Carbon tetrachloride is one of the most potent hepatotoxins (toxic to the liver) so much so that it is widely used in scientific research to evaluate hepatoprotectants. [10][11] Exposure to high concentrations of carbon tetrachloride (including vapours) can affect the central nervous system and degrade the liver[11] and kidneys[12], and prolonged exposure may result in coma or death. [13] Long-term exposure to carbon tetrachloride can cause damage to the liver[14][15] and kidneys, and possibly cancer. [16] See Safety Data Sheet. [17]

In 2012, France assessed the effects of carbon tetrachloride on human health and the environment under REACH in the context of substance assessment. [18]

In 2008, a study of common cleaning products found "very high" concentrations of carbon tetrachloride (up to 101 mg/m3) due to manufacturers mixing surfactants or soaps with sodium hypochlorite (a bleaching agent). [19]

Carbon tetrachloride is also an ozone depleting and greenhouse gas. [21] However, since 1992[22] its atmospheric concentration has been decreasing for the reasons mentioned above (see the atmospheric concentration map in the gallery). The lifetime of CCl4 in the atmosphere is 85 years. [twenty three]

Decompose or burn at high temperature in the air, producing toxic phosgene.