IPCS INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMME ON CHEMICAL SAFETY
Health and Safety Guide No. 40
CAMPHECHLOR
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDE
UNITED NATIONS ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME
INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION, GENEVA 1990
This is a companion volume to Environmental Health Criteria 45:
Camphechlor
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
WHO Library Cataloguing in Publication Data
Camphechlor : health and safety guide.
(Health and safety guide ; no. 40)
1. Toxaphene - standards I. Series
ISBN 92 4 151040 4 (NLM Classification: WA 240)
ISSN 0259-7268
(c) World Health Organization 1990
Publications of the World Health Organization enjoy copyright
protection in accordance with the provisions of Protocol 2 of the
Universal Copyright Convention. For rights of reproduction or
translation of WHO publications, in part or in toto, application
should be made to the Office of Publications, World Health
Organization, Geneva, Switzerland. The World Health Organization
welcomes such applications.
The designations employed and the presentation of the material in this
publication do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on
the part of the Secretariat of the World Health Organization
concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or
of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or
boundaries.
The mention of specific companies or of certain manufacturers'
products does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by the
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
INTRODUCTION
1. PRODUCT IDENTITY AND USES
1.1. Identity
1.2. Physical and chemical properties
1.3. Analytical methods
1.4. Production and uses
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1. Human exposure
2.2. Kinetics and metabolism
2.3. Effects on animals
2.4. Effects on human beings
2.5. Effects on the environment
3. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
3.1. Conclusions
3.2. Recommendations
4. HUMAN HEALTH HAZARDS, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY
RESPONSE
4.1. Main human health hazards, prevention and protection,
first aid
4.1.1. Advice to physicians
4.1.1.1 Symptoms of poisoning
4.1.1.2 Medical advice
4.1.2. Health surveillance advice
4.2. Safety in use
4.3. Explosion and fire hazards
4.3.1. Explosion hazards
4.3.2. Fire hazards
4.4. Storage
4.4.1. Leaking containers in store
4.5. Transport
4.6. Spillage and disposal
4.6.1. Spillage
4.6.2. Disposal
5. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
5.1. Hazards
5.2. Prevention
6. INTERNATIONAL CHEMICAL SAFETY CARD
7. CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND STANDARDS
7.1. Previous evaluations by international bodies
7.2. Exposure limit values
7.3. Specific restrictions
7.4. Labelling, packaging, and transport
7.5. Waste disposal
BIBLIOGRAPHY
INTRODUCTION
The Environmental Health Criteria (EHC) documents produced by the
International Programme on Chemical Safety include an assessment of
the effects on the environment and on human health of exposure to a
chemical or combination of chemicals, or physical or biological
agents. They also provide guidelines for setting exposure limits.
The purpose of a Health and Safety Guide is to facilitate the
application of these guidelines in national chemical safety
programmes. The first three sections of a Health and Safety Guide
highlight the relevant technical information in the corresponding EHC.
Section 4 includes advice on preventive and protective measures and
emergency action; health workers should be thoroughly familiar with
the medical information to ensure that they can act efficiently in an
emergency. Within the Guide is an International Chemical Safety Card
which should be readily available, and should be clearly explained, to
all who could come into contact with the chemical. The section on
regulatory information has been extracted from the legal file of the
International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals (IRPTC) and from
other United Nations sources.
The target readership includes occupational health services, those in
ministries, governmental agencies, industry, and trade unions who are
involved in the safe use of chemicals and the avoidance of
environmental health hazards, and those wanting more information on
this topic. An attempt has been made to use only terms that will be
familiar to the intended user. However, sections 1 and 2 inevitably
contain some technical terms. A bibliography has been included for
readers who require further background information.
Revision of the information in this Guide will take place in due
course, and the eventual aim is to use standardized terminology.
