July 25, 2024 - G. Cottrell
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a rule to restrict most uses of dichloromethane (DCM) to protect workers and communities from harmful exposure. Additionally, the EPA has proposed restrictions on n-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) in the near future.
The EPA's rationale includes DCM's links to cancer and neurotoxicity, with 88 worker deaths since 1980. Concerns about NMP include fetal loss from short-term exposure and fertility impacts from long-term exposure.
In response to the EPA ruling, the MSU's Office of Environmental Health and Safety will assist departments in achieving compliance over the next year. Updates will be provided via email and the EHS website. Users of DCM and NMP will be contacted to:
For questions, contact Genevieve Cottrell, Chemical Safety Officer. Continue to monitor the EHS website and add ehs@msu.edu to your safe-sender list for updates.