Methylene chloride is used to process spices and hops and to extract caffeine from coffee beans and tea leaves. In the automotive industry, it serves as a lubricant or degreaser. Lab technicians use it to extract other chemicals from plants for use in steroids, antibiotics and vitamins.
In 2019, EPA found uses of methylene chloride in paint removers to pose unreasonable risks to human health and banned the use of the chemical in paint removers for consumer use.
OSHA monitors and regulates methylene chloride in industrial settings, and its Methylene Chloride Standard sets a permissible exposure limit. Employers must follow OSHA requirements applicable to worker protection, including maintaining proper ventilation and use of respirators and other safety gear.
