U.S. bans most uses of paint-stripping solvent after dozens of deaths

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Edited By Alain Sherter Updated on: April 30, 2024 / 5:03 PM EDT / CBS News EPA bans consumer use of methylene chloride Family of man who died after methylene chloride exposure call EPA decision "step in the right direction" 01:41 The Environmental Protection Agency is banning most uses of a toxic chemical often used to refinish furniture and bathtubs that has been linked to dozens of deaths since 1980.
The EPA is restricting use of methylene chloride roughly six years after a CBS News investigation prompted three major retailers — Home Depot, Lowe's and Sherwin-Williams — to agree to pull products with the chemical off their shelves by the end of 2018.
"EPA's final action brings an end to unsafe methylene chloride practices and implements the strongest worker protections possible for the few remaining industrial uses, ensuring no one in this country is put in harm's way by this dangerous chemical."
The sweeping restrictions come a year after the EPA proposed the ban, citing the known and potentially deadly health risks of methylene chloride, which is also used to make pharmaceuticals and refrigerants.