Where It Comes From
Applied to soil for fruits and vegetables; also used as a warning agent in other fumigants during agricultural and structural fumigation [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing air near fields or fumigated buildings; entering treated areas too soon; handling products at work; accidental spills or releases [1][2][3].
Why It Matters
Causes burning eyes, coughing, nausea, and headache; high levels can trigger asthma, chest tightness, and lung injury, with rapid onset of symptoms. Human cancer data are inadequate [1][2][3].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and applicators, people living or working downwind, children, older adults, and anyone with asthma or lung/eye conditions [1][2][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Observe posted buffer zones and re‑entry intervals; close windows and stay indoors during nearby fumigation; avoid treated soil; report strong odors; workers should use required PPE and training [2][3].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs: Chloropicrin (76‑06‑2).
- [2]U.S. EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for Chloropicrin.
- [3]CDC/NIOSH. Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Chloropicrin.