Alkyl Alcohol Alkoxylates; Exemption from the Requirement of a Tolerance, 38935-38945 [E9-18706]
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 149 / Wednesday, August 5, 2009 / Rules and Regulations
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection,
Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides
and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.
Dated: July 30, 2009.
Lois Rossi,
Director, Registration Division, Office of
Pesticide Programs.
Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is
amended as follows:
■
38935
Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.
2. In § 180.920, the table is amended
by adding alphabetically the following
inert ingredients:
■
PART 180—[AMENDED]
§ 180.920 Inert ingredients used preharvest; exemptions from the requirement
of a tolerance.
1. The authority citation for part 180
continues to read asfollows:
*
■
Inert Ingredients
*
*
Limits
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Diethanolamine salts of alkyl (C8-C24) benzenesulfonic acid (CAS Reg. Nos. 26545–53– Not to exceed 7% of pes9 and 68953–97–9).
ticide formulation.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Dimethylaminopropylamine, isopropylamine, ethanolamine, and triethanolamine salts of
alkyl (C8-C24) benzenesulfonic acid (CAS Reg. Nos. 26264–05–1, 27323–41–7,
55470–69–4, 68411–31–4, 68584–24–7, 68584–25–8, 68648–81–7, 68648–96–4,
68649–00–3, 68910–32–7, 68953–93–5, 90194–42–6, 90194–53–9, 90218–35–2,
157966–96–6, 319926–68–6, 877677–48–0, 1093628–27–3).
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
3. In §180.930, the table is amended
by adding alphabetically the following
inert ingredients:
■
*
*
*
*
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA–HQ–OPP–2009–0145; FRL–8430–1]
Alkyl Alcohol Alkoxylates; Exemption
from the Requirement of a Tolerance
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with RULES
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: This regulation establishes an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance for [residues] of a-alkyl-whydroxypoly (oxypropylene) and/or
poly (oxyethylene) polymers where the
alkyl chain contains a minimum of six
carbons when used as an inert
ingredient in pesticide formulations.
The Joint Inerts Task Force (JITF),
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Uses
Surfactants, related adjuvants of surfactants
Surfactants, related adjuvants of surfactants
*
Limits
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Diethanolamine salts of alkyl (C8-C24) benzenesulfonic acid (CAS Reg. Nos. 26545–53– Not to exceed 7% of pes9 and 68953–97–9).
ticide formulation.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Dimethylaminopropylamine, isopropylamine, ethanolamine, and triethanolamine salts of
alkyl (C8-C24) benzenesulfonic acid (CAS Reg. Nos. 26264–05–1, 27323–41–7,
55470–69–4, 68411–31–4, 68584–24–7, 68584–25–8, 68648–81–7, 68648–96–4,
68649–00–3, 68910–32–7, 68953–93–5, 90194–42–6, 90194–53–9, 90218–35–2,
157966–96–6, 319926–68–6, 877677–48–0, 1093628–27–3).
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
BILLING CODE 6560–50–S
*
§ 180.930 Inert ingredients applied to
animals; exemptions from the requirement
of a tolerance.
Inert Ingredients
[FR Doc. E9–18698 Filed 8–4–09; 8:45 am]
*
Cluster Support Team Number 1,
submitted a petition to EPA under the
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
(FFDCA), requesting an exemption from
the requirement of a tolerance. This
regulation eliminates the need to
establish a maximum permissible level
for residues of a-alkyl-w-hydroxypoly
(oxypropylene) and/or poly
(oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl
chain contains a minimum of six
carbons.
DATES: This regulation is effective
August 5, 2009. Objections and requests
for hearings must be received on or
before October 5, 2009, and must be
filed in accordance with the instructions
provided in 40 CFR part 178 (see also
Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY
INFORMATION).
EPA has established a
docket for this action under docket
identification (ID) number EPA–HQ–
OPP–2009–0145. All documents in the
docket are listed in the docket index
ADDRESSES:
PO 00000
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Uses
Surfactants, related adjuvants of surfactants
Surfactants, related adjuvants of surfactants
available at https://www.regulations.gov.
Although listed in the index, some
information is not publicly available,
e.g., Confidential Business Information
(CBI) or other information whose
disclosure is restricted by statute.
Certain other material, such as
copyrighted material, is not placed on
the Internet and will be publicly
available only in hard copy form.
Publicly available docket materials are
available in the electronic docket at
https://www.regulations.gov, or, if only
available in hard copy, at the OPP
Regulatory Public Docket in Rm. S–
4400, One Potomac Yard (South Bldg.),
2777 S. Crystal Dr., Arlington, VA. The
Docket Facility is open from 8:30 a.m.
to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday,
excluding legal holidays. The Docket
Facility telephone number is (703) 305–
5805.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kerry Leifer, Registration Division
(7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs,
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Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington,
DC 20460–0001; telephone number:
(703) 308–8811; e-mail address:
leifer.kerry@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. General Information
A. Does this Action Apply to Me?
You may be potentially affected by
this action if you are an agricultural
producer, food manufacturer, or
pesticide manufacturer. Potentially
affected entities may include, but are
not limited to those engaged in the
following activities:
• Crop production (NAICS code 111).
• Animal production (NAICS code
112).
• Food manufacturing (NAICS code
311).
• Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS
code 32532).
This listing is not intended to be
exhaustive, but rather to provide a guide
for readers regarding entities likely to be
affected by this action. Other types of
entities not listed in this unit could also
be affected. The North American
Industrial Classification System
(NAICS) codes have been provided to
assist you and others in determining
whether this action might apply to
certain entities. If you have any
questions regarding the applicability of
this action to a particular entity, consult
the person listed under FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT.
B. How Can I Access Electronic Copies
of this Document?
srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with RULES
In addition to accessing electronically
available documents at https://
www.regulations.gov, you may access
this Federal Register document
electronically through the EPA Internet
under the ‘‘Federal Register’’ listings at
https://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr. You may
also access a frequently updated
electronic version of EPA’s tolerance
regulations at 40 CFR part 180 through
the Government Printing Office’s e-CFR
cite at https://www.gpoaccess.gov/ecfr.
To access the OPPTS Harmonized
Guidelines referenced in this document,
go directly to the guidelines at https://
www.epa.gpo/opptsfrs/home/
guidelin.htm.
C. Can I File an Objection or Hearing
Request?
Under section 408(g) of FFDCA, 21
U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
objection to any aspect of this regulation
and may also request a hearing on those
objections. You must file your objection
or request a hearing on this regulation
in accordance with the instructions
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provided in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure
proper receipt by EPA, you must
identify docket ID number EPA–HQ–
OPP–2009–0145 in the subject line on
the first page of your submission. All
requests must be in writing, and must be
mailed or delivered to the Hearing Clerk
as required by 40 CFR part 178 on or
before October 5, 2009.
In addition to filing an objection or
hearing request with the Hearing Clerk
as described in 40 CFR part 178, please
submit a copy of the filing that does not
contain any CBI for inclusion in the
public docket that is described in
ADDRESSES. Information not marked
confidential pursuant to 40 CFR part 2
may be disclosed publicly by EPA
without prior notice. Submit this copy,
identified by docket ID number EPA–
HQ–OPP–2009–0145, by one of the
following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://
www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line
instructions for submitting comments.
• Mail: Office of Pesticide Programs
(OPP) Regulatory Public Docket (7502P),
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington,
DC 20460–0001.
• Delivery: OPP Regulatory Public
Docket (7502P), Environmental
Protection Agency, Rm. S–4400, One
Potomac Yard (South Bldg.), 2777 S.
Crystal Dr., Arlington, VA. Deliveries
are only accepted during the Docket
Facility’s normal hours of operation
(8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through
Friday, excluding legal holidays).
Special arrangements should be made
for deliveries of boxed information. The
Docket Facility telephone number is
(703) 305–5805.
II. Background
In the Federal Register of April 15,
2009 (74 FR 17487) (FRL–8409–7), EPA
issued a notice pursuant to section 408
of FFDCA, 21 U.S.C. 346a, announcing
the receipt of a pesticide petition (PP
[9E7534]) filed by The Joint Inerts Task
Force, Cluster Support Team 1 (CST 1),
c/o CropLife America, 1156 15th Street,
NW., Suite 400, Washington, DC 20005.
The petition requested that 40 CFR
180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, 40 CFR
180.940a, and 40 CFR 180.960 be
amended by establishing an exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance for
residues of a group of substances known
as a-alkyl-w-hydroxypoly
(oxypropylene) and/or poly
(oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl
chain contains a minimum of 6 carbons,
herein referred to in this document as
AAA. AAAs are used as inert
ingredients in pesticide products. That
notice referenced a summary of the
petition prepared by The Joint Inerts
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Task Force (JITF), Cluster Support Team
Number 1 (CST 1)], the petitioner,
which is available to the public in the
docket, https://www.regulations.gov.
There were no comments received in
response to the notice of filing.
This petition was submitted in
response to a final rule of August 9,
2006, (71 FR 45415) in which the
Agency revoked, under section 408(e)(1)
of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
Act (FFDCA), the existing exemptions
from the requirement of a tolerance for
residues of certain inert ingredients
because of insufficient data to make the
determination of safety required by
FFDCA section 408(b)(2). The expiration
date for the tolerance exemptions
subject to revocation was August 9,
2008, which was later extended to
August 9, 2009 by a final rule published
in the Federal Register of August 4,
2008 (73 FR 45312) to allow for data to
be submitted to support the
establishment of tolerance exemptions
for these inert ingredients prior to the
effective date of the tolerance exemption
revocation.
Depending on the degree of
alkoxylation, each of the AAA
substances included in the petition can
vary in number average molecular
weight from a range of approximately
260 to 4,000. In the case where the
minimum number average molecular
weight of an AAA is 1,100 or more, the
petition’s basis of support for the
establishment of an exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance under 40 CFR
180.960 is the fact that such high
molecular weight AAAs would meet the
criteria for a low-risk polymer as
defined in 40 CFR 723.250. For the
remaining AAAs (i.e., the ones with
molecular weights between 260 and
1,100), the petition seeks to establish
tolerance exemptions for all AAAs
under 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930,
and 40 CFR 180.940(a). Therefore, in its
consideration of the petition the Agency
has conducted an assessment specific to
the establishment of an exemption from
the requirement of a tolerance for the
lower weight AAAs under 40 CFR
180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, and 40 CFR
180.940(a) as well as an assessment
specific to the establishment of an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance under 40 CFR 180.960 for the
‘‘high molecular weight’’ AAAs.
III. Inert Ingredient Definition
Inert ingredients are all ingredients
that are not active ingredients as defined
in 40 CFR 153.125 and include, but are
not limited to, the following types of
ingredients (except when they have a
pesticidal efficacy of their own):
Solvents such as alcohols and
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hydrocarbons; surfactants such as
polyoxyethylene polymers and fatty
acids; carriers such as clay and
diatomaceous earth; thickeners such as
carrageenan and modified cellulose;
wetting, spreading, and dispersing
agents; propellants in aerosol
dispensers; microencapsulating agents;
and emulsifiers. The term ‘‘inert’’ is not
intended to imply nontoxicity; the
ingredient may or may not be
chemically active. Generally, EPA has
exempted inert ingredients from the
requirement of a tolerance based on the
low toxicity of the individual inert
ingredients.
IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and
Determination of Safety
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA
allows EPA to establish an exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance (the
legal limit for a pesticide chemical
residue in or on a food) only if EPA
determines that the tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA
defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean that ‘‘there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result from aggregate exposure to the
pesticide chemical residue, including
all anticipated dietary exposures and all
other exposures for which there is
reliable information.’’ This includes
exposure through drinking water and in
residential settings, but does not include
occupational exposure. Section
408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to
give special consideration to exposure
of infants and children to the pesticide
chemical residue in establishing a
tolerance and to ‘‘ensure that there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result to infants and children from
aggregate exposure to the pesticide
chemical residue....’’
EPA performs a number of analyses to
determine the risks from aggregate
exposure to pesticide residues. First,
EPA determines the toxicity of
pesticides. Second, EPA examines
exposure to the pesticide through food,
drinking water, and through other
exposures that occur as a result of
pesticide use in residential settings.
Consistent with section 408(b)(2)(D)
of FFDCA, and the factors specified in
section 408(b)(2)(D) of FFDCA, EPA has
reviewed the available scientific data
and other relevant information in
support of this action. EPA has
sufficient data to assess the hazards of
and to make a determination on
aggregate exposure for the petitioned-for
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance for residue of AAAs when
used as an inert ingredient in pesticide
formulations applied pre- and postharvest, applied to livestock, and used
in antimicrobial formulations, and as a
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low risk polymer as defined in 40 CFR
723.250. EPA’s assessment of exposures
and risks associated with establishing
tolerances follows.
A. Toxicological Profile
EPA has evaluated the available
toxicity data and considered its validity,
completeness, and reliability as well as
the relationship of the results of the
studies to human risk. EPA has also
considered available information
concerning the variability of the
sensitivities of major identifiable
subgroups of consumers, including
infants and children.
1. For lower weight AAAs under 40
CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, and 40
CFR 180.940a. The available toxicology
database includes acute studies,
subchronic (rat and dog) studies, a
mutagenicity study, three OPPTS
Harmonized Guideline 870.3650
combined repeated dose toxicity studies
with the reproduction/developmental
toxicity screening tests, an OPPTS
Harmonized Guideline 870.3550
reproduction/developmental toxicity
screening test, an OPPTS harmonized
Test Guideline 870.3800 reproduction
and fertility effects study, and
reproduction and developmental effects
studies.
