Where It Comes From
Manufactured solvent/coalescent in architectural and industrial coatings, printing inks, and cleaning products [1].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing fumes during and after painting or cleaning, skin contact while using products, and workplace exposure during mixing, brushing, or spraying [2][3].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation and central nervous system symptoms; some glycol ethers have shown blood and reproductive effects at high exposures, so limiting exposure is prudent [2].
Who Is at Risk
Painters, floor refinishers, printing/coatings and cleaning workers; people with asthma or chemical sensitivities; pregnant people, infants, and children [2][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose low-VOC or EPA Safer Choice–certified products, ventilate well during/after use, avoid spraying, wear chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection, keep containers closed, and store away from living areas [3][4].
References
- [1]EPA CompTox Chemicals Dashboard: 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethyl acetate (CASRN 124-17-4). https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard
- [2]CDC/NIOSH. Glycol Ethers – Workplace Safety & Health Topics. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/glycolethers/
- [3]EPA. Volatile Organic Compounds’ Impact on Indoor Air Quality. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality
- [4]EPA Safer Choice – Find Safer Products. https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice/find-safer-products