Almost every workplace--and home--contains solvents. They're among the most useful of substances. But, if not used carefully, some solvents also are very hazardous.

Solvents, which are usually liquids, are used to dissolve other materials. Among their most common applications are vapor degreasing, corrosion removal and heavy cleaning. They're a mainstay of many operations.

You have undoubtedly used solvents without being aware that's what they were. Some of the many solvents you might have worked with include alcohol, turpentine, acetone, formaldehyde, toluene, methylene chloride and trichloroethylene. Each has different uses and hazards.

Health problems are a particular concern when you work with solvents. Eye contact can cause irritation, burning or conjunctivitis (pink eye). It also could damage the eye or even lead to blindness. Skin contact also poses problems, including potential rashes, skin burns or dry scaly skin.

Inhalation and swallowing are usually the biggest concerns with solvents. Many solvents evaporate quickly and have no color or noticeable smell. You could inhale solvent vapors without even realizing it and if inhaled, they can move quickly into the bloodstream. Once inhaled, they can cause headaches and dizziness, nausea and vomiting, fatigue and drowsiness, a sore throat and respiratory irritation, tremors and even blurred vision. Inhaling some solvents, such as trichloroethylene, also can make you feel as if you're drunk, with the same loss of mental focus and physical coordination.

Prolonged or heavy exposure to some solvents can even be fife threatening. Among the serious effects are permanent damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system. Some solvents may cause cancer. Serious overexposure may, in the worst cases, cause unconsciousness or even death.

With all these potential health problems, plus the risks of fire, explosion and pollution from careless waste disposal, it's obviously essential to take no chances when working with solvents.

OSHA REGULATIONS

Solvents are regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) because they are dangerous chemicals. As you know, that regulation requires companies to inform employees about the hazards of the substances they encounter on the job, including solvents. You also have to receive training on how to protect yourself from these hazards by following material safety data sheet (MSDS) precautions and using company-provided equipment and protective clothing.

You determine a solvent's hazards the same way you learn about the hazards of any substance, by checking its label and MSDS. You have to pay particular attention to health hazards and to protective equipment and procedures. The MSDS also will alert you to whether, and under what conditions, the solvent may burn or explode. Never work with a hazardous substance until you study its label and MSDS. While you may want to zero in on areas of particular concern, such as solvent inhalation hazards, it's important to check out everything on the label and MSDS before starting any task.

Of course, if there is no label or if the label is incomplete, stop right there. Even if you're sure you know what's in the container, using an unlabeled substance is an unacceptable risk. Report the problem immediately. If the solvent has a complete label and MSDS, then you can prepare yourself to work safely before you start the job.

EPA REGULATIONS

The Clean Air Act requires the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate emissions of toxic air pollutants from a published list of industrial sources referred to as "source categories." As required under the Act, EPA has developed a list of source categories that must meet control technology requirements for these toxic air pollutants. The Agency is required to develop regulations (also known as rules or standards) for all industries that emit one or more of the pollutants in significant quantities. EPA has developed implementation tools, such as checklists and brochures, to help comply with the standards. The Web site www.epa.gov/ttn/atw/degrea/halopg.html proposes the rules that govern halogenated cleaning solvents (degreasing organic cleaners).

Solvents used in equipment cleaning make up a big part of the hazardous wastes from repair shops. You can help protect the environment, your workers and save money by reducing the amount of solvent you use, by reusing or recycling your solvent and by using the least hazardous solvent that will do the job.

A SAFE BET ON SOLVENTS

Many solvents contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are chemicals that get into the air and can harm people and the environment. The MSDS will have information on the amount of VOCs in the products you buy. Always try to use material with the lowest percentage of VOCs possible.

Many waste solvents are hazardous wastes. Some used solvents and still bottoms are on a list of hazardous wastes called the F list. Some unused solvents are on the U list. Common listed hazardous waste solvents include trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene (perc), methylene chloride, xylene, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, toluene and others.