The AAAs are not acutely toxic by the
oral and dermal routes of exposure
under normal use conditions.
Concentrated materials are generally
moderate to severe eye and skin irritants
and may be skin sensitizers. There is no
evidence of mutagenicity in the Ames
assay (bacterial strains).
Following subchronic exposure to rats
and dogs, decreases in body weight and
food consumption were observed, but
no specific target organ toxicity or
neurotoxicity was seen. No effects were
detected in a functional observational
battery (FOB) or motor activity
assessment. In a 90–day dermal toxicity
study with AAA surfactant, no systemic
toxicity was observed at doses up to 125
mg/kg/day (the highest dose tested). In
an OPPTS Harmonized Guideline
870.3650 study with the AAA surfactant
CAS No. 9004–98–2, parental toxicity
observed at 110 mg/kg/day included
decreased absolute and relative thymus
weight, decreased body weight gain and
decreased food consumption in females,
and clinical signs in both sexes. These
clinical signs are indicative of local
irritation effects rather than systemic
effects and thus were not used as a basis
for evaluating the safety of the AAA
surfactants. No reproductive or
developmental/offspring toxicity was
observed. In the second OPPTS
Harmonized Guideline 870.3650 study
with the AAA surfactant CAS 103818–
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93–5, parental systemic toxicity was
observed at 300 mg/kg/day (HDT), based
on decreased body weight gain (in
males) and clinical signs (orange/red
perioral staining and moderate
salivation) in both sexes. No
reproductive or developmental/
offspring toxicity was observed. In the
third OPPTS Harmonized Guideline
870.3650 study with the AAA surfactant
CAS RN 64366–70–7, parental systemic
toxicity was observed at 500 mg/kg/day
(HDT), based on decreased body weight
in males. No reproductive or
developmental/offspring toxicity was
observed.
In an OPPTS Harmonized Test
Guideline 870.3550 reproduction/
developmental toxicity screening test
with the AAA surfactant CAS No.
84133–50–6, parental toxicity was
observed at 470 mg/kg/day based on
clinical signs (ptosis and hypoactivity),
decreased absolute body weight, body
weight gain, and food consumption.
Reproductive toxicity was observed, as
evidenced by the microscopic changes
in the testes and epididymides
(testicular atrophy, increased
intraluminal exfoliated spermatogenic
cells in epididymides, and dilated
seminiferous tubules). Developmental/
offspring toxicity was observed at 470
mg/kg/day (the highest dose tested),
based on decreased litter size and
increased postimplantation loss.
In a reproduction and developmental
effects study with the AAA surfactant
CAS 68951–67–7, the only significant
effects observed in female rats were
decreased body weight and body weight
gain during premating at 400.8 mg/kg/
day. At this maternally toxic dose,
offspring toxicity observed was
decreased body weight on lactation day
(LD) 21 (both sexes in F1A, F1B, F2A, and
F2B). No treatment-related effects were
observed on reproductive parameters.
In an OPPTS Harmonized Test
Guideline 870.3800 reproduction and
fertility effects study with AAA
surfactant CAS 68951–67–7, clinical
signs observed at 250 mg/kg/day were
increased incidences of lachrymation,
incidences of unkemptness, hunched
posture, chromodacryorrhea and
periocular swelling in F0 and F1
females. These effects may be attributed
to local irritant effects. No treatmentrelated effects were observed on
reproduction or the offspring at 250 mg/
kg/day (HDT).
It is generally accepted that increased
ethoxylation decreases lipophilicity
resulting in decreased absorption and
decreased toxicity. The lower molecular
weight AAAs would be expected to be
absorbed and distributed more readily
than higher molecular weight AAAs and
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therefore to potentially be more toxic.
The representative ethoxylated
compounds tested have the lowest
weight percent ethoxylation and lowest
molecular weight of the series and are
potentially the most bioavailable of the
series. Although metabolism data are
not available, the major metabolic
pathway for AAA surfactants is
expected to include the hydrolysis of
ether linkage to the corresponding alkyl
alcohol and polyalkoxylate (POE or
POE/POP) group which subsequently
undergoes oxidative degradation and/or
excretion.
There is no evidence that the AAA
surfactants are carcinogenic. The
Agency used a qualitative structure
activity relationship (SAR) database,
DEREK Version 11, to determine if there
were structural alerts. No structural
alerts were identified. In addition, there
was little concern about any of the
postulated metabolites having greater
toxicity than the parent compounds.
Specific information on the studies
received and the nature of the adverse
effects caused by AAA, as well as, the
no-observed-adverse-effect-level
(NOAEL) and the lowest-observedadverse-effect-level (LOAEL) from the
toxicity studies can be found at https://
www.regulations.gov in document
Alkyl Alcohol Alkoxylates (AAA - JITF
CST 1 Inert Ingredient). Human Health
Risk Assessment to Support Proposed
Exemption from the Requirement of a
Tolerance When Used as an Inert
Ingredient in Pesticide Formulations at
pp 13–20 and pp 61–75 in docket ID
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2009–0145.
2. For the high molecular weight
AAAs under 40 CFR 180.960. In the case
of certain chemical substances that are
defined as polymers, the Agency has
established a set of criteria to identify
categories of polymers expected to
present minimal or no risk. The
definition of a polymer is given in 40
CFR 723.250(b) and the exclusion
criteria for identifying these low-risk
polymers are described in 40 CFR
723.250(d). The high molecular weight
AAAs conform to the definition of a
polymer given in 40 CFR 723.250(b) and
meet the following criteria that are used
to identify low-risk polymers.
i. The polymer is not a cationic
polymer nor is it reasonably anticipated
to become a cationic polymer in a
natural aquatic environment.
ii. The polymer does contain as an
integral part of its composition the
atomic elements carbon, hydrogen, and
oxygen.
iii. The polymer does not contain as
an integral part of its composition,
except as impurities, any element other
than those listed in 40 CFR
723.250(d)(2)(ii).
iv. The polymer is neither designed
nor can it be reasonably anticipated to
substantially degrade, decompose, or
depolymerize.
v. The polymer is manufactured or
imported from monomers and/or
reactants that are already included on
the TSCA Chemical Substance
Inventory or manufactured under an
applicable TSCA section 5 exemption.
vi. The polymer is not a water
absorbing polymer with a number
average molecular weight (MW) greater
than or equal to 10,000 daltons.
Additionally, the polymers also meet
as required the following exemption
criteria specified in 40 CFR 723.250(e).
The polymer’s number average MW of
1,100 daltons is greater than 1,000 and
less than 10,000 daltons. The polymer
contains less than 10% oligomeric
material below MW 500 and less than
25% oligomeric material below MW
1,000, and the polymer does not contain
any reactive functional groups.
Thus, the high molecular weight
AAAs meet the criteria for a polymer to
be considered low risk under 40 CFR
723.250. Generally, polymers of this size
would be poorly absorbed by all routes
of exposure, including through the
intact gastrointestinal tract or through
intact human skin, and therefore, no
mammalian toxicity is anticipated from
dietary, inhalation, or dermal exposure
to the high molecular weight AAAs.
B. Toxicological Endpoints
For hazards that have a threshold
below which there is no appreciable
risk, a toxicological point of departure
(POD) is identified as the basis for
derivation of reference values for risk
assessment. The POD may be defined as
the highest dose at which no adverse
effects are observed (the NOAEL) in the
toxicology study identified as
appropriate for use in risk assessment.
However, if a NOAEL cannot be
determined, the lowest dose at which
adverse effects of concern are identified
(the LOAEL) or a Benchmark Dose
(BMD) approach is sometimes used for
risk assessment. Uncertainty/safety
factors (UFs) are used in conjunction
with the POD to take into account
uncertainties inherent in the
extrapolation from laboratory animal
data to humans and in the variations in
sensitivity among members of the
human population as well as other
unknowns. Safety is assessed for acute
and chronic dietary risks by comparing
aggregate food and water exposure to
the pesticide to the acute population
adjusted dose (aPAD) and chronic
population adjusted dose (cPAD). The
aPAD and cPAD are calculated by
dividing the POD by all applicable UFs.
Aggregate short-, intermediate-, and
chronic-term risks are evaluated by
comparing food, water, and residential
exposure to the POD to ensure that the
margin of exposure (MOE) called for by
the product of all applicable UFs is not
exceeded. This latter value is referred to
as the Level of Concern (LOC).
For non-threshold risks, the Agency
assumes that any amount of exposure
will lead to some degree of risk. Thus,
the Agency estimates risk in terms of the
probability of an occurrence of the
adverse effect greater than that expected
in a lifetime. For more information on
the general principles EPA uses in risk
characterization and a complete
description of the risk assessment
process, see https://www.epa.gov/
pesticides/factsheets/riskassess.htm.
1. For the lower weight AAAs under
40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, and 40
CFR 180.940a. A summary of the
toxicological endpoints for the AAAs
used for human heatlh risk assessment
is shown in the following Table.
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TABLE—SUMMARY OF TOXICOLOGICAL DOSES AND ENDPOINTS FOR THE AAAS FOR USE IN HUMAN HEALTH RISK
ASSESSMENT
Exposure/Scenario
Point of Departure and Uncertainty/Safety
Factors
Acute dietary (all populations)
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RfD, PAD, LOC
for Risk Assessment
Study and Toxicological Effects
No appropriate endpoint was identified for acute dietary assessment.
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38939
TABLE—SUMMARY OF TOXICOLOGICAL DOSES AND ENDPOINTS FOR THE AAAS FOR USE IN HUMAN HEALTH RISK
ASSESSMENT—Continued
Point of Departure and Uncertainty/Safety
Factors
RfD, PAD, LOC
for Risk Assessment
Chronic dietary (all populations)
NOAEL= 168
mg/kg/day
UFA = 10x
UFH = 10x
FQPA SF = 1x
Chronic RfD =
1.68 mg/kg/
day
cPAD = 1.68
mg/kg/day
OPPTS harmonized Test Guideline 870.3550 reproduction/developmental toxicity screening test MRID 47676801 (2009) LOAEL
= 470 mg/kg/day based on one maternal death (GD 22), decreased body weight, body weight gain, and food consumption,
increased clinical signs (ptosis and hypoactivity), and microscopic changes of the testes and epididymides (testicular atrophy, increased intraluminal exfoliated spermatogenic cells in
epididymides, and dilated seminiferous tubules) in parental animals, decreased litter size, and increased postimplantation loss.
Incidental Oral and Inhalation (all
durations)
NOAEL= 168
mg/kg/day
UFA = 10x
UFH = 10x
FQPA SF = 1x
Residential LOC
for MOE =
100
OPPTS harmonized Test Guideline 870.3550 reproduction/developmental toxicity screening test MRID 47676801 (2009) LOAEL
= 470 mg/kg/day based on one maternal death (GD 22), decreased body weight, body weight gain, and food consumption,
increased clinical signs (ptosis and hypoactivity), and microscopic changes of the testes and epididymides (testicular atrophy, increased intraluminal exfoliated spermatogenic cells in
epididymides, and dilated seminiferous tubules) in parental animals, decreased litter size, and increased postimplantation loss.
Dermal (all durations)
NOAEL= 168
mg/kg/day
UFA = 10x
UFH = 10x
FQPA SF = 1x
Residential LOC
for MOE =
100
OPPTS harmonized Test Guideline 870.3550 reproduction/developmental toxicity screening test MRID 47676801 (2009) Oral
LOAEL = 470 mg/kg/day based on one maternal death (GD 22),
decreased body weight, body weight gain, and food consumption, increased clinical signs (ptosis and hypoactivity), and microscopic changes of the testes and epididymides (testicular atrophy, increased intraluminal exfoliated spermatogenic cells in
epididymides, and dilated seminiferous tubules) in parental animals, decreased litter size, and increased postimplantation loss.
The final dose used to quantify dermal risk must correct for 50%
dermal absorption, and should be multiplied by 3 to take into account the differences in rat and human skin penetration. The resulting dose = 1,000 mg/kg/day
Exposure/Scenario
Cancer (oral, dermal, inhalation)
Study and Toxicological Effects
Classification: Based on SAR analysis, AAA surfactrants are not expected to be carcinogenic.
srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with RULES
Point of Departure (POD) = A data point or an estimated point that is derived from observed dose-response data and used to mark the beginning of extrapolation to determine risk associated with lower environmentally relevant human exposures. NOAEL = no observed adverse effect
level. LOAEL = lowest observed adverse effect level. UF = uncertainty factor. UFA = extrapolation from animal to human (interspecies). UFH =
potential variation in sensitivity among members of the human population (intraspecies). PAD = population adjusted dose (a=acute, c=chronic).
FQPA SF = FQPA Safety Factor. RfD = reference dose. MOE = margin of exposure. LOC = level of concern. N/A = not applicable.
2. For the high molecular weight
AAAs under 40 CFR 180.960. Since the
high molecular weight AAAs conform to
the criteria that identify a low risk
polymer, and are not likely to be
absorbed significantly by any route of
exposure, there are no concerns for risks
associated with any potential exposure
scenarios that are reasonably
foreseeable. Thus, due to their low
potential hazard, it was determined that
a quantitative risk assessment using
safety factors applied to a point of
departure protective of an identified
hazard endpoint is not appropriate for
the high molecular weight AAAs, and
an exposure assessment is not
necessary. For the same reason, an
additional safety factor to protect infants
and children is not needed.
