Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane or DCM, is one of the most widely used laboratory solvents because of its relative versatility, low boiling point, and chemical stability. In May 2024, the EPA issued a final rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) that expanded the prohibitions on most methylene chloride uses but allows for its controlled use in certain applications, including laboratories, when handled with rigorous worker protections, such as ventilation, PPE, and worker training.
The EPA’s new Workplace Chemical Protection Program (WCPP) for methylene chloride establishes far stricter occupational exposure limits (OELs) and dermal protections than existing OSHA standards. The EPA’s WCPP requires facilities owners and operators using methylene chloride to take appropriate measures to meet new inhalation exposure limits, which do not exceed 2 ppm as an 8-hour time -weighted average (TWA) and 16 ppm as a 15-minute STEL (short-term exposure limit). While some organizations have monitored methylene chloride under OSHA, those results may not meet the new EPA requirements. To ensure compliance, facilities must adopt more rigorous monitoring, protective measures, and documentation practices than ever before.
New regulations create several challenges for organizations, including:
- Determining whether existing OSHA exposure monitoring and controls are sufficient under the new EPA limits.
- Ensuring that all personnel are trained and equipped with appropriate respiratory and dermal protection.
- Developing and implementing a facility-wide Workplace Chemical Protection Program.
To learn how your organization can prepare for these new requirements and protect both your workforce and your operations, read the full article.