The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies (ATS FoC) and SGS conduct TPCH testing to help manufacturers and suppliers evaluate packaging materials for substances regulated by the Toxics in Packaging Clearinghouse (TPCH). These requirements target specific chemicals in packaging, including heavy metals. The TPCH model legislation was created to reduce lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium in packaging.
ATS and SGS offer testing and analytical support to organizations assessing packaging materials and products. This testing provides objective laboratory data to support internal quality programs, meet customer requirements, and address regulatory needs.
The Importance of TPCH Testing
Packaging may contain restricted substances due to raw materials, additives, pigments, coatings, inks, recycled content, or manufacturing processes. Laboratory testing evaluates the chemical composition of packaging materials instead of relying only on supplier declarations.
Traditional TPCH requirements prohibit intentional use of lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium. They also establish a combined incidental concentration limit of 100 parts per million for these four metals in applicable packaging and components.
The TPCH model legislation was updated in 2021 to include additional substances such as PFAS and ortho-phthalates. Since individual states choose which provisions to adopt, jurisdiction-specific evaluation is essential.
Our TPCH Testing Clients
TPCH testing supports companies involved in the design, manufacture, supply, and distribution of packaging. It is relevant for both packaging producers and businesses that use packaging. ATS and SGS provide TPCH testing for clients such as:
- Packaging manufacturers
- Packaging component suppliers
- Consumer product manufacturers
- Importers and distributors
- Retail product companies
- Food and beverage packaging suppliers
- Paint and chemical product manufacturers
- Electronics manufacturers
- Companies using recycled packaging materials
What Does TPCH Testing Evaluate?
Testing programs assess packaging materials for restricted substances as required. Projects may involve analytical testing for heavy metals and other regulated substances. Commonly evaluated materials include:
- Plastics and polymeric packaging
- Paper and paperboard
- Coatings and inks
- Glass packaging
- Metal packaging
- Packaging components
- Recycled packaging materials
TPCH offers guidance on laboratory analysis and references analytical methods for evaluating packaging materials, including EPA SW-846 Method 3052 and ASTM F2617 for specific applications.
TPCH Testing and Certificates of Compliance
Laboratory testing supports a company’s packaging compliance program. TPCH requirements also specify certificates of compliance for manufacturers and suppliers of relevant packaging and components. Our testing programs help organizations make informed decisions when preparing customer documentation or assessing supplier packaging materials.
Professional TPCH Testing Services
ATS and SGS combine technical expertise and laboratory capabilities to support packaging evaluation programs. Our professional testing programs help clients:
- Evaluate packaging materials
- Identify regulated substances
- Support supplier qualification
- Investigate material composition
- Generate documented laboratory results
- Support customer and regulatory requirements
- Evaluate changes to packaging formulations
ATS and SGS help clients determine an appropriate testing approach based on their materials, applications, and project objectives.
Contact Us
Contact the TPCH testing experts at ATS and SGS today by submitting a web request form or calling +1 (888) 287-5227.
