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Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA) has worked tirelessly with a coalition of other health, fire, and environmental groups to make Washington State a global leader in eliminating the toxic flame retardants known as PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers). That work paid off on April 17, 2007 when legislation was signed into law banning the use of PBDEs in the state of Washington reducing risks to people and the environment. PBDEs are a class of flame retardants that are used widely in electronics and upholstered furniture - including those in health care institutions. Numerous animal studies indicate that PBDEs are associated with adverse effects on the thyroid, liver, and reproductive organs as well as leading to permanent neurological damage upon fetal exposure. They are accumulating in people, wildlife, and the environment. The general population is most likely exposed via food and dust. The use of these persistent bioaccumulative toxins is not necessary because alternatives that are less likely to pose health and environmental risks as well meet strict fire safety standards are available. Although many leading companies have already begun to replace all PBDEs with these alternatives, a greater commitment is needed. The bill, ESHB 1024, bans the use of PBDEs and replaces them with safer alternatives that provide fire safety protection, while reducing risks to people and the environment. It overwhelmingly passed in the House (71-24) and the Senate (41-8) and was signed into law by the governor on April 17th. Passage of the legislation was facilitated by the tremendous work and visibility of the WSNA, which included letters, phone calls, testimony, legislator education, and participation in rallies. WSNA, the Washington Medical Association, and 3 state fire associations, joined Washington Toxics Coalition to combat the deceptive tactics of the bromine industry that included testifying as fire safety organizations and widespread mailing of misleading information. Over 300 health care professionals signed a letter supporting the ban that emphasized the credible science and potential for adverse health impacts. Deca-BDE is by far the most heavily produced of the PBDE forms. Recent studies have discovered that the deca-BDE form breaks down into toxic forms of PBDEs that have already been banned. While other states have also banned these other forms, Washington is the first to act on deca-BDE. Other states are likely to follow suit. PBDEs are just one group of chemicals that demonstrate how U.S. chemicals policy does not adequately protect human health or the environment. Chemical use is permitted in workplaces and homes with little or no testing for human toxicity. People are not informed about harmful chemicals in products or equipment, and there is no requirement that safer chemicals be substituted for toxic ingredients. There is a vital need for chemicals policy reform. The actions of WSNA support the 2006 ANA HOD Resolution entitled "Nursing Practice, Chemical Exposure, and Right-to-know" where it is resolved that ANA ..."advocates a course of action...through the nationwide state legislative agenda that reduces the use of toxic chemicals requiring that less harmful chemicals be substituted whenever possible..." A detailed fact sheet on PBDEs is available online through Health Care Without Harm, an international coalition with the goal of transforming the health care industry worldwide, without compromising patient safety or care, so that it is ecologically sustainable and no longer a source of harm to public health and the environment of which ANA is a member. For more information about how to advocate for a healthier work, home, and community environment in your state please contact Rebecca Clouse at: rebecca.clouse@ana.org |