Where It Comes From
Manufacturing and use of triphenyltin pesticides/biocides, antifouling coatings on boats, and releases to water and sediments; it can persist and build up in aquatic organisms [1].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing or skin contact at work (formulation, spraying, boat maintenance), eating contaminated seafood, and residues on treated crops where use has occurred; smaller chances from dust when removing old marine paint [1][2][3].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can irritate eyes/skin and cause nausea or headache; higher or repeated exposure can affect the nervous and immune systems and has caused reproductive and developmental effects in animals. No clear evidence for cancer in humans. Extremely toxic to fish and shellfish [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Workers handling organotin products, DIY boat owners removing old coatings, people who eat a lot of seafood from polluted areas, pregnant people, and young children [1][2][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow labels and wear gloves, eye protection, and a respirator for dusty tasks; wet-sand and contain debris when working on boats; check local seafood advisories; wash/peel produce; keep children away from sanding or paint removal areas [1][2][3].
References
- [1]WHO IPCS. Environmental Health Criteria 132: Triphenyltin Compounds. 1992.
- [2]US EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for Fentin Hydroxide (Triphenyltin Hydroxide). EPA 738-R-05-007, 2005.
- [3]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Tin and Tin Compounds. 2005.