Kramer M, Torres CV. Feasibility assessment of EPA’s OEVs/ECELs. Research Roundup Presentation C1b, AIHA Connect 2026, New Orleans, LA, June 1, 2026.
Abstract
In accordance with Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) section 6(a), EPA derives an Occupational Exposure Value (OEV) in the risk evaluation phase or Existing Chemical Exposure Limit (ECEL) in the risk management phase. For the thirteen chemicals with a published OEV/ECEL, the values are typically much lower than occupational exposure levels (OEL) established by other regulatory bodies. An analysis was conducted to 1) identify pre-existing validated air sampling methods for each chemical with an OEV/ECEL established and 2) determine the methods’ capability to measure sufficiently below the OEV/ECEL to ensure compliance. Methods cited by EPA in OEV/ECEL documentation as well as additional sampling and analytical methods from authoritative sources were reviewed for each chemical. Upon review, not all chemicals have a currently validated method that is sufficiently sensitive to meet compliance objectives of the OEV/ECEL values. This presentation will provide an overview of the feasibility assessment’s methodology, summarize results, and discuss data gaps and potential implications to OEV/ECEL compliance.