Comments on any difficulties encountered in using the Guide would be
very helpful and should be addressed to:
The Manager
International Programme on Chemical Safety
Division of Environmental Health
World Health Organization
1211 Geneva 27
Switzerland
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
Common name: Camphechlor
Chemical structure:
Molecular formula: C10H10Cl8 (approximately)
Common trade names: Altox, Chem-Phene M5055, Chlor Chem
T-590, Crestoxo, Estonox, Fasco-Terpene,
Geniphene, Gy-Phene, Hercules 3956,
Huilex, Penphene, Phenacide, Phenatox,
Polychlorcamphen, Strobane-T, Toxakil,
Toxaphene, Toxon 63
CAS chemical name: Toxaphene (a mixture of polychlorinated
bicyclic terpenes with chlorinated
camphenes predominating)
CAS registry number: 8001-35-2
Relative molecular mass: 413.8 (average)
1.2 Physical and Chemical Properties
Camphechlor is an amber, waxy solid with a melting range of 65-90°C.
Its vapour pressure is 3.3 × 10-5 mmHg at 20-25°C. Camphechlor may
dechlorinate in the presence of alkali, sunlight (ultraviolet
radiation), or at temperatures above 120°C. It is soluble in common
organic solvents, but practically insoluble in water (0.4-3 mg/litre).
The technical product is a complex mixture of chlorinated bicyclic
terpenes containing 67-69% chlorine by weight, which result from the
chlorination of pine resins. Camphechlor has been separated into at
least 177 C10-polychloro compounds, including Cl6, Cl7, Cl8,
Cl9, and Cl10 derivatives, using absorption and gas-liquid
chromatography.
1.3 Analytical Methods
Much difficulty has been encountered in the determination of
camphechlor residues, as camphechlor is not a single compound, but a
mixture of over 177 compounds. In addition, it is often used in
conjunction with other pesticides, and these may cause interference in
analytical procedures for camphechlor residues.
The analytical method most often used for the determination of
camphechlor in air, water, soil, and food is gas chromatography with
electron capture detection.
1.4 Production and Uses
Camphechlor, which does not occur naturally in the environment, has
been in use since 1949, and in 1975 was the most heavily-used
insecticide in the USA. Production in the USA has been estimated to
range from 22700 to 40800 tonnes per year in the past. Estimated
consumption in the USA was 9360 tonnes in 1980 and 5400 tonnes in
1982. Since late 1982, use in the USA has been limited to scabies
control on cattle and sheep, insect control on pineapples and bananas
in the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, and emergency use against army
worms and grasshoppers on cotton, corn, and grain. These uses are
restricted to certified spray operators wearing protective clothing.
Registered uses in Canada are minimal and decreasing.
Camphechlor is a non-systemic contact and stomach insecticide with
some acaricidal action. The primary crops on which camphechlor is
used are cotton, cereal grains, fruits, nuts, oil seeds, and
vegetables. Use on livestock is primarily for the control of ticks
and mites. Camphechlor is often mixed with other pesticides and
appears to act as a solubilizer for insecticides with low solubility.
Synergistic properties have been reported for camphechlor when used
with some other insecticides.
Recently, the use of camphechlor has become increasingly restricted or
has been prohibited in many countries (section 7.3).
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1 Human Exposure
Exposure of the general population is mainly through residues in food.
However, these are normally below residue tolerances. Accidental
overexposure has occurred as a result of contamination of food with
camphechlor.
Considerable occupational exposure to camphechlor may have occurred
occasionally in the past, but only a few cases of adverse effects have
been reported. Work-place exposures above the permissible level have
been reported.
2.2 Kinetics and Metabolism
Camphechlor is absorbed following ingestion and inhalation, as well as
through the skin. Detailed information is lacking on its metabolism,
probably because of its complex composition. Both hydroxylation and
dechlorination products have been found as metabolites. Excretion
takes place via both urine and faeces. A certain amount of
accumulation in adipose tissue takes place on continuous exposure.
2.3 Effects on Animals
Camphechlor is moderately toxic, the oral LD50 values in the rat
ranging from 60 to 120 mg/kg body weight. With acute oral
overexposure, it can give rise to salivation, vomiting,
hyperexcitability, convulsions, and death. It is an irritant for the
skin.
In short-term and long-term studies on animals, hypertrophy of the
liver with increased microsomal enzyme activity and histological
changes in the liver cells occurs at high dose levels (1000 mg/kg
diet), depending on the test conditions and the species tested.
