What: On November 13, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) extended the date for commercial laboratories to comply with portions of its 2024 methylene chloride regulations.
Why: In 2024, the EPA issued a Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) regulation on the use of methylene chloride. The chemical is used in a wide range of industrial, commercial, and consumer applications, including adhesives, sealants, degreasers, cleaners, and automotive products.
EPA’s final rule extends the deadline for non-federal industrial or commercial laboratories to comply with the 2024 methylene chloride rule’s workplace chemical protection program.
EPA’s extension potentially impacts the following entities:
- Testing Laboratories (NAICS code 541380).
- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (NAICS codes 541715 or 541710).
- Hazardous Waste Treatment and Disposal (NAICS code 562211)
- Solid Waste Combustors and Incinerators (NAICS code 562213).
- Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools (NAICS code 611310).
- Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories (NAICS codes 621511 or 621999).
The following compliance dates are changed by EPA’s rule:
- The compliance date for initial monitoring is extended from May 5, 2025, to November 9, 2026.
- The compliance date for establishing regulated areas and ensuring compliance with the existing chemical exposure limit is extended from August 1, 2025, to February 8, 2027.
- The compliance date for ensuring the methods of compliance with EPA’s exposure limits and for developing and implementing an exposure control plan is extended from October 30, 2025, to May 10, 2027.
Action: EPA’s rule is effective on December 15, 2025.
FINAL RULE:
2024 REGULATION:
Methylene Chloride; Regulation Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)
CONTACT:
Nick Goldstein
EMAIL:
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