Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane and DCM, is a chlorinated solvent commonly used in both laboratory and workshop settings. Methylene chloride is both volatile and carcinogenic. Unlike many other carcinogens, it has the ability to penetrate disposable latex and nitrile gloves. There are many uses for methylene chloride; however, is often used in joining plexiglass/acrylic items to each other, degreasing, as a paint remover, and a lab solvent.
The Methylene Chloride Workplace Chemical Protection Program (WCPP) is designed to protect people from injuries and illnesses associated with using methylene chloride and meet the requirements of the EPA and OSHA regulations for the use of methylene chloride. The program covers all potentially exposed persons (employee, volunteer, or student) that have any exposure to methylene chloride. The program sets exposure limits, requirements for exposure monitoring, and PPE requirements.
In addition to the WCPP, each lab/work area using methylene chloride must have an exposure control plan (ECP). The ECP is a site-specific document that includes information on the exposure controls in use, how they are maintained and why they were chosen, the PPE to be used, and the location of any regulated areas.
Before implementing any portion of this WCPP or ECP, contact the EHS Industrial Hygienist to conduct the initial exposure monitoring.
Questions about this topic can be directed here.
Documents:
Training:
Methylene Chloride Safety - W538OS
- This course is required initially for all people potentially exposed to methylene chloride and covers the items required by the EPA and OSHA regulations.
- Audience: Persons who may be exposed to methylene chloride.
Methylene Chloride Safety Refresher - COMING SOON
- This course is required annually, after completing Methylene Chloride Safety, for all people potentially exposed to methylene chloride and covers the items required by the EPA and OSHA regulations. May not be used as initial training.
- Audience: Persons who may be exposed to methylene chloride.
Methylene Chloride Storage - W554OS
- This course is required annually for all areas that are ONLY storing methylene chloride with no associated use of the chemical.
- Audience: Only the individual responsible for the area is required to take this course; this would be the Principal Investigator (PI) for laboratories and the manager/supervisor for work areas. It is recommended that other individuals in the area also complete the course.
Resources:
Finding a Substitute for Methylene Chloride:
- The Lab Safety Institute Use This Not That: Safer Substitutions for Methylene Chloride (Free Webinar)
- Green Chemistry Methylene Chloride (DCM) Replacements
- American Chemical Society Solvent Selection Tool
- Green Solvent Selection Tool