Induction of microsomal enzyme activity in the rat has been found at
levels of camphechlor of 5 mg or more/kg diet. Hypertrophy of the
thyroid and adrenals and degeneration of the tubular epithelium of the
kidney have also been reported. At near lethal dosages, excitation of
the central nervous system may occur.
Camphechlor was shown not to have an effect on reproduction at levels
of up to 100 mg/kg diet in a 3-generation reproduction study on
rats, and at 25 mg/kg diet in a 5-generation reproduction study on
mice. It was not teratogenic in an oral incubation study on rats and
mice at 35 mg/kg body weight per day. It was mutagenic in a bacterial
test, but the results of a dominant-lethal test on mice were negative.
Camphechlor caused dose-related increases in hepatocellular carcinomas
in mice and thyroid tumours in rats.
2.4 Effects on Human Beings
Several cases of poisoning have been described in human beings due to
contamination of food with camphechlor or to the accidental ingestion
of camphechlor formulations. Symptoms consist of gastrointestinal
complaints followed by motor seizures. Some incidents in children
have been lethal.
Although a survey of a population of workers in a plant manufacturing
camphechlor did not reveal any cases of ill-health referable to their
employment, some illness has been reported in a few people coming into
contact with this chemical. A group of 8 women exposed to camphechlor
were reported to have a higher incidence of chromosome abnormalities
than the controls. Available epidemiological studies are not adequate
to evaluate the carcinogenicity of camphechlor for human beings.
The lethal dose for a human being is estimated to be 2-7 g.
2.5 Effects on the Environment
Camphechlor is broken down in the environment by sunlight (ultraviolet
radiation), high temperature, and by biodegradation. There are no
details on the relative breakdown of the components of the mixture.
Camphechlor is readily lost from the soil by evaporation, but, once it
penetrates the soil, it is tightly bound to soil particles and very
resistant to leaching. Its half-life in soil has been reported to
vary from 70 days to 12 years, depending on the type and condition of
the soil. In some waters, it has been shown to persist for years at
concentrations that are toxic for fish. Camphechlor is a widespread
contaminant of aquatic ecosystems.
Camphechlor is rapidly removed from crops by weathering and
evaporation.
It is toxic for aquatic species and some terrestrial species and has
been shown to bioaccumulate, mainly in aquatic species. Residues have
also been found in non-aquatic organisms.
Camphechlor has been used extensively as a fish poison to clear rough
fish from lakes before introducing game fish. The toxic effects have
not only been directly on adult fish but also, via adult females, on
the development of eggs and young. Non-target aquatic organisms have
also been affected. Some invertebrates showed long-term deleterious
effects of camphechlor poisoning. The environmental levels of
camphechlor in waters where the chemical has not been deliberately
applied can exceed laboratory concentrations that have caused death or
sublethal lesions in experimental fauna. Thus, camphechlor presents a
major hazard for aquatic organisms.
Available field data suggest that birds have been adversely affected
by camphechlor.
3. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
3.1 Conclusions
1. Although no serious adverse effects have been reported in workers
resulting from occupational exposure to camphechlor, epidemiological
studies remain inadequate, and this chemical should be considered for
practical purposes as being potentially carcinogenic for human beings.
2. For the same reason, and recognizing the limitations of residue
analysis for camphechlor, as well as the reluctance of the FAO/WHO
Joint Meeting on Pesticide Residues to issue an ADI, reservations must
remain about the safety of this chemical in food, despite the
relatively low residues so far reported.
3. Environmentally, camphechlor is a major hazard for aquatic and
also some terrestrial species.
4. Taking into account these considerations, it is felt that the use
of this chemical should be discouraged, except where there is no
adequate alternative.
3.2 Recommendations
1. Careful surveillance should be maintained over the future
production of camphechlor and the nature and extent of its use.
2. Levels in the environment should continue to be comprehensively
monitored.
