Chloroalkyl ethers [bis(2‐chloroethyl) Ether, Bis(chloromethyl) ether and chloromethyl methyl ether]: Evaluation of risks to health from environmental exposure in Canada

Abstract

Abstract Bis(2‐chloroethyl) ether, bis(chloromethyl) ether and chloromethyl methyl ether are included on the List of Priority Substances to be assessed under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. Available data were inadequate to estimate exposure of the general population of Canada to these substances. None of the long‐term studies in laboratory animals is considered to be of sufficient quality to provide adequate information on either the potential of bis(2‐chloroethyl) ether to cause cancer or the toxicological effects produced by long‐term exposure to this substance. Bis(chloromethyl) ether and technical grade chloromethyl methyl ether have been classified as “carcinogenic to humans”. Although available data on exposure to bis(chloromethyl) ether and chloromethyl methyl ether were inadequate for comparison with their potential to induce tumours, the priority for consideration of options to reduce exposure of the general population is considered to be extremely low compared to that of other Priority Substances, owing to their lack of production or use in Canada and rapid breakdown in the general environment.