The US Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule Tuesday that will end many uses of the highly toxic, cancer-causing solvent methylene chloride. The chemical will still be available for certain purposes, but with new guidelines meant to keep workers safe.
Methylene chloride, which is also called dichloromethane, is a volatile industrial solvent that is most often used in commercial paint strippers. It is also used in metal degreasers, aerosols, adhesives, paint and coating products, and in the manufacturing of some pharmaceuticals.
There are risks for anyone who handles methylene chloride. The chemical is dangerous to humans when they breathe in its fumes, or when it comes into contact with the skin. Even a tablespoon of methylene chloride can kill.