On 22 November 2025, Environment and Climate Change Canada and Health Canada published additional risk-assessment information for the flame-retardant substances triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) and tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBOEP), and revised the preliminary conclusion for TBOEP. Scientific comments may be submitted until 21 January 2026.
Background
In November 2021 the Government of Canada released a draft screening-assessment report on “flame-retardant components” listed on the Domestic Substances List. At that time TPHP was preliminarily found to meet the toxicity criteria set out in section 64 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA), whereas TBOEP was not. New studies received since then have prompted a re-evaluation of both substances.
Updated Risk-assessment Conclusions
- TPHP – The original finding is upheld; the substance continues to meet the CEPA section 64 toxicity test, and newly identified health-risk evidence reinforces this conclusion.
- TBOEP – The conclusion has changed; the previous “not toxic” determination has been reversed. Revised exposure parameters indicate potential health risks from products such as foam mattresses, upholstered furniture, and child car seats.
Public Participation
An updated Risk Management Scope document has been released concurrently. The Government is inviting stakeholders to comment on proposed control measures for TPHP and TBOEP. Scientific comments on the supplementary assessment information may be sent by e-mail to substances@ec.gc.ca or through the online reporting system within 60 days. Submitters may request confidential treatment of information under section 313 of CEPA.
Further Information
