Where It Comes From
Weed control in crops and non‑crop areas; applied mainly as sodium or magnesium salts. It can travel with runoff and seep to groundwater [1].
How You Are Exposed
Drinking contaminated private well or surface water; eating food with residues; breathing spray or getting it on skin during mixing/applying or near treated areas [1].
Why It Matters
Short‑term high doses can irritate eyes/throat and cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea; repeated doses in animals affect liver and kidneys. Cancer evidence is inadequate; EPA: not classifiable [1].
Who Is at Risk
Pesticide applicators and farmworkers; people using private wells near treated land; young children via hand‑to‑mouth contact [1].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow label directions and wear protection when handling. Keep kids/pets away until sprays dry. Test private wells near treated areas; use alternative water or certified treatment if dalapon is found; rinse produce [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Dalapon. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, U.S. HHS. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaqs/tf.asp?id=611&tid=112
- [2]U.S. EPA. 2018 Edition of the Drinking Water Standards and Health Advisories. EPA 822-F-18-001. https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/2018-drinking-water-standards-and-health-advisories