11.4 Hazards
The EPA identified several health risks associated with acute and chronic exposure to DCM. Acute exposure to small quantities of DCM can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Exposure to large concentrations of vapor in poorly-ventilated spaces causes nervous system harm, up to and including unconsciousness and death through respiratory paralysis. Chronic inhalation or dermal exposure to DCM can increase the risk of developing cancer in some animal studies. The most common non-cancer adverse effect from chronic exposure is liver damage. However, immune system and reproductive/fetal developmental effects were also noted.
