Where It Comes From
Manufacturing of acrylic resins, coatings, textiles, paper, and adhesives; releases to air during industrial use and from freshly applied products as they cure [2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing workplace or nearby outdoor air; indoor air during/after using adhesives, paints, or coatings; direct skin or eye contact with liquid; less often, contaminated water after spills [1][2][3].
Why It Matters
Causes burning of eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, headache; can be absorbed through skin and lead to dermatitis; high levels can harm the lungs. EPA has not classified its cancer potential due to limited data [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Workers handling acrylate-based resins, coatings, inks, or adhesives; painters and printers; people with asthma or skin allergies; communities near manufacturing sites [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use in well-ventilated areas; let products cure before close contact; avoid skin contact—use chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection; keep containers sealed; at work, follow exposure limits and use appropriate respirators if needed [1][3].
References
- [1]CDC/NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Methyl Acrylate.
- [2]U.S. EPA, Hazard Summary: Methyl Acrylate.
- [3]CDC/NIOSH Emergency Response Safety and Health Database (ERSH-DB): Methyl Acrylate.