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C. Exposure Assessment
Sufficient data were provided on the
chemical identity of the AAAs;
however, limited data are available on
the metabolism and environmental
degradation of these compounds. The
Agency relied collectively on
information provided on the
representative chemical structures, the
submitted physicochemical data,
structure-activity relationship
information, as well as information on
other surfactants and chemicals of
similar size and functionality to
determine the residues of concern for
these inert ingredients. The Agency has
concluded that a risk assessment based
on toxicity data for the parent
compounds is not likely to
underestimate risk.
1. Dietary exposure from food and
feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to the lower weight AAAs,
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EPA considered exposure under the
petitioned-for exemptions from the
requirement of a tolerance. EPA
assessed dietary exposures from the
lower weight AAAs in food as follows:
i. Acute exposure. No adverse effects
attributable to a single exposure of the
AAAs was seen in the toxicity
databases. Therefore, acute dietary risk
assessments for the AAAs are not
necessary.
ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting
the chronic dietary exposure
assessment, EPA used food
consumption information from the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA)
1994–1996 and 1998 Nationwide
Continuing Surveys of Food Intake by
Individuals (CSFII). As to residue levels
in food, no residue data were submitted
for the AAAs. In the absence of specific
residue data, EPA has developed an
approach which uses surrogate
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information to derive upper bound
exposure estimates for the subject inert
ingredient. Upper bound exposure
estimates are based on the highest
tolerance for a given commodity from a
list of high-use insecticides, herbicides,
and fungicides. A complete description
of the general approach taken to assess
inert ingredient risks in the absence of
residue data is contained in the
memorandum entitled Alkyl Amines
Polyalkoxylates (Cluster 4): Acute and
Chronic Aggregate (Food and Drinking
Water) Dietary Exposure and Risk
Assessments for the Inerts. (D361707, S.
Piper, 2/25/09) and can be found at
https://www.regulations.gov in docket ID
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2008–0738.
In the dietary exposure assessment,
the Agency assumed that the residue
level of the inert ingredient would be no
higher than the highest tolerance for a
given commodity. Implicit in this
assumption is that there would be
similar rates of degradation (if any)
between the active and inert ingredient
and that the concentration of inert
ingredient in the scenarios leading to
these highest of tolerances would be no
higher than the concentration of the
active ingredient.
The Agency believes the assumptions
used to estimate dietary exposures lead
to an extremely conservative assessment
of dietary risk due to a series of
compounded conservatisms. First,
assuming that the level of residue for an
inert ingredient is equal to the level of
residue for the active ingredient will
overstate exposure. The concentrations
of active ingredient in agricultural
products is generally at least 50 percent
of the product and often can be much
higher. Further, pesticide products
rarely have a single inert ingredient;
rather there is generally a combination
of different inert ingredients used which
additionally reduces the concentration
of any single inert ingredient in the
pesticide product in relation to that of
the active ingredient.
Second, the conservatism of this
methodology is compounded by EPA’s
decision to assume that, for each
commodity, the active ingredient which
will serve as a guide to the potential
level of inert ingredient residues is the
active ingredient with the highest
tolerance level. This assumption
overstates residue values because it
would be highly unlikely, given the
high number of inert ingredients, that a
single inert ingredient or class of
ingredients would be present at the
level of the active ingredient in the
highest tolerance for every commodity.
Finally, a third compounding
conservatism is EPA’s assumption that
all foods contain the inert ingredient at
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the highest tolerance level. In other
words, EPA assumed 100 percent of all
foods are treated with the inert
ingredient at the rate and manner
necessary to produce the highest residue
legally possible for an active ingredient.
In summary, EPA chose a very
conservative method for estimating
what level of inert residue could be on
food, then used this methodology to
choose the highest possible residue that
could be found on food and assumed
that all food contained this residue. No
consideration was given to potential
degradation between harvest and
consumption even though monitoring
data shows that tolerance level residues
are typically one to two orders of
magnitude higher than actual residues
in food when distributed in commerce.
Accordingly, although sufficient
information to quantify actual residue
levels in food is not available, the
compounding of these conservative
assumptions will lead to a significant
exaggeration of actual exposures. EPA
does not believe that this approach
underestimates exposure in the absence
of residue data.
iii. Cancer. The Agency used a
qualitative structure activity
relationship (SAR) database, DEREK11,
to determine if there were structural
alerts suggestive of carcinogenicity. No
structural alerts for carcinogenicity were
identified. The AAAs are not expected
to be carcinogenic. Therefore, a cancer
dietary exposure assessment is not
necessary to assess cancer risk.
iv. Anticipated residue and percent
crop treated (PCT) information. EPA did
not use anticipated residue and/or PCT
information in the dietary assessment
for the AAAs. Tolerance level residues
and/or 100% CT were assumed for all
food commodities.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking
water. The Agency used screening level
water exposure models in the dietary
exposure analysis and risk assessment
for the AAAs in drinking water. These
simulation models take into account
data on the physical, chemical, and fate/
transport characteristics of the AAAs.
Further information regarding EPA
drinking water models used in the
pesticide exposure assessment can be
found at https://www.epa.gov/oppefed1/
models/water/index.htm.
A screening level drinking water
analysis, based on the Pesticide Root
Zone Model /Exposure Analysis
Modeling System (PRZM/EXAMS) was
performed to calculate the estimated
drinking water concentrations (EDWCs)
of the AAAs. Modeling runs on four
surrogate inert ingredients using a range
of physical chemical properties that
would bracket those of the AAAs were
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conducted. Modeled acute drinking
water values ranged from 0.001 ppb to
41 ppb. Modeled chronic drinking water
values ranged from 0.0002 ppb to 19
ppb. Further details of this drinking
water analysis can be found at https://
www.regulations.gov in the document
Alkyl Alcohol Alkoxylates (AAA - JITF
CST 1 Inert Ingredient). Human Health
Risk Assessment to Support Proposed
Exemption from the Requirement of a
Tolerance When Used as an Inert
Ingredient in Pesticide Formulations at
pp 20–21 and 77–79 in docket ID
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2009–0145.
For the purpose of the screening level
dietary risk assessment to support this
request for an exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance for the AAAs,
a conservative drinking water
concentration value of 100 ppb based on
screening level modeling was used to
assess the contribution to drinking
water for chronic dietary risk
assessments for the parent compound.
These values were directly entered into
the dietary exposure model.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The
term ‘‘residential exposure’’ is used in
this document to refer to nonoccupational, non-dietary exposure
(e.g., for lawn and garden pest control,
indoor pest control, termiticides, and
flea and tick control on pets). The AAAs
may be used in inert ingredients in
pesticide products that are registered for
specific uses that may result in both
indoor and outdoor residential
exposures. A screening level residential
exposure and risk assessment was
completed for products containing the
AAAs as inert ingredients. In this
assessment, representative scenarios,
based on end-use product application
methods and labeled application rates,
were selected. The AAAs may be used
as inert ingredients in pesticide
formulations that are used in and
around the home. Additionally, these
inerts may be used in pesticide products
applied to pets as aerosol sprays
intended for flea control on carpeted
surfaces and bedding, or in shampoo
products applied to pets. Lastly, these
inerts may be present in home cleaning
products or paint products. For each of
the use scenarios, the Agency assessed
residential handler (applicator)
inhalation and dermal exposure for use
scenarios with high exposure potential
(i.e., exposure scenarios with high-end
unit exposure values) to serve as a
screening assessment for all potential
residential pesticides containing the
AAAs. Similarly, the Agency conducted
an assessment to represent worst-case
residential exposure by assessing post
application exposures and risks from
AAAs in pesticide formulations
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(outdoor scenarios), AAAs in
disinfectant-type uses (indoor
scenarios), AAAs in shampoo pet
treatments (pet product scenarios) and
AAAs in paint products (paint product
scenarios). Further details of this
residential exposure and risk analysis
can be found at https://
www.regulations.gov in the
memorandum entitled JITF Inert
Ingredients Residential and
Occupational Exposure Assessment
Algorithms and Assumptions Appendix
for the Human Health Risk Assessments
to Support Proposed Exemption from
the Requirement of a Tolerance When
Used as Inert Ingredients in Pesticide
Formulations (D364751, 5/7/09, Lloyd/
LaMay in docket ID number EPA–HQ–
OPP–2008–0710.
4. Cumulative effects from substances
with a common mechanism of toxicity.
Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA
requires that, when considering whether
to establish, modify, or revoke a
tolerance, the Agency consider
‘‘available information’’ concerning the
cumulative effects of a particular
pesticide’s residues and ‘‘other
substances that have a common
mechanism of toxicity.’’
EPA has not found AAAs to share a
common mechanism of toxicity with
any other substances, and the AAAs do
not appear to produce a toxic metabolite
produced by other substances. For the
purposes of this tolerance action,
therefore, EPA has assumed that the
AAAs do not have a common
mechanism of toxicity with other
substances. For information regarding
EPA’s efforts to determine which
chemicals have a common mechanism
of toxicity and to evaluate the
cumulative effects of such chemicals,
see EPA’s website at https://
www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative.
srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with RULES
D. Safety Factor for Infants and
Children
1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of
FFDCA provides that EPA shall apply
an additional tenfold (10X) margin of
safety for infants and children in the
case of threshold effects to account for
prenatal and postnatal toxicity and the
completeness of the database on toxicity
and exposure unless EPA determines
based on reliable data that a different
margin of safety will be safe for infants
and children. This additional margin of
safety is commonly referred to as the
FQPA safety factor (SF). In applying this
provision, EPA either retains the default
value of 10X, or uses a different
additional safety factor when reliable
data available to EPA support the choice
of a different factor.
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2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity.
In the case of the lower weight AAA
surfactants, there was no evidence of
increased susceptibility to the offspring
of rats following prenatal and postnatal
exposure in the reproductive/
developmental screening studies on
several representative AAA surfactants.
Decreased litter size and increased
postimplantation loss were observed in
one OPPTS Harmonized Guideline
870.3550 reproduction/developmental
toxicity screening study at 470 mg/kg/
day where maternal/paternal toxicity
was manifested as one maternal death
(GD 22), decreased body weight, bodyweight gain and food consumption and
clinical signs (ptosis and hypoactivity)
and microscopic changes in the testes
(atrophy) and epididymides (increased
intraluminal exfoliated spermatogenic
cells) and dilated seminiferous tubules
at the same dose (470 mg/kg/day). The
maternal and offspring toxicity NOAEL
was 168 mg/kg/day. The offspring
toxicity in the OPPTS Harmonized Test
Guideline 870.3650 study was
manifested in the presence of more
severe maternal toxicity (deaths),
therefore, EPA concluded that there is
no evidence of increased susceptibility
in this study. In addition, there was no
evidence of increased susceptibility in
other submitted studies.
3. Conclusion. EPA has determined
that reliable data show that the safety of
infants and children would be
adequately protected if the FQPA SF
were reduced to 1X for the lower weight
AAAs. (As discussed earlier, given the
low toxicological concerns with the
high weight AAAs, a safety factor
analysis is unnecessary). That decision
as to the lower weight AAAs is based on
the following findings:
i. The toxicity database for the AAAs
is considered adequate for assessing the
risks to infants and children. The
toxicity database consists of three
OPPTS Harmonized Test Guideline
870.3650 combined repeated dose
toxicity studies with the reproduction/
developmental toxicity screening tests,
an OPPTS Harmonized Test Guidelinge
870.3550 reproduction/developmental
toxicity screening test study, an OPPTS
Harmonized Test Guideline 870.3800
reproduction and fertility effects study,
and reproduction and developmental
effects studies. The Agency noted
changes in thymus weight. However, the
thymus/lymph node effects are
considered secondary effects caused by
an overall stress response to the irritant
properties of this chemical, and
therefore, not an immunological
response. In addition, no blood
parameters were affected in the
database. Furthermore, these
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38941
compounds do not belong to a class of
chemicals that would be expected to be
immunotoxic. Also, in an OPPTS
Harmonized Test Guideline 870.3550
study, testicular effects, such as,
testicular atrophy, microscopic changes
in the testes, epididymides and dilated
seminiferous tubules were observed in
male rats at the highest dose tested (470
mg/kg/day). However, none of the
reproductive parameters (pregnancy
rate) were affected in this study. In
addition, there were no effects observed
on reproductive parameters in the
OPPTS Harmonized Test Guideline
870.3800 reproduction and fertility
effects study. Furthermore, there was no
histological findings in the testes in that
study. Based on the weight of the
evidence for immunotoxoicity and
reproductive toxicity, there is no need
to add additional uncertainty factors.
ii. EPA concluded that there is no
evidence of qualitative or quantitative
increased susceptivility in the available
database. Therefore, there is no concern
for increased susceptibility to infants
and children.
iii. There is no indication that the
AAAs are neurotoxic chemicals and
thus there is no need for a
developmental neurotoxicity study or
additional UFs to account for
neurotoxicity
iv. Although the chronic point of
departure was selected from a
subchronic study, longer-term studies
are available that support the NOAEL
selected. No additional uncertainty
factor is needed for extrapolating from
subchronic to chronic exposure.
v. There are no residual uncertainties
identified in the exposure databases.
