Where It Comes From
Applied to agricultural fields (especially soybeans) as a post‑emergence weed killer; can move via runoff or spray drift into nearby areas [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Handling or applying products; breathing spray mist or dust; skin or eye contact; eating treated crops; being near recently treated fields; private wells in farming areas if runoff occurs [1][2].
Why It Matters
Low acute toxicity to people but can irritate eyes/skin; high-dose animal studies found non-cancer effects (e.g., weight/liver changes). EPA does not expect it to increase cancer risk at typical exposures. It is highly toxic to non‑target plants and some aquatic plants, and can persist longer in alkaline soils [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Pesticide applicators and farmworkers; residents near treated fields; children who play on recently treated areas; private well users in agricultural regions [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow label directions and re‑entry intervals; use protective gear when handling; close windows and stay indoors during nearby spraying; wash/peel produce; keep kids/pets off treated areas until dry; maintain buffers and protect wells from runoff [1][2][3].
References
- [1]US EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for Chlorimuron‑ethyl. Office of Pesticide Programs.
- [2]US EPA. Chlorimuron‑ethyl: Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessment for Registration Review. Office of Pesticide Programs.
- [3]WHO/FAO JMPR. Chlorimuron‑ethyl. Pesticide residues in food—Evaluations.