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Occupational Safety and Health Administration
On January 10, 1997, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a standard that lowered the limit on worker exposures to methylene chloride (MC). This new standard greatly reduces the chance of developing health problems from working in facilities that use MC.
OSHA developed the following small entity compliance guide fact sheets to assist in the understanding of and compliance with the provisions of the Methylene Chloride standard.
Controlling the exposure to methylene chloride may be done through engineering controls, administrative actions, and personal protective equipment. Engineering controls include isolating the source and using ventilation systems. Administrative actions include limiting the worker's exposure time and washing facilities. Personal protective equipment includes wearing the proper respiratory protection and clothing. The following resources contain information to help control exposures.
Monitoring employee exposures to methylene chloride enables employers to identify the sources of methylene chloride and select appropriate exposure controls. OSHA's methylene chloride standard requires that all facilities using methylene chloride monitor employee exposures. The following references aid in evaluating methylene chloride exposures in the workplace.
Methylene chloride is a solvent which is used in many different types of work activities, such as paint stripping, polyurethane foam manufacturing, cleaning, and degreasing. Employees exposed to methylene chloride are at increased risk of developing cancer, adverse effects on the heart, central nervous system and liver, and skin or eye irritation. Exposure may occur through inhalation, by absorption through the skin, or through contact with the skin. The following references aid in recognizing methylene chloride hazards in the workplace.
Exposures to methylene chloride are addressed in specific OSHA standards for general industry, maritime, and construction. This section highlights OSHA standards and documents related to methylene chloride.
