Recommendation from Scientific Committee for Occupational Exposure Limits for Methyl formate

Methyl formate is absorbed through the lungs (Schrenk et al., 1936). The death of a 19-month-old child after occlusive application of a methyl formate insecticide on the scalp for 20 min indicates a good penetration of methyl formate through the skin (Gettler, 1940). Acute intoxications were also reported in sick children after application of alcohol-soaked (methanol or ethanol) cloth on the abdominal area (Giménez et al. 1968).