Newly Banned Chemical Can Be Found In Colorado Garages

Recently, there’s been a lot of talk about chemicals that have affected our health, in many cases unknowingly. 

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In Colorado, there’s been talks about how some ski waxes have dangerous forever chemicals in them that can cause a slew of different diseases and complications. 

On the other hand, 46.1% of Colorado homes leave their residents exposed to the carcinogenic gas, radon, which has similar effects on human health. 

Just a few days ago, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) signed a ban on a chemical that turns out to be yet another danger to the health of Coloradans. 

Methylene Chloride, a Chemical Found in Paint Strippers and Chemical Refinishers, Found to be Carcinogenic

The EPA found that the chemical, methylene chloride, has been found to cause multiple different kinds of cancer, including: liver, lung, breast, brain, blood, and central nervous system cancer. Other risks include neurotoxicity, general harm to the liver, and death. 

They also have connected 88 deaths since 1980 with the chemical, and has seemingly caused many more illnesses as well.

They noted that even with proper safety equipment, people exposed can still be in danger.

However, they did note that the chemical can still be used in certain circumstances, but those are extremely specific and are tied to national security and the economy.

If you have done any projects that include paint strippers or bathtub refinishing using chemicals, you may have been in danger of being exposed to methylene chloride. 

The chemical has commonly been used in brush cleaners, adhesives, and sealants. 

The EPA has warned that the use of this chemical is wide, so make any products you have used don’t contain it.