Where It Comes From
Industrial solvent found in solvent-based paints, coatings, printing inks, adhesives, and semiconductor/photoresist cleaners [1].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing vapors during use; skin contact from spills or mists; off-gassing indoors after painting; take-home exposure on contaminated work clothes [1][3].
Why It Matters
Linked to reduced fertility and effects on sperm, and to developmental toxicity; can affect blood (anemia), cause headaches/dizziness, and irritate eyes/skin [1][2][3].
Who Is at Risk
Painters, printers, auto-body and aerospace workers, semiconductor/electronics workers; people who are pregnant or trying to conceive; anyone working in small or poorly ventilated spaces [1][2][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose water-based or glycol-ether-free products; ventilate well; avoid skin contact; wear chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection; wash up and change out of work clothes; employers should substitute safer solvents and use local exhaust [1][3].