EBDC Residue Estimates

RCED-94-171R: Published: Jul 15, 1994. Publicly Released: Jul 15, 1994.

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Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) decision to retain 45 crops for ethylene bisdithiocarbamates (EBDC) testing. GAO noted that although: (1) there are no significant weaknesses in the EPA decision process, there are weaknesses in EPA average residue estimates for EBDC and a metabolite; and (2) the discrepancies in residue estimates for EBDC are minor, the calculation errors could significantly impact residue estimates for other pesticides.

Recommendation for Executive Action

  1. Status: Closed - Implemented

    Comments: EPA agreed with the recommendation. It is furnishing agency reviewers with better tools to carry out mathematical and statistical calculations through obtaining the latest in electronic hardware and software, as well as increasing their statistical support staff.

    Recommendation: Because the types of discrepancies found in the calculations of EBDC residues could also be occurring in residue calculations for other pesticides, the Assistant Administrator for Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances should institute procedures to strengthen internal controls to prevent these types of discrepancies.

    Agency Affected: Environmental Protection Agency: Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances

 

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