Phorate

H300: Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H310: Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H400: Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P262, P264, P270, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P316, P321, P330, P361+P364, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H300+H310+H330 (67.2%): Fatal if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, dermal; acute toxicity, inhalation]

H300 (100%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H310 (100%): Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H330 (67.2%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H400 (100%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (100%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P260, P262, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P284, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P320, P321, P330, P361+P364, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 58 reports by companies from 4 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

Not Classified

H330: Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H361: Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P203, P260, P262, P264, P270, P271, P280, P284, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P308+P316, P316, P318, P319, P320, P321, P330, P361+P364, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Refer for medical attention .

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Give one or two glasses of water to drink. Refer for medical attention .

Note: Phorate is a cholinesterase inhibitor.

Signs and Symptoms of Acute Phorate Exposure: Acute exposure to phorate may produce the following signs and symptoms: pinpoint pupils, blurred vision, headache, dizziness, muscle spasms, and profound weakness. Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, seizures, and coma may also occur. The heart rate may decrease following oral exposure or increase following dermal exposure. Chest pain may be noted. Hypotension (low blood pressure) may occur, although hypertension (high blood pressure) is not uncommon. Dyspnea (shortness of breath) may be followed by respiratory collapse. Giddiness is common.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to phorate may require decontamination and life support for the victims. Emergency personnel should wear protective clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Air-purifying or supplied-air respiratory equipment should also be worn, as necessary. Rescue vehicles should carry supplies such as plastic sheeting and disposable plastic bags to assist in preventing spread of contamination.

Inhalation Exposure:

1. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to phorate.

2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

3. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

4. Transport to a health care facility.

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self- exposure to phorate.

3. Remove contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

4. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.

5. Wash exposed skin areas three times with soap and water.

6. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

7. Transport to a health care facility.

Ingestion Exposure:

1. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

2. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

3. Vomiting may be induced with syrup of Ipecac. If elapsed time since ingestion of phorate is unknown or suspected to be greater than 30 minutes, do not induce vomiting and proceed to Step

4.Ipecac should not be administered to children under 6 months of age.Warning: Ingestion of phorate may result in sudden onset of seizures or loss of consciousness. Syrup of Ipecac should be administered only if victims are alert, have an active gag-reflex, and show no signs of impending seizure or coma. If ANY uncertainty exists, proceed to Step

4.The following dosages of Ipecac are recommended: children up to 1 year old, 10 mL (1/3 oz); children 1 to 12 years old, 15 mL (1/2 oz); adults, 30 mL (1 oz). Ambulate (walk) the victims and give large quantities of water. If vomiting has not occurred after 15 minutes, Ipecac may be readministered. Continue to ambulate and give water to the victims. If vomiting has not occurred within 15 minutes after second administration of Ipecac, administer activated charcoal.

4. Activated charcoal may be administered if victims are conscious and alert. Use 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) for children, 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) for adults, with 125 to 250 mL (1/2 to 1 cup) of water.

5. Promote excretion by administering a saline cathartic or sorbitol to conscious and alert victims. Children require 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) of cathartic; 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) is recommended for adults.

6. Transport to a health care facility. (EPA, 1998)

(General first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: Soap flush immediately - If this chemical contacts the skin, immediately flush the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water. If irritation persists after washing, get medical attention.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

(Non-Specific -- Organophosphorous Pesticide) Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus. Move container from fire area if you can do it without risk. Fight fire from maximum distance. Dike fire control water for later disposal; do not scatter the material.

(Non-Specific -- Organophosphorous Pesticide) Extinguish with dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, fog, or foam. (EPA, 1998)

Use water spray, foam, powder, carbon dioxide.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may be ineffective. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use "alcohol" foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide. /Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic/

If material on fire or involved in fire: Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. (Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty.) /Organophosphorus pesticides, solid, toxic/

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Personal protection: gas-tight chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Environmental considerations: Air spill: Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors. /Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticides, solid, toxic/

Environmental considerations: Water spill: Use natural barriers or oil spill control booms to limit spill travel. Remove trapped material with suction hoses. /Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticides, solid, toxic/

Environmental considerations: Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, holding area to contain liquid or solid material. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash, cement powder, or commercial sorbents. /Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticides, solid, toxic/

Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent and remove to safe place. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Gas-tight chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus.

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number P094, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

Potential candidate for liquid injection incineration with a temperature range of 650-1600 °C and residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds. Also, a candidate for rotary kiln incineration with a temperature range of 820 to 1600 °C with regidence times for liquids and gases: seconds; solids: hours. Also, a candidate for fluidized bed incineration with a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C with residence times for liquids and gases: seconds; solids: longer.

