What importers and suppliers of composite wood products should know about EPA’s proposed standards update.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a proposed rule to update voluntary consensus standards referenced in the Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products under TSCA Title VI (40 CFR Part 770).
The proposal is designed to modernize technical references within the rule by incorporating the most current industry standards and adding an additional allowable quality control testing method.
Public comments are open through March 13, 2026.
What This Proposal Does
This proposed update is considered a standards alignment and modernization measure — not a regulatory expansion. According to EPA, the rule would:
- Update incorporated voluntary consensus standards to their latest published versions
- Add a new allowable quality control test method
- Improve flexibility in testing and certification processes
- Maintain alignment with California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements
- Keep EPA requirements consistent with current industry practice
The proposal does not introduce new emission limits and does not increase compliance obligations for regulated products.
Who This Matters To
This update is most relevant to companies that manufacture, import, distribute, certify, or use:
- Hardwood plywood
- Medium-density fiberboard (MDF)
- Particleboard
- Finished goods containing regulated composite wood components
Importers of furniture, cabinetry, flooring, building materials, and certain finished consumer products should remain aware of the update, particularly if suppliers rely on specific testing or certification standards referenced in TSCA Title VI.
Why Importers Should Pay Attention
Even though this is not a burden-increasing rule, it can still affect:
- Accepted laboratory test methods
- Third-party certification processes
- Quality control documentation
- Supplier compliance statements
Importers should consider confirming with suppliers and certifiers that testing programs and documentation practices stay aligned with the updated referenced standards if the rule is finalized.
Next Steps
EPA is accepting public comments on the proposal through March 13, 2026. After the comment period closes, EPA will review feedback before issuing a final rule.
Alba will continue monitoring this update and will advise clients if final adoption changes testing or certification expectations at import.
Newsletter Blurb (Click-Driven)
EPA Moves to Update Composite Wood Formaldehyde Testing Standards
EPA has proposed a modernization update to TSCA Title VI formaldehyde rules for composite wood products — aligning testing standards, adding a new quality control method, and maintaining CARB consistency. No new limits, but important compliance alignment for importers. Public comments close March 13. Read what this means for your products.
