Methylene Chloride: How Many Deaths Does It Take?

   

  
      Most consumers don't realize just how dangerous methylene chloride really is because the warning labels don't mention what could happen if the fumes are inhaled. Dichloromethane-DCM or methylene chloride is a colorless, volatile liquid with a somewhat sweet-smelling aroma. It is most commonly used as a solvent in paint strippers and degreasers. The labels on products widely sold over-the-counter in hardware stores, home improvement stores and online do have warnings. They most often warn of DCM being a known carcinogen and warn of not getting the product on the skin. Some even mention using DCM in a well-ventilated area. But they don't say anything about the possibility of death from breathing the vapors!
     Fourteen deaths in the U.S. have been linked to methylene chloride exposure since 2000 many of which involved the use of the chemical in paint strippers. There are over 50 documented accidental exposure deaths linked to methylene chloride since 1980. 
     The EPA says it does intend to take action. It is working on a rule expected to be proposed early next year that could stiffen warning labels on paint strippers containing the chemical, add certain restrictions, or ban the products completely for consumer use. So what can consumers do to protect themselves and their family from products containing methylene chloride? Don't use them, buy them, or recommend them! There are safe and effective alternatives when it comes to paint stripping that don't break the bank, pose any health threats to you or your family, and work effectively to get the job done!
     EZ Strip has world patented water based technology that breaks the bond between paints and substrate without a chemical reaction that could release toxic fumes into the air. The skin safe fume free paint and coating removal formulas are taking Home Depot Stores and online by storm and looking to expand further soon! Visit the EZ Strip website today and see what safer removal products can do for you. EZstrip.ca

     For the full article of info provided above follow this link Link: why-is-deadly-methylene-chloride-still-being-sold-in-us/article/444455 For more info on the documented deaths link to methylene chloride by consumers and workers check out the links below.

Common solvent keeps killing workers, consumers Link: solvent-keeps-killing

Key findings from our solvents investigation Link: key-findings-our-solvents-investigation 

Massachusetts worker death Link: massachusetts-worker-death

Breathing Death Link: methylene_chloride_is_a_deadly_chemical_found_in_paint_thinners

Thanks for reading! EZ Strip blog is the hub for information on safe alternatives to chemical stripping and other hazardous methods for paint and coating removal. Lets get the facts straight if you want to read more blog posts from EZ Strip follow this link and don't forget to subscribe! EZ Strip Blog

 

Lead Paint Removal: What Home Owners Need To Know

     Before the 1970s, household paint often contained lead. As lead paint ages, it can chip or crumble into dust. Exposure to lead-paint dust or chips can cause serious health problems. Children and pregnant women are at higher risk. So, if you live in or own an older home, you need to know how to protect yourself and others.
     There are many ways to reduce the hazards of lead-based paint — but SOME METHODS OF REMOVING PAINT ACTUALLY INCREASE THE RISK OF LEAD EXPOSURE. It's important to pick the safest method for your project; the goal is to reduce the hazards while creating as little lead dust as possible.
     You should consider hiring a professional contractor with experience in working safely with lead removal. Whether you're going to do the job yourself or hire somebody, it's YOUR responsibility to see that the job is done safely. BE CAREFUL! During the work, you might stir up dust or create fumes containing lead. This can be very dangerous for adults, children and pets. Always use a method that creates the least amount of dust and fumes.
     Dry scraping, sanding, chemically reacting strippers, and high heat removal techniques are all examples of dangerous removal methods when working with lead paint. First step is to test your damaged paint for lead. You can buy lead test kits at your local hardware store. Tip: Test the top and bottom coat of paint for lead as there may not be lead in all paint layers/samples tested. Second step plan, plan, and plan some more especially if you're taking on this project yourself EZ Strip can help!
     EZ Strip Professional Strength Paint & Varnish Stripper is a water based paint stripper that penetrates coatings and lifts from the surface without chemical reactions that can release toxic fumes into the air. EZ Strip also encapsulates the paint and keeps it wet for dust free removal. All EZ Strip products are skin safe, fume free, biodegradable, and 100% water soluble for safe paint removal.  

For more info on EZ Strip products and where to buy visit http://www.ezstrip.ca/

For more great tips on how to safely remove damaged lead paint from your home follow this link from the New York State Department of Health https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2502/