Search

TSCA e-Reporting Expands, Moves to Cloud

Posted on 7/20/2015 by Roger Marks

Update: US EPA will hold three webinars to discuss changes to the e-PMN submission system. More information about the webinars is available here. 

In a Direct Final Rule posted to the Federal Register today, US EPA is mandating the use of a new version of electronic reporting software (e-PMN) for businesses subject to Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) §5 Premanufacture and Significant New Use Notifications and other chemical reporting requirements.

In addition to making the new version of e-PMN software mandatory, the direct final rule expands the electronic reporting requirement to a new TSCA reporting element: bona fide intent to manufacture, or “bona fides.”

TSCA Electronic Reporting (e-PMN) History

In 2010, US EPA issued a final rule that required chemical manufacturers, importers, and processors to submit TSCA-required reports electronically through EPA’s Central Data Exchange (CDX).

The new version of the e-PMN software is a “cloud”-based or “thin-client” system. In the past, regulated businesses downloaded the e-PMN software, prepared their reports offline, and submitted data to US EPA through CDX. By switching TSCA reporting “to the cloud,” EPA hopes to reduce reporting time and eliminate difficulties with uploading large files.

EPA provides a guide to electronic TSCA chemical data reporting here.

TSCA reporting for chemical manufacturers, importers, and more


What About Confidential Business Information (CBI)?

In the Final Rule, EPA states that the thin-client e-PMN software will “support TSCA CBI needs by providing a secure environment that meets Federal standards.” EPA lists specific security in the Direct Final Rule.

Expanding e-Reporting to “Bona Fides”

To manufacture or import a chemical substance in the US, the manufacturer must first check EPA’s TSCA Inventory List. Generally speaking, if the chemical appears on the public TSCA Inventory, the manufacturer must notify EPA of its intent.

A portion of the TSCA Inventory is kept confidential. To know if a chemical substance appears on the confidential part of the TSCA Inventory, manufacturers must first submit a “bona fide intent to manufacture.” In the past, this notification could be prepared and submitted on paper. Under the new Final Rule, “bona fides” must be submitted through the CDX using the cloud-based e-PMN software.

TSCA Regulations Online Course

Be confident you know what you must report, record, and keep on file to meet your TSCA chemical reporting and recordkeeping requirements with the easy-to-use TSCA Regulations Online Course. Get up to speed with the latest rules and management requirements for chemical manufacturing, handling, storing, and processing chemical substances. Interactive, engaged online learning will prepare you to keep your business in compliance and avoid costly EPA civil penalties.

Tags: EPA, new rules, reporting and recordkeeping, TSCA

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

The instructor was very dedicated to providing a quality experience. She did her best to make sure students were really comprehending the information.

Stephanie Venn

Inventory Control Specialist

The instructor was very knowledgeable and provided pertinent information above and beyond the questions that were asked.

Johnny Barton

Logistics Coordinator

You blew the doors off the competition!

Stephen Bieschke

Facilities Manager

Excellent. I learned more in two days with Lion than at a 5-day program I took with another provider.

Francisco Gallardo

HES Technician

I like the consistency of Lion workshops. The materials are well put together and instructors are top notch!

Kevin Pylka

Permitting, Compliance & Environmental Manager

I have attended other training providers, but Lion is best. Lion is king of the hazmat jungle!!!

Henry Watkins

Hazardous Waste Technician

Excellent job. Made what is very dry material interesting. Thoroughly explained all topics in easy-to-understand terms.

David Hertvik

Vice President

The instructor was energetic and made learning fun compared to dry instructors from other training providers.

Andy D’Amato

International Trade Compliance Manager

I like Lion's workshops the best because they really dig into the information you need to have when you leave the workshop.

Tom Bush, Jr.

EHS Manager

My experience with Lion classes has always been good. Lion Technology always covers the EPA requirements I must follow.

Steven Erlandson

Environmental Coordinator

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Decrease spill, release, and injury risk and increase savings with these "source reduction" strategies to prevent unused chemicals from becoming regulated as hazardous waste.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.