Where It Comes From
By‑product of coal carbonization; found in coal‑tar pitch, pavement sealcoat, roofing products, aluminum production, and certain psoriasis shampoos/creams [1][2][4].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing fumes or dust during roofing/paving or near freshly sealcoated driveways; skin contact with products; tracked‑in house dust; using coal‑tar skin products [1][4][5].
Why It Matters
Known human carcinogen; linked to skin and lung cancers in workers; can irritate/burn skin and eyes and increase sun sensitivity [2][3][1].
Who Is at Risk
Roofers, road pavers, aluminum workers; people living near or with freshly coal‑tar‑sealed surfaces; children who contact contaminated dust [4][5].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose asphalt‑based or coal‑tar‑free sealants; avoid newly sealed areas for several days; remove shoes and wet‑mop to reduce dust; workers should use ventilation, respirators, gloves, and wash up; use medical tar products only as directed [4][5][1].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Public Health Statement: Wood Creosote, Coal Tar Creosote, Coal Tar, Coal‑Tar Pitch, and Coal‑Tar Pitch Volatiles. 2002.
- [2]IARC. Monographs Volume 100F: A Review of Human Carcinogens—Chemical Agents and Related Occupations (coal‑tar pitch; roofing/paving exposures). 2012.
- [3]NTP. Report on Carcinogens, 15th ed.: Coal Tars and Coal‑Tar Pitches—Known to Be Human Carcinogens. 2021.
- [4]U.S. EPA. Coal‑Tar Sealcoat and PAHs: Health and Environmental Concerns (webpage/fact sheet).
- [5]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide: Coal Tar Pitch Volatiles (CTPV)—Exposure and Controls.