Where It Comes From
Agricultural spraying and commercial weed control; it quickly converts to fluazifop acid in soil and water and can move with runoff or drift [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Eating residues on treated crops, breathing spray drift near fields, or skin contact during mixing/applying or entering fields before the re-entry interval [1].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can irritate eyes/skin; high doses in animals affected the liver and body weight. EPA classifies it as not likely to be carcinogenic to humans. It is toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Farmers, pesticide mixers/loaders/applicators; people living or working near treated fields; children and pets entering recently treated areas [1].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow label directions and re-entry times; wear gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection when handling; avoid drift (close windows, stay indoors during spraying); keep off treated areas until dry; wash, peel, or cook produce as appropriate [1][2].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for Fluazifop-P-butyl. EPA 738-R-05-007, 2005.
- [2]WHO/FAO JMPR. Fluazifop-P-butyl: toxicology and residues evaluations, JMPR Reports/Monographs (various years).