Recreational Marine Vessel Parts

For Boats and Other Pleasure Craft

Why am I being warned about potential exposure to chemicals in recreational marine vessel parts?
  • Some chemicals in recreational marine vessel parts are on the Proposition 65 list for cancer or reproductive toxicity.
  • California’s Proposition 65 requires businesses to warn people before exposing them to a significant amount of a chemical listed under Proposition 65 for cancer or reproductive toxicity.

Some recreational marine vessel parts can expose you to chemicals on the Proposition 65 list. These include some parts used in boats and other pleasure craft.

Not all recreational marine vessel parts will expose you to chemicals on the Proposition 65 list.

This fact sheet focuses on exposures to listed chemicals that can occur when you handle recreational marine vessel parts. To learn about exposures from recreational marine vessel use, see our fact sheet on recreational boats.

Chemicals associated with common marine vessel parts include:

  • Lead, which is used in lead-acid batteries, and may be present in brass items and other marine vessel parts.
  • Phthalates, a group of chemicals that make plastic flexible. Some phthalates may be present in cable and wire coverings, and other parts.
How does exposure to chemicals on the Proposition 65 list occur when handling recreational marine vessel parts?
Exposure to chemicals in marine vessel parts 1. Breathing in chemicals present in air and dust 2. Transferring chemicals from the hands to the mouth and swallowing
  • During pregnancy, some of these chemicals can pass from mother to baby.
How can I reduce my exposure to chemicals on the Proposition 65 list when handling recreational marine vessel parts?
  • When purchasing a recreational marine vessel part, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe handling and use. Contact the manufacturer if you have questions about a Proposition 65 warning for a specific part.
  • When working on your boat or other pleasure craft and handling parts:
    • Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
    • Wear protective clothing suited for the task, including gloves. Wash soiled clothing and gear separately from other items.
    • Wash your hands when you finish, especially before preparing food or eating.
    • Use a wet mop or vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter when cleaning up your work area.
  • Responsibly dispose of used recreational marine vessels and parts.
    • Most wholesalers or retailers who sell lead-acid batteries will accept your used battery when you purchase a new one.
    • Check with your county waste management agency about the best way to dispose of or recycle any parts that may be hazardous.
    • Avoid leaving used marine vessel parts unattended and keep them out of the reach of children.
For more information:

General Fact Sheets and Resources

Proposition 65

Posted July 2024
Fact Sheet - Recreational Marine Vessel Parts
References
Product/Place