Document 5bkdJ1qgEY0bN1xNmVV4g5kzz

General Statement for PTFE PTFE materials are "generally regarded as safe" by the FDA and are approved for implantation and various medical devices per United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Class VI designation. In sealing products, PTFE prevents leakage from industrial equipment. Leaks from these assets contribute to greenhouse gas emissions in some applications and create significant safety hazards in others. Seals that utilize PTFE polymers reduce leakage rates to almost zero, making them a cornerstone in the effort to decrease fugitive emissions, battle climate change and protect workers. In many applications, the unique properties of PTFE mean there is not an acceptable alternative solution. High molecular weight fluoropolymers, like PTFE, are highly stable and too large to be bioavailable. PTFE is nontoxic and not mobile in the environment. OECD created criteria for "Polymers of Low Concern." Many fluoropolymers, including PTFE, when evaluated by the OECD met all the criteria for a "Polymer of Low Concern" as their properties present low health and environmental hazards. PTFE and other high molecular weight fluoropolymers are different from the PFAS found in water resources. The difference is evident from objective data on their properties, the biologically sensitive applications where they have been extensively used and studied for decades (e.g., medical devices and pharmaceutical processing) and their absence from environmental media. Source: Members address lawmakers who are considering banning use of this class of chemicals that are used in fluid sealing products. by Ron Frisard by Phil Mahoney 02/14/2022 PFAS Regulations Report From the Fluid Sealing Association | Pumps & Systems (pumpsandsystems.com)