June 15, 2017
EPA Approves ANAB for Toxic Substances Control Act
ANAB has been approved by EPA as a provider of ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory accreditation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Title VI.
The purpose of the act is to reduce exposure to formaldehyde emissions from certain composite wood products produced domestically or imported into the United States. These products include hardwood plywood, medium-density fiberboard, and particleboard products, as well as household and other finished goods containing these products. The final rule Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products (40 CFR 770) includes product requirements, establishes third-party certification and testing program, as well as includes procedures for the accreditation.
Products imported, manufactured, or offered for sale in the United States must be compliant under TSCA Title VI. Testing for formadehyde emissions must be conducted by a laboratory that is accredited by a recognized accrediting body such as ANAB.
With implementation dates fast approaching, it is crucial for laboratories and suppliers to begin preparing for implementation.
EPA information on formaldehyde emission standards for composite wood products