IPCS INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMME ON CHEMICAL SAFETY
Health and Safety Guide No. 5
2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXYACETIC (2,4-D)
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDE
UNITED NATIONS ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME
INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION, GENEVA 1987
This is a companion volume to Environmental Health Criteria 29:
2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid (2,4-D)
Published by the World Health Organization for the International
Programme on Chemical Safety (a collaborative programme of the United
Nations Environment Programme, the International Labour Organisation,
and the World Health Organization)
This report contains the collective views of an international group of
experts and does not necessarily represent the decisions or the stated
policy of the United Nations Environment Programme, the International
Labour Organisation, or the World Health Organization
ISBN 92 4 154329 9
ISSN 0259-7268
The World Health Organization welcomes requests for permission to
reproduce or translate its publications, in part or in full.
Applications and enquiries should be addressed to the Office of
Publications, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, which
will be glad to provide the latest information on any changes made to
the text, plans for new editions, and reprints and translations
already available.
(c) World Health Organization 1987
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concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or
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The mention of specific companies or of certain manufacturers'
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World Health Organization in preference to others of a similar nature
that are not mentioned. Errors and omissions excepted, the names of
proprietary products are distinguished by initial capital letters.
CONTENTS
IPCS
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDE FOR 2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXYACETIC ACID (2,4-D)
INTRODUCTION
HOW TO USE THE GUIDE
1. PRODUCT IDENTITY AND USES
1.1. Identity
1.2. Physical and chemical properties
1.3. Composition
1.4. Uses
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1. Exposure to 2,4-D
2.2. Uptake, metabolism, and excretion
2.3. Effects on animals
2.4. Effects on human beings
2.5. Estimated intake of 2,4-D
3. CONCLUSIONS
4. HEALTH HAZARDS FOR MAN, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY
ACTION
4.1. Main hazards for man, prevention and protection,
first aid
4.1.1. Prevention and protection, first aid
4.2. Advice to physicians
4.3. Health surveillance advice
4.4. Safe handling advice
4.5. Explosion and fire hazards
4.6. Storage
4.7. Transport
4.8. Spillage and disposal
4.8.1. Spillage
4.8.2. Disposal (based on the IRPTC waste disposal
file)
5. INTERNATIONAL CHEMICAL SAFETY CARD
6. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
7. CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND STANDARDS
7.1. Exposure limit values
7.2. Specific restrictions
7.3. Labelling, packaging, and transport
7.4. Waste disposal
7.5. Other measures
INTRODUCTION
The International Programme on Chemical Safety is responsible for the
publication of a series of Environmental Health Criteria documents,
each of which assesses the existing information on the relationship
between exposure to a specific chemical, mixture of chemicals, or
combination of chemicals and physical and biological agents, and man's
health and the integrity of the environment. The documents provide
guidelines for setting exposure limits consistent with the protection
of human health and the environment.
To facilitate the application of these guidelines in national chemical
safety programmes, "Health and Safety Guides" are being prepared,
highlighting the information contained in the documents for those who
need to know the health and environmental issues involved, but not the
scientific details. The Guides include advice on preventive and
protective measures and emergency action.
Review and revision of the information in this Health and Safety Guide
will take place in due course, and the eventual aim is to use
standardized terminology. We should be grateful if you would help by
telling us of any difficulties encountered in using the information in
this guide.
Comments please, addressed to:
The Manager
International Programme on Chemical Safety
Division of Environmental Health
World Health Organization
1211 Geneva 27
Switzerland
HOW TO USE THE GUIDE
All people in the work-place environment should be given the relevant
written information in this book, supplemented by a clear, personal
explanation to ensure that they are fully aware of the dangers and the
current courses of protective and emergency action.
The International Chemical Safety Card should be displayed as directed
and its contents clearly explained to all working personnel.
Medical staff should be fully conversant with the medical information
to ensure they can act rapidly and efficiently in an emergency.
Posters should be used to give impact to basic safety measures.
Further copies of the Health and Safety Guide and, for those requiring
more detailed scientific information, the relevant Environmental
Health Criteria publication, are available to order.
