[Public Comment] Product-Chemical Profile for Floor Maintenance Products Containing Perfluoroalkyl or Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
March 31, 2026
Based on the criteria in the SCP Regulations, DTSC has determined exposure to PFASs through use of floor maintenance products may contribute to or cause significant or widespread adverse impacts, including the potential exposure to the public and/or aquatic, avian, or terrestrial animal or plant organisms to PFASs in the product.
PFASs are a large class of extremely persistent chemicals, most of which have not been well studied. Some PFASs are known to be toxic at very low levels, and even those that have yet to be studied for toxicity raise concerns due to their high persistence. PFASs are added to floor maintenance products including polishes, waxes, and strippers to reduce surface tension and help them spread more evenly across the floor. PFASs in floor maintenance products are released into the indoor environment and wastewater during application, maintenance, and disposal. Frequent use in high-traffic areas, such as airports, schools, and hospitals, increases the potential exposure to PFASs for both workers and the general population. Because conventional wastewater treatment does not effectively remove PFASs, these chemicals can be discharged to surface waters and can contaminate terrestrial ecosystems, drinking water, and human food supplies.
More information on this regulation can be found linked in the Supporting Documents section or by visiting our webpage Floor Maintenance Products Containing Perfluoroalkyl or Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.