Where It Comes From
Made for industrial uses; released from factories, degreasing operations, spills, and landfills. It can also form when other chlorinated solvents (like TCE/PCE) break down in the environment [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing air near industrial sites or waste areas, drinking contaminated well water, or workplace contact during manufacturing or cleaning with solvents [1][2].
Why It Matters
Short-term high exposure can cause dizziness, headache, nausea, and sleepiness; very high levels can lead to unconsciousness. Repeated high exposure may affect the liver. Current evidence does not show clear cancer risk in humans [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Industrial and degreasing workers; people using private wells near contaminated sites; pregnant people and children may be more sensitive [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Test private well water; use certified filters that remove volatile organic compounds; ventilate when using solvent products; follow workplace safety (PPE, ventilation); check local contamination advisories [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile and ToxGuide for 1,2-Dichloroethene (cis- and trans-). Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
- [2]EPA. Technical Fact Sheet – 1,2-Dichloroethene (1,2-DCE); and EPA drinking water information for cis/trans-1,2-dichloroethylene. Environmental Protection Agency.