Modeling methylene chloride exposure-reduction options for home paint-stripper users

Home improvement is a popular activity, but one that can also involve expos ure to hazardous substances. Paint stripping is of particular concern becau se of the high potential exposures to methylene chloride, a solvent that is a potential human carcinogen and neurotoxicant. This article presents a ge neral methodology for evaluating the effectiveness of behavioral interventi ons for reducing these risks. It doubles as a model that assesses exposure patterns, incorporating user lime-activity patterns and risk-mitigation str ategies. The model draws upon recent innovations in indoor air-quality mode ling to estimate exposure through inhalation and dermal pathways to paint-s tripper users. It is designed to use data gathered from home paint-stripper users about room characteristics, amount of stripper used, time-activity p atterns and exposure-reduction strategies (e.g., increased ventilation and, modification in the timing of stripper application, scraping, and breaks). Results indicate that the effectiveness of behavioral interventions depend s strongly on characteristics of the room (e.g., size, number and size of d oors and windows, base air-exchange rates). The greatest simple reduction i n exposure is achieved by using an exhaust fan in addition to opening windo ws and doors. These results can help identify the most important informatio n for product labels and other risk-communication materials.