Chemical Testing Laboratory

Cinnaminson, NJ, August 21^st, 2020

In late June, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its Final Risk Evaluation for Methylene Chloride. The risk evaluation contains the agency’s final determinations on which conditions of use present unreasonable risks to human health or the environment. It was completed as part of the agency’s mission to protect human health and the environment under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).

To prepare the final risk evaluation, EPA reviewed scientific literature, conducted modeling and other risk assessment activities, and collected toxicity, exposure and hazard information. Unreasonable risks to human health were found from 47 out of 53 conditions of use of methylene chloride. The agency reported the following:

 

• For consumers, EPA found unreasonable risks to consumers from all consumer uses of methylene chloride. Common consumer uses include aerosol degreasers/cleaners, adhesives/sealants, paint brush cleaners, lubricants, arts and crafts glue, and automobile care products like air conditioner fluids. Risks to consumers can come from short-term inhalation and dermal exposure.

 

• For workers and occupational non-users, EPA found unreasonable risks to workers from most commercial uses of methylene chloride. Additionally, the agency found unreasonable risks from most commercial uses of this chemical to workers nearby, but not in direct contact with methylene chloride (known as occupational non-users). Common commercial uses include solvents for vapor degreasing, aerosol spray cleaners, adhesives, paint/coating remover, and automotive care products. Risks to workers and occupational non-users can come from both short- and long-term inhalation and dermal exposure.

 

“Methylene chloride is a volatile and colorless liquid that is used in a number of industries,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “In addition to being a potential occupational carcinogen, there are a number of other serious health concerns associated with exposure. EMSL offers comprehensive industrial hygiene and environmental testing for methylene chloride and many other industrial chemicals. We also provide all of the sampling supplies needed and carry a wide range of personal protective equipment.”

Several years ago, EMSL Analytical, Inc. sponsored an educational video about methylene chloride and occupational exposure concerns. It can be seen at: https://youtu.be/SDGduHBfEQw.

To learn more about methylene chloride and other air quality, occupational, environmental, health and safety testing services or products, 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 45 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, VOC’s, 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-LAP, LLC EMLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC IHLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC 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.