Rank: New forum user 
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I wondered whether any IOSH members are currently using dichloromethane (or methylene chloride) and aware of discussions to ban this substance from the workplace? Does anyone have confirmed timings for the withdrawal of the substance?
Alternatively, have any IOSH members found a suitable replacement for dichloromethane (or methylene chloride) in the workplace?
You will most probably guess from my enquiry that we use this substance (with a Permit issued under the 'Solvent Emissions Directive') and are having problems sourcing a suitable alternative. I would like to make contact with a similar user!
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Rank: Forum user
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We use DCM, but not in respect of an SED process. Which legislation are you thinking will ban the use of DCM?
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Rank: Forum user
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Does your query relate to a proposal first mention in 2008 by the EU to ban DCM in paint strippers? (Again not a process that is relevant to my activities)
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Rank: New forum user
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A European reference document was brought to my attention, it's entitled "Decision No 455/2009/EC, amending Council Directive 76/769/EEC as regards restrictions on the marketing and use of dichloromethane" and states in Annex 1 (1) C that dichloromethane is not to be used by professionals after 6 June 2012.
Although this document seems specific to DCM contained in paint strippers it has raised questions about our continued use/availability of supply, hence the enquiry.
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Rank: Forum user
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Thanks - as I suspected and you appear to have confirmed the ban will relate to DCM above a defined concentration in paint strippers.
As DCM is used in a variety of other applications I suspect that finding a reliable supply should not be an insurmountable issue, but I am certainly get our purchasing team to check with our supplier.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Also note the HSE are fighting the implementation of this in the UK anyway, so the ban may not even take effect.
Again this is for paint strippers only.
Des
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Rank: Super forum user
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The ban on DCM only applies to its use in paint strippers see http://www.europarl.euro...ference=20090113IPR46095We use lots of it in our labs as a solvent for extracting certain substances from test materials. DCM is, compared to some of the things we use, not particularly nasty but the EU seems to think that is too dangerous for it to be used by painters and decorators. No risk assessment-there just a blanket ban.
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