Bis(chloromethyl) ether is carcinogenic. It is one of 13 chemicals considered an OSHA-regulated occupational carcinogen. Chronic exposure has been linked to in increased risk of lung cancer.
It is classified as an extremely hazardous substance in the United States as defined in Section 302 of the U.S. Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (42 U.S.C. 11002), and is subject to strict reporting requirements by facilities which produce, store, or use it in significant quantities.