WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration has taken a crucial step to protect workers and communities from the dangers of methylene chloride by finalizing a ban on most uses of the chemical. The decision, announced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on April 30, 2024, comes after years of advocacy and tragic incidents involving methylene chloride exposure.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of the ban, stating, “Exposure to methylene chloride has devastated families across this country for too long, including some who saw loved ones go to work and never come home.” The move is part of a broader effort to enhance worker safety and prevent harmful health effects linked to the chemical.
The ban on most uses of methylene chloride has been welcomed by various organizations and individuals. David McCall, International President of the United Steelworkers, expressed support for the rule, highlighting the significance of protecting workers from harmful chemical exposures. Similarly, Sarah Vogel from the Environmental Defense Fund praised the decision as a crucial measure to safeguard workers from the deadly effects of methylene chloride.
One of the voices advocating for this ban is Wendy Hartley, who tragically lost her son, Kevin, to methylene chloride poisoning in 2017. She shared, “My son, Kevin, died in 2017 from methylene chloride exposure from refinishing a bathtub at work. I am pleased that the EPA is finally taking action and banning methylene chloride as a commercial bathtub stripper. This is a huge step that will protect vulnerable workers.”
The ban on most commercial uses of methylene chloride in paint strippers marks a significant milestone in prioritizing worker safety and public health. The new rule aims to phase out consumer use within a year and prohibit most industrial and commercial uses within two years, aligning with efforts to reduce exposure to this hazardous chemical.
In addition to the ban, the EPA has established a Workplace Chemical Protection Program to ensure strict exposure limits and monitoring requirements for remaining industrial uses of methylene chloride. This program includes provisions to protect workers from cancer and other adverse health effects associated with methylene chloride exposure.
The EPA will provide further details on the implementation of the final rule through a public webinar in the coming weeks. The agency's decision to finalize the ban on most uses of methylene chloride underscores the administration's commitment to prioritizing worker safety and public health in the face of hazardous chemicals.