Mix phorate with excess calcium oxide or sodium hydroxide and sand or other adsorbent... . Sodium hydroxide (or sodium carbonate) can also be added to the mixture to help speed the reactions when calcium oxide is used as the main alkali. The amount of calcium oxide or sodium hydroxide to use depends on the amount of pesticide to be disposed of and, to some extent, the concentration of active ingredient in the pesticide and the actual chemical nature of the active ingredient. ...For safety, a preliminary test should be made in which a very small amount of the pesticide and akali are mixed and observed briefly to make sure it does not react too vigorously. Sizable quantities of pesticides can be disposed of in several smaller batches, rather than all at once, for added safety. Recommendable methods: Incineration and hydrolysis. Peer-review: For large amt: Incineration in a unit with effluent gas scrubbing is recommendable. (Peer-review conclusions of an IRPTC expert consultation (May 1985))

Hydrolysis: Alkaline hydrolysis leads to complete degradation. Alkaline salts of O,S-diethylphosphorodithioate, formaldehyde, and ethyl mercaptan are non-toxic. Acid hydrolysis leads to complete degradation. Essentially the same products as alkaline hydrolysis.

Do not handle broken packages without protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water, or soap and water. /Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, not otherwise specified, (compounds and preparations, agricultural insecticides, not elsewhere classified, liquid)/

If material is not on fire and not involved in a fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Attempt to stop leak if without hazard. Use water spray to knock-down vapros. /Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, not otherwise specified, (compounds and preparations, agricultural insecticides, not elsewhere classified, liquid)/

The protective clothing should be kept in separate places where it cannot be contaminated with toxic chemicals. It should be forbidden to keep this clothing in living quarters. Protective clothing must be washed at least once a week and each time it is contaminated with pesticides. Before washing the clothing should be soaked for several hours in a calcium carbonate solution. /Pesticides/

Smoking, eating, and drinking before washing should be absolutely prohibited when any pesticide ... is being handled or used. /Pesticides/

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for PHORATE (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Caution : Phorate will form toxic mixtures of sulfur oxides, phosphorus oxides, and nitrogen oxides when heated to decomposition. Avoid sources of extreme heat.

(Non-Specific -- Organophosphorus Pesticide) Keep unnecessary people away; isolate hazard area and deny entry. Stay upwind; keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering them. Remove and isolate contaminated clothing at the site. Do not touch spilled material; stop leak if you can do it without risk. Use water spray to reduce vapors.

Small spills: take up with sand or other noncombustible absorbent material and place into containers for later disposal.

Large spills: dike far ahead of spill for later disposal. (EPA, 1998)

Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Separated from food and feedstuffs. Keep in a well-ventilated room. Store in an area without drain or sewer access. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing.

Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Separated from food and feedstuffs. Keep in a well-ventilated room.

Keep out of reach of domestic animals. Not for use or storage in or around home.

Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) [ACGIH] - Acetylcholinesterase activity in red blood cells = 70% of individual's baseline; Butylcholinesterase activity in serum or plasma = 60% of individual's baseline; Sample at end of shift; [TLVs and BEIs]

AEGL 1: Notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure (Unit: mg/m3)

AEGL 2: Irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape (Unit: mg/m3)

AEGL 3: Life-threatening health effects or death (Unit: mg/m3)

0.073 mg/m3

0.22 mg/m3

0.050 mg/m3

0.15 mg/m3

0.040 mg/m3

0.12 mg/m3

0.010 mg/m3

0.031 mg/m3

0.0050 mg/m3

0.015 mg/m3

NOTE THAT VALUES ARE IN mg/m3 , NOT ppm.

AEGLs Status: Interim

0.0036 [mg/m3]

0.040 [mg/m3]

0.12 [mg/m3]

0.05 mg/m³

TWA 0.05 mg/m3 ST 0.2 mg/m3 [skin]

none See Appendix G

See: IDLH INDEX

0.05 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction and vapor

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.05 mg/cu m (inhalable fraction and vapor), skin

Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded.

A4: Not classifiable as a human carcinogen.

Biological Exposure Index (BEI): Determinant: cholinesterase activity in red blood cells; Sampling Time: discretionary; BEI: 70% of individual's baseline. The determinant is nonspecific, since it is also observed after exposure to other chemicals. /Acetylcholinesterase inhibiting pesticides/

0.05 mg/m

A harmful contamination of the air will be reached rather slowly on evaporation of this substance at 20 °C; on spraying or dispersing, however, much faster.

The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system. This may result in cholinesterase inhibition. Exposure could cause death. Medical observation is indicated. The effects may be delayed.

Cholinesterase inhibition. Cumulative effects are possible. See Acute Hazards/Symptoms.

Tolerances are established for combined residues of the insecticide phorate (O,O-diethyl S((ethylthio)methyl)phosphorodithioate) and its cholinesterase-inhibiting metabolites in or on raw agricultural commodities as follows: bean, 0.1 ppm; beet, sugar, roots, 0.3 ppm; beet, sugar, tops, 3.0 ppm; coffee bean, 0.02 ppm; corn, forage, 0.5 ppm; corn, grain, 0.1 ppm; corn, sweet, kernel plus cob with husks removed, 0.1 ppm; cottonseed, 0.05 ppm; hop, 0.5 ppm; peanut, 0.1 ppm; potato, 0.5 ppm; sorghum, fodder, 0.1 ppm; sorghum, grain, 0.1 ppm; soybean, 0.1 ppm; sugarcane, 0.1 ppm; wheat, grain, 0.05 ppm; wheat, green fodder, 1.5 ppm; and wheat, straw, 0.05 ppm.

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Phorate:

Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

Remove: WHEN WET OR CONTAMINATED - Work clothing that becomes wet or significantly contaminated should be removed and replaced.

Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift.

Provide:

Phorate is a clear liquid with an objectionable odor. Used as an insecticide and acaricide; it is applied to plants and soil. (EPA, 1998)

Clear liquid with a skunk-like odor. [insecticide]; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS-TO-YELLOW LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Clear liquid with a skunk-like odor.

Clear liquid with a skunk-like odor. [insecticide]

Pale straw to light brown; colorless to very light yellow liquid.

Skunk-like odor

257 to 261 °F at 2 mmHg (EPA, 1998)

75-78 °C @ 0.1 mm Hg; 118-120 °C @ 0.8 mm Hg; 125-127 °C @ 2.0 mm Hg

257-261 °F

290 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-45 °F (EPA, 1998)

-42.9 °C

320 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

160 °C (Open cup)

160 °C o.c.

320 °F (open cup)

(oc) 320 °F

0.005 % (NIOSH, 2024)

Soluble in most organic solvents such as acetone.

Miscible with xylene, carbon tetrachloride, dioxane, methyl cellosolve, dibutyl phthalate, vegetable oils

In water, 50 mg/l @ 25 °C

Solubility in water: none

1.156 at 77 °F (EPA, 1998) - Denser than water; will sink

1.156 @ 25 °C/4 °C

Density 1.167 g/cu cm @ 25 °C /Technical/

Relative density (water = 1): 1.2

1.16 at 77 °F

1.16 @25 °C

(77 °F): 1.16

0.00084 mmHg at 68 °F (EPA, 1998)

0.0008 [mmHg]

85 mPa (6.38X10-4 mm Hg) @ 25 °C

Vapor pressure, Pa at 20 °C: 0.1

0.00084 mmHg at 68 °F

0.00084 [mm Hg] @25 °C

0.0008 mmHg

log Kow = 3.56

Stable at room temp.

HAS HALF-LIFE OF 2 HR IN AQ SOLN @ PH 8 @ 70 °C; MUCH MORE STABLE IN ACID MEDIUM

Reacts slowly with water.

Esters, Sulfate Esters, Phosphate Esters, Thiophosphate Esters, and Borate Esters

Sulfides, Organic

Organothiophosphates, such as PHORATE, are susceptible to formation of highly toxic and flammable phosphine gas in the presence of strong reducing agents such as hydrides. Partial oxidation by oxidizing agents may result in the release of toxic phosphorus oxides.

Incompatible with alkaline compounds and with water-containing preparations.

Water, alkalis [Note: Hydrolyzed in the presence of moisture and by alkalis].

Water, alkalis [Note: Hydrolyzed in the presence of moisture and by alkalis.]

