The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a settlement with chemicals solutions company Stepan Co. of Northbrook, Illinois, for allegedly distributing or selling a misbranded pesticide in violation of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. Stepan will pay a $1,126,404 penalty.

EPA alleged a distributor for Stepan sold Wipes.Com Disinfectant Wipes, a misbranded disinfectant, 303 times. The label for Wipes.Com Disinfectant Wipes did not include the required directions for use. Additionally, the labeling contained several misleading statements regarding the product’s safety and efficacy. Stepan will correct the product labels and website claims.

Under FIFRA, products that claim to kill, destroy, prevent, or repel bacteria or viruses are considered pesticides. All pesticides distributed or sold in the United States are required to be registered by EPA to ensure that the products perform as intended and will not harm people, non-target species, or the environment when used as directed. FIFRA’s pesticide registration requirements protect public health and the environment by minimizing risks associated with the production, handling and application of pesticides and by ensuring that products work effectively. FIFRA labeling requirements help safeguard the public by ensuring that labels include clear directions for safe use, storage and disposal of chemicals.

Source: EEOC

Topics
Pollution
Illinois
Chemicals