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2-Butoxyethanol

Overview

CAS No. 111-76-2

2-Butoxyethanol (CHOCHCHOH) is a colorless liquid with a mild odor. It can harm the eyes, skin, kidneys, and blood. Workers may be harmed from exposure to 2-butoxyethanol. The level of exposure depends upon the dose, duration, and work being done.

2-Butoxyethanol is used in many industries. It is used as a solvent and is found in paint strippers, thinners, and household cleaners. Some examples of workers at risk of being exposed to 2-butoxyethanol include the following:

  • Workers in silk-screening and printing occupations
  • Workers who make or refinish furniture
  • Workers who use spray paints
  • Employees exposed to certain household cleaners
  • Mechanics and others exposed to hydraulic fluids
  • Factory workers who manufacture certain cosmetics

NIOSH recommends that employers use Hierarchy of Controls to prevent injuries. If you work in an industry that uses 2-butoxyethanol, please read chemical labels and the accompanying Safety Data Sheets for hazard information. Visit NIOSH’s page on Managing Chemical Safety in the Workplace to learn more about controlling chemical workplace exposures.

The following resources provide information about occupational exposure to 2-butoxyethanol. Useful search terms for 2-butoxyethanol include “Butyl Cellosolve®,” “butyl oxitol,” “Dowanol® EB,” “EGBE,” “Ektasolve EB®,” “ethylene glycol monobutyl ether,” and “Jeffersol EB.”

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