Methyl diethanolamine (C5H13ON) is an important chemical in the manufacturing industry, but it can also pose risks to workers’ health. This article will analyze in detail the effects of Methyl diethanolamine on health when working in factories, and provide necessary preventive measures. Let’s find out more to protect your own health and that of your colleagues!
1. What is Methyl diethanolamine?
Methyl diethanolamine (C5H13ON) is a chemical compound belonging to the amine group, with the molecular formula C5H13ON. This chemical is known as a clear, colorless or pale yellow liquid, and has a characteristic odor.
Methyl diethanolamine is commonly used in industries such as plastics manufacturing, textiles, and wastewater treatment. In the plastics industry, it plays an important role as a hardener and a property modifier for products. In other fields, Methyl diethanolamine may be used to produce other organic compounds or as an intermediate in chemical synthesis processes.
With the chemical formula C5H13ON, Methyl diethanolamine possesses important functional groups, including an amine group and a hydroxyl group. These functional groups help it interact with other compounds and participate in necessary chemical reactions during the production process. However, the presence of Methyl diethanolamine in the workplace requires necessary protective and preventive measures, as it can cause negative impacts on workers’ health if not properly controlled.
| No. | Chemical name in Vietnamese | Chemical name in English | HS Code | CAS Number | Chemical formula |
| 1. | Methyl diethanol amin | Methyl diethanolamine | 29221990 | 105-59-9 | C5H13ON |
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2. Where does Methyl diethanolamine originate from in the production process?
Methyl diethanolamine (MDEA) often appears in many industries and originates from production processes related to chemicals and plastics. In the plastics industry, MDEA is widely used as a hardener in epoxy resin systems. When these plastics are processed and manufactured, MDEA may be created or added to products to improve the mechanical properties and durability of the plastic.
During the production process, MDEA can also arise from chemical reactions related to the synthesis of other compounds. For example, during the synthesis of polyurethanes or other organic compounds, MDEA may be used as an intermediate or a regulating agent.
In addition, MDEA can also appear in wastewater treatment and chemical product cleaning processes. In these processes, MDEA may be used to remove impurities or adjust the properties of wastewater before it is treated or discharged into the environment.

3. Industries that use Methyl diethanolamine in production
Methyl diethanolamine (MDEA) is a chemical widely used in many different industries and production fields thanks to its special properties and roles. One of the main industries using MDEA is the plastics industry, especially in the production of epoxy resins. MDEA plays an important role as a hardener, helping to improve the durability and mechanical properties of the plastic. This makes it an indispensable component in high-quality plastic products, from electronic components to building materials.
The textile industry is also a field that uses MDEA, especially in the production of synthetic fibers and fabrics. In this process, MDEA is used as a regulator and property enhancer for fibers, helping to improve the water resistance and durability of the final product.
In addition, MDEA is also applied in the wastewater treatment and chemical industries. In wastewater treatment systems, MDEA can be used to remove impurities or adjust the properties of water, helping to improve treatment efficiency and protect the environment. It is also used in chemical synthesis processes, where MDEA acts as an intermediate in the production of other organic compounds.
4. How does Methyl diethanolamine affect workers?
Methyl diethanolamine (MDEA) can cause many effects on workers’ health when exposed for long periods or at high levels. Although widely used in production, MDEA needs to be strictly managed and controlled to avoid negative health impacts.
One of the main effects of MDEA is irritation to the skin and eyes. Workers in direct contact with MDEA may experience symptoms such as itching, skin redness, or dermatitis. If it comes into contact with the eyes, MDEA can cause a burning sensation, red eyes, or even serious damage if not treated promptly.
In addition, inhaling MDEA vapor in the air can also cause respiratory problems. Common symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, and a sore throat. For those exposed continuously or at high levels, the risk of developing chronic respiratory problems may increase. MDEA can cause allergic reactions or pneumonia if not properly protected.
Long-term exposure to MDEA can lead to more serious health problems such as liver or kidney damage. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to amine compounds can increase the risk of liver or kidney diseases, although this depends on the level and duration of exposure.
To minimize these negative impacts, companies need to implement preventive measures such as providing personal protective equipment, establishing effective ventilation systems, and implementing training programs for workers on how to handle and contact MDEA safely. At the same time, periodic health checks for workers are also very important to detect health problems related to this chemical early.
5. Permissible safe concentration of Methyl diethanolamine for human exposure
The permissible safe concentration of Methyl diethanolamine (MDEA) for human exposure is a crucial factor in protecting workers’ health and ensuring a safe work environment. Standards for safe concentrations of MDEA are regulated by health and occupational safety organizations and agencies.
