The federal Environmental Protection Agency, under the authority granted by the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), has place special restrictions on certain materials that exceed OSHA level requirements for the same materials. These restrictions are in place because the EPA has determined the materials pose an unreasonable risk of injury to users. Several of these materials are in use at Oregon State University and compliance with these restrictions are overseen by EH&S. Below are the chemicals affected by this management as well as the requirements and resources for their use at OSU.
Methylene Chloride/Dichloromethane/DCM (CAS# 75-09-2)
DCM is volatile, colorless liquid solvent with a sweet, choroform-like odor. As a heavier than water, polar solvent it is commonly used in laboratories for extractions, liquid chromatography, and cleaning. DCM can cause cancer and damage to the liver and kidneys. Acute exposures to high concentrations of DCM vapor in poorly-ventilated spaces has caused central nervous system harm, up to and including unconsciousness and death through respiratory paralysis.
ALL USE OF DCM AT OSU MUST BE APPROVED BY EH&S. Initial monitoring and safety training will be provided by EH&S.
DCM/Methylene Chloride specific information, including safety information, training, requirements for use at OSU, and the link to request use authorization can be found on our DCM/Methylene Chloride page.
TCE/Trichloroethylene (CAS# 79-01-6)
TCE is a volatile, colorless liquid commonly used as a cleaner/degreaser and in the manufacture of refrigerants. Cumulative exposure to TCE can cause cancer and damage to the liver and kidneys. Acute exposures to high concentrations of TCE vapor in poorly-ventilated spaces has caused central nervous system harm, up to and including unconsciousness and death through respiratory paraylsis. TCE has also been linked in studies to increased risk of Parkinson's Disease.
ALL USE OF TCE AT OSU MUST BE APPROVED BY EH&S. Initial monitoring and safety training will be provided by EH&S.
TCE specific information, including safety information, training, requirements for use at OSU, and the link to request use authorization can be found on our TCE/Trichloroethylene page.
PCE(Perc)/Perchloroethylene/Tetrachloroethylene (CAS# 127-18-4)
PCE is a volatile, colorless liquid commonly used for dry cleaning of fabrics and as a metal degreasing solvent. It is classified as a probable human carcinogen and chronic exposure has been linked to bladder cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma as well as kidney and liver damage.
ALL USE OF PCE AT OSU MUST BE APPROVED BY EH&S. Initial monitoring and safety training will be provided by EH&S.
PCE specific information, including safety information, training, requirements for use at OSU, and the link to request use authorization can be found on our PCE/Perchloroethylene page.