Solvents are among the most widespread toxic substances found in workplaces. While substitution with less harmful products or procedures can result in the elimination of toxic or flammable solvents, factors related to health and safety, environmental protection, cost and technical feasibility have to be taken into account. This research project focussed on a substitution process carried out in seven companies operating in different fields. It took an in-depth look at the problem of solvent exposure and put forth proposals for the protection of workers' health. Since substitution was possible in the majority of cases, these experiments enabled researchers to establish a nine-step approach to substitution which is detailed in this report. The paper also includes recommendations for providing stakeholders in the occupational health and safety network with better tools to carry out solvent substitution projects. Endorsed by the members of an advisory committee, the researchers' recommended approach is a model that can be applied in most industries in which workers are overexposed to solvents.
