Paraffin Wax Safety and hazards:

Paraffin wax is a manmade wax alternative to beeswax, soy wax and kerosene. Paraffin wax
is used to make candles and in the manufacturing process of a variety of things including
space shuttles, makeup and medical ointments. Those who handle paraffin wax, be they
manufacturers or hobby users, should consider the safety of paraffin wax.

Fumes:
Paraffin wax fumes may have some carcinogenic properties, according to a study conducted
by the U.S. Department of Labors Occupational Safety and Health Administration. However,
most paraffin wax used in candles does not contain enough carcinogenic substances to be
hazardous. Though they will likely not cause long-term damage, fumes can cause irritation in
the lungs, nose, throat and eyes.
Skin contact:
Melted paraffin wax can cause thermal burns, according to Newport Glass. If paraffin wax
has burned your skin, wash the burn with clear cool water and call a doctor as soon as
possible. Do not use very cold water as it can cause nerve damage. Do not try to remove the
wax on second- or third-degree burns as you may remove the skin with it. If it has not caused
your skin to burn, paraffin wax is not a primary irritant and it will only cause irritation for
those with sensitive skin.
Ingestion:
Paraffin wax is usually not toxic if it is ingested. Paraffin wax is generally ingested by
accident, by a child or on the top of birthday cakes that have had candles in them. In most
cases it is sufficient to simply call your doctor to confirm that nothing needs to be done to
counteract the ingested paraffin.
Eye contact:
If paraffin gets in your eye, flush your eye with clear water and contact a doctor. Paraffin that
has not melted does not normally damage the eye and will only cause a mild irritation. If
melted and hot paraffin gets in your eye, immediately contact an emergency room.
Protective Gear:
If you are working with paraffin wax, there are several safety precautions to consider. If you
are heating paraffin, there is the possibility that it could boil heavily. Wear safety glasses to
protect your eyes from the melted paraffin and fumes. Wear clothes that protect your skin
from melted wax.

Reference:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Paraffin Wax Fumes
Newport Glass: Paraffin Wax Material Safety
Cartwright: Research, Teaching, Safety: Paraffin Wax
Britannica: Paraffin Wax

Dichloromethane (Methylene Chloride) Hazards & Safety Information:

Dichloromethane (also commonly known as Methylene Chloride, Methylene Dichloride, Diclo and DCM) is a clear, slightly sweet smelling organic liquid chemical solvent which can be
pose significant workplace safety risks if strict handling instructions are not followed.
Common Uses for Dichloromethane
Dichloromethane is used across a variety of industries, and is especially useful in chemical
processes due to its ability to dissolve several organic compounds.
Some of the many ways dichloromethane is used are:

As an active ingredient in organic-based paint strippers

In the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and other medicines

aerosols for insecticides and spray paint

the manufacturing techniques for creating decaffeinated coffee beans and tea leaves

To prepare flavorings in the food and beverage industries

Understanding the Potential Hazards of Dichloromethane

Classified as a neurotoxin, dichloromethane has been proven to cause damage to the brain and
central nervous system (CNS). The Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) has classified it
as a probable human carcinogen since high levels of exposure to the chemical has been
proven to cause liver and lung cancer in animals.
The following health risks are associated with exposure to dichloromethane:
Inhalation - can cause coughing, wheezing and/or shortness of breath. Higher levels of
dichloromethane inhalation can lead to headache, mental confusion, nausea, vomiting,
dizziness and fatigue.
Skin Exposure - Redness and irritation may occur if skin comes in contact with liquid
dichloromethane and, if it remains on the skin for an extended period of time, it may lead to
skin burns.
Eye Exposure - Contact with eyes can cause severe irritation and possibly chemical burns to
the eyes.

Safety Precautions When Handling Dichloromethane

When handling dichloromethane in the workplace, use the following safety precautions:

Wear protective clothing. Footwear should cover the entire foot.

Always wear PPE such as chemical splash goggles and safety gloves.

Work in a well-ventilated area (preferably in an environment with a fume extraction

system).

What to Do When Exposed to Dichloromethane

Here are the safety steps that need to be taken if exposure you or someone else is exposed to
dichloromethane occurs:
Eye Contact
Immediately flush eyes with large amounts of water for at least 30 minutes. If applicable,
remove contact lenses when flushing. Seek medical attention.
Skin Contact
Immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash skin with large amounts of soap and
water. Seek medical attention if any irritation occurs.
Inhalation
Individual should be removed from exposure area and immediately moved to an area with
fresh air. Seek medical attention immediately if any difficulty breathing occurs.
Handling Dichloromethane Spills and Leaks
In the event a dichloromethane chemical spill or leak occurs, several steps need to be taken:
1. Remove personnel from area
2. Secure and control entrance to the area
3. If safe, stop or reduce the spill/leak
4. Absorb liquids in a material such as dry sand earth, or a similar material, and place
into sealed containers
5. Ventilate area of spill or leak
6. Do NOT wash into sink or sewer

Safe Storage of Dichloromethane

Dichloromethane is highly volatile and should be stored in a cool, dry area in tightly closed,
labeled containers. This chemical needs to be kept away from metals, light and any source of
heat or ignition.
Large containers of this chemical should be placed on low, enclosed shelves to avoid the risk
of accidental spills.
Reference:
https://www.msdsonline.com/blog/health-safety/2015/02/20/dichloromethane-(methylenechloride)-hazards-safety-information