The food and drinking water assessment
is not likely to underestimate exposure
to any subpopulation, including those
comprised of infants and children. The
food exposure assessments are
considered to be highly conservative as
they are based on the use of the highest
tolerance level from the surrogate
pesticides for every food and 100% crop
treated is assumed for all crops. EPA
also made conservative (protective)
assumptions in the ground and surface
water modeling used to assess exposure
to the AAAs in drinking water. EPA
used similarly conservative assumptions
to assess post-application exposure of
children as well as incidental oral
exposure of toddlers. These assessments
will not underestimate the exposure and
risks posed by the AAAs.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of
Safety
1. For the lower weight AAAs under
40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, and 40
CFR 180.940a. EPA determines whether
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acute and chronic pesticide exposures
are safe by comparing aggregate
exposure estimates to the aPAD and
cPAD. The aPAD and cPAD represent
the highest safe exposures, taking into
account all appropriate SFs. EPA
calculates the aPAD and cPAD by
dividing the POD by all applicable UFs.
For linear cancer risks, EPA calculates
the probability of additional cancer
cases given the estimated aggregate
exposure. Short-, intermediate-, and
chronic-term risks are evaluated by
comparing the estimated aggregate food,
water, and residential exposure to the
POD to ensure that the MOE called for
by the product of all applicable UFs is
not exceeded.
i. Acute risk. There was no hazard
attributable to a single exposure seen in
the toxicity database for the AAAs.
Therefore, the AAAs are not expected to
pose an acute risk.
ii. Chronic risk. A chronic aggregate
risk assessment takes into account
exposure estimates from chronic dietary
consumption of food and drinking
water. Using the exposure assumptions
discussed in this unit for chronic
exposure the chronic dietary exposure
from food and water to the AAAs is
11% of the cPAD for the U.S.
population and 37% of the cPAD for
children 1 to 2 years old, the most
highly exposed population subgroup.
iii. Short-term risk. Short-term
aggregate exposure takes into account
short-term residential exposure plus
chronic exposure to food and water
(considered to be a background
exposure level).
AAAs are used as inert ingredients in
pesticide products that are currently
registered for uses that could result in
short-term residential exposure and the
Agency has determined that it is
appropriate to aggregate chronic
exposure through food and water with
short-term residential exposures to the
AAAs. EPA has concluded that the
combined short-term aggregated food,
water, and residential exposures result
in aggregate MOEs of 110 for both adult
males and females. Adult residential
exposure combines high end indoor
inhalation handler exposure with a
high-end post application to pet
exposures. EPA has concluded the
combined short-term aggregated food,
water, and residential exposures result
in an aggregate MOE of 110 for children.
Children’s residential exposure includes
total combined pet exposures. As the
level of concern is for MOEs that are
lower than 100, these MOEs are not of
concern.
iv. Intermediate-term risk.
Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term
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residential exposure plus chronic
exposure to food and water (considered
to be a background exposure level).
The AAAs are used as inert
ingredients in pesticide products that
are currently registered for uses that
could result in intermediate-term
residential exposure and the Agency has
determined that it is appropriate to
aggregate chronic exposure through food
and water with intermediate-term
residential exposures to the AAAs. EPA
has concluded that the combined
intermediate-term aggregated food,
water, and residential exposures result
in aggregate MOEs of 230 for both adult
males and females, respectively. Adult
residential exposure includes high-end
post application dermal exposure from
contact with treated pets. EPA has
concluded that the combined
intermediate-term aggregated food,
water, and residential exposures result
in an aggregate MOE of 110 for children.
Children’s residential exposure includes
total combined pet exposure. As the
level of concern is for MOEs that are
lower than 100, these MOEs are not of
concern.
v. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S.
population. The Agency has not
identified any concerns for
carcinogenicity relating to the AAAs.
vi. Determination of safety. Based on
these risk assessments, EPA concludes
that there is a reasonable certainty that
no harm will result to the general
population or to infants and children
from aggregate exposure to residues of
the lower weight AAAs.
2. For the high molecular weight
AAAs under 40 CFR 180.960. Since
AAA conforms to the criteria that
identify a low-risk polymer, there are no
concerns for risks associated with any
potential exposure scenarios that are
reasonably foreseeable. Therefore, EPA
concludes that there is a reasonable
certainty that no harm will result to the
general population or to infants and
children from aggregate exposure to
residues of the high molecular weight
AAAs.
V. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
An analytical method is not required
for enforcement purposes since the
Agency is establishing an exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance
without any numerical limitation.
B. International Residue Limits
The Agency is not aware of any
country requiring a tolerance for the
AAAs nor have any CODEX Maximum
Residue Levels been established for any
food crops at this time.
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VI. Conclusion
Therefore, an exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance is established
for residues of the lower molecular
weight a-alkyl-w-hydroxypoly
(oxypropylene) and/or poly
(oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl
chain contains a minimum of 6 carbons
when used as an inert ingredient in
pesticide formulations applied pre- and
post-harvest, applied to livestock, and
used in antimicrobial formulations
under 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930,
and 40 CFR 180.940(a). In addition, an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance is established for residues of
the larger molecular weight compounds
of a-alkyl-w-hydroxypoly
(oxypropylene) and/or poly
(oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl
chain contains a minimum of 6 carbons
under 40 CFR 180.960.
VII. Statutory and Executive Order
Reviews
This final rule establishes an
exemption from the requirement of
tolerances under section 408(d) of
FFDCA in response to a petition
submitted to the Agency. The Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) has
exempted these types of actions from
review under Executive Order 12866,
entitled Regulatory Planning and
Review (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993).
Because this final rule has been
exempted from review under Executive
Order 12866, this final rule is not
subject to Executive Order 13211,
entitled Actions Concerning Regulations
That Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
Distribution, or Use (66 FR 28355, May
22, 2001) or Executive Order 13045,
entitled Protection of Children from
Environmental Health Risks and Safety
Risks (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997).
This final rule does not contain any
information collections subject to OMB
approval under the Paperwork
Reduction Act (PRA), 44 U.S.C. 3501 et
seq ., nor does it require any special
considerations under Executive Order
12898, entitled Federal Actions to
Address Environmental Justice in
Minority Populations and Low-Income
Populations (59 FR 7629, February 16,
1994).
Since tolerances and exemptions that
are established on the basis of a petition
under section 408(d) of FFDCA, such as
the exemptions in this final rule, do not
require the issuance of a proposed rule,
the requirements of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et
seq .) do not apply.
This final rule directly regulates
growers, food processors, food handlers,
and food retailers, not States or tribes,
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nor does this action alter the
relationships or distribution of power
and responsibilities established by
Congress in the preemption provisions
of section 408(n)(4) of FFDCA. As such,
the Agency has determined that this
action will not have a substantial direct
effect on States or tribal governments,
on the relationship between the national
government and the States or tribal
governments, or on the distribution of
power and responsibilities among the
various levels of government or between
the Federal Government and Indian
tribes. Thus, the Agency has determined
that Executive Order 13132, entitled
Federalism (64 FR 43255, August 10,
1999) and Executive Order 13175,
entitled Consultation and Coordination
with Indian Tribal Governments (65 FR
67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply
to this final rule. In addition, this final
rule does not impose any enforceable
duty or contain any unfunded mandate
as described under Title II of the
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
(UMRA) (Public Law 104–4).
This action does not involve any
technical standards that would require
Agency consideration of voluntary
consensus standards pursuant to section
12(d) of the National Technology
Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995
(NTTAA), Public Law 104–113, section
12(d) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection,
Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides
and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.
Dated: July 29, 2009.
Lois Rossi,
Director, Registration Division, Office of
Pesticide Programs.
VIII. Congressional Review Act
The Congressional Review Act, 5
U.S.C. 801 et seq., generally provides
that before a rule may take effect, the
agency promulgating the rule must
submit a rule report to each House of
the Congress and to the Comptroller
General of the United States. EPA will
submit a report containing this rule and
other required information to the U.S.
Senate, the U.S. House of
Representatives, and the Comptroller
General of the United States prior to
publication of this final rule in the
Federal Register. This final rule is not
a ‘‘major rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C.
804(2).
Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is
amended as follows:
■
PART 180—[AMENDED]
1. The authority citation for part 180
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.
2. In § 180.910, the table is amended
by adding alphabetically the following
inert ingredients:
■
§ 180.910 Inert ingredients used pre- and
post-harvest; exemptions from the
requirement of a tolerance.
*
Inert ingredients
*
3. In §180.930, the table is amended
by adding alphabetically the following
inert ingredients:
■
srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with RULES
*
Limits
*
*
*
*
*
a-alkyl-w-hydroxypoly (oxypropylene) and/or poly (oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl
chain contains a minimum of six carbons (CAS Reg. Nos. 9002–92–0, 9004–95–9,
9005–00–9, 26183–52–8, 34398–01–1, 52292–17–8, 66455–14–9, 66455–15–0,
68002–97–1, 68131–39–5, 68131–40–8, 68154–96–1, 68213–23–0, 68439–45–2,
68439–46–3, 68526–94–3, 68439–50–9, 68439–49–6, 68551–12–2, 68951–67–7,
71243–46–4, 97043–91–9, 9043–30–5, 60828–78–6, 61827–42–7, 24938–91–8,
68439–54–3, 69011–36–5, 78330–20–8, 78330–21–9, 106232–83–1, 127036–24–2,
160875–66–1, 9004–98–2, 68920–66–1, 61804–34–0, 61791–28–4, 71060–57–6,
26468–86–0, 31726–34–8, 52609–19–5, 61791–20–6, 68155–01–1, 69013–19–0,
69364–63–2, 70879–83–3, 78330–19–5, 97953–22–5, 157627–86–6, 34398–05–5,
72905–87–4, 84133–50–6, 61702–78–1, 27306–79–2, 169107–21–5, 61791–13–7,
39587–22–9, 85422–93–1; 68154–98–3, 61725–89–1, 68002–96–0, 68154–97–2,
68439–51–0, 68551–13–3, 68603–25–8, 68937–66–6, 68987–81–5, 69227–21–0,
70750–27–5, 103818–93–5, 166736–08–9, 120313–48–6, 68213–24–1, 68458–88–8,
68551–14–4, 69013–18–9, 69227–22–1, 72854–13–8, 73049–34–0, 78330–23–1,
37311–02–7, 64366–70–7, 37251–67–5, 9087–53–0, 196823–11–7, 57679–21–7,
111905–54–5, 61827–84–7, 172588–43–1)
*
*
*
*
*
*
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*
*
Frm 00057
*
Fmt 4700
*
Surfactants,
surfactants
*
*
*
Sfmt 4700
*
Uses
§ 180.930 Inert ingredients applied to
animals; exemptions from the requirement
of a tolerance.
*
*
E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM
05AUR1
related
adjuvants
of
38944
Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 149 / Wednesday, August 5, 2009 / Rules and Regulations
Inert Ingredients
Limits
*
*
*
*
*
a-alkyl-w-hydroxypoly (oxypropylene) and/or poly (oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl
chain contains a minimum of six carbons (CAS Reg. Nos. 9002–92–0, 9004–95–9, 9005–
00–9, 26183–52–8, 34398–01–1, 52292–17–8, 66455–14–9, 66455–15–0, 68002–97–1,
68131–39–5, 68131–40–8, 68154–96–1, 68213–23–0, 68439–45–2, 68439–46–3, 68526–
94–3, 68439–50–9, 68439–49–6, 68551–12–2, 68951–67–7, 71243–46–4, 97043–91–9,
9043–30–5, 60828–78–6, 61827–42–7, 24938–91–8, 68439–54–3, 69011–36–5, 78330–
20–8, 78330–21–9, 106232–83–1, 127036–24–2, 160875–66–1, 9004–98–2, 68920–66–1,
61804–34–0, 61791–28–4, 71060–57–6, 26468–86–0, 31726–34–8, 52609–19–5, 61791–
20–6, 68155–01–1, 69013–19–0, 69364–63–2, 70879–83–3, 78330–19–5, 97953–22–5,
157627–86–6, 34398–05–5, 72905–87–4, 84133–50–6, 61702–78–1, 27306–79–2,
169107–21–5, 61791–13–7, 39587–22–9, 85422–93–1; 68154–98–3, 61725–89–1,
68002–96–0, 68154–97–2, 68439–51–0, 68551–13–3, 68603–25–8, 68937–66–6, 68987–
81–5, 69227–21–0, 70750–27–5, 103818–93–5, 166736–08–9, 120313–48–6, 68213–24–
1, 68458–88–8, 68551–14–4, 69013–18–9, 69227–22–1, 72854–13–8, 73049–34–0,
78330–23–1, 37311–02–7, 64366–70–7, 37251–67–5, 9087–53–0, 196823–11–7, 57679–
21–7, 111905–54–5, 61827–84–7, 172588–43–1)
*
*
*
*
*
§ 180.940 Tolerance exemptions for active
and inert ingredients for use in
antimicrobial formulations (Food-contact
surface sanitizing solutions).
4. Section §180.940 is amended by
alphabetically adding the following
entry to the table in paragraph (a):
■
*
*
*
*
Pesticide Chemical
*
Uses
*
Surfactants, related
surfactants
*
adjuvants
of
*
(a) *
*
*
*
CAS Reg. No.
Limits
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
a-alkyl-w-hydroxypoly (oxypropylene) and/or 9002–92–0, 9004–95–9, 9005–00–9, 26183–52–8, 34398–01–1,
poly (oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl
52292–17–8, 66455–14–9, 66455–15–0, 68002–97–1, 68131–
chain contains a minimum of six carbons.
