On October 27, 2023, Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, together with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Ministry of the Environment jointly published measures (draft) on α-(nonylphenyl)-ω-hydroxypolyoxyethylene (also known as polyoxyethylene nonylphenyl ether) (referred to as NPE) for public comments. The draft aims to regulate the manufacture, import and use of chemicals and public comments should be submitted from October 27, 2023 to November 26, 2023.
Main contents:
- NPE in Table 1 are listed in the Class II Specified Chemical Substances (CSCL). Water-based cleaning agents (agents that require dilution before use) containing NPE should comply with the technical guidelines and labeling. Manufacturers and importers of NPE are required to report expected and actual quantity. Moreover, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has the right to change the expected quantity if necessary.
| Priority Assessment Chemical Substances |
Number of priority assessment chemical substances No. 86: |
|
Name (expected) of Substance Designated as |
Polyoxyethylene alkyl phenyl ether |
| CAS Number | 26571-11-9; 27177-08-8; 20427-84-3; 104-35-8,etc. |
| CSCL Number | 3-589; 7-172 |
- Technical guidelines on the handling of NPE and water-based cleaning agents containing NPE (cleaning agents that require dilution before use) will be published to prevent environmental contamination.
- For containers, packaging, or invoice related to NPE, measures shall be taken to prevent environmental contamination. When, Operators must affix labels when transferring or supplying NPE.
Public opinions can be submitted through the e-Gov, as well as the official websites of the three ministries. Stakeholders can give feedbacks by filling out forms or e-mail.
