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