THE INFORMATION IN THIS GUIDE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS A STARTING POINT
TO A COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAMME
1. PRODUCT IDENTITY AND USES
1.1 Identity
Chemical formula: C8H6Cl2O3
Chemical structure:
Common trade namesa: Aaherba-2,4-D; Agriben; Agrotect; Amidox;
Amoxone; Aqua-Kleen; BH 2,4-D; BD; Brabant;
2,4-D Amine; Chimac 2,4-D Amine; D 50;
Dacamine; Decamine; Debroussaillant 600;
Ded-Weed; Ded-Weed LV-69; Desormone; Dicopur;
Dicotox; Dinoxol; DMA-4; Dormone; Duphar
2,4-D; Emulsamine BK; Emulsamine E-3; Envert
DT; Envert 171; Esteron 99; Esteron 76 BE;
Esteron 99 concentrate; Esterone Four;
Esteron 44 Weed Killer; Estone; Fernesta;
Fernimine; Fernimine 2,4-D; Fernimine 2,4-D;
Fernoxone; Ferxone; Foredex 75; Formula 40;
Hedonal; 2,4-D Aminesalt; Herbatox D 500;
Herbidal; Ipaner; Krotiline; Lawn-Keep
Liro-2,4-D; Liro-2,4-D Estemine 500
EC; Lironox; Luxan 2,4-D; acrondray; Mega-D;
Monosan; Moxone; Netagrone; Netagrone 600;
NSC 423; Pennamine; Pennamine D; Phenox;
Pielik; Planotox; Plantgard; Shell 2,4-D
Amine; Spritz-Hormin/ 2,4-D; Spritz-Hormit/
2,4-D; Superormone concentré; Super D
Weedone; Transamine; Tributon; Tussilex-2,4-D
80%; Tussilex-2,4-D; Twex 2,4-D; U 46
D-Fluid-2,4-D; U 46 D-Fluid-2,4-D; U 46 DP;
U-5043; Vergemaster; Verton D; Verton 2 D;
Vertron 2 D; Vidon 638; Visko-Rhap Low Drift
Herbicide; Visko-Rhap Low Volatile 4L;
Weed-AG-Bar; Weedar; Weedar-64; Weedasept;
Weed-B-Gon; Weedez Wonder Bar; Weedone Aero
Concentrate; Weedone LV4; Weed-Rhap;
Weed-Tox; Weedtrol (This list is not
exhaustive)
a Formulations containing 2,4-D (alkali salts, amine salts, esters)
as the sole active ingredient.
Common synonyms: 2,4-D acid;
2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid
CAS registry number: 94-75-7 (the acid)
1.2 Physical and Chemical Properties
Some physical and chemical properties of 2,4-D are given in the Sample
International Safety Card.
1.3 Composition
The purity of technical 2,4-D may range from less than 90% to 99%.
Typical impurities (trace - 1.5%) include 2,6-dichlorophenoxyacetic
acid, monochlorophenoxyacetic acid, bis (2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetic
acid, phenoxyacetic acid, dichlorophenols, 2,4,6-trichlorophenol,
other chlorophenols, and water. Trace levels of chlorinated
dibenzo- p-dioxins, varying with the production process, have been
found in amine and ester formulations. 2,3,7,8-TCDD has not been
found. Trace levels of N-nitrosamines can occur in amine
formulations, especially when nitrate is added as a corrosion
inhibitor for containers.
Sodium or amine salts of 2,4-D are formulated as water-soluble
concentrates by the manufacturer. Esters of 2,4-D are formulated with
emulsifiers and must be mixed with water for spraying. Some salt
formulations of 2,4-D are sold as wettable powders or as granules or
pellets using clay, sand, or some other carrier.
2,4-D is often used in formulations containing one or more other
active ingredients, such as 2-methoxy-3,6-dichlorobenzoic acid
(dicamba), 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (MCPA),
2-(2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxy)propionic acids (mecoprop, MCPP),
2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)propionic acid (dichloroprop, 2,4-DP), and
fertilizers. These formulations are sold under a wide variety of trade
names.
1.4 Uses
Alkali or amine salts or esters of 2,4-D are used as herbicides
against broad-leaf weeds in cereal crops, as well as on pastures and
lawns, at rates of about 0.2-2.0 kg active ingredient (acid
equivalent)/ha. Esters are also used at rates of up to 6 kg (acid
equivalent)/ha to suppress weeds, brush, and some trees. Granular
formulations are used as aquatic herbicides at rates of 1-122 kg/ha.
At very low foliar application rates (20-40 mg 2,4-D/litre spray
water), 2,4-D can be used as a growth regulator.
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1 Exposure to 2,4-D
In areas of 2,4-D herbicide production, handling, or use, the highest
exposure will be incurred by workers who are directly involved in
these processes, followed by bystanders exposed to 2,4-D vapour, dust,
or droplets, or to contaminated vegetation, soil, or water. In these 2
groups, most of the exposure will usually be via the skin.
The general population will be exposed mainly through food containing
2,4-D residues but also through 2,4-D residues in water. The
contribution from air is negligible. As far as the general population
in areas where 2,4-D is not used is concerned, 2,4-D intake from any
source is negligible.
Most 2,4-D residues result from the production and use of 2,4-D
herbicides. Other possible minor sources of 2,4-D include the use of
2,4-dichlorophenoxy-butyric acid (2,4-DB).
The drifting of vapour of the more volatile esters of 2,4-D may result
in air pollution and crop damage; these products are being replaced by
less volatile 2,4-D derivatives.
The use of 2,4-D for aquatic weed control may lead to contamination of
sources of irrigation and drinking-water. Environmental pollution may
also arise from inadequate disposal practices. Various amounts of
2,4-D applied to a target area may be distributed in the general
environment, within a few hours or days, by the movement of air,
water, or soil.
2,4-D and its derivatives are fairly rapidly broken down by chemical
and biological processes. Persistence or accumulation of 2,4-D
residues from normal use is occasionally possible, mainly under dry or
cold conditions where there is little biological activity.
Available data indicate that residues of 2,4-D rarely exceed 1 mg/kg
in soil, several µg/litre in water, several µg/m3 in air, and a few
tens of µg/kg in food sources. Exceptions may occur in the vicinity of
2,4-D herbicide spills, in water treated with 2,4-D herbicides, in
berries and mushrooms grown in treated areas, or when excessive
amounts of the herbicide are used.
No information is available on the corresponding exposure levels for
the contaminants present in 2,4-D herbicides.
2.2 Uptake, Metabolism, and Excretion
2,4-D and its derivatives can be absorbed via the oral, dermal, and
inhalation routes.
Distribution of 2,4-D occurs throughout the body, but there is no
evidence that it is accumulated. The compound is only slightly
transformed in mammals. A single dose is excreted within a few days,
mainly with the urine. Little is known about the uptake and fate of
the contaminants of 2,4-D, other than 2,4-dichlorophenol.
In 2 acute oral studies on rats, the LD50 (lethal dose for half the
number of exposed animals) was 375 and 666 mg/kg body weight,
respectively, i.e., 2,4-D is moderately toxic according to the
classification of Hodge & Sterner.
2.3 Effects on Animals
Death may result in mammals and birds receiving single oral doses of
2,4-D exceeding approximately 100-300 mg/kg body weight. The most
characteristic signs of severe 2,4-D poisoning are those of muscular
spasms (myotonia), but various other effects have been described.
The no-observed-adverse-effect levels for a single dose of 2,4-D and
for some of the chronic effects of 2,4-D in animals have not been
clearly established.
No adequately documented reports of accidental 2,4-D poisoning of
mammals or birds have been found.
The no-observed-adverse-effect level for the production of
malformations in the fetus and other adverse effects in the embryo or
fetus appears to be about 10 mg/kg body weight per day. Available
information is inadequate for an assessment of the genetic activity of
2,4-D in mammals. However, the evidence suggests that 2,4-D
derivatives are not potent mutagens.
The carcinogenic potential of 2,4-D cannot be assessed on the basis of
the available animal bioassays.
2.4 Effects on Human Beings
Single oral doses of 5 and 30 mg/kg body weight did not cause any
acute toxic effects in human volunteers. The lethal single oral dose
for man is uncertain. Accidental and intentional poisonings with 2,4-D
indicate that the effects at toxic levels of 2,4-D are the same in
human beings as in other mammals. It is uncertain whether the chronic
toxic effects of 2,4-D products reported in occupationally exposed
people are solely attributable to 2,4-D. Scientifically valid studies
have not shown any adverse effects on reproduction in human beings,
accidentally or occupationally exposed to 2,4-D.
The results of studies on whether occupational exposure to 2,4-D may
result in chromosome abnormalities are conflicting. The results of
some epidemiological studies have suggested an association between
exposure to phenoxy herbicides, including 2,4-D, and increased
incidences of malignant tumours and tumour mortality. It is not clear,
at present, whether this represents a true association, and if so,
whether it is specifically related to 2,4-D.
