Where It Comes From
Applied to fields, orchards, and some non‑crop sites; breaks down slowly and can reach groundwater and streams [1].
How You Are Exposed
Mixing/spraying at work; spray drift near treated fields; touching treated soil/plants; eating residues on produce; drinking contaminated well or surface water [1][3].
Why It Matters
Short‑term exposure can irritate eyes/skin; swallowing large amounts may cause nausea or dizziness. In animal studies, long‑term high doses affected the liver and thyroid; regulators set limits to protect consumers [2][3].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and pesticide applicators; people living near treated fields; private‑well users in agricultural areas; pregnant people and young children may be more sensitive [1][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
At work, follow the label, wear required PPE, and observe re‑entry intervals (EPA’s Worker Protection Standard). During nearby spraying, close windows/stay indoors; wash and peel/scrub produce; check your water’s Consumer Confidence Report or test private wells; consider an NSF‑certified filter if concerned [4][5][6][7].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Norflurazon — Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED). Office of Pesticide Programs, 2002.
- [2]WHO/FAO JMPR. Norflurazon: Toxicological evaluation. Pesticide Residues in Food, WHO/FAO.
- [3]U.S. EPA. Norflurazon: Human Health Risk Assessment for Registration Review. Office of Pesticide Programs.
- [4]U.S. EPA. Agricultural Worker Protection Standard (WPS): Protecting Agricultural Workers and Pesticide Handlers.
- [5]U.S. EPA. Reducing Pesticide Risk in Food: Wash and prepare produce.
- [6]U.S. EPA. Consumer Confidence Reports (CCR): Annual Drinking Water Quality Reports.
- [7]CDC. Choosing Home Water Filters.