Methylium, [4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]bis[4-(ethylamino)-3-methylphenyl]-, acetate (MAPBAP acetate)

CAS Registry Number 72102-55-7

What is it

Methylium, [4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]bis[4-ethylamino)-3-methylphenyl]-, acetate, also known as MAPBAP acetate, is an industrial chemical.

In Canada and elsewhere, MAPBAP acetate is used as a dye mainly in the production of paper products (newsprint).
MAPBAP acetate is imported into Canada.

Prior to assessment, MAPBAP acetate was identified as a potential concern to the environment based on available information regarding possible persistence, accumulation in organisms and potential to cause harm to organisms.
MAPBAP acetate was not considered to be a high priority for assessment of potential risks to human health; however, potential health effects were also evaluated in this screening assessment.

MAPBAP acetate is mainly expected to be released to the environment during the manufacturing and recycling of products containing this substance.
Upon its release, this substance is expected to end up in water, sediments or soils.

Exposure to the general population of Canada to MAPBAP acetate during the use of consumer products (paper dye) is expected to be low.

The Government of Canada has conducted a science-based evaluation of MAPBAP acetate called a screening assessment.
Screening assessments address potential for harm to the general population (not including workplace exposures) and the environment.
Results of the final screening assessment indicate that although MAPBAP acetate has the potential to remain in the environment for a long time, it is not expected to accumulate in organisms.
Furthermore, the quantity of MAPBAP acetate that may be released to the environment is above the level expected to cause harm to organisms.
The Government of Canada has therefore concluded that MAPBAP acetate is entering the environment in a quantity or under conditions that constitute a danger to the environment.
However, the Government of Canada has also concluded that MAPBAP acetate is not harmful to the health of the general population at current exposure levels.

Exposure of the general population of Canada is currently considered to be low and the Government of Canada is taking action so that exposure remains low.
The application of the Significant New Activity (SNAc) provisions to this substance will be recommended. This would require that any proposed new manufacture, import or use be subject to further assessment, and would determine if the new activity requires further risk management consideration.
Effluent from pulp and paper mills is already subject to the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations under the Fisheries Act. These regulations establish effluent release limits for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS), and prohibit the discharge of acutely lethal effluent. The risk management being considered for MAPBAP acetate is an Environmental Release Guideline to limit releases to water from facilities manufacturing, processing and using MAPBAP acetate or products containing MAPBAP acetate.
In addition, and where relevant, research and monitoring studies will support verification of assumptions used during the screening assessment.
The proposed risk management approach was published on July 31, 2010. The publication of the proposed risk management approach document was followed by a 60-day comment period, ending September 29, 2010.
Up-to-date information on the risk management actions for MAPBAP acetate is available.

The health risks associated with a chemical depend on the hazard (its potential to cause health effects) and the dose (the amount of chemical to which you are exposed). MAPBAP acetate is not a concern for the health of the general population in Canada at current levels of exposure.
As a general precaution, Canadians are reminded when using any product, to carefully follow safety warnings and directions.
Canadians who handle this substance in the workplace should consult with their occupational health and safety representative about safe handling practices, applicable laws and requirements under the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System.