2-Methylnaphthalene

Petroleum refining and coal tar/creosote; forms when fuels, wood, or tobacco are burned [1].

Breathing outdoor air near traffic or industry; indoor air from smoking, attached garages, or oil/fuel heaters; contact with contaminated soil, creosote-treated wood, or spills; rarely from food or water near pollution sources [1][2].

Short-term exposure can irritate eyes, skin, and lungs; repeated high exposure in animals damaged lungs and sometimes liver. As a PAH it contributes to soot/particle pollution. Current data are insufficient to determine its cancer risk in humans [1][2].

Workers handling petroleum, asphalt, creosote, or diesel exhaust; people living near busy roads, refineries, railyards, or ports; smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke; young children may take in more per body weight [1].

Don’t smoke; limit time near idling engines; ventilate garages/work areas; maintain fuel‑burning appliances; avoid dust from creosote-treated wood; follow workplace safety guidance and use protective equipment [1][2].