2.5 Estimated Intake of 2,4-D
General population
In an area where 2,4-D is used, the total contribution from air, food,
and water is estimated to be 0.3-2 µg/kg body weight per day. In other
areas, the 2,4-D intake from any source is negligible.
Bystanders
An adequate estimate of intake is not possible at this time, but it
should generally be less than that for occupationally-exposed persons.
Workers
Workers handling or using 2,4-D may absorb an average of about 0.1 mg
2,4-D/kg body weight per day. However, this level may be exceeded if
good occupational hygiene is not practiced. Simple precautions against
excessive exposure can reduce the amount of 2,4-D uptake.
3. CONCLUSIONS
From the data available at present, it can be concluded that there is
no health risk for the general population from the recommended use of
2,4-D. When appropriate safety measures are taken, there is also no
health risk for workers.
From: Environmental Health Criteria 29: 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
(2,4-D)
4. HEALTH HAZARDS FOR MAN, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY
ACTION
4.1 Main Hazards for Man, Prevention and Protection, First Aid
2,4-D poisoning can result from the accidental or intentional
ingestion of 2,4-D. When safe handling is poor, pronounced dermal
absorption and inhalation may also lead to signs and symptoms of
overexposure and poisoning.
GOLDEN RULES
1. Do not smoke, drink, or eat in the work-place.
2. In case of overexposure, the victim should leave, or be removed
from, the contaminated area to fresh air as rapidly as possible.
3. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes and wash with plenty of
water and soap.
4. Flush affected eye(s) with water for at least 15 minutes.
4.1.1 Prevention and protection, first aid
The human hazards associated with certain types of exposure to 2,4-D,
together with preventive and protective measures and first aid
recommendations are listed in the following table.
4.2 Advice to Physicians
In cases of exceptional overexposure, and in cases of attempted
suicide with 2,4-D, acute poisoning may occur. Hypersalivation,
stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhoea may result. Convulsions,
cerebral depression, and mental confusion with difficulty in speaking
have been reported. A short period of myotonia followed by muscular
weakness, reduced motor activity, ataxia, and incoordination may be
followed by the disappearance of reflexes. The blood pressure may be
low, the pulse rapid, and ventricular fibrillation has been reported.
Liver and kidney damage may occur, as well as lung oedema. In severe
cases, coma may develop, followed by death.
There is no specific antidote, and symptomatic treatment should be
given, including general supportive measures such as artificial
respiration, when needed.
After oral ingestion, gastric lavage (even if patient has already
vomited) is advised if there are no signs of impending convulsions.
Control convulsions with diazepam. Epinephrine and ephedrine should be
avoided, because of possible ventricular fibrillation. Monitor the
ECG.
Forced alkaline diuresis may be helpful in increasing the rate of
excretion of 2,4-D in life-threatening cases. This should be done with
full laboratory control including measurements of urine pH,
blood-electrolytes and pH, and concentrations of 2,4-D in the blood.
If myotonia appears, quinidine may be helpful.
4.3 Health Surveillance Advice
Human beings who work regularly with 2,4-D should undergo periodic
medical examination with emphasis on the neurological status, muscular
and cardiovascular system, liver and kidney functioning, and effects
on skin and eyes. Supervisors and workers should be alert to symptoms
of toxic exposure and know how to give first aid.
4.4 Safe Handling Advice
Most problems related to handling can be avoided by observing simple
procedures, such as:
(a) following the instructions on the label, which should be in the
local language(s);
(b) applying the proper formulation at the proper rate;
(c) proper cleaning of protective clothing;
(d) using proper and clean spraying equipment that does not leak;
(e) spraying during favourable weather conditions;
(f) keeping bystanders away during and after spraying;
(g) taking extreme care in the disposal of empty containers and
unused 2,4-D, and never storing 2,4-D formulations in containers
normally used for food or drinking purposes; and
(h) proper timing of treatment for maximal weed control and minimal
crop damage.
