Where It Comes From
Made and used in chemical manufacturing and labs; can evaporate to air during use and leak at industrial or waste sites. [1]
How You Are Exposed
Breathing indoor or outdoor air near use or spills; drinking contaminated well or tap water; skin contact at work. [1]
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can irritate eyes, skin, and lungs and cause headache, dizziness, or nausea; very high levels can cause unconsciousness. Repeated exposure harmed liver and kidneys in animal studies. Animal cancer findings exist; human evidence is inadequate, and IARC deems it not classifiable for humans. [1][2][3]
Who Is at Risk
Chemical and lab workers; people using it in poorly ventilated spaces; residents near industrial sites or contaminated wells. [1]
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use ventilation and protective gear at work; store and handle solvents carefully; check local water reports and consider activated carbon filtration certified for VOCs; avoid using solvents in closed spaces. [1]
References
- [1]U.S. EPA IRIS. Dibromomethane (CASRN 74-95-3).
- [2]IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans. Dibromomethane.
- [3]NTP. Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Dibromomethane (CAS 74-95-3) in Rats and Mice.