Methyl Bromide
CAS Number: 74-83-9
Sources of exposure:
Soil fumigation, structural fumigation, commodity fumigation, shipping and storage facilities
Description:
Methyl bromide is a volatile halogenated compound used as a fumigant to control insects, nematodes, fungi, and other pests in soil, stored commodities, and structures. It has historically been used in agricultural soil treatments and continues to have certain specialized fumigation applications. Potential exposure may occur through fumigant emissions, occupational handling, or proximity to treated facilities.
Health concerns:
Cancer
Known or suspected to increase cancer risk in humans.
Reproductive Toxicity
May alter hormone function and harm reproduction.
Developmental Toxicity
May impact fetal development and birth outcomes.
Neurotoxicity
May impact brain function or development.
Organ System Toxicity
May cause organ damage and disease.
Respiratory Toxicity & Asthmagens
May damage the lungs or trigger asthma.
Irritant
May cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation.
Ecotoxicity
May be toxic to ecosystems and wildlife.
Banned/restricted lists:
- California Proposition 65 - OEHHA - developmental
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II - Prohibited
References
- US Environmental Protection Agency. Cheminformatics Modules, Computational Toxicology and Exposure Informatics (CompTox). California Department of Public Health. California Safe Cosmetics Reportable Ingredients List.