FACT SHEET
Methylene Chloride
Introduction In April 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a final rule regulating the chemical Methylene Chloride under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to protect human health from health risks such as neurotoxicity effects and cancer from inhalation or dermal exposures. Methylene chloride, also called dichloromethane, is a volatile, colorless liquid with a chloroform-like odor. Methylene chloride is used in various industrial processes, in many different industries including paint stripping, pharmaceutical manufacturing, paint remover manufacturing, and metal cleaning and degreasing.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s final rule will:
Prohibit manufacture, processing, and distribution of methylene chloride for all consumer uses.
Prohibit most industrial and commercial uses
Health Related Issues
There are health risks to workers and consumers who use Methylene Chloride-containing products, and to bystanders in workplaces and residences where methylene chloride is used.
Effects of short-term (acute) exposures to workers and consumers, including bystanders, can result in harm to the central nervous system, or neurotoxicity
• Acute exposure resulted in at least 88 occupational deaths in the U.S. between 1985-2024.
Effects of longer periods of exposure (chronic) for workers includes liver toxicity, liver cancer, and lung cancer.
Common Products
EPA is prohibiting manufacture, processing, and distribution in commerce of methylene chloride for all consumer use, including but not limited to:
• Solvent in aerosol degreasers/cleaners
• Adhesives and sealants
• Brush cleaners for paints and coatings
• Adhesive and caulk removers
• Metal degreasers
• Automotive care products (functional fluids for airconditioners) & (degreasers)
• Lubricants and greases
• Cold pipe insulation
• Arts, crafts, and hobby materials glue
• Anti-spatter welding aerosol
• Carbon removers and other brush cleaners
How Do I Know If Methylene Chloride Is An Ingredient In A Product?
Generally, the product label identifies the ingredients in the product and should be read carefully. You can also consult the safety data sheet SDS that are available from manufacturers. Methylene chloride can be referred to as dichloromethane or DCM and is sold under a variety of trade names. It is identified by its Chemical Abstract Number: 75-09-2.
Laboratory and Research Safety
Use of this chemical in laboratory and research settings is discouraged. The use of the chemical however is not strictly prohibited but there are additional requirements established by the Environmental Protection Agency for its use. For safe work practices in laboratory and research settings, refer to the Laboratory Safety Methlyene Chloride Safety Talk.
Find An Alternative
The University's Department of Environmental Health and Safety is calling for the stop of the use of this product. Environmental Health and Safety’s recommendation is to find alternative product to utilize in the now prohibited chemicals place.
What If Use of Methylene Chloride Is Necessary and Unavoidable?
There may be scenarios where the use of this chemical is unavoidable. In these scenarios, Ohio State's EHS Department MUST be contacted. The department will ensure that the safe work practices established by the Environmental Protection Agency will be met.