Laboratory Safety
New DCM Rule
In April of 2024, the EPA published a new rule prohibiting most uses of dichloromethane, or DCM. Although it is still permitted for use in research, users must comply with strict rules that require additional training, PPE, and exposure monitoring (to be funded by the researcher). It is strongly recommended that research labs consider eliminating or substituting DCM because of the added cost and difficulty of compliance with the new rule. Below are helpful compliance resources.
| Required actions | EPA Deadline | USF Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Survey labs for DCM use | N/A | 11/2024 |
| 2-Perform monitoring for DCM levels | 5/5/2025 | 1/2025-3/2025 |
| 3-Risk assessment and PPE determination | 8/2025 or within three months of results of monitoring | 1/2025-7/2025 |
| 4-Workplace Chemical Protection Plan finalized | 10/30/2025 | 1/2025-10/2025 |