Pentabromodiphenyl Ether (PentaBDE) Mixture [DE-71 (Technical Grade)]

Why am I being warned about potential exposure to pentaBDE mixture [DE-71 (technical grade)]?
  • PentaBDE mixture [DE-71 (technical grade)] is on the Proposition 65 list because it can cause cancer.  Exposure to this mixture may increase the risk of cancer.
  • Proposition 65 requires businesses to determine if they must provide a warning about significant exposure to listed chemicals.
What is this pentaBDE mixture?
  • It is a flame retardant.
  • In the past, it was added to certain consumer products, including:
    • Products made with polyurethane foam, such as some couches, mattresses, carpet padding, and other upholstered items.
    • Plastics in many electronic and electrical devices, including personal computers and household appliances.
  • In 2006, California banned the manufacture, processing, or sale of products with more than 0.1% of pentaBDE.

How does exposure to pentaBDE mixture occur?
  • PentaBDE mixture can be gradually released from older items made with polyurethane foam and plastics, into indoor environments such as houses, schools, day care centers, and offices.
  • Once it is released from products, it can be present on floors, furniture and other surfaces, and in air and dust.
  • It can be released into air, soil, and water from waste disposal sites that handle treated items such as foam mattresses, upholstered furniture, or plastics from electrical and electronic products.
  • It may be present in and around industrial sites where it was produced or used in the past.
  • It can remain in the body for years. If a woman is exposed to this chemical and later becomes pregnant, her baby can be exposed to PentaBDE during pregnancy.
Main ways you can be exposed to pentaBDE mixture:
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Main ways you can be exposed to pentaBDE mixture
How can I reduce my exposure to pentaBDE mixture?
  • Replace upholstered furniture products that are torn or have crumbling foam.
  • Safely dispose of electrical and electronic items, especially older ones that may contain pentaBDE mixture.
    • Do not disassemble or burn them.
    • E-waste products must be taken to a designated handler or recycler.
    • Find out if your city or county has a program to pick up or accept items for recycling.
  • Minimize your exposure to dust, which can contain this pentaBDE mixture.
    • Wash your hands and your child’s hands frequently, especially before preparing food, and before eating.
    • Clean floors regularly, using a wet mop or a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, if possible.
    • Wipe up dust regularly, using a damp cloth.
For more information:

General Fact Sheets and Resources

  • California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA)
    CalRecycle

Scientific Information on PentaBDE mixture [DE-71 (technical grade)]

Proposition 65

Updated September 2020
References
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Yana Garcia

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