Sodium pentachlorophenate

Wood-preserving treatments (utility poles, railroad ties), past biocide uses, and releases from treated wood or contaminated soil and water at treatment sites; PCP/NaPCP are restricted-use in the U.S. [1][3].

Breathing air or dust near treated wood or inside buildings with old PCP-treated materials; skin contact when handling poles/ties; drinking water near contaminated sites; workplace exposures during treatment, installation, or disposal [1][3].

High short-term exposure can cause fever, heavy sweating, rapid breathing, and liver/kidney effects; long-term exposure can harm the immune system and increases the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma [1][2].

Workers in wood-treatment plants; utility and railroad crews; people living near treatment facilities or storage yards; infants, children, and pregnant people may be more sensitive [1][3].

Avoid touching, cutting, or sanding treated poles/ties; never burn treated wood; wash hands after contact; test private well water near contaminated sites; workers should use PPE, ventilation, and hygiene per safety guidance [1][3].