1-Chloro-1,1-difluoroethane (HCFC-142b)

Releases during manufacture and use of refrigerants and foams; leaks from older equipment and products; emissions from facilities. Some feedstock uses continue under controls [1].

Breathing vapors at work or near industrial sites; leaks during equipment service; accidental skin/eye contact with the very cold liquid [2][3].

Short-term exposure can cause dizziness, headache, and drowsiness; very high levels may trigger dangerous heart rhythm problems or unconsciousness; liquid can cause frostbite. It also depletes ozone and contributes to climate change [1][2][3].

Workers in refrigerant, foam, or chemical manufacturing/servicing; people in poorly ventilated spaces; those with heart conditions may be more sensitive [2][3].

Replace or retrofit older HCFC-based equipment; promptly fix leaks and ventilate; recover refrigerant for recycling; follow local disposal rules; at work, use monitoring, training, and proper PPE [1][2].