Solvents
Potential Hazard
  • Possible employee exposure to solvents used during cleaning, rinsing, or ink solvents used for package labeling.

  • Typical solvents may include:

    • 1,1,1-trichloroethane

    • acetone

    • ethanol

    • isopropyl alcohol

    • methanol

    • n-butyl acetate

    • terpenes

    • xylene is a common solvent for wet chemical silyation
Possible Solutions
  • Identify solvent hazards and perform appropriate exposure evaluations.

    • Perform exposure measurements for the solvents used.

    • Keep exposures below acceptable exposure levels.

    • See 1910.1000, Table Z-1, which contains permissible exposure limits for various chemicals.
  • Address all dermal exposures.

  • Provide appropriate ventilation to reduce solvent concentration levels in the air.

  • Provide PPE [1910 Subpart I] as appropriate to prevent eye and skin contact.

  • Use respiratory protection [1910.134] when necessary to further reduce exposure and protect employees.

  • Design and use specialized processing, material handling, and storage equipment to properly contain chemicals. Consider both normal use and emergency scenarios.

  • Employ proper work practices to minimize exposure. Consider both processing and maintenance operations. Maintenance activities are often overlooked and may result in high exposures.
Additional Information

OSHA Safety and Health Topic pages: