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\ t r -4- Ena_lneerina Controls: Other control methods Include changing work habits or the work process, and installing ventilation. Containers and vats should be thoroughly covered as often as possible to prevent evaporation. Some work processes can be isolated, enclosed, or automated to reduce exposures. The most common type of engineering control Is ventilation. Local exhaust ventilation systems are the most effective type of ventilation control . These systems "capture" or draw contaminated air from its source before It spreads into the general room air and your breathing zone. Personal Protective Equipment: When engineering controls are not possible or do not sufficiently reduce exposures, a respirator approved by OSHA or MSHA must be worn. A respiratory protection program should be developed in consultation with an industrial hygienist or other knowledgeable person, to ensure that the equipment Is appropriate and is used correctly. If respiratory equipment is necessary, a supplied-air respirator or a self- contained breathing apparatus must be used; methylene chloride's warning properties are so poor that the cartridge or "canister" of an air-purifying respirator could wear out and become ineffective without your noticing it. If direct contact with methylene chloride Is necessary, or splashes are likely to occur, other protective equipment such as gloves and faceshlelds should be worn. Polyvinyl alcohol, yiton,` and polyurethane are reported to be among the materials most resistant to methylene chloride. Note Concerning_ Methylene Chloride and High Temperatures: Do not use methylene chloride around open flames or very hot metal, including welding operations. Methylene chloride ( like most solvents containing chlorine) can decompose Into hazardous compounds including phosgene and hydrochloric acid. RESOURCES This Hazard Alert Is available from HESIS in Spanish. For more information about solvents, write to HESIS for a free copy of A Guide to Industrial Solvents. *For Information about health effects of this or other workplace chemicals: HESIS (Hazard Evaluation System and Information Service) Department of Health Services/Department of Industrial Relations 2151 Berkeley Way, Room 504 Berkeley, CA 94704 (415) 540-3014 (call collect). *For free assistance to employers on evaluating and improving workplace health and safety: The Cal/OSHA Consultation Service. See your local phonebook under California, State of, Industrial Relations -- or call 800/652-1476. *For assistance to employees concerning a health or safety law, or to file a complaint: "Cal/OSHA" (California Division of Occupational Safety and Health). See your local phone book under California, State of, Industrial Relations.