Where It Comes From
Agricultural and greenhouse sprays; it can transform into carbendazim in soil, water, and living organisms [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Mixing or spraying products; being near fields during/after application; touching treated plants/soil; eating residues on produce; drinking water affected by runoff or drift [1][2].
Why It Matters
Short-term contact can irritate skin/eyes; longer or higher exposures (via carbendazim) have affected fertility, development, and the liver in animals; it’s harmful to aquatic life [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers/applicators; pregnant people, infants, and children; residents near treated fields or greenhouse workers [2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow labels and re-entry times; wear gloves, long sleeves, and respiratory protection if applying; avoid areas during spraying; wash/peel produce; keep work clothes/shoes separate; protect wells and prevent runoff [1][2].
References
- [1]WHO/FAO Joint Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR). Thiophanate-ethyl evaluations: residues and toxicology. WHO/FAO JMPR Monographs.
- [2]U.S. EPA, Office of Pesticide Programs. Human Health Risk Assessment for Carbendazim and related benzimidazole fungicides (including thiophanate-ethyl metabolism to carbendazim).