Phorate is a cholinesterase or acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor. A cholinesterase inhibitor (or 'anticholinesterase') suppresses the action of acetylcholinesterase. Because of its essential function, chemicals that interfere with the action of acetylcholinesterase are potent neurotoxins, causing excessive salivation and eye-watering in low doses, followed by muscle spasms and ultimately death. Nerve gases and many substances used in insecticides have been shown to act by binding a serine in the active site of acetylcholine esterase, inhibiting the enzyme completely. Acetylcholine esterase breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is released at nerve and muscle junctions, in order to allow the muscle or organ to relax. The result of acetylcholine esterase inhibition is that acetylcholine builds up and continues to act so that any nerve impulses are continually transmitted and muscle contractions do not stop. Among the most common acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are phosphorus-based compounds, which are designed to bind to the active site of the enzyme. The structural requirements are a phosphorus atom bearing two lipophilic groups, a leaving group (such as a halide or thiocyanate), and a terminal oxygen.

Pesticide

Smith, C.D. and Nowell, L.H., 2024. Health-Based Screening Levels for evaluating water-quality data (3rd ed.). DOI:10.5066/F71C1TWP

Cancer Classification: Group E Evidence of Non-carcinogenicity for Humans

A4: Not classifiable as a human carcinogen.

No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).

Acute exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors can cause a cholinergic crisis characterized by severe nausea/vomiting, salivation, sweating, bradycardia, hypotension, collapse, and convulsions. Increasing muscle weakness is a possibility and may result in death if respiratory muscles are involved. Accumulation of ACh at motor nerves causes overstimulation of nicotinic expression at the neuromuscular junction. When this occurs symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps, fasciculation, and paralysis can be seen. When there is an accumulation of ACh at autonomic ganglia this causes overstimulation of nicotinic expression in the sympathetic system. Symptoms associated with this are hypertension, and hypoglycemia. Overstimulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the central nervous system, due to accumulation of ACh, results in anxiety, headache, convulsions, ataxia, depression of respiration and circulation, tremor, general weakness, and potentially coma. When there is expression of muscarinic overstimulation due to excess acetylcholine at muscarinic acetylcholine receptors symptoms of visual disturbances, tightness in chest, wheezing due to bronchoconstriction, increased bronchial secretions, increased salivation, lacrimation, sweating, peristalsis, and urination can occur. Certain reproductive effects in fertility, growth, and development for males and females have been linked specifically to organophosphate pesticide exposure. Most of the research on reproductive effects has been conducted on farmers working with pesticides and insecticdes in rural areas. In females menstrual cycle disturbances, longer pregnancies, spontaneous abortions, stillbirths, and some developmental effects in offspring have been linked to organophosphate pesticide exposure. Prenatal exposure has been linked to impaired fetal growth and development. Neurotoxic effects have also been linked to poisoning with OP pesticides causing four neurotoxic effects in humans: cholinergic syndrome, intermediate syndrome, organophosphate-induced delayed polyneuropathy (OPIDP), and chronic organophosphate-induced neuropsychiatric disorder (COPIND). These syndromes result after acute and chronic exposure to OP pesticides.

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation, through the skin, through the eyes and by ingestion.

inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Oral (L1186) ; inhalation (L1186) ; dermal. (L1186)

Convulsions. Laboured breathing. Pupillary constriction, muscle cramp, excessive salivation. Sweating.

MAY BE ABSORBED! See Inhalation.

See Inhalation.

See Inhalation. Abdominal cramps. Diarrhoea. Vomiting.

irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; miosis; rhinorrhea (discharge of thin nasal mucus); headache; chest tightness, wheezing, laryngeal spasm, salivation, cyanosis; anorexia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea; sweating; muscle fasciculation, lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), paralysis; dizziness, confusion, ataxia; convulsions, coma; low blood pressure; cardiac irreg

Symptoms of acute oral exposure may include blurred vision, headache, inability to concentrate, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, irregular heart and respiration rates, tremors, excessive sweating, confusion and convulsions. Death can occur at high doses due to respiratory arrest or lung constriction. Symptoms resulting from phorate inhalation or skin contact may occur from a few minutes up to 12 hours after exposure. Workers chronically exposed to organophosphates have shown slow thinking, memory defects, irritability, delayed reaction time, and anxiety. Symptoms included a lowering of the heart rate. (L1186)

Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, cardiovascular system, blood cholinesterase

Chemical: PHORATE

Other Poison - Organophosphate

ACGIH Carcinogen - Not Classifiable.

