Request for Assistance: Preventing Death from Excessive Exposure to Chlorofluorocarbon 113(CFC-113)

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) requests assistance in reducing the risk of death from cardiac arrhythmia and asphyxiation in workers exposed to 1,1,2-trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane (more commonly known as CFC-113 or by a trade name such as Freon 113^®, Genetron 113^®, Halocarbon 113^®, or Refrigerant 113^®) or to other chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). A number of workers have died recently as a result of exposure to CFC-113 in confined spaces or in areas with insufficient ventilation. These workers were apparently unaware that CFC-113 might generate vapor concentrations sufficient to cause death by cardiac arrhythmia or asphyxiation. NIOSH requests that these recommendations be brought to the attention of workers, supervisors, managers, and owners by the editors of appropriate trade journals, by the members of health and safety organizations, and by all those responsible for the safety and health of workers who use CFC-113 or other CFCs.

A copy of this communication product is available in CDC Stacks.