Where It Comes From
Produced to make PTFE (Teflon) and other fluoropolymers; releases can occur during manufacturing, storage, or transport incidents [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Mainly by breathing workplace air where TFE is made or used; the public may be exposed near facilities or during spills. You may not notice it by smell [1][3].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can cause dizziness, headache, throat/lung irritation, and serious lung injury at high levels. Animal studies show tumors; IARC classifies TFE as probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A) [1][2][3].
Who Is at Risk
Fluoropolymer production and maintenance workers, transport workers, contractors at these sites, nearby communities during incidents, and emergency responders [1][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
At work, use closed systems, ventilation, leak detection, and required PPE/respirators. In communities, follow local air alerts and incident guidance (shelter-in-place/evacuate) and report suspected releases [1][3].
References
- [1]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Tetrafluoroethylene (CAS 116-14-3).
- [2]IARC. IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans: Tetrafluoroethylene (Group 2A).
- [3]U.S. EPA. Tetrafluoroethylene: IRIS/Hazard Summary and Air Toxics information.