EPA Finalizes Methylene Chloride Ban

April 30, 2024
Exemptions include some uses deemed essential for national security and the environment.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on April 30 finalized a ban on most uses of methylene chloride, a chemical found in degreasers and paint strippers.

Consumer uses of methylene chloride will be phased out within a year, and most industrial and commercial uses will be prohibited within two years, the EPA said.

The agency proposed the ban last year under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), saying workers who are exposed to the chemical face serious health risks.

The EPA’s final action, also known as a risk-management rule, will allow for some methylene chloride uses to continue with a more stringent worker-protection program.

The EPA’s announcement included several statements of support, including one from a woman whose son died in 2017 after exposure to the substance.

About the Author

Jonathan Katz | Executive Editor

Jonathan Katz, executive editor, brings nearly two decades of experience as a B2B journalist to Chemical Processing magazine. He has expertise on a wide range of industrial topics. Jon previously served as the managing editor for IndustryWeek magazine and, most recently, as a freelance writer specializing in content marketing for the manufacturing sector.

His knowledge areas include industrial safety, environmental compliance/sustainability, lean manufacturing/continuous improvement, Industry 4.0/automation and many other topics of interest to the Chemical Processing audience.

When he’s not working, Jon enjoys fishing, hiking and music, including a small but growing vinyl collection.

Jon resides in the Cleveland, Ohio, area.

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