4. HUMAN HEALTH HAZARDS, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY
RESPONSE
4.1 Main Human Health Hazards, Prevention and Protection, First Aid
Camphechlor is an organochlorine insecticide. It is toxic and can be
hazardous for human beings if incorrectly or carelessly handled. It
is therefore essential that the correct precautions are observed
during handling and use.
For details, see the International Chemical Safety Card (section 6).
4.1.1 Advice to physicians
4.1.1.1 Symptoms of poisoning
Camphechlor is toxic by mouth, by skin contact (especially liquid
formulations), and by inhalation of dust from powder concentrates. It
acts as a stimulant of the central nervous system.
Following accidental ingestion or overexposure, symptoms may include
headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness in the legs, and
convulsions.
Organochlorines can cause respiratory depression. They also sensitize
the heart to endogenous catecholamines, leading to ventricular
fibrillation and cardiac arrest in severe cases.
Respiratory depression may lead to metabolic acidosis, and, if
necessary, blood gases should be checked. The use of an ECG monitor
is recommended if the symptoms are severe.
4.1.1.2 Medical advice
Medical treatment is largely symptomatic and supportive and directed
against convulsions and anoxaemia. Because many liquid formulations
contain hydrocarbon solvent, vomiting should not be induced and
emetics are contraindicated. If swallowed, the stomach should be
emptied as soon as possible by careful gastric lavage (with a cuffed
endotracheal tube), avoiding aspiration into the lungs. This should
be followed by intragastric administration of 3-4 tablespoons of
activated charcoal and 30 g magnesium sulfate or sodium sulfate in a
30% aqueous solution. Oily purgatives are contraindicated. No fats,
oils, or milk should be given.
If convulsions occur, anti-convulsants should be given, e.g.,
diazepam, 10 mg, slowly intravenously (children 1-5 mg), repeated as
necessary; or thiopental sodium, or hexobarbital sodium, slowly
intravenously in a dose of 10 mg/kg with a maximum total dose of up to
750 mg for an adult. Because of their short action, these
barbiturates should always be followed by phenobarbital given orally
at 3 mg/kg (up to 200 mg for an adult), or phenobarbital sodium given
intramuscularly at 3 mg/kg (also up to 200 mg for an adult).
Morphine and its derivatives, epinephrine and norepinephrine, should
never be given.
An unobstructed airway must be maintained. If needed, oxygen and/or
artificial respiration should be given.
4.1.2 Health surveillance advice
Pre-employment and annual general medical examinations are advised for
regularly exposed workers. Special attention should be paid to liver
and kidney function.
4.2 Safety in Use
Handling liquid formulations: Wear protective neoprene or PVC
gloves, cotton overalls, rubber
boots, and a faceshield
Handling powder formulations: Avoid raising a dust cloud; wear
protective gloves and dust mask;
follow the advice relating to
personal hygiene
4.3 Explosion and Fire Hazards
4.3.1 Explosion hazards
The explosion hazard will depend on the solvent used in the
formulation, or on the characteristics of the dust.
4.3.2 Fire hazards
Liquid products containing organic solvents may be flammable.
Extinguish fires with alcohol-resistant foam, carbon dioxide, or
powder. With sufficient burning or external heat, camphechlor will
decompose, emitting toxic fumes. Fire-fighters should wear
self-contained breathing apparatus, eye protection, and full
protective clothing.
Confine the use of water spray to the cooling of unaffected stock,
thus avoiding the accumulation of polluted run-off from the site.
4.4 Storage
Products should be stored in locked buildings, preferably dedicated to
insecticides.
Keep products out of reach of children and unauthorized personnel. Do
not store near foodstuffs or animal feed.
4.4.1 Leaking containers in store
Take precautions and use appropriate personal protection. Empty any
product remaining in damaged/leaking containers into a clean empty
drum, which should then be tightly closed and suitably labelled.
Sweep up spillage with sawdust, sand, or earth (moisten for powders),
and dispose of safely.
Emptied leaking liquid containers should be rinsed with at least
1 litre water per 20-litre drum. Swirl round to rinse the walls,
empty, and add the rinsings to the sawdust or earth. Do not re-use
containers for any other purpose. Puncture the container to prevent
re-use.
