Where It Comes From
A soil fumigant pesticide; also forms in the air and soil when metam sodium or dazomet are applied [1].
How You Are Exposed
Mostly by inhaling air near recently treated fields (during application, tarp venting, or off‑gassing); on‑the‑job handling; less often from indoor air or water after spills [1][2].
Why It Matters
Strong irritant causing burning eyes, sore throat, cough, wheeze, headache, and nausea; high doses can trigger asthma‑like attacks or lung injury. No conclusive evidence of cancer in humans [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and applicators; residents close to fields; children, older adults, and people with asthma/COPD; anyone without proper protective gear [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow local fumigation notices and buffer zones; stay indoors with windows closed and HVAC on recirculate during nearby applications; avoid treated soil; workers must use label‑required PPE and monitoring [1][2].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision for Methyl Isothiocyanate (MITC). Office of Pesticide Programs, 2009.
- [2]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Methyl isothiocyanate. Updated ed. (accessed 2024).