Methylene chloride is currently being evaluated under TSCA and a draft risk evaluation was released in October 2019, which evaluated 72 conditions of use for the chemical. Methylene chloride is a volatile chemical that is used as a solvent for various purposes in industrial, commercial, and consumer settings. It is mainly used for paint removal, adhesive, pharmaceutical manufacturing, metal cleaning, aerosol solvent, chemical processing, and flexible polyurethane foam manufacturing applications. It is estimated that more than 260 million pounds of methylene chloride are manufactured/ imported per year. The concern regarding methylene chloride use stems from its potential to adversely affect workers, occupational non-users, consumers, and bystanders. A public comment period for the draft risk evaluation will be open until December 30, 2019.
