Common Name: 2,4-D
CAS Number: 94-75-7
DOT Number: UN 2765
Date: May, 1989
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HAZARD SUMMARY
* 2,4-D can affect you when breathed in and by passing through
your skin.
* Because this is a MUTAGEN, handle it as a possible cancer
causing substance WITH EXTREME CAUTION.
* 2,4-D can cause reproductive damage.
* Skin or eye contact can cause irritation.
* Breathing exposure can irritate the throat and airways.
* Higher or repeated exposures can cause headache, nausea, poor
appetite, muscle weakness and twitching, poor coordination and
damage to the liver and kidneys.
* Exposure may also lead to a skin allergy, with rash and
itching. If allergy develops, even low future exposures can
trigger rash.
IDENTIFICATION
2,4-D is a white to yellow crystalline powder. It is a herbicide.
REASON FOR CITATION
* 2,4-D is on the Hazardous Substance List because it is
regulated by OSHA and cited by ACGIH, DOT, DEP and EPA.
* Definitions are attached.
HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOU ARE BEING EXPOSED
* Exposure to hazardous substances should be routinely
evaluated. This may include collecting personal and area air
samples. You can obtain copies of sampling results from your
employer. You have a legal right to this information under
OSHA 1910.20.
* If you think you are experiencing any work related health
problems, see a doctor trained to recognize occupational
diseases. Take this Fact Sheet with you.
WORKPLACE EXPOSURE LIMITS
OSHA: The legal airborne permissible exposure limit (PEL) is 10
mg/m3 averaged over an 8 hour workshift.
ACGIH: The recommended airborne exposure limit is 10 mg/m3
averaged over an 8 hour workshift.
* The above exposure limits are for air levels only. When skin
contact also occurs, you may be overexposed, even though air
levels are less than the limits listed above.
* 2,4-D is a MUTAGEN. Mutagens may have a cancer risk. All
contact with this chemical should be reduced to the lowest
possible level.
WAYS OF REDUCING EXPOSURE
* Where possible, enclose operations and use local exhaust
ventilation at the site of chemical release. If local exhaust
ventilation or enclosure is not used, respirators should be
worn.
* Wear protective work clothing.
* Wash thoroughly immediately after exposure to 2,4-D and at the
end of the workshift.
* Post hazard and warning information in the work area. In
addition, as part of an ongoing education and training effort,
communicate all information on the health and safety hazards
of 2,4-D to potentially exposed workers.
This Fact Sheet is a summary source of information of all potential
and most severe health hazards that may result from exposure.
Duration of exposure, concentration of the substance and other
factors will affect your susceptibility to any of the potential
effects described below.
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HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION
Acute Health Effects
The following acute (short term) health effects may occur
immediately or shortly after exposure to 2,4-D:
* Skin or eye contact can cause irritation.
* Overexposure can irritate the throat and lower airways.
Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite,
sweating, fever and diarrhea. Muscle damage with tenderness,
weakness and twitching can occur. Other effects include damage
to the kidneys and liver and effects on the nerves to the arms
and legs, with weakness and poor coordination.
Chronic Health Effects
The following chronic (long term) health effects can occur at some
time after exposure to 2,4-D and can last for months or years:
Cancer Hazard
* 2,4-D causes MUTATIONS (genetic changes). Such chemicals may
have a cancer or reproductive risk. In fact there is limited
evidence that 2,4-D causes cancer of the breast and other
sites in animals. Non Hodgkin's lymphoma have been observed in
farmers occupationally exposed to 2,4, D.
* Many scientists believe there is no safe level of exposure to
a carcinogen. Such substances may also have the potential for
causing reproductive damage in humans.
Reproductive Hazard
* 2,4-D may damage the developing fetus.
* There is limited evidence that 2,4-D is a teratogen in humans
and animals. Until further testing has been done, it should be
treated as a possible teratogen in humans.
* 2,4-D may decrease fertility in males.
Other Long Term Effects
* Skin allergy to 2,4-D may develop. If this happens, even low
future exposure can lead to rash and itching.
* Repeated exposure can lead to patchy areas of loss of skin
pigment, and to kidney and liver damage. Lung effects (airway
narrowing, emphysema) have also been reported. Thinning of the
lining of the throat (atrophy) can also occur from the
repeated irritation.
