Where It Comes From
Spraying on forests, plantations, rangeland, and certain crops; residues can leach to wells or run off into streams [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Drinking contaminated private well water; being in or near recently treated areas; handling products without protection. Food residues are generally low [1][2].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure may irritate eyes/skin. High-dose animal studies show decreased body weight and organ effects; agencies set limits to reduce risk [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Applicators and forestry/ag workers; people using shallow or sandy‑soil private wells near treated land; children and pets on treated sites soon after application [1][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow label directions and posted re‑entry times; keep kids and pets off treated areas until dry; if you have a private well near treated land, consider testing for pesticides and using certified activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters; avoid washing application gear at home [1][4][5].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Hexazinone: Human Health Risk Assessment for Registration Review. Office of Pesticide Programs.
- [2]WHO/FAO JMPR. Hexazinone evaluation (residues and toxicology).
- [3]U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Pesticides in streams and groundwater; occurrence and transport of hexazinone.
- [4]U.S. EPA. Drinking Water Treatability Database: Hexazinone; Home Water Treatment guidance.
- [5]CDC. Private Wells—Testing your well water and treatment options.