A recent find by a diligent CFMEU HSR of a hazardous aerosol spray adhesive has highlighted how important it is to thoroughly read and interpret Safety Data Sheets when new product come into your workplace.
TensorGrip X40 contains between 40%-60% Methylene Chloride, a dangerous chemical known to cause liver, lung, breast, brain, blood and nervous system cancers.
Methylene chloride is used for aerosol degreasing and paint and coating brush cleaners and in commercial applications such as adhesives and sealants.
If you find this product on your worksite, DO NOT USE IT. Use your HSR powers to raise this hazard with your employer and seek that an alternative, safer product be used.
In the US since 1980, at least 88 people have died from acute exposure to methylene chloride, in some cases, while fully trained and equipped with personal protective equipment. While US EPA banned one consumer use of methylene chloride in 2019, it has remained widespread and continues to pose significant and sometimes fatal danger to workers.
US EPA’s final risk management rule requires companies to rapidly phase down manufacturing, processing and distribution of methylene chloride for all consumer uses and most industrial and commercial uses, including its use in home renovations. Consumer use will be phased out within a year, and most industrial and commercial uses will be prohibited within two years.
Read more: CFMEU OHS ALERT - Adhesive spray methylene chloride
US Ban on Methylene Chloride protecting workers from fatal exposure