Solvents
Potential Hazard
- Possible employee exposure to solvents used during cleaning, rinsing, or ink solvents used for package labeling.
- Typical solvents may include:
- 1,1,1-trichloroethane
- acetone
- ethanol
- isopropyl alcohol
- methanol
- n-butyl acetate
- terpenes
- xylene is a common solvent for wet chemical silyation
Possible Solutions
- Identify solvent hazards and perform appropriate exposure evaluations.
- Perform exposure measurements for the solvents used.
- Keep exposures below acceptable exposure levels.
- 29 CFR 1910.1000 Table Z-1 contains permissible exposure limits for various chemicals.
- Address all dermal exposures.
- Provide appropriate ventilation to reduce solvent concentration levels in the air.
- Provide PPE as appropriate to prevent eye and skin contact. [29 CFR 1910 Subpart I]
- Use respiratory protection when necessary to further reduce exposure and protect employees. [29 CFR 1910.134]
- Design and use specialized processing, material handling, and storage equipment to properly contain chemicals. Consider both normal use and emergency scenarios.
- Employ proper work practices to minimize exposure. Consider both processing and maintenance operations. Maintenance activities are often overlooked and may result in high exposures.
Additional Information
- Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123, (1981, January). Provides a table of contents of guidelines for many hazardous chemicals. The files provide technical chemical information, including chemical and physical properties, health effects, exposure limits, and recommendations for medical monitoring, personal protective equipment (PPE), and control procedures.
- Preventing Occupational Illnesses through Safer Chemical Management. OSHA.
OSHA Safety and Health Topics Pages: