Where It Comes From
Agricultural use as a soil-applied, pre-plant/pre-emergence herbicide; its use is regulated and has declined in some regions [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing spray or vapor/drift near fields, skin contact with treated soil/plants, handling contaminated equipment, or consuming residues in food or drinking water in farming areas [1][3][4].
Why It Matters
Can irritate eyes/skin; higher exposures may cause headache, nausea, or dizziness. Animal studies report effects on organs such as the liver; it is toxic to aquatic life [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and applicators, people re-entering treated fields too soon, and residents (especially children and pregnant people) near application areas [3][4].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Observe posted re-entry intervals; close windows and bring items indoors during nearby spraying; wash hands and produce; test private wells and consider activated carbon treatment; workers should use proper PPE and follow label directions [3][5][6].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Pebulate — Pesticide Chemical Search (CASRN 1114-71-2).
- [2]U.S. EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for Pebulate.
- [3]U.S. EPA. Worker Protection Standard (WPS) for Agricultural Pesticides.
- [4]CDC. Agricultural Safety: Preventing Pesticide Exposure.
- [5]U.S. EPA. About Pesticide Drift.
- [6]U.S. EPA. Private Drinking Water Wells: Pesticides and Water Treatment.