Vinyl Acetate

Vinyl acetate is a chemical used as a monomer in the production of polyvinyl acetate (PVA) adhesives, polyvinyl alcohol, and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers — materials widely used in adhesives, paints, paper coatings, and foam for footwear and sports equipment. Vinyl acetate was listed as a Proposition 65 carcinogen effective January 3, 2025, under the State’s Qualified Experts mechanism following a Carcinogen Identification Committee determination. As of April 2026, OEHHA has not yet established a specific No Significant Risk Level (NSRL) for vinyl acetate; in the interim, businesses must use OEHHA’s quantitative risk assessment methodology to determine whether their specific exposures create a ‘significant risk’ requiring a warning.

OEHHA Proposition 65 list (vinyl acetate listed January 3, 2025, CIC mechanism); California Health & Safety Code §25249.8(b).

Manufacturers using vinyl acetate-based adhesives, PVA coatings, or EVA foams in products sold in California must urgently assess exposure levels from their products now that vinyl acetate is listed. Consumer-facing exposures (e.g., from adhesive outgassing, foam off-gassing) require quantitative assessment using OEHHA’s methodology. Until an NSRL is established, businesses cannot use the standard safe harbour comparison; they must conduct a quantitative risk assessment to determine whether a warning is required. Engaging a qualified toxicologist is advisable.