Chemical Exposure Warnings

Chemical Exposure Warnings (Proposition 65 Warnings)

This website, by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), provides resources for consumers and businesses.

These resources can help consumers understand what a warning on a consumer product or in a particular place means, and how to find out more information about a warning.

Businesses can utilize these resources to better understand how to comply with the Proposition 65 law’s requirements.

What does a warning mean?

Proposition 65 warnings advise of exposures to chemicals that may contribute to an individual's overall lifetime risk of cancer or risk of birth defects or other reproductive harm.

If a warning is placed on a product label or posted or distributed at a workplace, a business, or in rental housing, the business issuing the warning is aware or believes that it is exposing individuals to one or more listed chemicals.

Whom should I ask if want more information about a warning?

Contact the manufacturer or importer to ask about the chemical exposure that prompted the warning.
Ask the manufacturer or importer for suggestions on how to minimize your exposure to Proposition 65 listed chemicals in the business’ product.
If a warning is posted in a certain location, such as a storefront or office building, contact the property manager or landlord to ask about the chemical(s) that prompted the warning.

What can I do to learn more?

Read the Proposition 65 “Big Picture” fact sheet to understand why toxic chemicals may be used or found in products, how you might be exposed to them, and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones if you see a warning.
Check out OEHHA’s approximately 75 fact sheets on specific chemicals and places. Learn why certain chemicals are listed and used, and how you can reduce your exposure to them.
Some of our most popular fact sheets include: Apartments and Residential Rental Properties; Foods; Furniture Products; and Household Appliances.
Read our responses to the most frequently asked questions.
Read about the benefits Proposition 65 has for all Californians.

Reducing Exposure to Proposition 65-listed Chemicals: A California Success Story

Find out how Proposition 65 enables Californians to make informed decisions about their exposures to listed chemicals.

Proposition 65 Fact Sheets

Learn why certain chemicals are listed and used, and how you can reduce your exposure to them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Proposition 65 including what it is, which chemicals are on the list, and how enforcement is handled.

Proposition 65 in the News

Check out coverage of Proposition 65 in the news.

Business Resources

Discover resources, tools, and guidance to help businesses comply with Proposition 65.

The Proposition 65 List of Chemicals

This list includes a wide range of naturally occurring and synthetic chemicals that are listed for cancer or reproductive harm, or both.

How and Why Chemicals are Added to the Proposition 65 List

Learn about the scientific experts and the processes that help update the Proposition 65 list.

Proposition 65 Laws and Regulations

Read the Proposition 65 regulations. Attend meetings, hearings and workshops.