39–5, 68131–40–8, 68154–96–1, 68213–23–0, 68439–45–2,
68439–46–3, 68526–94–3, 68439–50–9, 68439–49–6, 68551–
12–2, 68951–67–7, 71243–46–4, 97043–91–9, 9043–30–5,
60828–78–6, 61827–42–7, 24938–91–8, 68439–54–3, 69011–
36–5, 78330–20–8, 78330–21–9, 106232–83–1, 127036–24–2,
160875–66–1, 9004–98–2, 68920–66–1, 61804–34–0, 61791–
28–4, 71060–57–6, 26468–86–0, 31726–34–8, 52609–19–5,
61791–20–6, 68155–01–1, 69013–19–0, 69364–63–2, 70879–
83–3, 78330–19–5, 97953–22–5, 157627–86–6, 34398–05–5,
72905–87–4, 84133–50–6, 61702–78–1, 27306–79–2, 169107–
21–5, 61791–13–7, 39587–22–9, 85422–93–1; 68154–98–3,
61725–89–1, 68002–96–0, 68154–97–2, 68439–51–0, 68551–
13–3, 68603–25–8, 68937–66–6, 68987–81–5, 69227–21–0,
70750–27–5,
103818–93–5,
166736–08–9,
120313–48–6,
68213–24–1, 68458–88–8, 68551–14–4, 69013–18–9, 69227–
22–1, 72854–13–8, 73049–34–0, 78330–23–1, 37311–02–7,
64366–70–7, 37251–67–5, 9087–53–0, 196823–11–7, 57679–
21–7, 111905–54–5, 61827–84–7, 172588–43–1)
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
5. In §180.960, the table is amended
by adding alphabetically the following
polymers:
■
§ 180.960 Polymers; exemptions from the
requirement of a tolerance.
*
*
*
*
*
srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with RULES
Polymer
a-alkyl-w-hydroxypoly
(oxypropylene) and/or
poly (oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl
chain contains a minimum of six carbons,
minimum number average molecular weight (in
amu) 1,100.
VerDate Nov<24>2008
CAS No.
*
*
*
*
*
9002–92–0, 9004–95–9, 9005–00–9, 26183–52–8, 34398–01–1, 52292–17–8, 66455–14–9, 66455–15–0, 68002–
97–1, 68131–39–5, 68131–40–8, 68154–96–1, 68213–23–0, 68439–45–2, 68439–46–3, 68526–94–3, 68439–50–
9, 68439–49–6, 68551–12–2, 68951–67–7, 71243–46–4, 97043–91–9, 9043–30–5, 60828–78–6, 61827–42–7,
24938–91–8, 68439–54–3, 69011–36–5, 78330–20–8, 78330–21–9, 106232–83–1, 127036–24–2, 160875–66–1,
9004–98–2, 68920–66–1, 61804–34–0, 61791–28–4, 71060–57–6, 26468–86–0, 31726–34–8, 52609–19–5,
61791–20–6, 68155–01–1, 69013–19–0, 69364–63–2, 70879–83–3, 78330–19–5, 97953–22–5, 157627–86–6,
34398–05–5, 72905–87–4, 84133–50–6, 61702–78–1, 27306–79–2, 169107–21–5, 61791–13–7, 39587–22–9,
85422–93–1; 68154–98–3, 61725–89–1, 68002–96–0, 68154–97–2, 68439–51–0, 68551–13–3, 68603–25–8,
68937–66–6, 68987–81–5, 69227–21–0, 70750–27–5, 103818–93–5, 166736–08–9, 120313–48–6, 68213–24–1,
68458–88–8, 68551–14–4, 69013–18–9, 69227–22–1, 72854–13–8, 73049–34–0, 78330–23–1, 37311–02–7,
64366–70–7, 37251–67–5, 9087–53–0, 196823–11–7, 57679–21–7, 111905–54–5, 61827–84–7, 172588–43–1
*
*
*
*
*
16:20 Aug 04, 2009
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E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM
05AUR1
Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 149 / Wednesday, August 5, 2009 / Rules and Regulations
[FR Doc. E9–18706 Filed 8–4–09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560–50–S
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA–HQ–OPP–2008–0944; FRL–8429–4]
Polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene
mono(di-sec-butylphenyl) ether;
Exemption from the Requirement of a
Tolerance
AGENCY: Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. General Information
A. Does this Action Apply to Me?
This regulation establishes an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance for residues of
Polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene
mono(di-sec-butylphenyl) ether when
used as an inert ingredient in herbicide
formulations only, for pre-harvest uses
and at no more than 30% by weight in
herbicide formulations intended for
application to turf. The Joint Inerts Task
Force (JITF), Cluster Support Team
Number 20, submitted a petition to EPA
under the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance. This regulation eliminates the
need to establish a maximum
permissible level for residues of
Polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene
mono(di-sec-butylphenyl) ether.
DATES: This regulation is effective
August 5, 2009. Objections and requests
for hearings must be received on or
before October 5, 2009, and must be
filed in accordance with the instructions
provided in 40 CFR part 178 (see also
Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY
INFORMATION).
SUMMARY:
EPA has established a
docket for this action under docket
identification (ID) number EPA–HQ–
OPP–2008–0944. All documents in the
docket are listed in the docket index
available at https://www.regulations.gov.
Although listed in the index, some
information is not publicly available,
e.g., Confidential Business Information
(CBI) or other information whose
disclosure is restricted by statute.
Certain other material, such as
copyrighted material, is not placed on
the Internet and will be publicly
available only in hard copy form.
Publicly available docket materials are
available in the electronic docket at
https://www.regulations.gov, or, if only
available in hard copy, at the OPP
Regulatory Public Docket in Rm. S–
4400, One Potomac Yard (South Bldg.),
srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with RULES
ADDRESSES:
VerDate Nov<24>2008
16:20 Aug 04, 2009
Jkt 217001
2777 S. Crystal Dr., Arlington, VA. The
Docket Facility is open from 8:30 a.m.
to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday,
excluding legal holidays. The Docket
Facility telephone number is (703) 305–
5805.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kerry Leifer, Registration Division
(7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs,
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington,
DC 20460–0001; telephone number:
(703) 308–8811; e-mail address:
leifer.kerry@epa.gov.
You may be potentially affected by
this action if you are an agricultural
producer, food manufacturer, or
pesticide manufacturer. Potentially
affected entities may include, but are
not limited to those engaged in the
following activities:
• Crop production (NAICS code 111).
• Animal production (NAICS code
112).
• Food manufacturing (NAICS code
311).
• Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS
code 32532).
This listing is not intended to be
exhaustive, but rather to provide a guide
for readers regarding entities likely to be
affected by this action. Other types of
entities not listed in this unit could also
be affected. The North American
Industrial Classification System
(NAICS) codes have been provided to
assist you and others in determining
whether this action might apply to
certain entities. If you have any
questions regarding the applicability of
this action to a particular entity, consult
the person listed under FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT.
B. How Can I Access Electronic Copies
of this Document?
In addition to accessing electronically
available documents at https://
www.regulations.gov, you may access
this Federal Register document
electronically through the EPA Internet
under the ‘‘Federal Register’’ listings at
https://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr. You may
also access a frequently updated
electronic version of EPA’s tolerance
regulations at 40 CFR part 180 through
the Government Printing Office’s e–CFR
cite at https://www.gpoaccess.gov/ecfr.
To access the OPPTS Harmonized
Guidelines referenced in this document,
go directly to the guidelines at https://
www.epa.gpo/opptsfrs/home/
guidelin.htm.
PO 00000
Frm 00059
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
38945
C. Can I File an Objection or Hearing
Request?
Under section 408(g) of FFDCA, 21
U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
objection to any aspect of this regulation
and may also request a hearing on those
objections. You must file your objection
or request a hearing on this regulation
in accordance with the instructions
provided in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure
proper receipt by EPA, you must
identify docket ID number EPA–HQ–
OPP–2008–0944 in the subject line on
the first page of your submission. All
requests must be in writing, and must be
mailed or delivered to the Hearing Clerk
as required by 40 CFR part 178 on or
before October 5, 2009.
In addition to filing an objection or
hearing request with the Hearing Clerk
as described in 40 CFR part 178, please
submit a copy of the filing that does not
contain any CBI for inclusion in the
public docket that is described in
ADDRESSES. Information not marked
confidential pursuant to 40 CFR part 2
may be disclosed publicly by EPA
without prior notice. Submit this copy,
identified by docket ID number EPA–
HQ–OPP–2008–0944, by one of the
following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://
www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line
instructions for submitting comments.
• Mail: Office of Pesticide Programs
(OPP) Regulatory Public Docket (7502P),
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington,
DC 20460–0001.
• Delivery: OPP Regulatory Public
Docket (7502P), Environmental
Protection Agency, Rm. S–4400, One
Potomac Yard (South Bldg.), 2777 S.
Crystal Dr., Arlington, VA. Deliveries
are only accepted during the Docket
Facility’s normal hours of operation
(8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through
Friday, excluding legal holidays).
Special arrangements should be made
for deliveries of boxed information. The
Docket Facility telephone number is
(703) 305–5805.
II. Background
In the Federal Register of March 25,
2009 (74 FR 12856) (FRL–8399–4), EPA
issued a notice pursuant to section
408(d)(3) of FFDCA, 21 U.S.C.
346a(d)(3), announcing the filing of a
pesticide petition (PP 8E7494) by The
Joint Inerts Task Force (JITF), Cluster
Support Team 20 (CST 20), c/o CropLife
America, 1156 15th Street, NW., Suite
400, Washington, DC 20005. The
petition requested that 40 CFR 180.920
be amended by establishing exemptions
from the requirement of a tolerance for
residues of the inert ingredient
E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM
05AUR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 149 (Wednesday, August 5, 2009)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 38935-38945]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-18706]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA-HQ-OPP-2009-0145; FRL-8430-1]
Alkyl Alcohol Alkoxylates; Exemption from the Requirement of a
Tolerance
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: This regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement
of a tolerance for [residues] of [alpha]-alkyl-[omega]-hydroxypoly
(oxypropylene) and/or poly (oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl chain
contains a minimum of six carbons when used as an inert ingredient in
pesticide formulations. The Joint Inerts Task Force (JITF), Cluster
Support Team Number 1, submitted a petition to EPA under the Federal
Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting an exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to
establish a maximum permissible level for residues of [alpha]-alkyl-
[omega]-hydroxypoly (oxypropylene) and/or poly (oxyethylene) polymers
where the alkyl chain contains a minimum of six carbons.
DATES: This regulation is effective August 5, 2009. Objections and
requests for hearings must be received on or before October 5, 2009,
and must be filed in accordance with the instructions provided in 40
CFR part 178 (see also Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION).
ADDRESSES: EPA has established a docket for this action under docket
identification (ID) number EPA-HQ-OPP-2009-0145. All documents in the
docket are listed in the docket index available at https://www.regulations.gov. Although listed in the index, some information is
not publicly available, e.g., Confidential Business Information (CBI)
or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Certain
other material, such as copyrighted material, is not placed on the
Internet and will be publicly available only in hard copy form.
Publicly available docket materials are available in the electronic
docket at https://www.regulations.gov, or, if only available in hard
copy, at the OPP Regulatory Public Docket in Rm. S-4400, One Potomac
Yard (South Bldg.), 2777 S. Crystal Dr., Arlington, VA. The Docket
Facility is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday,
excluding legal holidays. The Docket Facility telephone number is (703)
305-5805.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kerry Leifer, Registration Division
(7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs,
[[Page 38936]]
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW.,
Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone number: (703) 308-8811; e-mail
address: leifer.kerry@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. General Information
A. Does this Action Apply to Me?
You may be potentially affected by this action if you are an
agricultural producer, food manufacturer, or pesticide manufacturer.
Potentially affected entities may include, but are not limited to those
engaged in the following activities:
Crop production (NAICS code 111).
Animal production (NAICS code 112).
Food manufacturing (NAICS code 311).
Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS code 32532).
This listing is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather to
provide a guide for readers regarding entities likely to be affected by
this action. Other types of entities not listed in this unit could also
be affected. The North American Industrial Classification System
(NAICS) codes have been provided to assist you and others in
determining whether this action might apply to certain entities. If you
have any questions regarding the applicability of this action to a
particular entity, consult the person listed under FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT.
B. How Can I Access Electronic Copies of this Document?
In addition to accessing electronically available documents at
https://www.regulations.gov, you may access this Federal Register
document electronically through the EPA Internet under the ``Federal
Register'' listings at https://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr. You may also access
a frequently updated electronic version of EPA's tolerance regulations
at 40 CFR part 180 through the Government Printing Office's e-CFR cite
at https://www.gpoaccess.gov/ecfr. To access the OPPTS Harmonized
Guidelines referenced in this document, go directly to the guidelines
at https://www.epa.gpo/opptsfrs/home/guidelin.htm.
C. Can I File an Objection or Hearing Request?
Under section 408(g) of FFDCA, 21 U.S.C. 346a, any person may file
an objection to any aspect of this regulation and may also request a
hearing on those objections. You must file your objection or request a
hearing on this regulation in accordance with the instructions provided
in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, you must identify
docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2009-0145 in the subject line on the first
page of your submission. All requests must be in writing, and must be
mailed or delivered to the Hearing Clerk as required by 40 CFR part 178
on or before October 5, 2009.