4.5 Transport
Comply with any local requirements regarding movements of hazardous
goods. Do not transport with feed or foodstuffs. Make sure that
containers are in good condition and labels undamaged before despatch.
4.6 Spillage and Disposal
4.6.1 Spillage
Before dealing with any spillage, precautions should be taken as
required and appropriate personal protection should be used.
Prevent liquid from spreading or contaminating other cargo and
vegetation, and avoid pollution of surface waters and ground water by
using the most suitable available material, e.g., earth or sand.
Absorb spilled liquid with sawdust, sand, or earth; sweep up and place
in a closeable container for later transfer to a safe place for
disposal.
As soon as possible after the spillage and before re-use, cover all
contaminated areas with damp sawdust, sand, or earth. Sweep up and
place in a closeable container for later transfer to a safe place for
disposal. Care should be taken to avoid run-off into surface waters
and drains.
4.6.2 Disposal
Surplus product, contaminated absorbents, and containers should be
disposed of in an appropriate way. Camphechlor is not readily
decomposed chemically or biologically and is relatively persistent.
Waste material should be burned only in a proper incinerator designed
for organochlorine waste disposal (1000°C and 30-min residence time,
with effluent gas scrubbing). If this is not possible, bury in an
approved dump or landfill where there is no risk of contamination of
surface or ground water. Comply with any local legislation regarding
disposal of toxic wastes.
5. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
5.1 Hazards
Camphechlor is rather persistent in soil; in water, it may persist for
years at concentrations toxic for fish. It is a widespread
contaminant of aquatic ecosystems. It has been shown to
bioaccumulate, mainly in aquatic species. It is also toxic for
terrestrial organisms, and some invertebrates have shown long-term
deleterious effects.
Camphechlor presents a major hazard for aquatic and also some
terrestrial species.
5.2 Prevention
Industrial discharges from manufacturing, formulation, and technical
applications should not be allowed to pollute the environment and
should be treated properly.
Any spillage or unused product should be prevented from spreading to
vegetation or into waterways and should be treated and disposed of
properly.
6. INTERNATIONAL CHEMICAL SAFETY CARD
This card should be easily available to all health workers concerned
with, and users of, camphechlor. It should be displayed at, or near,
entrances to areas where there is potential exposure to camphechlor,
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.
Space is available on the card for insertion of the National
Occupational Exposure Limit, the address and telephone number of the
National Poison Control Centre, and for local trade names.
CAMPHECHLOR
CAS chemical name: Toxaphene-a mixture of polychlorinated bicyclic terpenes with chlorinated camphenes predominating
CAS registry number: 8001-35-2
RTECS registry number: XW5250000
Molecular formula: C10H10Cl8, approximately
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
Melting range (°C) 65 - 90 Camphechlor is an amber, waxy solid with
Vapour pressure (mmHg at 20-25°C) 3.3 × 10-5 a mild terpene-like odour; it is
Relative molecular mass 413.8 dehydrochlorinated by heat, strong sunlight, and
(approximately) certain catalysts, e.g., iron; in the absence
Solubility: of moisture, it is non-corrosive; it is a
in water (mg/litre) 0.4 - 3 (practically non-systemic contact and stomach insecticide
insoluble) with some acaricidal action, often used in
in most organic solvents readily soluble combination with other pesticides
HAZARDS/SYMPTOMS PREVENTION AND PROTECTION FIRST AID
GENERAL: Potential human
carcinogen; on repeated exposure
camphechlor can accumulate in
the body
SKIN: Overexposure may cause Avoid skin contact; wear Remove contaminated clothing
poisoning protective clothing, PVC immediately; wash skin with water
or neoprene gloves, and soap
rubber boots
EYES: Irritation, redness Wear face-shield or Flush with clean water for 15 minutes;
goggles if irritation persists, seek medical
attention
INHALATION: Dust may irritate Wear dust mask
INGESTION: Unlikely occupational Do not eat, drink, or
hazard smoke during work
Accidental or intentional ingestion Obtain medical attention immediately; do
may cause poisoning not induce vomiting; keep patient at rest
lying face downward; ensure clear
