New Methylene Chloride Rules: What to Know

 

In April 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized new prohibitions and workplace safety requirements for methylene chloride under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to enhance human health protections. These updated rules mandate stricter safety measures in workplaces where methylene chloride is used.

Under the new regulations, many common uses of methylene chloride—such as paint stripping, degreasing, and adhesive removal—are prohibited. Certain applications of the chemical will still be allowed, but only with the implementation of enhanced safety measures. 

At the University of Missouri, the Department of Environmental Health & Safety is committed to helping faculty, staff, and researchers comply with these regulations and maintain a safe working environment. 

In response to these new regulations, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) advises all university units and departments to take the following actions:

Actions

University units and departments that use or possess methylene chloride are required to do the following:

1. Check your workspace for methylene chloride. If your inventory contains methylene chloride or methylene chloride-containing solutions (≥0.1% by weight), continue to #2. 

2. Review the EPA’s Fact Sheet to determine if your use of methylene chloride is allowed or prohibited under the new rules.

3. Eliminate methylene chloride or substitute it for a less hazardous chemical where possible.

  • Elimination or substitution is required for prohibited uses and strongly recommended for allowed uses.
  • Find a replacement for prohibited uses by December 31, 2024.

4. Promptly remove chemicals that are no longer in use.

Timeline

  • January-May 2025: EHS will conduct exposure monitoring for locations where methylene chloride is allowed and where it cannot be replaced or eliminated.
  • Before October 30, 2025: Units allowed to use methylene chloride under the new rule are required to implement an exposure control plan. EHS will work with thee locations to establish a Workplace Chemical Protection Plan (WCPP)
  • After April 28, 2026: The University will be prohibited from industrial or commercial use of methylene chloride, including any methylene chloride-containing products (except for allowed uses).