← All chemicals

CAS 79-22-1

Methyl chlorocarbonate

PesticidesCorrosive

Methyl chlorocarbonate (also called methyl chloroformate) is a highly reactive, toxic industrial chemical used to make medicines, pesticides, and other products [1][2]. It matters because even brief exposures can severely irritate eyes and lungs; higher exposures can damage the lungs and be life‑threatening [1][2].

Where It Comes From

Made and used in chemical manufacturing and labs; can be released during production, transport, or storage incidents [2].

How You Are Exposed

Breathing vapors after a leak or spill; skin or eye contact at work; nearby residents may be exposed during industrial accidents. It is not common in consumer products [1][2].

Why It Matters

Causes intense eye/skin irritation and burns; inhalation can trigger coughing, chest tightness, and delayed fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema); high exposures can be fatal [1][2].

Who Is at Risk

Chemical and lab workers, transport handlers, and emergency responders; people with asthma or other lung/eye conditions [1].

How to Lower Your Exposure

At work, use closed systems, local exhaust, and proper PPE (chemical‑resistant gloves, goggles/face shield, respiratory protection); get training and follow safety procedures. Community members should follow spill alerts, evacuate or shelter‑in‑place as directed, and avoid areas near releases [1][2].

References

  1. [1]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Methyl chloroformate (CAS 79-22-1). https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/
  2. [2]U.S. EPA. Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGLs) for Methyl Chloroformate. https://www.epa.gov/aegl/acute-exposure-guideline-levels-aegl-methyl-chloroformate

Track your exposure to Methyl chlorocarbonate

Pollution Profile maps your lifetime exposure history to EPA-tracked chemicals.

Get early access

We use cookies and analytics to understand how people use Pollution Profile and improve the experience. We never sell your data. Learn more.