A concise assessment of the risks to human health and the environment posed by exposure to 1 2-diaminoethane. Commonly known as ethylenediamine (EDA), this compound is used as an intermediate in the manufacture of tetraacetyl ethylenediamine ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) organic flocculants urea resins and fatty bisamides. Its use in photography chemicals may also contribute to its presence in the environment. Concerning environmental behavior, studies indicate rapid biodegradation; bioaccumulation is judged unlikely. Although data on environmental levels and human exposure are extremely limited, the report notes that the production of formulations using EDA usually takes place in well-ventilated enclosed systems thus reducing the potential for occupational exposure via inhalation. Studies conducted in experimental animals show moderate acute toxicity. Findings support the conclusion that EDA is a skin irritant and a skin sensitizer. Data were judged inadequate to support an assessment of mutagenic potential. The report found no evidence of carcinogenicity in animal studies. Although non-neoplastic effects on the liver have been reported, the significance of these findings for human health remains uncertain.