Using Safer Chemicals in the Workplace

Product Replacement Program

Washington state’s Product Replacement Program is an innovative, results-based approach that reduces toxic chemicals and heavy metals in the environment. The Product Replacement Program works with local Pollution Prevention Assistance partners to help businesses reduce their use of toxic chemicals.

Product Replacement Program Overview

The Product Replacement Program has spearheaded groundbreaking work to remove the very worst chemicals from consumer products and commerce. Historically, regulatory efforts to control pollution focused on issues “downstream.” The main focus was on how to manage waste, tailpipes, sewer pipes, or smokestacks. State agencies targeted their efforts at reducing emissions or cleaning up spills. However, the Product Replacement Program recognizes that the smartest, healthiest, and most cost-effective approach to decreasing pollution is to move “upstream” and prevent the use of toxic chemicals in the first place.

Foam pits can contain flame retardants that can cause negative health impacts.

Small but widespread releases of toxic chemicals found in consumer products and used by Washington state businesses pose one of the greatest threats to public health, the environment, and the economy.

In July 2019, things changed; the Washington State Legislature funded the innovative Product Replacement Program for the 2019–2021 biennium. This program replaces toxic chemicals in select consumer products or technologies before they get into the environment, which is the best way to prevent environmental contamination, protect water quality, save tax dollars, and reduce human health risks. To do this, the Legislature allocated $3.7 million in the 2019–2021 biennium for action on five product replacement initiatives:

Dry cleaners who use perchloroethylene (PERC) can apply for reimbursement to replace their PERC equipment with one of our safer, preferred alternatives. Businesses that qualify can get up to $40,000 to help defray the cost to switch over.

Replace PERC

PERC Replacement Vouchers

Using Product Replacement Program funding, we are working with local fire departments and other first responders to collect and safely dispose of PFAS-containing foam. We cover the costs associated with the collection, transport, and disposal of that foam.

Replacing Toxics in Firefighting Foam

Health Hazards of PFAS

The recreational foam replacement program provides reimbursement to businesses like schools, gyms, and recreational facilities for replacing foam blocks used in open foam pits. These types of foam can contain flame retardants which can have negative impacts on people's health.

EPA Action Plan

PBDE Health Effects

Foam Testing Project

Thermostat Recycling Corporation is a national mercury thermostat take-back program. This program is a nonprofit stewardship organization founded in 1998 to facilitate and manage the collection and proper disposal of mercury-containing thermostats.

Mercury Thermostat Recycling

Facilities that use solvent-based degreasers can apply for reimbursement to switch to safer degreasers. Solvent-based degreasers many contain chemicals that are harmful to human health and the environment. We’re offering to reimburse up to $10,000 for those businesses that make the switch.

Solvent Replacement Incentives