The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently announced a new proposed rule that would limit the use of n-methylpyrrolidone (NMP), a chemical used for a number of industrial and commercial purposes. This chemical has been associated with a number of negative health effects, some of which are potentially fatal. The new rule is intended to protect both industrial workers who may be exposed to the chemical in the workplace, as well as consumers who might be exposed to it due to accidental contamination.
What is NMP?
N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) is a chemical solvent, which is colorless in its pure form, and which is commonly used in a number of industrial and commercial contexts, particularly as a paint stripper. It is also used in the manufacturing of a number of different products, including petrochemical products, batteries, electronics, adhesives, paints, and cleaners. It is considered highly useful due to its relative lack of volatility and due to its ability to dissolve a wide variety of materials, including certain materials that are otherwise resistant to dissolution.
What Are the Risks of NMP Exposure?
NMP is associated with a variety of negative health impacts, both in the short and long term. Upon immediate exposure, it can result in light-headedness, irregular breathing, shortness of breath, skin irritation or pain (if it makes contact with exposed skin), or a burning sensation in the throat or chest (if ingested). In the long term, it has been known to cause infertility, miscarriages, and damage to the kidneys, liver, immune system, and nervous system.
What Would the New Regulation Do?
The new regulation would place limits on how NMP could be used, banning its use in certain products while introducing new safety measures for how it should be handled in cases where it is not prohibited. It would also place limits on the concentrations of NMP allowed in products intended for commercial or consumer use. This would limit the chances of people being exposed to the chemical, and limit the potential health risks to both industrial workers and the general public.
What Should You Do?
If you have been exposed to NMP or other similarly dangerous chemicals and suffered health problems as a result, you should speak to a doctor immediately. You should also speak to a lawyer with experience handling environmental contamination and other personal injury claims. They can help you review your potential legal options, and get you just compensation for the harm you have suffered.
Williams Cedar is a law firm dedicated to helping clients with personal injury, environmental law, and civil rights cases. We specialize in assisting clients who have been injured due to exposure to environmental toxins, including veterans and their loved ones. If you need legal assistance due to toxic exposure or other related matters, please give us a call at our New Jersey and Pennsylvania offices at (215) 557-0099, or visit our contact page.