MEDICAL
Medical Testing
If symptoms develop or overexposure is suspected, the following may
be useful:
* Urine test for 2,4-D (should be done shortly after exposure
for accuracy).
* Kidney and liver function tests.
* Consider lung function tests.
* Evaluation by a qualified allergist, including careful
exposure history and special testing, may help diagnose skin
allergy.
Any evaluation should include a careful history of past and present
symptoms with an exam. Medical tests that look for damage already
done are not a substitute for controlling exposure.
Request copies of your medical testing. You have a legal right to
this information under OSHA 1910.20.
Mixed Exposures
Because smoking can cause heart disease, as well as lung cancer,
emphysema, and other respiratory problems, it may worsen
respiratory conditions caused by chemical exposure. Even if you
have smoked for a long time, stopping now will reduce your risk of
developing health problems.
WORKPLACE CONTROLS AND PRACTICES
Unless a less toxic chemical can be substituted for a hazardous
substance, ENGINEERING CONTROLS are the most effective way of
reducing exposure. The best protection is to enclose operations
and/or provide local exhaust ventilation at the site of chemical
release. Isolating operations can also reduce exposure. Using
respirators or protective equipment is less effective than the
controls mentioned above, but is sometimes necessary.
In evaluating the controls present in your workplace, consider: (1)
how hazardous the substance is, (2) how much of the substance is
released into the workplace and (3) whether harmful skin or eye
contact could occur. Special controls should be in place for highly
toxic chemicals or when significant skin, eye, or breathing
exposures are possible.
In addition, the following controls are recommended:
* Where possible, automatically transfer 2,4-D from drums or
other storage containers to process containers.
* Specific engineering controls are recommended for this
chemical by NIOSH. Refer to the NIOSH criteria document:
Occupational Exposure during the Manufacture and Formulation
of Pesticides #78 174.
Good WORK PRACTICES can help to reduce hazardous exposures. The
following work practices are recommended:
* Workers whose clothing has been contaminated by 2,4-D should
change into clean clothing promptly.
* Do not take contaminated work clothes home. Family members
could be exposed.
* Contaminated work clothes should be laundered by individuals
who have been informed of the hazards of exposure to 2,4-D.
* On skin contact with 2,4-D, immediately wash or shower to
remove the chemical. At the end of the workshift, wash any
areas of the body that may have contacted 2,4-D, whether or
not known skin contact has occurred.
* Do not eat, smoke, or drink where 2,4-D is handled, processed,
or stored, since the chemical can be swallowed. Wash hands
carefully before eating or smoking.
* Use a vacuum or a wet method to reduce dust during clean up.
DO NOT DRY SWEEP.
* When vacuuming, a high efficiency particulate absolute (HEPA)
filter should be used, not a standard shop vacuum.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
WORKPLACE CONTROLS ARE BETTER THAN PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT.
However, for some jobs (such as outside work, confined space entry,
jobs done only once in a while, or jobs done while workplace
controls are being installed), personal protective equipment may be
appropriate.
The following recommendations are only guidelines and may not apply
to every situation.
Clothing
* Avoid skin contact with 2,4-D. Wear protective gloves and
clothing. Safety equipment suppliers/manufacturers can provide
recommendations on the most protective glove/clothing material
for your operation.
* All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear)
should be clean, available each day, and put on before work.
Eye Protection
* Eye protection is included in the recommended respiratory
protection.
Respiratory Protection
IMPROPER USE OF RESPIRATORS IS DANGEROUS. Such equipment should
only be used if the employer has a written program that takes into
account workplace conditions, requirements for worker training,
respirator fit testing and medical exams, as described in OSHA
1910.134.
* At any exposure level, use a MSHA/NIOSH approved supplied air
respirator with a full facepiece operated in the positive
pressure mode or with a full facepiece, hood, or helmet in the
continuous flow mode, or use a MSHA/NIOSH approved self
contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece operated
in pressure demand or other positive pressure mode.
* Exposure to 500 mg/m3 is immediately dangerous to life and
health. If the possibility of exposures above 500 mg/m3
exists, use a MSHA/NIOSH approved self contained breathing
apparatus with a full facepiece operated in continuous flow or
other positive pressure mode.
