Many paint strippers on the market today contain methylene chloride, a toxic chemical that can cause death in workers and other users when applied in enclosed spaces (like bathrooms and tanks). Unless the correct respirators and gloves are used and there is adequate ventilation, the levels of methylene chloride vapor can build up to levels that are immediately dangerous to the user when inhaled into the lungs and/or absorbed through the skin.
There are many alternative paint strippers that contain safer, less toxic chemicals – and still get the job done. To help sort out the choice of paint strippers, the California Department of Public Health has developed some useful resources including a safer paint strippers selection guide and a poster for workplaces and trainings,l for contractors, workers, and other users of these products. If paint strippers containing methylene chloride have to be used, we also have information about the use of the correct respirator, gloves and ventilation. In addition, for organizations’ newsletters, blogs and listserv(s) we have a “camera ready” article that you can use.
Check out our web page at http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/ohb/Pages/methylenechloride.aspx where you can get these materials and a lot more.
Robert Harrison, MD, MPH
Dennis Shusterman, MD, MPH
Occupational Health Branch
California Department of Public Health
David Harrington, MPH
California Department of Public Health
Occupational Health Branch,
850 Marina Bay Parkway, Building P, 3rd Floor
Richmond, CA 94804
(510) 620-5726
(510) 620-5743 FAX
Visit our website: www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/ohb