In addition to filing an objection or hearing request with the
Hearing Clerk as described in 40 CFR part 178, please submit a copy of
the filing that does not contain any CBI for inclusion in the public
docket that is described in ADDRESSES. Information not marked
confidential pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be disclosed publicly by EPA
without prior notice. Submit this copy, identified by docket ID number
EPA-HQ-OPP-2009-0145, by one of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov.
Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments.
Mail: Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) Regulatory Public
Docket (7502P), Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania
Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001.
Delivery: OPP Regulatory Public Docket (7502P),
Environmental Protection Agency, Rm. S-4400, One Potomac Yard (South
Bldg.), 2777 S. Crystal Dr., Arlington, VA. Deliveries are only
accepted during the Docket Facility's normal hours of operation (8:30
a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays).
Special arrangements should be made for deliveries of boxed
information. The Docket Facility telephone number is (703) 305-5805.
II. Background
In the Federal Register of April 15, 2009 (74 FR 17487) (FRL-8409-
7), EPA issued a notice pursuant to section 408 of FFDCA, 21 U.S.C.
346a, announcing the receipt of a pesticide petition (PP [9E7534])
filed by The Joint Inerts Task Force, Cluster Support Team 1 (CST 1),
c/o CropLife America, 1156 15th Street, NW., Suite 400, Washington, DC
20005. The petition requested that 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, 40
CFR 180.940a, and 40 CFR 180.960 be amended by establishing an
exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of a group
of substances known as [alpha]-alkyl-[omega]-hydroxypoly (oxypropylene)
and/or poly (oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl chain contains a
minimum of 6 carbons, herein referred to in this document as AAA. AAAs
are used as inert ingredients in pesticide products. That notice
referenced a summary of the petition prepared by The Joint Inerts Task
Force (JITF), Cluster Support Team Number 1 (CST 1)], the petitioner,
which is available to the public in the docket, https://www.regulations.gov. There were no comments received in response to the
notice of filing.
This petition was submitted in response to a final rule of August
9, 2006, (71 FR 45415) in which the Agency revoked, under section
408(e)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), the
existing exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of
certain inert ingredients because of insufficient data to make the
determination of safety required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2). The
expiration date for the tolerance exemptions subject to revocation was
August 9, 2008, which was later extended to August 9, 2009 by a final
rule published in the Federal Register of August 4, 2008 (73 FR 45312)
to allow for data to be submitted to support the establishment of
tolerance exemptions for these inert ingredients prior to the effective
date of the tolerance exemption revocation.
Depending on the degree of alkoxylation, each of the AAA substances
included in the petition can vary in number average molecular weight
from a range of approximately 260 to 4,000. In the case where the
minimum number average molecular weight of an AAA is 1,100 or more, the
petition's basis of support for the establishment of an exemption from
the requirement of a tolerance under 40 CFR 180.960 is the fact that
such high molecular weight AAAs would meet the criteria for a low-risk
polymer as defined in 40 CFR 723.250. For the remaining AAAs (i.e., the
ones with molecular weights between 260 and 1,100), the petition seeks
to establish tolerance exemptions for all AAAs under 40 CFR 180.910, 40
CFR 180.930, and 40 CFR 180.940(a). Therefore, in its consideration of
the petition the Agency has conducted an assessment specific to the
establishment of an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for
the lower weight AAAs under 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, and 40 CFR
180.940(a) as well as an assessment specific to the establishment of an
exemption from the requirement of a tolerance under 40 CFR 180.960 for
the ``high molecular weight'' AAAs.
III. Inert Ingredient Definition
Inert ingredients are all ingredients that are not active
ingredients as defined in 40 CFR 153.125 and include, but are not
limited to, the following types of ingredients (except when they have a
pesticidal efficacy of their own): Solvents such as alcohols and
[[Page 38937]]
hydrocarbons; surfactants such as polyoxyethylene polymers and fatty
acids; carriers such as clay and diatomaceous earth; thickeners such as
carrageenan and modified cellulose; wetting, spreading, and dispersing
agents; propellants in aerosol dispensers; microencapsulating agents;
and emulsifiers. The term ``inert'' is not intended to imply
nontoxicity; the ingredient may or may not be chemically active.
Generally, EPA has exempted inert ingredients from the requirement of a
tolerance based on the low toxicity of the individual inert
ingredients.
IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish an
exemption from the requirement of a tolerance (the legal limit for a
pesticide chemical residue in or on a food) only if EPA determines that
the tolerance is ``safe.'' Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA defines
``safe'' to mean that ``there is a reasonable certainty that no harm
will result from aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical residue,
including all anticipated dietary exposures and all other exposures for
which there is reliable information.'' This includes exposure through
drinking water and in residential settings, but does not include
occupational exposure. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to
give special consideration to exposure of infants and children to the
pesticide chemical residue in establishing a tolerance and to ``ensure
that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to
infants and children from aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical
residue....''
EPA performs a number of analyses to determine the risks from
aggregate exposure to pesticide residues. First, EPA determines the
toxicity of pesticides. Second, EPA examines exposure to the pesticide
through food, drinking water, and through other exposures that occur as
a result of pesticide use in residential settings.
Consistent with section 408(b)(2)(D) of FFDCA, and the factors
specified in section 408(b)(2)(D) of FFDCA, EPA has reviewed the
available scientific data and other relevant information in support of
this action. EPA has sufficient data to assess the hazards of and to
make a determination on aggregate exposure for the petitioned-for
exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residue of AAAs when
used as an inert ingredient in pesticide formulations applied pre- and
post-harvest, applied to livestock, and used in antimicrobial
formulations, and as a low risk polymer as defined in 40 CFR 723.250.
EPA's assessment of exposures and risks associated with establishing
tolerances follows.
A. Toxicological Profile
EPA has evaluated the available toxicity data and considered its
validity, completeness, and reliability as well as the relationship of
the results of the studies to human risk. EPA has also considered
available information concerning the variability of the sensitivities
of major identifiable subgroups of consumers, including infants and
children.
1. For lower weight AAAs under 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, and
40 CFR 180.940a. The available toxicology database includes acute
studies, subchronic (rat and dog) studies, a mutagenicity study, three
OPPTS Harmonized Guideline 870.3650 combined repeated dose toxicity
studies with the reproduction/developmental toxicity screening tests,
an OPPTS Harmonized Guideline 870.3550 reproduction/developmental
toxicity screening test, an OPPTS harmonized Test Guideline 870.3800
reproduction and fertility effects study, and reproduction and
developmental effects studies.
The AAAs are not acutely toxic by the oral and dermal routes of
exposure under normal use conditions. Concentrated materials are
generally moderate to severe eye and skin irritants and may be skin
sensitizers. There is no evidence of mutagenicity in the Ames assay
(bacterial strains).
Following subchronic exposure to rats and dogs, decreases in body
weight and food consumption were observed, but no specific target organ
toxicity or neurotoxicity was seen. No effects were detected in a
functional observational battery (FOB) or motor activity assessment. In
a 90-day dermal toxicity study with AAA surfactant, no systemic
toxicity was observed at doses up to 125 mg/kg/day (the highest dose
tested). In an OPPTS Harmonized Guideline 870.3650 study with the AAA
surfactant CAS No. 9004-98-2, parental toxicity observed at 110 mg/kg/
day included decreased absolute and relative thymus weight, decreased
body weight gain and decreased food consumption in females, and
clinical signs in both sexes. These clinical signs are indicative of
local irritation effects rather than systemic effects and thus were not
used as a basis for evaluating the safety of the AAA surfactants. No
reproductive or developmental/offspring toxicity was observed. In the
second OPPTS Harmonized Guideline 870.3650 study with the AAA
surfactant CAS 103818-93-5, parental systemic toxicity was observed at
300 mg/kg/day (HDT), based on decreased body weight gain (in males) and
clinical signs (orange/red perioral staining and moderate salivation)
in both sexes. No reproductive or developmental/offspring toxicity was
observed. In the third OPPTS Harmonized Guideline 870.3650 study with
the AAA surfactant CAS RN 64366-70-7, parental systemic toxicity was
observed at 500 mg/kg/day (HDT), based on decreased body weight in
males. No reproductive or developmental/offspring toxicity was
observed.
In an OPPTS Harmonized Test Guideline 870.3550 reproduction/
developmental toxicity screening test with the AAA surfactant CAS No.
84133-50-6, parental toxicity was observed at 470 mg/kg/day based on
clinical signs (ptosis and hypoactivity), decreased absolute body
weight, body weight gain, and food consumption. Reproductive toxicity
was observed, as evidenced by the microscopic changes in the testes and
epididymides (testicular atrophy, increased intraluminal exfoliated
spermatogenic cells in epididymides, and dilated seminiferous tubules).
Developmental/offspring toxicity was observed at 470 mg/kg/day (the
highest dose tested), based on decreased litter size and increased
postimplantation loss.
In a reproduction and developmental effects study with the AAA
surfactant CAS 68951-67-7, the only significant effects observed in
female rats were decreased body weight and body weight gain during
premating at 400.8 mg/kg/day. At this maternally toxic dose, offspring
toxicity observed was decreased body weight on lactation day (LD) 21
(both sexes in F1A, F1B, F2A, and
F2B). No treatment-related effects were observed on
reproductive parameters.
In an OPPTS Harmonized Test Guideline 870.3800 reproduction and
fertility effects study with AAA surfactant CAS 68951-67-7, clinical
signs observed at 250 mg/kg/day were increased incidences of
lachrymation, incidences of unkemptness, hunched posture,
chromodacryorrhea and periocular swelling in F0 and F1 females. These
effects may be attributed to local irritant effects. No treatment-
related effects were observed on reproduction or the offspring at 250
mg/kg/day (HDT).
It is generally accepted that increased ethoxylation decreases
lipophilicity resulting in decreased absorption and decreased toxicity.
The lower molecular weight AAAs would be expected to be absorbed and
distributed more readily than higher molecular weight AAAs and
[[Page 38938]]
therefore to potentially be more toxic. The representative ethoxylated
compounds tested have the lowest weight percent ethoxylation and lowest
molecular weight of the series and are potentially the most
bioavailable of the series. Although metabolism data are not available,
the major metabolic pathway for AAA surfactants is expected to include
the hydrolysis of ether linkage to the corresponding alkyl alcohol and
polyalkoxylate (POE or POE/POP) group which subsequently undergoes
oxidative degradation and/or excretion.
There is no evidence that the AAA surfactants are carcinogenic. The
Agency used a qualitative structure activity relationship (SAR)
database, DEREK Version 11, to determine if there were structural
alerts. No structural alerts were identified. In addition, there was
little concern about any of the postulated metabolites having greater
toxicity than the parent compounds.
Specific information on the studies received and the nature of the
adverse effects caused by AAA, as well as, the no-observed-adverse-
effect-level (NOAEL) and the lowest-observed-adverse-effect-level
(LOAEL) from the toxicity studies can be found at https://www.regulations.gov in document Alkyl Alcohol Alkoxylates (AAA - JITF
CST 1 Inert Ingredient). Human Health Risk Assessment to Support
Proposed Exemption from the Requirement of a Tolerance When Used as an
Inert Ingredient in Pesticide Formulations at pp 13-20 and pp 61-75 in
docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2009-0145.
2. For the high molecular weight AAAs under 40 CFR 180.960. In the
case of certain chemical substances that are defined as polymers, the
Agency has established a set of criteria to identify categories of
polymers expected to present minimal or no risk. The definition of a
polymer is given in 40 CFR 723.250(b) and the exclusion criteria for
identifying these low-risk polymers are described in 40 CFR 723.250(d).
The high molecular weight AAAs conform to the definition of a polymer
given in 40 CFR 723.250(b) and meet the following criteria that are
used to identify low-risk polymers.
i. The polymer is not a cationic polymer nor is it reasonably
anticipated to become a cationic polymer in a natural aquatic
environment.
ii. The polymer does contain as an integral part of its composition
the atomic elements carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
iii. The polymer does not contain as an integral part of its
composition, except as impurities, any element other than those listed
in 40 CFR 723.250(d)(2)(ii).
iv. The polymer is neither designed nor can it be reasonably
anticipated to substantially degrade, decompose, or depolymerize.
v. The polymer is manufactured or imported from monomers and/or
reactants that are already included on the TSCA Chemical Substance
Inventory or manufactured under an applicable TSCA section 5 exemption.
vi. The polymer is not a water absorbing polymer with a number
average molecular weight (MW) greater than or equal to 10,000 daltons.
Additionally, the polymers also meet as required the following
exemption criteria specified in 40 CFR 723.250(e).
The polymer's number average MW of 1,100 daltons is greater than
1,000 and less than 10,000 daltons. The polymer contains less than 10%
oligomeric material below MW 500 and less than 25% oligomeric material
below MW 1,000, and the polymer does not contain any reactive
functional groups.
Thus, the high molecular weight AAAs meet the criteria for a
polymer to be considered low risk under 40 CFR 723.250. Generally,
polymers of this size would be poorly absorbed by all routes of
exposure, including through the intact gastrointestinal tract or
through intact human skin, and therefore, no mammalian toxicity is
anticipated from dietary, inhalation, or dermal exposure to the high
molecular weight AAAs.
