Where It Comes From
An agricultural defoliant/desiccant applied before harvest, especially on cotton [1].
How You Are Exposed
Mixing/spraying at work; drift from nearby fields; touching treated plants/soil; residues in cottonseed products; contaminated clothing or equipment [1][3].
Why It Matters
Can cause severe eye injury and irritation to skin and lungs with short-term exposure; long-term human data are limited, and EPA reviews have not found clear cancer concerns at typical exposures [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and pesticide handlers; residents near treated fields during/after spraying; children; people with asthma or eye conditions [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow spray notices; keep distance during and shortly after applications; close windows, bring items indoors, and respect buffer and re-entry intervals; wash hands and work clothes separately; if you handle it, use required PPE (chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and respirator as directed) and follow the label [2].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Dimethipin Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED). Office of Pesticide Programs.
- [2]U.S. EPA. Agricultural Worker Protection Standard (WPS): Protect Yourself from Pesticides.
- [3]U.S. EPA. Tolerances for pesticide chemical residues in food: Dimethipin. 40 CFR Part 180.