/Enterprise Risk Management
Environmental Health and Safety

SAFETY GUIDES

SAFETY GUIDE :

METHYLENE CHLORIDE FOR NON-LABORATORY USES

 

Workplace exposure to methylene chloride is regulated for products with concentrations of 0.1% or greater by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (29 CFR 1910.1052) and the Environmental Protection Agency (40 CFR 751 Subpart B).

 

Recent regulations by the EPA have prohibited most uses of methylene chloride, with the exception of the following:

  • Manufacturing (or import for manufacturing)
  • Processing as a reactant, repackaging, recycling
  • Laboratory chemical
  • Use as a bonding agent for solvent welding
  • Disposal

 

Using methylene chloride for any industrial or commercial use, other than the above, such as degreasing, cleaning, removing paint or paint-like materials, etc. is prohibited as of April 28, 2026.

 

What is Methylene Chloride?

Methylene chloride (CAS # 75-09-2), also called dichloromethane or DCM, is a colorless liquid and a volatile chemical with a sweet odor.

The solvent is used in a variety of products, including aerosols, degreasers, adhesives, sealants, automotive products, pesticides, and paint and coating removers.

 

Compliance with the New Rule

  • Check all materials for the presence of methylene chloride
    • Check safety data sheets (SDS) if materials do not specify chemical contents Section 3 (Composition)
  • Email hazwaste@stonybrook.edu to dispose of any methylene chloride containing material
  • Complete the Methylene Chloride Survey Formwhen all methylene chloride containing materials have been disposed of

 

EPA’s Risk Management Guide for Methylene Chloride

 

In order to comply with the new regulations, non-laboratory facilities, including workshops and art studios, must check their stock of materials and dispose of products containing methylene chloride at their earliest convenience.

 

Contact EH&S if assistance is needed.

 

For more information regarding methylene chloride, please visit EH&S Website for Methylene Chloride

 

Environmental Health & Safety – Division of Enterprise Risk Management

We Care About Safety… People - Science - Education - Medicine - Environment