Dichloromethane

A general fact sheet to help businesses (PCBU) manage the risks of Dichloromethane, also called methylene chloride, in the workplace.

Dichloromethane is a volatile, colourless, non-flammable liquid with a sweet ether-like odour.  Dichloromethane may originate from natural sources such as marine areas and wetlands.

Dichloromethane is used as a solvent in paint removers and as a degreaser. It is used in metal cleaning, as a solvent in the production of polycarbonate resins, in film processing and in ink formulations. Its volatility has led to its use as a blowing agent for polyurethane foams. It is also used in the food industry as an extraction solvent. When in contact with hot surfaces and open flames, Dichloromethane can break down and emit highly toxic fumes of phosgene and chlorine.

Read our Dichloromethane Technical Fact Sheet.

Harms

Dichloromethane, depending on factors such as the concentration and duration of use, can result in different degrees of harm to workers.

Short term exposure can cause:

  • eye and skin irritation/burns
  • drowsiness
  • dizziness
  • coughing, wheezing and/or shortness of breath

At high concentrations, short term exposure may cause the heart to beat irregularly (arrhythmia).  It can also result in fluid build-up in the lung, leading to unconsciousness and death.

Prolonged or repeated skin contact can result in dry, red, cracked skin.

Long term exposure at high levels may damage the liver and brain.  Dichloromethane is a neurotoxic agent and is suspected of causing cancer.

Control measures

SafeWork NSW recommends you follow a hierarchy of controls (PDF 32kb) to eliminate or minimise a hazard.

Eliminate use if possible

Eliminate the use of Dichloromethane if reasonably practicable

Minimise vapours and mists and PPE

Adequate controls such as minimising the generation of vapours and mists and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) can minimise any hazardous exposures and prevent illness in the workplace.

Other controls

Employ engineering controls, in particular:

  • reduce fugitive emissions during transfers between closed systems
  • where Dichloromethane is not used in a closed system (such as laboratories) or is present as a contaminant of workplace air (such as car repair shops), good local exhaust ventilation should be ensured
  • avoid inhalation, skin and eye contact by wearing appropriate respiratory protection along with chemical-resistant gloves and goggles; and other personal protective equipment deemed necessary
  • instruct and train workers in the correct fitting, use and maintenance of PPE
  • follow instructions and controls outlined in Safety Data Sheets and product labels
  • ensure that instructions and controls outlined in Safety Data Sheets, manufacturers specifications, product labels and any instructions provided by supervisors and managers are followed.

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