FAO/WHO ADI: 0.0002 mg/kg

HEAST Current

Children

General Population

Human Health Benchmarks for Pesticides - 2021 Update

LC50 (rat) = 11 mg/m3/1h

LD50: 1.0 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (L1186)

LD50: 3.5 to 6.59 mg/kg (Oral, Mouse) (L1186)

LD50: 20 mg/kg (Oral, Guinea pig) (L1186)

LD50: 5.7 mg/kg (Dermal, Rat) (L1186)

LD50: 5.2 mg/kg (Dermal, Rabbit) (L1186)

LD50: 20-30 mg/kg (Dermal, Guinea pig) (L1186)

LC50: 11 mg/m3 (Inhalation, Rat) (L1186)

LD50 Rabbit percutaneous male 93-245 mg active ingredient (as 5% granule)/kg, acute

LD50 Rabbit percutaneous male 116 mg active ingredient (as 10% granule)/kg, acute

LD50 Rat male oral 2 mg/kg

LD50 Rat female oral 1.1 mg/kg

For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for PHORATE (15 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

If the compound has been ingested, rapid gastric lavage should be performed using 5% sodium bicarbonate. For skin contact, the skin should be washed with soap and water. If the compound has entered the eyes, they should be washed with large quantities of isotonic saline or water. In serious cases, atropine and/or pralidoxime should be administered. Anti-cholinergic drugs work to counteract the effects of excess acetylcholine and reactivate AChE. Atropine can be used as an antidote in conjunction with pralidoxime or other pyridinium oximes (such as trimedoxime or obidoxime), though the use of '-oximes' has been found to be of no benefit, or possibly harmful, in at least two meta-analyses. Atropine is a muscarinic antagonist, and thus blocks the action of acetylcholine peripherally.

Airway protection. Ensure that a clear airway exists. Intubate the patients and aspirate the secretions with a large-bore suction device if necessary. Administer oxygen by mechanically assisted pulmonary ventilation if respiration is depressed. Improve tissue oxygenation as much as possible before administering atropine, so as to minimize the risk of ventricular fibrillation. In severe poisonings, it may be necessary to support pulmonary ventilation mechanically for several days. /Organophosphate pesticides/

Atropine sulfate. Administer atropine sulfate intravenously, or intramuscularly if intravenous injection is not possible. Remember that atropine can be administered through an endotracheal tube if initial IV access if difficult to obtain. Depending on the severity of poisoning, doses of atropine ranging from very low to...high... . The objective of atropine antidotal therapy is to antagonize the effects of excessive concentrations of acetylcholine at end-organs having muscarinic receptors. Atropine does not reactivate the cholinesterase enzyme or accelerate disposition of organophosphate. Recrudescence of poisoning may occur if tissue concentrations of organophosphate remain high when the effect of atropine wears off. Atropine is effective against muscarinic manifestations, but it is ineffective against nicotinic actions, specifically muscle weakness and twitching, and respiratory depression. Despite the limitations, atropine is often a life-saving agent in organophosphate poisonings. Favorable response to a test dose of atropine can help differentiate poisoning by anticholinesterase agents from other conditions. However, lack of response, with no evidence of atropinization (atropine refractoriness) is typical of more severe poisonings. The adjunctive use of nebulized atropine has been reported to improve respiratory distress, decrease bronchial secretions, and increase oxygenation. ...Do not administer atropine or pralidoxime prophylactically to workers exposed to organophosphate pesticides. Prophylactic dosage with either atropine or pralidoxime may mask early signs and symptoms of organophosphate poisoning and thus allow the worker to continue exposure and possibly progress to more severe poisoning. Atropine itself may enhance the health hazards of the agricultural work setting: impaired heat loss due to reduced sweating and impaired ability to operate mechanical equipment due to blurred vision. This can be caused by mydriasis, one of the effects of atropine. /Organophosphate pesticides/

Glycopyrolate has been studied as an alternative to atropine and found to have similar outcomes using continuous infusion. Ampules of ...glycopyrolate were added to...saline and this infusion was titrated to the desired effects of dry mucous membranes and heart rate above 60 beats/min. During this study, atropine was used as a bolus for a heart rate less than 60 beats/min. The other apparent advantage to this regimen was a decreased number of respiratory infections. This may represent an alternative when there is a concern for respiratory infection due to excessive and difficult to control secretions, and in the presence of altered level of consciousness where the distinction between atropine toxicity or relapse of organophosphate poisoning is unclear. /Organophosphate pesticides/

