Which agency is responsible for registering disinfectants for use in the United States?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the agency responsible for registering disinfectants for use in the United States. This registration process is crucial because it ensures that disinfectants meet strict efficacy standards and safety regulations before they can be marketed and used to control disease-causing microorganisms. The EPA evaluates the active ingredients in disinfectants and the labeling to ensure that the products are effective and safe for both human health and the environment.

Understanding the responsibilities of the other agencies clarifies the role of the EPA further. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) primarily regulates food, drugs, and cosmetics but does not oversee disinfectants. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) focuses on workplace safety and health standards, which may include regulations related to the use of disinfectants but does not register these products. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is involved in public health and disease prevention but does not have authority in the registration of disinfectants. Thus, the EPA's role is specifically aligned with the oversight and registration of disinfectants.