1,2-Dichloro-1,1-difluoroethane (HCFC-132b)

Manufacture and use of HCFCs; leaks or venting from cooling/foam equipment; releases during servicing, transport, or waste handling [1][2][3].

Mainly by breathing air near a leak or during equipment service at work or home; skin/eye contact with the cold liquid; enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces increase exposure [2].

High, short-term exposure can cause dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and irritation; very high levels can displace oxygen and lead to suffocation; environmentally, it depletes ozone [2][1].

HVAC and foam-manufacturing workers and technicians; anyone in confined/poorly ventilated areas during a release; people near facilities that handle HCFCs [1][2].

Maintain equipment and fix leaks promptly; use certified technicians; ensure good ventilation and leak detection; follow labels/SDS; employers should use engineering controls, training, and PPE [1][2].