Navigating the New EPA Regulations on Vapor Degreasing Solvents

Significant changes are coming for industries that rely on vapor-degreasing solvents like methylene chloride (MC), perchloroethylene (PCE), and trichloroethylene (TCE). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concludes the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) that will significantly restrict the use of these chemicals due to their health and environmental risks.

What’s Changing?

The new regulations will reduce exposure to these solvents, which are associated with serious health issues, including cancer, central nervous system damage, and organ toxicity. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s happening:

Methylene Chloride (MC)

  • Many consumer and commercial uses of MC are being phased out.
  • A Workplace Chemical Protection Program (WCPP) is required for select industrial uses.
  • New exposure limits: 2 ppm (8-hour TWA) for inhalation.
  • The consumer use ban will go into effect on May 5, 2025.
  • Most commercial use restrictions begin April 28, 2026.

Perchloroethylene (PCE)

  • PCE will see significant restrictions when used in dry cleaning, adhesives, and industrial cleaning.
  • Dry cleaning applications are being phased out, with complete prohibition by December 19, 2034.
  • Commercial and consumer uses will be banned after June 7, 2027.
  • Employers must implement workplace protections, including limiting airborne exposure to 0.14 ppm (8-hour TWA).

Trichloroethylene (TCE)

  • TCE is widely used in degreasing, adhesives, and industrial manufacturing.
  • Most uses will be prohibited by September 15, 2025.
  • Industrial and commercial use bans begin June 16, 2025.
  • Employers continuing limited-use applications must comply with WCPP and maintain airborne exposure limits of 0.2 ppm (8-hour TWA).

How This Impacts Businesses

The impending regulations affect manufacturers, distributors, and businesses that rely on these solvents to find alternatives. Companies that use these chemicals from the rules must implement strict workplace controls, invest in protective equipment, and comply with exposure monitoring.

What is Next?

New EPA regulations will be implemented over the next few years. Businesses need to start transitioning to safer alternatives. They will encounter penalties, supply chain disruptions, and increased health liabilities if they don’t follow these established practices.

If you’re looking for alternative cleaning solvents that meet the new regulatory standards, now is the time to explore next-generation solutions prioritizing safety and performance.

Stay ahead of the curve—start planning for these changes today!

To learn more, visit us at https://www.alliancemfginc.com/