What Colleges and Universities Need to Know

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a new Workplace Exposure Rule for methylene chloride, working closely with OSHA to establish guidelines under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). These updated regulations highlight the health risks associated with methylene chloride, a solvent widely used in various industries.

What is Methylene Chloride?

Methylene chloride is a powerful solvent commonly found in:

  • Adhesives and coatings
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Metal cleaning and chemical processing
  • Aerosol products

The EPA has determined that methylene chloride poses unreasonable health risks, resulting in a ban on its use in paint and coating removal products for consumer and most commercial applications.

However, laboratory operations are still permitted, meaning educational institutions may continue to use methylene chloride in some programs.

Implications for Colleges and Universities

If your institution uses methylene chloride in laboratory operations, it’s critical to understand the new EPA Workplace Exposure Rule:

  • Lower exposure limits:
    • 2 ppm over an 8-hour time-weighted average
    • 16 ppm 15-minute short-term exposure limit
  • Deadlines for compliance:
    • Existing facilities: Initial industrial hygiene monitoring must be completed by May 5, 2025.
    • New facilities: Monitoring must occur within 30 days of product use.
  • Compliance options:
    • Conduct industrial hygiene monitoring.
    • Eliminate methylene chloride use and consider substitutes like ethyl acetate.

How IEA Can Help

At IEA, we’re here to support colleges and universities in achieving compliance with the EPA’s new regulations. Our services include:

  • Compliance Assessment: Guidance on testing and timelines based on EPA, OSHA, and TSCA requirements.
  • Industrial Hygiene Monitoring: Measuring exposure levels for facilities using methylene chloride and providing training for safe use.
  • Product Inventory and Disposal: Assisting with inventory management and proper disposal through licensed hazardous waste disposers.

Let’s ensure your institution is compliant and safe. Contact IEA today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how we can assist.

Compliance Timelines* for the Workplace Chemical Protection Program