Where It Comes From
Agricultural spraying on grain fields; drift and runoff from treated areas; breakdown in soil and water [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Handling or applying products; contact with treated plants/soil; breathing spray drift; drinking water near farm fields; eating foods with legal residues [1][2][3].
Why It Matters
Can cause eye/skin irritation and stomach upset with higher exposures; animal studies show effects at high doses (e.g., liver changes). EPA classifies it as “not likely to be carcinogenic.” It is highly toxic to aquatic plants, which can affect water ecosystems [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Pesticide applicators and farmworkers; people living near treated fields; private well users in farming areas; children (hand-to-mouth behaviors) and pregnant people warrant extra caution [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow label directions and wear protective gear when using; respect re-entry intervals; stay indoors and close windows during nearby spraying; wash/peel produce; use certified drinking-water filters if you’re in agricultural areas; report pesticide drift [1][2][3].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA, Office of Pesticide Programs. Tribenuron-methyl Registration Review and Human Health/Ecological Risk Assessments.
- [2]WHO/FAO Joint Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR). Tribenuron-methyl toxicological evaluation and ADI.
- [3]NIH/NLM PubChem. Tribenuron-methyl compound summary and safety information.