Where It Comes From
Made for industrial/commercial use; found in some paints, lacquers, printing inks, metal cleaners, and degreasers; released to indoor/outdoor air during use. [1][2][3]
How You Are Exposed
Breathing vapors during painting, printing, or cleaning; skin contact with wet products; hand‑to‑mouth after use. Workers have the highest exposures; nearby residents may have low levels in air. [1][2][3]
Why It Matters
Short‑term exposure can cause irritation, drowsiness, headache, and nausea. Repeated high exposure may affect the blood and reproductive system, though human data for this specific glycol ether are limited. [1][2][3]
Who Is at Risk
Painters, printers, janitorial/maintenance and auto/metal workers; pregnant people; those with asthma or skin problems. [1][2]
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose low‑VOC or glycol‑ether‑free products; ventilate well; wear nitrile or butyl gloves and eye protection; keep containers closed; avoid small unventilated spaces; wash hands; workplaces should use local exhaust and follow NIOSH guidance. [1][2][3]
References
- [1]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: 2‑Propoxyethanol.
- [2]WHO IPCS/ILO. International Chemical Safety Card (ICSC): 2‑Propoxyethanol.
- [3]U.S. EPA. Glycol Ethers Hazard Summary (TTN Air Toxics).