Where It Comes From
A dinitroaniline herbicide applied to soil to control grasses and some broadleaf weeds in crops and ornamentals; it binds strongly to soil and can persist for weeks to months [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing spray or dust during application, skin contact with treated soil or plants, drift to nearby homes, residues on some foods, and runoff to nearby water bodies [1][2].
Why It Matters
Can irritate eyes and skin; at higher exposures in animals it has caused liver and thyroid effects. EPA sets safety limits and requires protective measures to reduce risk [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Applicators and field workers, people living near treated fields, and children or pets playing on recently treated areas [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow label directions and reentry intervals, use protective gear if applying, avoid drift (close windows during nearby spraying), keep kids/pets off treated areas, and wash produce before eating [1][2].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Benfluralin: Human Health Risk Assessment for Registration Review. Office of Pesticide Programs, 2018. EPA-HQ-OPP-2009-0351.
- [2]U.S. EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for Benfluralin. EPA 738-R-95-004, 1995.