Methylene Chloride (dichloromethane)

Evaluating Exposure

Monitoring employee exposures to Methylene Chloride allows employers to identify the sources and select suitable exposure controls.

Methylene Chloride and its uses

Also called dichloromethane, is a colourless liquid with a chloroform-like odour. It is used in many industrial processes in various different industries such as paint stripping, pharmaceutical manufacturing, adhesives manufacturing, polyurethane foam production, film base manufacturing, paint remover manufacturing, polycarbonate resin production, metal cleaning and solvent distribution and formulation.

Employee exposure and health consequences

The principal means of exposure Chloride is inhalation and skin exposure.

MC is a potential occupational carcinogen and short-term exposures to high concentrations may cause confusion, nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Continued exposure may also cause eye and respiratory tract irritation. Exposure may make symptoms of angina more severe and skin exposure to liquid can cause irritation or chemical burns.