Where It Comes From
Applied as a defoliant on cotton; released during mixing, loading, spraying, and from drift near treated fields. Not for residential use [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing air during/after nearby applications; skin contact with treated plants/equipment or contaminated dust; take-home exposure on work clothing; less commonly via contaminated water [1][2].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can cause headache, nausea, sweating, dizziness, pinpoint pupils, and weakness; severe poisoning is a medical emergency. Repeated exposure can depress cholinesterase and harm the nervous system. Evidence for cancer in humans is limited/inadequate [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Pesticide applicators and field workers; people living near treated fields; children and pregnant people may be more vulnerable to nerve effects [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow label directions and wear protective gear; observe restricted-entry intervals; monitor cholinesterase if you work with OP pesticides; keep away during/after spraying, close windows, and launder work clothes separately; wash hands and wipe outdoor surfaces after applications [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Tribufos (DEF). Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
- [2]U.S. EPA. Tribufos (DEF) Human Health Risk Assessment for Registration Review. Office of Pesticide Programs.