Common Name: 2,4-D
DOT Number: UN 2765
DOT Emergency Guide code: 55
CAS Number: 94-75-7
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Hazard rating NJ DOH NFPA
FLAMMABILITY 1 Not Rated
REACTIVITY 0 Not Rated
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POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE
----------------------------------------
Hazard Rating Key: 0=minimal; 1=slight; 2=moderate; 3=serious;
4=severe
FIRE HAZARDS
* POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE, including toxic fumes of
Chlorides.
* Use dry chemical, CO2, water spray, or foam extinguishers.
* If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained
and equipped as stated in OSHA 1910.156.
SPILLS AND EMERGENCIES
If 2,4-D is spilled, take the following steps:
* Restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of
spill until clean up is complete.
* Collect powdered material in the most convenient and safe
manner and deposit in sealed containers.
* It may be necessary to contain and dispose of 2,4-D as a
HAZARDOUS WASTE. Contact your State Environmental Program for
specific recommendations.
==========================================
FOR LARGE SPILLS AND FIRES immediately call your fire department.
==========================================
HANDLING AND STORAGE
* Prior to working with 2,4-D you should be trained on its
proper handling and storage.
* 2,4-D must be stored to avoid contact with STRONG OXIDIZERS
(such as CHLORINE, BROMINE and FLUORINE) since violent
reactions occur.
* Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well ventilated
area.
FIRST AID
POISON INFORMATION
Eye Contact
* Immediately flush with large amounts of water for at least 15
minutes, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids.
Skin Contact
* Quickly remove contaminated clothing. Immediately wash
contaminated skin with soap and water.
Breathing
* Remove the person from exposure.
* Begin rescue breathing if breathing has stopped and CPR if
heart action has stopped.
* Transfer promptly to a medical facility.
PHYSICAL DATA
Vapor Pressure: 0 mmHg at 68oF (20oC)
Water Solubility: Slightly soluble
OTHER COMMONLY USED NAMES
Chemical Name:
Acetic Acid, (2,4-Dichlorophenoxy)
Other Names and Formulations:
2,4-PA; Aqua Kleen; Ded Weed; Weed Rhap; Weedone; Esteron.
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Not intended to be copied and sold for commercial purposes.
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NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Right to Know Program
CN 368, Trenton, NJ 08625 0368
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ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
2,4-D is a commercially prepared chemical. It has been used to
promote latex production from old rubber trees. It has major use
as an herbicide to control broadleaf plants in
agriculture and in urban landscapes. 2,4-D enters the
environment from agricultural and urban runoff.
ACUTE (SHORT-TERM) ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS
Acute toxic effects may include the death of animals, birds, or
fish, and death or low growth rate in plants. Acute effects are
seen two to four days after animals or plants come in contact with
a toxic chemical substance.
2,4-D has moderate acute toxicity to aquatic life. As a broadleaf
herbicide, 2,4-D can damage and kill a wide variety of plants.
Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the short-
term effects of 2,4-D to birds or land animals.
CHRONIC (LONG-TERM) ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS
Chronic toxic effects may include shortened lifespan,
reproductive problems, lower fertility, and changes in
appearance or behavior. Chronic effects can be seen long after
first exposure(s) to a toxic chemical.
2,4-D has moderate chronic toxicity to aquatic life.
Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the long-
term effects of 2,4-D to plants, birds, or land animals.
WATER SOLUBILITY
2,4-D is highly soluble in water. Concentrations of 1,000
milligrams and more will mix with a liter of water.
DISTRIBUTION AND PERSISTENCE IN THE ENVIRONMENT
2,4-D is moderately persistent in water, with a half-life of
between 20 to 200 days. The half-life of a pollutant is the amount
of time it takes for one-half of the chemical to be degraded.
About 91.7% of 2,4-D will eventually end up in water; about 3.3%
will end up in aquatic sediments; about 3.5% will end up in
terrestrial soil; and the rest will end up in the air.
BIOACCUMULATION IN AQUATIC ORGANISMS
Some substances increase in concentration, or bioaccumulate, in
living organisms as they breathe contaminated air, drink
contaminated water, or eat contaminated food. These
chemicals can become concentrated in the tissues and internal
organs of animals and humans.
The concentration of 2,4-D found in fish tissues is expected to be
much higher than the average concentration of 2,4-D in the water
from which the fish was taken.
SUPPORT DOCUMENT: AQUIRE Database, ERL-Duluth, U.S. EPA.
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