According to the regulations of the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the maximum permissible concentration of MDEA in the air is 10 ppm (parts per million) over a continuous 8-hour work period. This means that, during an 8-hour work shift, the concentration of MDEA in the air must not exceed 10 ppm to ensure worker safety.
In addition, the World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends that MDEA concentrations should not exceed 5 ppm in the workplace, to minimize the risk of adverse health effects. These standards are established based on studies of the potential for skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory problems when exposed to MDEA at high concentrations.
To ensure compliance with these standards, companies should regularly check MDEA concentrations in the air in work areas where this chemical is used. Using air quality measuring devices and maintaining an effective ventilation system is very important to control MDEA concentrations. Furthermore, training workers on preventive measures and the use of personal protective equipment also contributes to health protection.
In summary, adhering to regulations on safe MDEA concentrations is necessary to protect workers’ health and maintain a safe work environment. Ensuring MDEA concentrations do not exceed regulated limits and implementing effective control measures will help minimize risks and protect workers’ health.
At a basic level, if working in an industrial environment, adhering to safety standards and limiting exposure to Methyl diethanolamine is important. Organizations like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States provide guidelines and safety principles to protect workers from the negative impacts of chemical substances.
6. Measures to minimize the effects of Methyl diethanolamine on workers’ health
To minimize the effects of Methyl diethanolamine (MDEA) on workers’ health, a series of preventive and control measures must be implemented in the work environment. These measures include improving the ventilation system, using personal protective equipment, and implementing safe chemical management procedures.
First, establishing an effective ventilation system in the work area is very important. A good ventilation system will help reduce the concentration of MDEA in the air, thereby limiting the risk of high exposure for workers. Devices such as exhaust fans, general ventilation systems, and exhaust gas treatment systems need to be installed and maintained periodically to ensure operational efficiency.
Besides, using personal protective equipment (PPE) is an important measure to protect workers’ health. Protective equipment such as gloves, masks, safety goggles, and protective clothing must be fully provided and used correctly. Gloves and protective clothing help protect the skin from direct contact with MDEA, while masks help minimize inhalation of the chemical’s vapor.
Chemical management and storage also play an important role in minimizing risks. Methyl diethanolamine should be stored in well-ventilated areas, away from the main work area, and in sealed containers to prevent its release into the environment. Chemical management procedures must be carried out according to standards, including checking and maintaining chemical storage and transportation equipment.
Training workers on safety measures and chemical handling procedures is also an essential part. Workers need to be equipped with knowledge about the risks associated with MDEA and the necessary preventive measures. Organizing periodic training courses and health checks for workers will help raise awareness and the ability to respond to emergency situations.
Occupational safety training: Workers need to be trained and educated about the risks and safety measures when working with this type of chemical. This training should be provided periodically and regularly to ensure understanding and proper compliance with safety rules.
Periodically organize workplace environment monitoring in factories and enterprises, collect and analyze harmful factors for workers, thereby adjusting to reduce hazard levels to prevent occupational diseases for them.
7. National Workplace Environment Monitoring Center
Workplace environment monitoring center of Nam Viet is a professional unit for monitoring and measuring the quality of the working environment across all provinces in Vietnam. With a team of monitoring specialists with rich experience, the center uses modern measuring equipment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
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In addition to providing monitoring services, the center also supports customers in planning, handling, and tracking workplace environment issues. With the motto “customer is the center”, the center focuses on customer satisfaction, meeting all customer needs, and committing to providing the best solutions for businesses.
With investment in techniques, technology, and human resources, Nam Viet’s monitoring center has become one of the reputable units in the field of workplace environment monitoring in Ho Chi Minh City with the following objectives:
- We always value our brand reputation and the quality of our products and services.
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- Along with a team of experienced and specialized Masters and Engineers with a desire to protect the environment and benefit businesses.

- Coming to the Nam Viet Environmental Monitoring team, your company will receive professional service from experts in the monitoring field. At the same time, you will get the best cost incentives.
8. Workplace Environment Monitoring Quotation
To help businesses conduct workplace environment monitoring professionally and effectively, Nam Viet provides customers with a price list for workplace environment monitoring services that is high-quality and reasonably priced.
- Our monitoring quotation provides detailed information on the prices of the monitoring services we offer. This includes costs related to travel, measurement, analysis, and reporting of results. Customers can be completely assured of the accuracy and reliability of the monitoring result reports we provide.
- We are committed to always offering the most competitive and reasonable prices on the market, and we are also always ready to provide consultation and answer any questions about monitoring services quickly and professionally.
- With Nam Viet’s monitoring quotation, customers can easily choose service packages that suit their needs. We are committed to bringing customers the highest satisfaction with professional service quality.

