent methyl acetate to the list of toxic substances in Schedule 1 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (Cepa)
.

Health Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada jointly assessed 14 esters, including methyl acetate, to determine whether they posed a risk to the environment or human health
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Of the 14 substances, methyl acetate is the only one that meets the criteria for toxic substances set out in paragraph 64 of the Cepa
.

According to the draft screening assessment, methyl acetate does not harm the environment, but poses or may pose a hazard to human life
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The human body breaks down methyl acetate into methanol, which itself is toxic
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The 24-hour average air concentration of methyl acetate in aerosol adhesives and paint strippers was higher than the safe reference concentration for methanol
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The Government of Canada is considering steps to help consumers reduce their exposure to methyl acetate in aerosol adhesives and paint strippers
.

Public comment deadline is May 18, 2022
.