ROUTE HEALTH HAZARDS PREVENTION AND PROTECTION FIRST AID
SKIN Non-irritant, but other ingredients Wear neoprene gloves and Remove contaminated clothing and
in the formulation may cause cotton overalls wash it; wash contaminated
irritation; in cases of gross skin with water and soap
over-exposure, dermal absorption
may lead to systemic poisoning
(see ingestion)
EYES Non-irritant, but dust and Avoid contact with eyes; wear Flush contaminated eyes with
solvents in formulations may safety goggles plenty of water for 15 minutes;
irritate if irritation persists, seek
medical attention
INHALATION Vapour inhalation is unlikely; Avoid inhalation of dust or Fresh air
inhalation of dust or droplets mist, if necessary by use of
may cause irritation of the appropriate dust mask or
respiratory tract respirator
INGESTION Unlikely to occur under occupational Do not eat, drink, or smoke
conditions during work; wash hands
Deliberate ingestion (attempted Treat symptomatically, rinse
suicide) may lead to poisoning, mouth, give plenty of water to
hypersalivation, stomach cramps, drink; if breathing has stopped,
vomiting, and diarrhoea may apply artificial respiration; seek
result; convulsions, cerebral medical attention
depression, and mental confusion
with difficulty in speaking have
been reported; a short period of
myotonia followed by muscular
ROUTE HEALTH HAZARDS PREVENTION AND PROTECTION FIRST AID
INGESTION weakness, reduced motor activity,
(cont'd). ataxia, and incoordination may be
followed by disappearance of
reflexes; the blood pressure may
be low, the pulse rapid, and
ventricular fibrillation has been
reported; liver and kidney
damage may occur as well as lung
oedema; in severe cases, coma
may develop, followed by death
For more information on the safe handling of pesticides, see:
(a) ILO (1977) Safe use of pesticides, Geneva, International Labour
Office (Occupational Safety and Health Series No. 38).
(b) ILO (1979) Guide for health and hygiene in agricultural work,
Geneva, International Labour Office, pp. 309.
(c) Plestina, R. (1984) Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of
insecticide poisoning, Geneva, World Health Organization
(Unpublished report No. VBC/84.889).
(d) GIFAP (1983) Guidelines for the safe and effective use of
pesticides, Brussels, GIFAP.
4.5 Explosion and Fire Hazards
2,4-D is not explosive or flammable. However, it should be kept away
from sources of heat as it decomposes on heating with the formation of
harmful gases such as hydrogen chloride, which forms mists of
hydrochloric acid with moisture, and phosgene.
4.6 Storage
Store out of reach of children inside locked rooms, in well-labelled
containers, and away from food, drink, and animal feeding stuff. Do
not store in containers normally used for the storage of food or
drinking purposes.
4.7 Transport
No special measures are indicated. Avoid contamination of food and
feed.
4.8 Spillage and Disposal
4.8.1 Spillage
Collect spillage in a container or dust bin bag. In case of liquid
spillage, first use absorbent material. Clean up with water.
4.8.2 Disposal (based on the IRPTC waste disposal file)
Incineration at high temperatures (1000°C) with sufficient residence
time to lead to complete destruction is the most acceptable method for
the disposal of 2,4-D, as far as the environment is concerned.
Incineration at low temperatures could lead to the formation of
chlorinated dibenzo- p-dioxins. The non-persistence and
detoxification of 2,4-D in soil indicate that burial in noncrop areas,
away from water supplies, would be an acceptable method for the
disposal of small quantities of 2,4-D. Discharge in surface water and
sewers should be avoided.
For the decontamination of 2,4-D drums, flush the drums 3 times using
the normal diluent at a volume equal to approximately 10% of the
drum's capacity. Add the rinsing liquid to the spray mixture or use
the recommended disposal methods. Small containers can be disposed of
by hole-punching, crushing, and burial in a landfill.
5. INTERNATIONAL CHEMICAL SAFETY CARD
This card should be easily available to all health workers concerned
with, and users of, 2,4-D. It should be displayed at, or near,
entrances to areas where there is potential exposure to 2,4-D, and on
processing equipment and containers. The card should be translated
into the appropriate language(s).
All persons potentially exposed to the chemical should also have the
instructions on the chemical safety card clearly explained.
