Where It Comes From
Manufactured solvent/coalescent used in paints and coatings, printing inks, cleaners, and metalworking fluids [2][3].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing vapors during use, skin contact with liquids or mists, and workplace air; small amounts can off‑gas from fresh products. Swallowing is uncommon outside accidents [1][2].
Why It Matters
Short‑term exposure can irritate eyes/skin and cause nausea or headache. Very high exposures to glycol ethers have affected blood, liver, and kidneys; data for this specific chemical are limited [1][3].
Who Is at Risk
Workers in painting, printing, cleaning, and metalworking; people using products in poorly ventilated spaces; children and pregnant people may be more susceptible to solvents [1].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose low‑VOC or glycol‑ether‑free products; use outdoors or with strong ventilation; wear chemical‑resistant gloves and eye protection; avoid sprays/mists; follow Safety Data Sheets and use local exhaust at work [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Ethylene Glycol Ethers. U.S. DHHS/CDC. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp52.pdf
- [2]U.S. EPA CompTox Chemicals Dashboard: Diethylene glycol monohexyl ether (CASRN 112-59-4). https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/chemical/details/DTXSID0020507
- [3]ECHA Registration Dossier: Diethylene glycol monohexyl ether (EC 204-015-5; CAS 112-59-4). https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/14986