Preventing worker deaths from methylene chloride
Methylene chloride (dichloromethane) is a widely used solvent that can cause serious illness or death when used in enclosed spaces. It is a cancer-causing chemical used in paint strippers, in the production of polymer foams and as a degreaser. OHB investigated the deaths of two California workers due to methylene chloride overexposure. Now OHB is launching a web page on preventing worker deaths from paint strippers containing methylene chloride.
Preventing worker deaths from paint strippers containing methylene chloride – Safer alternatives web page
Electronic Waste Recycling: Working Safely – New factsheet
Our society’s increasing appetite for the latest electronic equipment is fueling a growing electronic waste (e-waste) recycling industry. In e-waste recycling, workers may encounter unanticipated hazards that can result in injury, hearing loss, and/or exposure to toxic dusts and other chemicals. These hazards can cause serious and sometimes permanent health problems. This fact sheet describes the hazards that may occur in e-waste recycling and highlights actions companies can take to control these hazards, as well as things workers can do to protect themselves.
Electronic Waste Recycling: Working Safely (PDF)
– factsheet
For more information on our work in this area, see Early Warning about Workplace Hazards
Chemical Watch List, 2012
In order to issue timely warnings about new workplace hazards, HESIS staff monitors developments on selected chemicals, commercial products, and classes of chemicals. These chemicals of concern are chosen for their potential to seriously harm California workers. HESIS staff gathers several types of data, including product ingredients, toxicity testing, and medical case reports. We also share information with other government agencies. Where there is sufficient scientific evidence of potential health hazards, HESIS may issue Hazard Alerts, Fact Sheets, or Medical Guidelines; this is done in consultation with Cal/OSHA.
HESIS Chemical Watch List 2012 (PDF)
For more information on our work in this area, see Early Warning about Workplace Hazards