The U.S. EPA has estimated that the industry's VCM emissions have been reduced by more than 99 percent since the 1970s. Regarding dioxin in vinyl production, a review of data generated in Europe shows that the vinyl industry is a minor contributor to dioxin levels. Dioxin levels found in vinyl production are comparable to the amounts found in grass or soil and constitute no threat to human health. The vinyl industry in the U.S. is also an insignificant contributor to dioxin levels. Nevertheless, the Vinyl Institute members have pledged to work with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to reduce any existing levels still further.
Close regulation makes vinyl production safe.
Vinyl production poses no risk to community health. Vinyl production is a minimal contributor of dioxin. Vinyl industry is working with EPA to ensure safety. Vinyl and Fire Vinyl products are inherently flame-retardant due to their chlorine base, do not readily ignite and most will not continue to burn once a flame or heat source is removed. Unlike metal tubing, vinyl conduit will not arc or short, thereby reducing the hazard of fires in electrical applications.