EPA Proposes Ban on All Consumer Uses of Methylene Chloride and Many Industrial and Commercial Applications

Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane, is a volatile, colorless liquid with a chloroform-like odor. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes it as a dangerous chemical known to cause serious health risks and even death. The agency recently proposed a ban on most uses of the solvent under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Some uses of methylene chloride would still be allowed only where strict workplace controls could be implemented to minimize worker exposure.

According to the EPA announcement:
Since 1980, at least 85 people have died from acute exposure to methylene chloride, largely workers engaged in home renovation contracting work and even, in some cases, while fully trained and equipped with personal protective equipment. Many more have experienced severe and long-lasting health impacts, including certain cancers. Still, use of methylene chloride has remained widespread, even after EPA banned one consumer use in 2019. Methylene chloride is used in a variety of ways including consumer uses such as aerosol degreasers and brush cleaners for paints and coatings, commercial applications such as adhesives and sealants, and in industrial settings for making other chemicals.

“Neurotoxicity, liver effects, and cancer from inhalation and dermal exposures to methylene chloride are some of the human health effects identified by EPA,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “To assist those industries that will be allowed to continue to use methylene chloride if the proposed ban is implemented, EMSL Analytical offers industrial hygiene and environmental testing for it and many other industrial chemicals. We also provide all of the sampling supplies needed and carry a wide range of respirators and other personal protective equipment to mitigate exposure hazards and help companies comply with health and safety regulations.”

EMSL Analytical sponsored an educational video about methylene chloride and occupational exposure concerns several years ago that can still be seen at: https://youtu.be/SDGduHBfEQw

To learn more about methylene chloride testing or other occupational, air quality, environmental, health and safety services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail