Phenol, 2,6-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-(1-methylpropyl)- (DTBSBP)

CAS Registry Number 17540-75-9

The Final Screening Assessment for Phenol, 2,6-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-(1-methylpropyl)- was published on July 31, 2010 as part of Batch 8 of the Challenge initiative of the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP). The assessment is summarized on this page.

What is it

  • Phenol, 2,6-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-(1-methylpropyl)-, also known as DTBSBP, is an industrial chemical.

How is it used

  • In Canada and elsewhere, DTBSBP is used as an antioxidant and stabilizer in plastics such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethane. It is also used in liquids such as brake fluid and ink resins, as well as in oils used in industrial applications.
  • DTBSBP is not manufactured in Canada, but is imported into Canada, mainly as a component of brake fluids and for use in the manufacturing of plastics and polyurethane foams.

Why did the Government of Canada assess it

  • Prior to assessment, DTBSBP was identified as a potential concern to the environment based on available information regarding possible persistence, accumulation in organisms and potential to cause harm to organisms.
  • DTBSBP was not considered to be a high priority for assessment of potential risks to human health; however, potential health effects were also evaluated in this screening assessment.

How is it released to the environment

  • Small amounts of DTBSBP may be released to the environment from residual quantities left in empty containers sent for recycling, reconditioning or disposal.
  • Small amounts of DTBSBP may also be released to the environment from consumer use (leaks and spills) of certain brake fluids.
  • Upon its release, this substance is expected to end up mainly in sediments and soil.

How are Canadians exposed to it

  • Exposure of the general population of Canada to DTBSBP from environmental media (air, water, soil), food and during the use of consumer products is expected to be low.

What are the results of the assessment

  • The Government of Canada has conducted a science-based evaluation of DTBSBP called a screening assessment.
  • Screening assessments address potential for harm to the general population and the environment.
  • Results of the final screening assessment indicate that DTBSBP is in commerce and has the potential to remain in the environment for a long time, accumulate in organisms and cause harm to organisms.
  • The Government of Canada has therefore concluded that DTBSBP is entering or may enter the environment in a quantity or under conditions that constitute a danger to the environment, and meets the criteria for virtual elimination (set out in the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999).
  • However, the Government of Canada has also concluded that DTBSBP is not considered to be harmful to the health of the general population at current levels of exposure.

What is the Government of Canada doing

  • Based on the conclusion of the final screening assessment, the Government of Canada will consider options to reduce or eliminate releases to the environment of this substance from industrial effluent and waste.
  • The proposed risk management approach was published on July 31, 2010. The publication of the proposed risk management approach document was followed by a 60-day comment period, ending September 29, 2010.
  • Information on the risk management actions for DTBSBP is available.

What can Canadians do

  • The health risks associated with a chemical depend on the hazard (its potential to cause health effects) and the dose (the amount of chemical to which you are exposed). DTBSBP is not a concern for the health of the general population in Canada at current levels of exposure.
  • As a general precaution, Canadians are reminded when using any product to carefully follow safety warnings and directions.
  • Canadians who handle DTBSBP in the workplace should consult with their occupational health and safety representative about safe handling practices, applicable laws and requirements under the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System.

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