Bis(tributyltin) oxide

Past and some current industrial uses (antifouling coatings, wood preservatives, industrial water systems such as paper mills), with residues leaching from boat hulls, treated wood, and contaminated sediments [1][3][4].

Breathing or skin contact at work; eating contaminated fish and shellfish; sanding/scraping old boat paint; contact with treated wood or dock dust [1][3][4].

Can irritate eyes/skin; may damage the immune system and liver; animal studies show reproductive and developmental effects; extremely toxic to aquatic life; EPA set a chronic reference dose and restricts uses [1][2][3][4].

Boatyard and marine paint workers, shipyard staff, wood-treatment or industrial-water workers; people who frequently eat seafood from polluted harbors; pregnant people and young children [1][4].

Follow local fish advisories; choose seafood from cleaner sources; avoid dry-sanding old antifouling paint—hire pros or use PPE and containment; keep children away from peeling paint and treated wood; wash hands after contact; dispose of waste properly [1][3].