Where It Comes From
Applied to farm soil; can evaporate and drift; small residues may remain on treated crops [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Mixing/applying without protection; entering fields too soon; breathing nearby air during application; eating treated produce; contact with surface or well water near treated fields [1][2][3].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can cause irritation, headache, nausea, and dizziness; very high doses have caused nervous system effects in animals. EPA does not consider EPTC likely to cause cancer [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and pesticide applicators; people living near treated fields; infants, children, and pregnant people (greater susceptibility to pesticides) [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow the label and re-entry intervals; wear chemical‑resistant gloves and eye protection when handling; avoid drift (stay indoors/close windows during nearby applications); wash/rinse produce; if you use a private well near treated fields, ask local health officials about testing [1][2][3].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for EPTC (S‑ethyl dipropylthiocarbamate). Office of Pesticide Programs, 1999.
- [2]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: S‑ethyl dipropylthiocarbamate (EPTC).
- [3]WHO/FAO. Joint Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR) Evaluations: EPTC (S‑ethyl dipropylthiocarbamate).