2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXYACETIC ACID (2,4-D)
(C12C6H3OCH2COOH)
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
Relative molecular mass 221.0 Colourless, white to yellow powder; the
Melting point (°C) 140-141 compound decomposes on heating with
Solubility in water slightly soluble formation of harmful gases; the
Solubility in organic solvents soluble compound can be absorbed into the
Relative vapour density 7.6 body by inhalation and ingestion and
Vapour pressure (160°C) 52.3 Pa via the skin
pKa (25°C) 2.64-3.31
HAZARDS/SYMPTOMS PREVENTION AND PROTECTION FIRST AID
SKIN: Irritation, redness; Minimize exposure, wear Remove and wash contaminated
absorption via the skin can be neoprene gloves, cotton clothing; wash skin with plenty of water
significant and may lead to poisoning overalls and soap
EYES: Irritation, redness Minimize exposure, wear Flush eyes with plenty of water
safety goggles
INHALATION: Inhalation of Minimize exposure, apply Fresh air
dust and droplets may cause local exhaust ventilation;
irritation protect breathing by a
suitable respirator or dust mask
INGESTION: Unlikely in occupational Do not eat, drink, or smoke
situation during work; wash hands
HAZARDS/SYMPTOMS PREVENTION AND PROTECTION FIRST AID
INGESTION (accidental or Treat symptomatically, obtain medical
deliberate): May lead to attention immediately
poisoning, with confusion and
difficulty in speaking
SPILLAGE STORAGE FIRE
Collect spillage in container or Store cool and dry in Not flammable, but liquid formulations
dust bin bag; in case of liquid original packaging and may be flammable; the substance
spillage, first use absorbent away' from food and feed; decomposes on heating: hydrochloric
material; clean up with water empty containers should acid, phosgene, and chlorinated dioxins
be punctured may be formed
WASTE DISPOSAL
Waste should be incinerated at National Occupational UN: 2766, 2999, 3000
high temperatures (1000°C); Exposure Limit:
burial of small quantities of 2,4-D
in noncrop areas away from water National Poison Control
supplies may be acceptable; avoid Centre:
discharge in to surface water and
sewers; comply with local
regulations
6. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
Exposure of non-target crops, livestock, and wildlife may occur by
drift and volatilization from sprayed fields and/or by improper
spraying methods. Toxic effects on aquatic animals could result from
the use of ester formulations of 2,4-D as aquatic herbicides.
Avoid unintentional contamination of sensitive crops, livestock and
wildlife, and surface waters by using less volatile ester formulations
of 2,4-D in sprays. Ester formulations of 2,4-D should not be used as
aquatic herbicides; the amine salt formulations are less toxic for
aquatic animals. Avoid contamination of soil, water, and atmosphere by
proper methods of storage, transport, handling, application, and waste
disposal. In case of spillage, use the methods advised in section 4.8.
7. CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND STANDARDS
The information given in this paragraph has been extracted from the
International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals (IRPTC) legal
file.
The reader should be aware that regulatory decisions about chemicals
taken in a certain country can only be fully understood in the
framework of the legislation of that country. A full reference to the
original national document from which the information was extracted
can be obtained from the IRPTC.a
When no effective date appears in the IRPTC legal file, the year of
the reference from which the data are taken is shown, indicated by
(r).
7.1 Exposure Limit Values
See following table.
7.2 Specific Restrictions
In the United Kingdom, 2,4-D is approved as a systemic herbicide, and
specified uses, limitations, and safety precautions are listed. The
herbicide is also approved for use in or near water, unless applied
within 3 weeks from the start of irrigation, and is approved for
application by ULV equipment (1983 (r)). In Sweden, aerial spraying of
certain preparations comprising 2,4-D is permitted against certain
pests (1984 (r)). In the Federal Republic of Germany, the handling of
2,4-D is prohibited or restricted for adolescents and pregnant or
nursing women (effective date: 1980).
7.3 Labelling, Packaging, and Transport
The European Community legislation requires labelling as dangerous
substance using the symbol:
a International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals, Palais des
Nations, 1211 Geneva 10, Switzerland (Telephone No. 988400-985850).
The label must read: harmful by inhalation, in contact with skin, and
if swallowed; keep away from food, drink, and animal feeding stuffs -
keep out of reach of children.
The European Community legislation on labelling of pesticide
preparations classifies 2,4-D in Class IId for the purpose of
determining the label for preparations containing 2,4-D and other
active ingredients (1976 (r)).
