Phthalates Found in Indoor Environments across the United States

Cinnaminson, NJ, December 5, 2013

In the Fourth National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals, scientists from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) measured 13 phthalate metabolites in the urine of 2,636 or more participants age six years and older who took part in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

The survey took place a decade ago, and since then there has been growing concern and public attention over phthalates in products found in many homes. Phthalates are a group of chemicals that are used to soften and increase the flexibility of plastic and vinyl. They are used in hundreds of consumer products, including some cosmetics and personal care products. They may be found in flexible plastic and vinyl toys, shower curtains, wallpaper, vinyl miniblinds, food packaging and plastic wrap. Phthalates can also be found in some wood finishes, detergents, adhesives, plastic plumbing pipes, lubricants, medical tubing and fluid bags, solvents, insecticides, medical devices, building materials and vinyl flooring.

Phthalates are suspected to be endocrine disruptors and although all of the human health effects of exposure to phthalates are not fully understood, a number of government agencies in recent years have begun to study their impact on people.

“Various phthalates have already been banned in certain child care articles and toys since children can be exposed to phthalates by chewing on them,” reports Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Children’s hand-to-mouth behaviors may also create a risk of being exposed to phthalate particles in dust. The general population can be exposed to low levels of phthalates through air, water or food. EMSL provides testing solutions for phthalates in consumer products and in homes and work environments.”

EMSL recently launched www.PhthalatesTesting.com to provide information along with testing services for these controversial chemicals. An online video was also just released that discusses these chemicals in people’s homes, it can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5jA4JWa9p8

To learn more about phthalate testing services, please visit www.PhthalatesTesting.com or www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental, indoor air quality, consumer product and materials testing services and products for professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com