Overview

Methylene Chloride, also called dichloromethane, is colorless liquid with a mild, Chloroform-like odor that is used in many different industrial processes and is not naturally found in the environment (OSHA and ATSDR ToxFAQs). Exposure to methylene chloride occurs through breathing in contaminated air, skin contact, or through drinking contaminated water (OSHA).

Uses

Methylene chloride is used in numerous industrial settings including paint stripping, pharmaceutical manufacturing, paint remover manufacturing, and metal cleaning and degreasing (OSHA).

Health Effects

Breathing in large amounts of methylene chloride can damage the central nervous system. It can make one feel unsteady, dizzy, and have nausea and a tingling or numbness of your finger and toes. Contact of eyes or skin with methylene chloride can result in burns (ATSDR ToxFAQs).

References

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). "ToxFAQs for Methylene Chloride". February 2001.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). "Safety and Health Topics - Methylene Chloride". Page last updated: 07/19/2007