BP continues using contentious chemical dispersant, says it’s the best option

BP continues to use toxic dispersant

WASHINGTON — BP PLC is continuing to spray a toxic chemical dispersant to break up the Gulf oil spill, even though a deadline to stop use of the chemical has passed.

The Environmental Protection Agency directed BP last week to find an alternative to a dispersant, called Corexit 9500, that has been identified as a “moderate” human health hazard. The product can cause eye, skin or respiratory irritation with prolonged exposure.

Corexit was on a list of preapproved dispersants available to BP after the oil spill, but federal officials said much about the dispersant remains unknown.

The EPA directed BP to use a less toxic dispersant as of Sunday night. The company told the government over the weekend that no better alternative was available.