B. Toxicological Endpoints
For hazards that have a threshold below which there is no
appreciable risk, a toxicological point of departure (POD) is
identified as the basis for derivation of reference values for risk
assessment. The POD may be defined as the highest dose at which no
adverse effects are observed (the NOAEL) in the toxicology study
identified as appropriate for use in risk assessment. However, if a
NOAEL cannot be determined, the lowest dose at which adverse effects of
concern are identified (the LOAEL) or a Benchmark Dose (BMD) approach
is sometimes used for risk assessment. Uncertainty/safety factors (UFs)
are used in conjunction with the POD to take into account uncertainties
inherent in the extrapolation from laboratory animal data to humans and
in the variations in sensitivity among members of the human population
as well as other unknowns. Safety is assessed for acute and chronic
dietary risks by comparing aggregate food and water exposure to the
pesticide to the acute population adjusted dose (aPAD) and chronic
population adjusted dose (cPAD). The aPAD and cPAD are calculated by
dividing the POD by all applicable UFs. Aggregate short-, intermediate-
, and chronic-term risks are evaluated by comparing food, water, and
residential exposure to the POD to ensure that the margin of exposure
(MOE) called for by the product of all applicable UFs is not exceeded.
This latter value is referred to as the Level of Concern (LOC).
For non-threshold risks, the Agency assumes that any amount of
exposure will lead to some degree of risk. Thus, the Agency estimates
risk in terms of the probability of an occurrence of the adverse effect
greater than that expected in a lifetime. For more information on the
general principles EPA uses in risk characterization and a complete
description of the risk assessment process, see https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/riskassess.htm.
1. For the lower weight AAAs under 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930,
and 40 CFR 180.940a. A summary of the toxicological endpoints for the
AAAs used for human heatlh risk assessment is shown in the following
Table.
Table--Summary of Toxicological Doses and Endpoints for the AAAs for Use in Human Health Risk Assessment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Point of Departure and
Exposure/Scenario Uncertainty/Safety RfD, PAD, LOC for Risk Study and Toxicological
Factors Assessment Effects
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acute dietary (all populations) No appropriate endpoint was identified for acute dietary assessment.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 38939]]
Chronic dietary (all populations) NOAEL= 168 mg/kg/day Chronic RfD = 1.68 mg/ OPPTS harmonized Test
UFA = 10x.............. kg/day Guideline 870.3550
UFH = 10x.............. cPAD = 1.68 mg/kg/day.. reproduction/
FQPA SF = 1x........... developmental toxicity
screening test MRID
47676801 (2009) LOAEL =
470 mg/kg/day based on
one maternal death (GD
22), decreased body
weight, body weight
gain, and food
consumption, increased
clinical signs (ptosis
and hypoactivity), and
microscopic changes of
the testes and
epididymides
(testicular atrophy,
increased intraluminal
exfoliated
spermatogenic cells in
epididymides, and
dilated seminiferous
tubules) in parental
animals, decreased
litter size, and
increased
postimplantation loss.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Incidental Oral and Inhalation (all NOAEL= 168 mg/kg/day Residential LOC for MOE OPPTS harmonized Test
durations) UFA = 10x.............. = 100 Guideline 870.3550
UFH = 10x.............. reproduction/
FQPA SF = 1x........... developmental toxicity
screening test MRID
47676801 (2009) LOAEL =
470 mg/kg/day based on
one maternal death (GD
22), decreased body
weight, body weight
gain, and food
consumption, increased
clinical signs (ptosis
and hypoactivity), and
microscopic changes of
the testes and
epididymides
(testicular atrophy,
increased intraluminal
exfoliated
spermatogenic cells in
epididymides, and
dilated seminiferous
tubules) in parental
animals, decreased
litter size, and
increased
postimplantation loss.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dermal (all durations) NOAEL= 168 mg/kg/day Residential LOC for MOE OPPTS harmonized Test
UFA = 10x.............. = 100 Guideline 870.3550
UFH = 10x.............. reproduction/
FQPA SF = 1x........... developmental toxicity
screening test MRID
47676801 (2009) Oral
LOAEL = 470 mg/kg/day
based on one maternal
death (GD 22),
decreased body weight,
body weight gain, and
food consumption,
increased clinical
signs (ptosis and
hypoactivity), and
microscopic changes of
the testes and
epididymides
(testicular atrophy,
increased intraluminal
exfoliated
spermatogenic cells in
epididymides, and
dilated seminiferous
tubules) in parental
animals, decreased
litter size, and
increased
postimplantation loss.
The final dose used to
quantify dermal risk
must correct for 50%
dermal absorption, and
should be multiplied by
3 to take into account
the differences in rat
and human skin
penetration. The
resulting dose = 1,000
mg/kg/day
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cancer (oral, dermal, inhalation) Classification: Based on SAR analysis, AAA surfactrants are not expected
to be carcinogenic.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Point of Departure (POD) = A data point or an estimated point that is derived from observed dose-response data
and used to mark the beginning of extrapolation to determine risk associated with lower environmentally
relevant human exposures. NOAEL = no observed adverse effect level. LOAEL = lowest observed adverse effect
level. UF = uncertainty factor. UFA = extrapolation from animal to human (interspecies). UFH = potential
variation in sensitivity among members of the human population (intraspecies). PAD = population adjusted dose
(a=acute, c=chronic). FQPA SF = FQPA Safety Factor. RfD = reference dose. MOE = margin of exposure. LOC =
level of concern. N/A = not applicable.
2. For the high molecular weight AAAs under 40 CFR 180.960. Since
the high molecular weight AAAs conform to the criteria that identify a
low risk polymer, and are not likely to be absorbed significantly by
any route of exposure, there are no concerns for risks associated with
any potential exposure scenarios that are reasonably foreseeable. Thus,
due to their low potential hazard, it was determined that a
quantitative risk assessment using safety factors applied to a point of
departure protective of an identified hazard endpoint is not
appropriate for the high molecular weight AAAs, and an exposure
assessment is not necessary. For the same reason, an additional safety
factor to protect infants and children is not needed.
C. Exposure Assessment
Sufficient data were provided on the chemical identity of the
AAAs; however, limited data are available on the metabolism and
environmental degradation of these compounds. The Agency relied
collectively on information provided on the representative chemical
structures, the submitted physicochemical data, structure-activity
relationship information, as well as information on other surfactants
and chemicals of similar size and functionality to determine the
residues of concern for these inert ingredients. The Agency has
concluded that a risk assessment based on toxicity data for the parent
compounds is not likely to underestimate risk.
1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to the lower weight AAAs, EPA considered exposure under the
petitioned-for exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance. EPA
assessed dietary exposures from the lower weight AAAs in food as
follows:
i. Acute exposure. No adverse effects attributable to a single
exposure of the AAAs was seen in the toxicity databases. Therefore,
acute dietary risk assessments for the AAAs are not necessary.
ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting the chronic dietary exposure
assessment, EPA used food consumption information from the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) 1994-1996 and 1998 Nationwide
Continuing Surveys of Food Intake by Individuals (CSFII). As to residue
levels in food, no residue data were submitted for the AAAs. In the
absence of specific residue data, EPA has developed an approach which
uses surrogate
[[Page 38940]]
information to derive upper bound exposure estimates for the subject
inert ingredient. Upper bound exposure estimates are based on the
highest tolerance for a given commodity from a list of high-use
insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. A complete description of the
general approach taken to assess inert ingredient risks in the absence
of residue data is contained in the memorandum entitled Alkyl Amines
Polyalkoxylates (Cluster 4): Acute and Chronic Aggregate (Food and
Drinking Water) Dietary Exposure and Risk Assessments for the Inerts.
(D361707, S. Piper, 2/25/09) and can be found at https://www.regulations.gov in docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2008-0738.
In the dietary exposure assessment, the Agency assumed that the
residue level of the inert ingredient would be no higher than the
highest tolerance for a given commodity. Implicit in this assumption is
that there would be similar rates of degradation (if any) between the
active and inert ingredient and that the concentration of inert
ingredient in the scenarios leading to these highest of tolerances
would be no higher than the concentration of the active ingredient.
The Agency believes the assumptions used to estimate dietary
exposures lead to an extremely conservative assessment of dietary risk
due to a series of compounded conservatisms. First, assuming that the
level of residue for an inert ingredient is equal to the level of
residue for the active ingredient will overstate exposure. The
concentrations of active ingredient in agricultural products is
generally at least 50 percent of the product and often can be much
higher. Further, pesticide products rarely have a single inert
ingredient; rather there is generally a combination of different inert
ingredients used which additionally reduces the concentration of any
single inert ingredient in the pesticide product in relation to that of
the active ingredient.
Second, the conservatism of this methodology is compounded by EPA's
decision to assume that, for each commodity, the active ingredient
which will serve as a guide to the potential level of inert ingredient
residues is the active ingredient with the highest tolerance level.
This assumption overstates residue values because it would be highly
unlikely, given the high number of inert ingredients, that a single
inert ingredient or class of ingredients would be present at the level
of the active ingredient in the highest tolerance for every commodity.
Finally, a third compounding conservatism is EPA's assumption that all
foods contain the inert ingredient at the highest tolerance level. In
other words, EPA assumed 100 percent of all foods are treated with the
inert ingredient at the rate and manner necessary to produce the
highest residue legally possible for an active ingredient. In summary,
EPA chose a very conservative method for estimating what level of inert
residue could be on food, then used this methodology to choose the
highest possible residue that could be found on food and assumed that
all food contained this residue. No consideration was given to
potential degradation between harvest and consumption even though
monitoring data shows that tolerance level residues are typically one
to two orders of magnitude higher than actual residues in food when
distributed in commerce.
Accordingly, although sufficient information to quantify actual
residue levels in food is not available, the compounding of these
conservative assumptions will lead to a significant exaggeration of
actual exposures. EPA does not believe that this approach
underestimates exposure in the absence of residue data.
iii. Cancer. The Agency used a qualitative structure activity
relationship (SAR) database, DEREK11, to determine if there were
structural alerts suggestive of carcinogenicity. No structural alerts
for carcinogenicity were identified. The AAAs are not expected to be
carcinogenic. Therefore, a cancer dietary exposure assessment is not
necessary to assess cancer risk.
iv. Anticipated residue and percent crop treated (PCT) information.
EPA did not use anticipated residue and/or PCT information in the
dietary assessment for the AAAs. Tolerance level residues and/or 100%
CT were assumed for all food commodities.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. The Agency used screening
level water exposure models in the dietary exposure analysis and risk
assessment for the AAAs in drinking water. These simulation models take
into account data on the physical, chemical, and fate/transport
characteristics of the AAAs. Further information regarding EPA drinking
water models used in the pesticide exposure assessment can be found at
https://www.epa.gov/oppefed1/models/water/index.htm.
A screening level drinking water analysis, based on the Pesticide
Root Zone Model /Exposure Analysis Modeling System (PRZM/EXAMS) was
performed to calculate the estimated drinking water concentrations
(EDWCs) of the AAAs. Modeling runs on four surrogate inert ingredients
using a range of physical chemical properties that would bracket those
of the AAAs were conducted. Modeled acute drinking water values ranged
from 0.001 ppb to 41 ppb. Modeled chronic drinking water values ranged
from 0.0002 ppb to 19 ppb. Further details of this drinking water
analysis can be found at https://www.regulations.gov in the document
Alkyl Alcohol Alkoxylates (AAA - JITF CST 1 Inert Ingredient). Human
Health Risk Assessment to Support Proposed Exemption from the
Requirement of a Tolerance When Used as an Inert Ingredient in
Pesticide Formulations at pp 20-21 and 77-79 in docket ID number EPA-
HQ-OPP-2009-0145.
For the purpose of the screening level dietary risk assessment to
support this request for an exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance for the AAAs, a conservative drinking water concentration
value of 100 ppb based on screening level modeling was used to assess
the contribution to drinking water for chronic dietary risk assessments
for the parent compound. These values were directly entered into the
dietary exposure model.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The term ``residential exposure'' is
used in this document to refer to non-occupational, non-dietary
exposure (e.g., for lawn and garden pest control, indoor pest control,
termiticides, and flea and tick control on pets). The AAAs may be used
in inert ingredients in pesticide products that are registered for
specific uses that may result in both indoor and outdoor residential
exposures. A screening level residential exposure and risk assessment
was completed for products containing the AAAs as inert ingredients. In
this assessment, representative scenarios, based on end-use product
application methods and labeled application rates, were selected. The
AAAs may be used as inert ingredients in pesticide formulations that
are used in and around the home. Additionally, these inerts may be used
in pesticide products applied to pets as aerosol sprays intended for
flea control on carpeted surfaces and bedding, or in shampoo products
applied to pets. Lastly, these inerts may be present in home cleaning
products or paint products. For each of the use scenarios, the Agency
assessed residential handler (applicator) inhalation and dermal
exposure for use scenarios with high exposure potential (i.e., exposure
scenarios with high-end unit exposure values) to serve as a screening
assessment for all potential residential pesticides containing the
AAAs. Similarly, the Agency conducted an assessment to represent worst-
case residential exposure by assessing post application exposures and
risks from AAAs in pesticide formulations
[[Page 38941]]
(outdoor scenarios), AAAs in disinfectant-type uses (indoor scenarios),
AAAs in shampoo pet treatments (pet product scenarios) and AAAs in
paint products (paint product scenarios). Further details of this
residential exposure and risk analysis can be found at https://www.regulations.gov in the memorandum entitled JITF Inert Ingredients
Residential and Occupational Exposure Assessment Algorithms and
Assumptions Appendix for the Human Health Risk Assessments to Support
Proposed Exemption from the Requirement of a Tolerance When Used as
Inert Ingredients in Pesticide Formulations (D364751, 5/7/09, Lloyd/
LaMay in docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2008-0710.