The United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous
Goods classifies 2,4-D as a poisonous substance (Class 6.1) with minor
danger for packing purposes (Packing Group III). Packaging methods and
a label are recommended (1982 (r)). The recommended label is:
7.4 Waste Disposal
In the USA, any solid waste (from manufacturing facilities),
containing this substance, must be listed as hazardous waste (subject
to handling, transport, treatment, storage, and disposal regulation
and permit and notification requirements), unless it is found that the
waste cannot pose a threat to human health or the environment when
improperly managed (effective date: 1980). An owner or operator of a
hazardous waste incinerator must achieve 99.99% destruction and
removal efficiency for this substance if it is designated as a
principal organic hazardous constituent in its EPA permit (effective
date: 1981). An owner or operator of certain specified types of
hazardous waste, storage, treatment, or disposal facilities must
install a groundwater monitoring system and periodically report on the
concentrations of the substance (effective date: 1980). Facilities
disposing of commercial (non-domestic) solid waste must not
contaminate an underground drinking-water source by causing the
concentration of 2,4-D in groundwater to exceed 0.1 mg/litre, or by
causing any increase if that level is already exceeded (effective
date: 1979).
Permits are required for the discharge of 2,4-D from any point-source
into USA waters (1981 (r)).
7.5 Other Measures
The European Community legislation on the discharge of dangerous
substances into the aquatic environment prohibits the discharge of
2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid into groundwater. For other waters, it
requires that national authorities give specific discharge
authorizations with discharge conditions (total quantity and
concentration).
SOME EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit descriptiona,b Value Effective
organization date
AIR Occupational Argentina Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1979
-- TWA 10 mg/m3
-- STEL 20 mg/m3
Australia Threshold limit value (TLV) 1983 (r)
-- TWA 10 mg/m3
Belgium Threshold limit value (TLV) 10 mg/m3
Finland Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1982 (r)
-- TWA 10 mg/m3
Germany, Federal Maximum work-site concentration (MAK) 1985 (r)
Republic of -- 8-h TWA 10 mg/m3
-- STEL (30 min, 50 mg/m3
2 × per shift) (average value)
Hungary Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1978 (r)
-- TWA 1 mg/m3
-- STEL (30 min) 2 mg/m3
Netherlands Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1985 (r)
-- TWA 10 mg/m3
Romania Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1975 (r)
-- TWA 5 mg/m3
-- Ceiling value 10 mg/m3
SOME EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES (cont'd).
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit descriptiona,b Value Effective
organization date
Switzerland Maximum work-site concentration (MAK) 1984 (r)
-- TWA 10 mg/m3
United Recommended limit 1985 (r)
Kingdom -- TWA 10 mg/m3
-- STEL 20 mg/m3
USA (OSHA) Permissible exposure limit (PEL) 1974
-- TWA 10 mg/m3
USSR Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1977
-- Ceiling value for aerosols 1 mg/m3
Yugoslavia Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1971 (r)
-- TWA 10 mg/m3
WATER Drinking-, Bottled USA Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 0.1 mg/litre 1981 (r)
Drinking- WHO Guideline level 0.1 mg/litre 1983 (r)
Ambient Mexico Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 0.01 mg/litre 1973
(coastal waters)
Ambient (estuaries) Mexico Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 0.1 mg/litre 1973
FOOD Brazil Acceptable levels -- in specified plant 1984 (r)
products (security interval: 30 days) 0.05-2 mg/kg
SOME EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES (cont'd).
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit descriptiona,b Value Effective
organization date
FAG/WHO Acceptable daily intake (ADI) 0.3 mg/kg 1981 (r)
body weight
FAG/WHO Maximum residue limit (MRL) 1978 (r)
-- in specified plant products 0.05-5 mg/kg 1981 (r)
Germany, Federal Maximum residue limit (MRL) 1984
Republic of -- in specified plant products 2 mg/kg
-- generally, in other plant products 0.1 mg/kg
Kenya Maximum limit 1978 (r)
-- in specified food products 0.2 mg/kg
Sweden Maximum tolerable concentration (MTC) 1985
-- in specified plant products 0.1-2 mg/kg
USA Acceptable residue limits (ARE) 1982 (r)
-- in specified plant products 0.05-5 mg/kg
USA Acceptable residues limit (ARE) 1981 (r)
-- In raw agriculture:
-- in specified plant products 0.1-1000 mg/kg
-- in specified animal products 0.05-2 mg/kg
-- in specified fish products 1 mg/kg
1981 (r)
SOME EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES (cont'd).
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit descriptiona,b Value Effective
organization date
USA Residue tolerance
-- in specified food products 2-5 mg/kg
USSR Acceptable daily intake (ADI) 1983
(prohibited in all food products) 0.001 mg/kg
SOIL USSR Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 0.1 mg/kg 1984
a TWA = time-weighted average over one working day (usually 8 h). b STEL = short-term exposure limit.