airway; fat, milk, or oil should not be
given
ENVIRONMENT: Toxic for aquatic Do not spill on animal feed
and terrestrial life; bioaccumulates or in waterways
SPILLAGE STORAGE FIRE AND EXPLOSION
Take appropriate personal Products should be stored in Liquid products will burn and emulsifiable
precautions; prevent liquid from locked buildings, preferably concentrates are miscible with water;
spreading or contaminating other cargo, dedicated to insecticides extinguish fires with alcohol-resistant
vegetation, or waterways, with a foam, carbon dioxide, or powder; with
barrier of the most suitable sufficient burning or external heat,
available material, e.g., earth or sand camphechlor will decompose, emitting toxic
fumes; fire-fighters should wear protective
Absorb spilled liquid with Keep products out of reach of clothing and self-contained breathing
sawdust, sand, or earth; sweep up and children and unauthorized apparatus; confine the use of water spray to
place it in a closeable container personnel; do not store near the cooling of unaffected stock, thus
for later safe disposal foodstuffs or animal feed avoiding polluted run-off from the site
WASTE DISPOSAL NATIONAL INFORMATION
Camphechlor is not readily UN No. 2761, 2762, 2995, 2996
decomposed chemically or biologically
and is relatively persistent;
waste material should be burned National Occupational Exposure Limit:
in a proper incinerator designed
for organochlorine waste disposal;
if this is not possible, bury in
an approved dump or landfill where National Poison Control Centre:
there is no risk of contamination
of surface or ground water;
comply with any local legislation
regarding disposal of toxic wastes Local trade names:
7. CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND STANDARDS
The information given in this section has been extracted from the
International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals (IRPTC) legal
file and other United Nations sources. Its intention is to give the
reader a representative but not exhaustive overview of current
regulations, guidelines, and standards.
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. The regulations and
guidelines of all countries are subject to change and should always be
verified with the appropriate regulatory authorities before
application.
7.1 Previous Evaluations by International Bodies
Camphechlor was evaluated by the FAO/WHO Joint Meeting on Pesticide
Residues (JMPR) in 1968 and 1973. In 1973, the meeting concluded that
it could not establish an ADI for a material that varied in
composition according to the method of manufacture.
IARC (1979) evaluated the carcinogenic hazard resulting from exposure
to camphechlor and concluded that "there is sufficient evidence that
toxaphene is carcinogenic in mice and rats. In the absence of
adequate data in humans, it is reasonable, for practical purposes, to
regard toxaphene as if it presented a carcinogenic risk to humans".
A data sheet on camphechlor (No. 20) is available from WHO/FAO
(1975-89) in their series "Data Sheets on Pesticides".
7.2 Exposure Limit Values
Some exposure limit values are given in the table on pp. 26-30.
When no effective date appears in the IRPTC legal file, the year of
the reference from which the data are taken is indicated by (r).
7.3 Specific Restrictions
The use and sale of toxaphene for agriculture is prohibited in the
EEC, Singapore, and Thailand. It cannot be imported in Singapore or
Thailand. Its registration is prohibited in Ecuador. In the German
Democratic Republic, it must not be used to treat crops that will be
fed to milking-cows or on certain food plants. In Switzerland and
Yugoslavia, its use is severely restricted.
In the Federal Republic of Germany, toxaphene is prohibited for use as
a plant protectant, but can be used in a restricted way to treat farm
animals against parasites. In the USA, most uses of toxaphene have
been cancelled and farms producing certain types of tobacco must file
a report showing when the substance was applied.
7.4 Labelling, Packaging, and Transport
The United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transportation of
Dangerous Goods classified camphechlor in:
- Hazard Class 6.1: poisonous substance
- Packing Group III: a substance presenting a relatively low
risk of poisoning in transport
(camphechlor concentrations 40% solid or
15% liquid)
The label should be as follows:
The bottom half of the label should bear the inscription:
harmful, stow away from foodstuffs.
EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit description Value Effective
organization date
AIR Workplace Australia Threshold limit value (TLV)
- Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.5 mg/m3 1986 (r)
(skin absorption)
Belgium Threshold limit value (TLV)
(skin absorption) 0.5 mg/m3 1986 (r)
Germany, Maximum worksite concentration (MAK)
Federal - 8-h time-weighted average (TWA) 0.5 mg/m3 1985
Republic of - Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 5 mg/m3
(30 min, average value, 1 × /shift)
(cutaneous absorption) (applies
when containing 60% chlorine)
Finland Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1986 (r)
- Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.5 mg/m3
(skin absorption)
Italy Threshold limit value (TLV)
(skin absorption) 0.5 mg/m3 1986 (r)
(carcinogen)
AIR Workplace Netherlands Maximum limit
- Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.5 mg/m3 1986 (r)
(skin absorption)
Romania Maximum permitted concentration (MPC) 1986 (r)
- Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3 mg/m3
- Ceiling value 0.5 mg/m3
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit description Value Effective
organization date
AIR Workplace Switzerland Maximum worksite concentration (MAK)
- Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.5 mg/m3 1986 (r)
(skin absorption)
USA Permissible exposure limit (PEL) 1974
- Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.5 mg/m3
(skin absorption)
USA Threshold limit value (TLV) 1984
- Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.5 mg/m3
- Short-term exposure level (STEL) 1 mg/m3
(skin absorption)
Yugoslavia Maximum allowable concentration (MAC)
- Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.5 mg/m3 1986 (r)
AIR Ambient USSR Preliminary safety level 1983
- 1 × /day 0.007 mg/m3
WATER Ambient Mexico Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1973
- In receiving waters used for 0.005 mg/litre
drinking-water supply with
conventional treatment as well as with
disinfection only and recreation
- In coastal waters 0.003 mg/litre
- In estuaries 0.03 mg/litre
WATER Surface USSR Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1973
- Surface water for fishing 0 mg/litre
WATER Drinking- USA Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1981
- Bottled water intended for human 0.005 mg/litre
consumption
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit description Value Effective
organization date
FEED USSR Maximum residue limit (MRL) 1981
- dairy cattle 0 mg/kg
- fattening cattle 0.25 mg/kg
FEED/FOOD USA Acceptable residue limit (ARL)
(interim tolerance limits in/on
raw agricultural products)
- in milk 0.05 mg/kg 1981
- in alfalfa hay 1 mg/kg
FEED/FOOD USA Acceptable residue limit (ARL) 1981
(raw agricultural products)
- In specified plant and animal 0.1-7 mg/kg
products
FOOD Brazil Acceptable limit
- Plant (specified) 0.3-7 mg/kg 1980
(safety interval: 30 days)
FOOD Animal EEC Maximum residue limit (MRL) 1978
- Plant (general) 0.4 mg/kg
FAO/WHO Guideline level
- Fat of meat of specified animals 5 mg/kg 1978
- Specified plant products 0.5-2 mg/kg
- Milk and milk products (fat bases) 0.5 mg/kg
Germany, Maximum residue limit (MRL) 1984
Federal - Specified animal origin 0.4 mg/kg
Republic of (mg/kg lipid weight of
toxaphene with 67-69% chlorine)
- Plant (specified) 0.4 mg/kg
- Plant (general) 0.1 mg/kg
(applies to chlorinated camphene
with 67-69% chlorine)
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit description Value Effective
organization date
Kenya Maximum limit
- Special food products 2-7 mg/kg 1978
USA Acceptable residue limit (ARL)
- In soybean oil 6 mg/kg 1981
USSR Maximum residue limit (MRL) 1983
- Specified food products 0.1 mg/kg
(pesticide prohibited in some
food products)
GOODS Germany, Maximum residue limit (MRL) 1984
Federal - In tobacco 5 mg/kg
Republic of (applies to chlorinated camphene
with 67-69% chlorine)
SOIL USSR Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 0.5 mg/kg 1973
The FAO specifications for plant protection products for camphechlor
(technical product and formulations) advise on the composition and
purity of camphechlor and methods for checking.
The technical product shall be chlorinated camphene containing 67-69%
chlorine and should be an amber-coloured, opaque wax, free from
extraneous impurities or added modifying agents, unless otherwise
stated.