4. Cumulative effects from substances with a common mechanism of
toxicity. Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA requires that, when
considering whether to establish, modify, or revoke a tolerance, the
Agency consider ``available information'' concerning the cumulative
effects of a particular pesticide's residues and ``other substances
that have a common mechanism of toxicity.''
EPA has not found AAAs to share a common mechanism of toxicity with
any other substances, and the AAAs do not appear to produce a toxic
metabolite produced by other substances. For the purposes of this
tolerance action, therefore, EPA has assumed that the AAAs do not have
a common mechanism of toxicity with other substances. For information
regarding EPA's efforts to determine which chemicals have a common
mechanism of toxicity and to evaluate the cumulative effects of such
chemicals, see EPA's website at https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative.
D. Safety Factor for Infants and Children
1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA provides that EPA
shall apply an additional tenfold (10X) margin of safety for infants
and children in the case of threshold effects to account for prenatal
and postnatal toxicity and the completeness of the database on toxicity
and exposure unless EPA determines based on reliable data that a
different margin of safety will be safe for infants and children. This
additional margin of safety is commonly referred to as the FQPA safety
factor (SF). In applying this provision, EPA either retains the default
value of 10X, or uses a different additional safety factor when
reliable data available to EPA support the choice of a different
factor.
2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity. In the case of the lower
weight AAA surfactants, there was no evidence of increased
susceptibility to the offspring of rats following prenatal and
postnatal exposure in the reproductive/developmental screening studies
on several representative AAA surfactants. Decreased litter size and
increased postimplantation loss were observed in one OPPTS Harmonized
Guideline 870.3550 reproduction/developmental toxicity screening study
at 470 mg/kg/day where maternal/paternal toxicity was manifested as one
maternal death (GD 22), decreased body weight, body-weight gain and
food consumption and clinical signs (ptosis and hypoactivity) and
microscopic changes in the testes (atrophy) and epididymides (increased
intraluminal exfoliated spermatogenic cells) and dilated seminiferous
tubules at the same dose (470 mg/kg/day). The maternal and offspring
toxicity NOAEL was 168 mg/kg/day. The offspring toxicity in the OPPTS
Harmonized Test Guideline 870.3650 study was manifested in the presence
of more severe maternal toxicity (deaths), therefore, EPA concluded
that there is no evidence of increased susceptibility in this study. In
addition, there was no evidence of increased susceptibility in other
submitted studies.
3. Conclusion. EPA has determined that reliable data show that the
safety of infants and children would be adequately protected if the
FQPA SF were reduced to 1X for the lower weight AAAs. (As discussed
earlier, given the low toxicological concerns with the high weight
AAAs, a safety factor analysis is unnecessary). That decision as to the
lower weight AAAs is based on the following findings:
i. The toxicity database for the AAAs is considered adequate for
assessing the risks to infants and children. The toxicity database
consists of three OPPTS Harmonized Test Guideline 870.3650 combined
repeated dose toxicity studies with the reproduction/developmental
toxicity screening tests, an OPPTS Harmonized Test Guidelinge 870.3550
reproduction/developmental toxicity screening test study, an OPPTS
Harmonized Test Guideline 870.3800 reproduction and fertility effects
study, and reproduction and developmental effects studies. The Agency
noted changes in thymus weight. However, the thymus/lymph node effects
are considered secondary effects caused by an overall stress response
to the irritant properties of this chemical, and therefore, not an
immunological response. In addition, no blood parameters were affected
in the database. Furthermore, these compounds do not belong to a class
of chemicals that would be expected to be immunotoxic. Also, in an
OPPTS Harmonized Test Guideline 870.3550 study, testicular effects,
such as, testicular atrophy, microscopic changes in the testes,
epididymides and dilated seminiferous tubules were observed in male
rats at the highest dose tested (470 mg/kg/day). However, none of the
reproductive parameters (pregnancy rate) were affected in this study.
In addition, there were no effects observed on reproductive parameters
in the OPPTS Harmonized Test Guideline 870.3800 reproduction and
fertility effects study. Furthermore, there was no histological
findings in the testes in that study. Based on the weight of the
evidence for immunotoxoicity and reproductive toxicity, there is no
need to add additional uncertainty factors.
ii. EPA concluded that there is no evidence of qualitative or
quantitative increased susceptivility in the available database.
Therefore, there is no concern for increased susceptibility to infants
and children.
iii. There is no indication that the AAAs are neurotoxic chemicals
and thus there is no need for a developmental neurotoxicity study or
additional UFs to account for neurotoxicity
iv. Although the chronic point of departure was selected from a
subchronic study, longer-term studies are available that support the
NOAEL selected. No additional uncertainty factor is needed for
extrapolating from subchronic to chronic exposure.
v. There are no residual uncertainties identified in the exposure
databases. The food and drinking water assessment is not likely to
underestimate exposure to any subpopulation, including those comprised
of infants and children. The food exposure assessments are considered
to be highly conservative as they are based on the use of the highest
tolerance level from the surrogate pesticides for every food and 100%
crop treated is assumed for all crops. EPA also made conservative
(protective) assumptions in the ground and surface water modeling used
to assess exposure to the AAAs in drinking water. EPA used similarly
conservative assumptions to assess post-application exposure of
children as well as incidental oral exposure of toddlers. These
assessments will not underestimate the exposure and risks posed by the
AAAs.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety
1. For the lower weight AAAs under 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930,
and 40 CFR 180.940a. EPA determines whether
[[Page 38942]]
acute and chronic pesticide exposures are safe by comparing aggregate
exposure estimates to the aPAD and cPAD. The aPAD and cPAD represent
the highest safe exposures, taking into account all appropriate SFs.
EPA calculates the aPAD and cPAD by dividing the POD by all applicable
UFs. For linear cancer risks, EPA calculates the probability of
additional cancer cases given the estimated aggregate exposure. Short-,
intermediate-, and chronic-term risks are evaluated by comparing the
estimated aggregate food, water, and residential exposure to the POD to
ensure that the MOE called for by the product of all applicable UFs is
not exceeded.
i. Acute risk. There was no hazard attributable to a single
exposure seen in the toxicity database for the AAAs. Therefore, the
AAAs are not expected to pose an acute risk.
ii. Chronic risk. A chronic aggregate risk assessment takes into
account exposure estimates from chronic dietary consumption of food and
drinking water. Using the exposure assumptions discussed in this unit
for chronic exposure the chronic dietary exposure from food and water
to the AAAs is 11% of the cPAD for the U.S. population and 37% of the
cPAD for children 1 to 2 years old, the most highly exposed population
subgroup.
iii. Short-term risk. Short-term aggregate exposure takes into
account short-term residential exposure plus chronic exposure to food
and water (considered to be a background exposure level).
AAAs are used as inert ingredients in pesticide products that are
currently registered for uses that could result in short-term
residential exposure and the Agency has determined that it is
appropriate to aggregate chronic exposure through food and water with
short-term residential exposures to the AAAs. EPA has concluded that
the combined short-term aggregated food, water, and residential
exposures result in aggregate MOEs of 110 for both adult males and
females. Adult residential exposure combines high end indoor inhalation
handler exposure with a high-end post application to pet exposures. EPA
has concluded the combined short-term aggregated food, water, and
residential exposures result in an aggregate MOE of 110 for children.
Children's residential exposure includes total combined pet exposures.
As the level of concern is for MOEs that are lower than 100, these MOEs
are not of concern.
iv. Intermediate-term risk. Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term residential exposure plus chronic
exposure to food and water (considered to be a background exposure
level).
The AAAs are used as inert ingredients in pesticide products that
are currently registered for uses that could result in intermediate-
term residential exposure and the Agency has determined that it is
appropriate to aggregate chronic exposure through food and water with
intermediate-term residential exposures to the AAAs. EPA has concluded
that the combined intermediate-term aggregated food, water, and
residential exposures result in aggregate MOEs of 230 for both adult
males and females, respectively. Adult residential exposure includes
high-end post application dermal exposure from contact with treated
pets. EPA has concluded that the combined intermediate-term aggregated
food, water, and residential exposures result in an aggregate MOE of
110 for children. Children's residential exposure includes total
combined pet exposure. As the level of concern is for MOEs that are
lower than 100, these MOEs are not of concern.
v. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. The Agency has not
identified any concerns for carcinogenicity relating to the AAAs.
vi. Determination of safety. Based on these risk assessments, EPA
concludes that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result
to the general population or to infants and children from aggregate
exposure to residues of the lower weight AAAs.
2. For the high molecular weight AAAs under 40 CFR 180.960. Since
AAA conforms to the criteria that identify a low-risk polymer, there
are no concerns for risks associated with any potential exposure
scenarios that are reasonably foreseeable. Therefore, EPA concludes
that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the
general population or to infants and children from aggregate exposure
to residues of the high molecular weight AAAs.
V. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
An analytical method is not required for enforcement purposes since
the Agency is establishing an exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance without any numerical limitation.
B. International Residue Limits
The Agency is not aware of any country requiring a tolerance for
the AAAs nor have any CODEX Maximum Residue Levels been established for
any food crops at this time.
VI. Conclusion
Therefore, an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance is
established for residues of the lower molecular weight [alpha]-alkyl-
[omega]-hydroxypoly (oxypropylene) and/or poly (oxyethylene) polymers
where the alkyl chain contains a minimum of 6 carbons when used as an
inert ingredient in pesticide formulations applied pre- and post-
harvest, applied to livestock, and used in antimicrobial formulations
under 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, and 40 CFR 180.940(a). In
addition, an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance is
established for residues of the larger molecular weight compounds of
[alpha]-alkyl-[omega]-hydroxypoly (oxypropylene) and/or poly
(oxyethylene) polymers where the alkyl chain contains a minimum of 6
carbons under 40 CFR 180.960.
VII. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
This final rule establishes an exemption from the requirement of
tolerances under section 408(d) of FFDCA in response to a petition
submitted to the Agency. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has
exempted these types of actions from review under Executive Order
12866, entitled Regulatory Planning and Review (58 FR 51735, October 4,
1993). Because this final rule has been exempted from review under
Executive Order 12866, this final rule is not subject to Executive
Order 13211, entitled Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly
Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001)
or Executive Order 13045, entitled Protection of Children from
Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks (62 FR 19885, April 23,
1997). This final rule does not contain any information collections
subject to OMB approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), 44
U.S.C. 3501 et seq ., nor does it require any special considerations
under Executive Order 12898, entitled Federal Actions to Address
Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income
Populations (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994).
Since tolerances and exemptions that are established on the basis
of a petition under section 408(d) of FFDCA, such as the exemptions in
this final rule, do not require the issuance of a proposed rule, the
requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et
seq .) do not apply.
This final rule directly regulates growers, food processors, food
handlers, and food retailers, not States or tribes,
[[Page 38943]]
nor does this action alter the relationships or distribution of power
and responsibilities established by Congress in the preemption
provisions of section 408(n)(4) of FFDCA. As such, the Agency has
determined that this action will not have a substantial direct effect
on States or tribal governments, on the relationship between the
national government and the States or tribal governments, or on the
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of
government or between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. Thus,
the Agency has determined that Executive Order 13132, entitled
Federalism (64 FR 43255, August 10, 1999) and Executive Order 13175,
entitled Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments
(65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply to this final rule. In
addition, this final rule does not impose any enforceable duty or
contain any unfunded mandate as described under Title II of the
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA) (Public Law 104-4).
This action does not involve any technical standards that would
require Agency consideration of voluntary consensus standards pursuant
to section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement
Act of 1995 (NTTAA), Public Law 104-113, section 12(d) (15 U.S.C. 272
note).
VIII. Congressional Review Act
The Congressional Review Act, 5 U.S.C. 801 et seq., generally
provides that before a rule may take effect, the agency promulgating
the rule must submit a rule report to each House of the Congress and to
the Comptroller General of the United States. EPA will submit a report
containing this rule and other required information to the U.S. Senate,
the U.S. House of Representatives, and the Comptroller General of the
United States prior to publication of this final rule in the Federal
Register. This final rule is not a ``major rule'' as defined by 5
U.S.C. 804(2).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides and pests, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: July 29, 2009.
Lois Rossi,
Director, Registration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs.
0
Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is amended as follows:
PART 180--[AMENDED]
0
1. The authority citation for part 180 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.
0
2. In Sec. 180.910, the table is amended by adding alphabetically the
following inert ingredients:
Sec. 180.910 Inert ingredients used pre- and post-harvest; exemptions
from the requirement of a tolerance.
* * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inert ingredients Limits Uses
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
[alpha]-alkyl-[omega]- Surfactants,
hydroxypoly (oxypropylene) and/ related adjuvants
or poly (oxyethylene) polymers of surfactants
where the alkyl chain contains
a minimum of six carbons (CAS
Reg. Nos. 9002-92-0, 9004-95-9,
9005-00-9, 26183-52-8, 34398-01-
1, 52292-17-8, 66455-14-9,
66455-15-0, 68002-97-1, 68131-
39-5, 68131-40-8, 68154-96-1,
68213-23-0, 68439-45-2, 68439-
46-3, 68526-94-3, 68439-50-9,
68439-49-6, 68551-12-2, 68951-
67-7, 71243-46-4, 97043-91-9,
9043-30-5, 60828-78-6, 61827-42-
7, 24938-91-8, 68439-54-3,
69011-36-5, 78330-20-8, 78330-
21-9, 106232-83-1, 127036-24-2,
160875-66-1, 9