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Dimethylformamide

Overview

CAS No. 68-12-2

Dimethylformamide [HCON(CH)] is a colorless to pale-yellow liquid with a faint odor. It can harm the eyes, skin, lungs, liver, and heart. Workers may be harmed from exposure to dimethylformamide. The level of exposure depends upon the dose, duration, and work being done.

Dimethylformamide is used in many industries. It is used as an industrial solvent and in the manufacture of synthetic fibers, plastics, and other chemicals. Some examples of workers at risk of being exposed to dimethylformamide include the following:

  • Factory workers involved in plastics manufacturing
  • Employees exposed to certain industrial solvents
  • Workers involved in acrylic fiber spinning
  • Employees who work in pharmaceutical production

NIOSH recommends that employers use Hierarchy of Controls to prevent injuries. If you work in an industry that uses dimethylformamide, 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 dimethylformamide. Useful search terms for dimethylformamide include “dimethyl formamide,” “n,n-dimethylformamide,” and “DMF.”

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