European Economic Community legislation requires labelling as a
dangerous substance, using the symbol:
The label must read:
Toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed;
irritating to eyes and skin; keep out of reach of children; keep
away from food, drink, and animal feeding stuffs. If you feel
unwell, seek medical advice (show label where possible).
European Community legislation classifies camphechlor in Class 11b for
the purposes of determining the label for pesticide preparations
containing camphechlor and other active ingredients. When solid, they
should be labelled "toxic" at concentrations greater than 33% and
"harmful" at concentrations between 1.7% and 33%; when liquid or
gaseous, they should be labelled "toxic" at concentrations greater
than 20% and "harmful" at concentrations between 1% and 20%. Member
States should ensure that pesticides cannot be placed on the market
unless their packaging, fastenings, and labels comply with the
requirements laid down.
7.5 Waste Disposal
In the USA, camphechlor (technical mixture and formulations) is
classified as a toxic pollutant for which the US Environmental
Protection Agency has set effluent limitations and pretreatment
standards; permits are required for discharge from any point source
into national waters. Hazardous waste incinerators must achieve
99.99% destruction for this substance.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
FAO (1985a) Guidelines for the packaging and storage of pesticides.
Rome, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
FAO (1985b) Guidelines for the disposal of waste pesticides and
pesticide containers on the farm. Rome, Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations.
FAO (1985c) Guidelines on good labelling practice for pesticides.
Rome, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
FAO (1986a) International code of conduct on the distribution and
use of pesticides. Rome, Food and Agriculture Organization of the
United Nations.
FAO/WHO (1986b) Guide to Codex recommendations concerning pesticide
residues. Part 8. Recommendations for methods of analysis of
pesticide residues. 3rd ed. Rome, Codex Committee on Pesticide
Residues.
GIFAP (1982) Guidelines for the safe handling of pesticides during
their formulation, packing, storage and transport. Brussels,
Groupement International des Associations Nationales des Fabricants de
Produits Agrochimiques.
GIFAP (1983) Guidelines for the safe and effective use of
pesticides. Brussels, Groupement International des Associations
Nationales des Fabricants de Produits Agrochimiques.
GIFAP (1984) Guidelines for emergency measures in cases of
pesticide poisoning. Brussels, Groupement International des
Associations Nationales des Fabricants de Produits Agrochimiques.
GIFAP (1987) Guidelines for the safe transport of pesticides.
Brussels, Groupement International des Associations Nationales des
Fabricants de Produits Agrochimiques.
IARC (1972-present) IARC monographs on the evaluation of
carcinogenic risk of chemicals to man. Lyons, International Agency
for Research on Cancer.
IRPTC (1985) IRPTC file on treatment and disposal methods for waste
chemicals. Geneva, International Register for Potentially Toxic
Chemicals, United Nations Environment Programme.
IRPTC (1987) IRPTC legal file 1983. Geneva, International Register
of Potentially Toxic Chemicals, United Nations Environment Programme.
PLESTINA, R. (1984) Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of
insecticide poisoning. Geneva, World Health Organization
(unpublished document WHO/VBC/84.889).
SAX, N.I. (1984) Dangerous properties of industrial materials. New
York, Van Nostrand Reinhold.
UNITED NATIONS (1986) Recommendations on the transport of dangerous
goods. 4th ed. New York, United Nations.
US NIOSH/OSHA (1981) Occupational health guidelines for chemical
hazards. 3 Vols. Washington DC, US Department of Health and Human
Services, US Departmnent of Labor (Publication No. DHSS(NIOSH)
01-123).
WHO (1984) Environmental Health Criteria 45: Camphechlor. Geneva,
World Health Organization.
WHO (1986) The WHO recommended classification of pesticides by
hazard and guidelines to classification 1988-89. Geneva, World
Health Organization (unpublished document WHO/VBC/88.953).
WHO/FAO (1975-89) Data sheets on pesticides. Geneva, World Health
Organization (unpublished documents).
WORTHING, C.R. & WALKER, S.B. (1983) The pesticide manual. 7th ed.
Lavenham, Lavenham Press Limited, British Crop Protection Council.