3-12 (1981) EPA 68-03-3025. Dichloromethane is a waste chemical stream constituent which may be subjected to ultimate disposal by controlled incineration, preferably after mixing with another combustible fuel; care must be exercised to assure complete combustion to prevent the formation of phosgene.
Is dichloromethane an environmental hazard?
Summary of environmental risk DCM has a range of industrial uses which result in emission of the chemical into the atmosphere. This is of potential concern because DCM contributes to depletion of ozone in the stratosphere, and this may delay the recovery of the ozone layer.
Why does DCM need to be removed in the hood?
Large methylene chloride/DCM spills (> 250 ml) outside a fume hood or containment may generate vapors above methylene chloride/DCM exposure limits; therefore, these spills require the use of respiratory protection. Cover spill if possible to keep vapors down.
Is dichloromethane a hazardous substance?
Classified as a neurotoxin, dichloromethane has been proven to cause damage to the brain and central nervous system (CNS). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified it as a probable human carcinogen since high levels of exposure to the chemical has been proven to cause liver and lung cancer in animals.
How do you dispose of methylene chloride?
No waste streams containing methylene chloride shall be disposed of in sinks. Decontaminate work space with 70-75% ethanol. Wash hands and arms with soap and water after finished. Contaminated disposables should be discarded as hazardous waste according to EH&S waste disposal procedures.
Is methylene chloride a listed hazardous waste?
Example: Methylene chloride is a halogenated solvent found in both the F001 and F002 listings. To be classified as an F001 listed hazardous waste solvent, it must not only meet the above three criteria, but also be used in degreasing operations.
Is methylene chloride organic waste?
Examples of halogenated organic solvents that are acceptable to be collected in safety disposal cans include: Methylene chloride. Chloroform. Carbon tetrachloride.
Is dichloromethane toxic to the environment?
Dichloromethane evaporates when exposed to air. It dissolves when mixed with water and also evaporates from the water. In animals, as well as humans dichloromethane is metabolised into carbon monoxide, which results in depriving the body of oxygen. Dichloromethane has low acute toxicity to aquatic organisms.
Is methylene chloride a hazardous waste?
Methylene chloride waste is handled as a hazardous waste. Refer to EHS' "Chemical Waste Disposal Guide" regarding the collection, storage, and disposal of hazardous wastes. Methylene chloride should be collected with other halogenated solvents, and should not be commingled with other types of hazardous waste.
Is dichloromethane a greenhouse gas?
Dichloromethane is also a greenhouse gas that contributes to the increased greenhouse gas effect12 13. The increased greenhouse gas effect results in an increase of the average temperature on earth, which for example leads to climate change and rising of the sea level.
How is dichloromethane a fire hazard?
This produces toxic and corrosive fumes including hydrogen chloride (see ICSC 0163), phosgene (see ICSC 0007) and carbon monoxide (see ICSC 0023). Reacts violently with strong oxidants, strong bases and metals such as aluminium powder and magnesium powder. This generates fire and explosion hazard.