Pralidoxime. Before administration of pralidoxime, draw a blood sample (heparinized) for cholinesterase analysis (since pralidoxime tends to reverse the cholinesterase depression). Administration pralidoxime (Protopam, 2-PAM), a cholinesterase reactivator, in cases of severe poisoning by organophosphate pesticides in which respiratory depression, muscle weakness, and/or twitching are severe. When administered early (usually less than 48 hours after poisoning) pralidoxime relieves the nicotinic as well as the muscarinic effects of poisoning. Pralidoxime works by reactivating the cholinesterase and also by slowing the "aging" process of phosphorylated cholinesterase to a non-reactivatable form. ... Dosage of pralidoxime may be repeated in 1-2 hours, then at 10-12 hour intervals if needed. In very severe poisonings, dosage rates may be doubled. Repeated doses of pralidoxime are usually required. In cases that involve continuing absorption of organophosphate (as after ingestion of large amounts), or continuing transfer of highly lipophilic organophosphate from fat into blood, it may be necessary to continue administration of pralidoxime for several days beyond the 48 hour post-exposure interval usually cited as the limit of its effectiveness. ... Blood pressure should be monitored during administration because of the occasional occurrence of hypertensive crisis. Administration should be slowed or stopped if blood pressure rises to hazardous levels. Be prepared to assist pulmonary ventilation mechanically if respiration is depressed during or after pralidoxime administration. If intravenous injection is not possible, pralidoxime may be given by deep intramuscular injection. /Organophosphate pesticides/

For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for PHORATE (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

SRP: Workers should undergo an annual medical exam. Contraindications for work with organophosporous pesticides are organic diseases of the CNS, mental disorders and epilepsy, and pronounced endocrine disorders. Blood cholinesterase, both plasma and RBC, must be determined before work starts. In the event of prolonged work periods, this activity should be determined at intervals of 3-4 days. Persons exhibiting a fall in cholinesterase activity of 25% or more must be transferred to other work where they are not exposed until cholinesterase activity is restored. /Organophosphorous pesticides/

Measurement of whole blood-AChE is the most widely adopted method for monitoring the effects of occupational exposure to organophosphorus insecticides. Physiological variations in blood ChE levels occur in a healthy person and are seen among a population. It has been estimated that the coefficient of variation for AChE activity in samples from an individual is 8-11%, and that a decrease of 23% below pre-exposure level may, therefore, be considered significant. If the average of several pre-exposure values were available, then a decrease of 17% would be significant. It has been recommended that, if measured activity is reduced by 30% or more of the pre-exposure value, AChE measurements should be repeated at appropriate intervals to confirm the results. Depressions of AChE or ChE in excess of 20-25% are considered diagnostic of exposure but not, necessarily, indicative of hazard. Depressions of 30-50% or more are considered indicators for removal of an exposed individual from further contact with pesticides until levels return to normal. /Organophosphorus Pesticides/

LD50 ANAS PLATYRHNCHOS (MALLARD) FEMALE ORAL 0.616 MG/KG (95% CONFIDENCE LIMIT 0.367-1.03 MG/KG), 3-4 MO OLD

LD50 PHASTANUS COLCHICUS (PHEASANT) ORAL 7.12 MG/KG (95% CONFIDENCE LIMIT 4.94-10.3 MG/KG), 3-4 MO OLD

LD50 ALECTORIS CHUKAR (CHUKAR) ORAL 12.8 MG/KG (95% CONFIDENCE LIMIT 3.20-51.2 MG/KG), 3 MO OLD

LD50 RANA CATESBEIANA (BULLFROG) ORAL 85.2 MG/KG (95% CONFIDENCE LIMIT 59.3-122 MG/KG)

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for PHORATE (22 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/BIRDS and MAMMALS/ The ...mallard /duck reproduction/ study shows the ability of adult mallards to lay eggs, to produce viable embryos and to produce hatchlings is significantly inhibited when they are fed 60 ppm of the technical phorate, 92.1% a.i., for 19 weeks. /The NOEL for this study was 5 ppm in the diet./

/BIRDS and MAMMALS/ Ataxia, diarrhea, beak-sharpening reflex, polydipsia, lacrimation, loss of righting reflex, immobility, irregular heart and respiratory rates, tremors, wing-beat convulsions or opisthotonos. Levels as low as 0.09 mg/kg produced signs in mallards. This was an extremely fast-acting compound on all species tested. Signs occurred in pheasants as soon as 3 min after treatment. Mortalities usually occurred between 10 min and 4 hr after treatment. Remission took up to 2 days.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ A freshwater cat fish was exposed to sublethal concentrations of two pesticides--carbaryl, a carbamate and phorate, an organophosphorus pesticide for 24, 72, 120 and 168 hr. The alterations in the serum profile of non protein nitrogen compounds demonstrated an increase in urea, uric acid and creatinine throughout the experimental period.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ When adult Lymnaea stagnalis specimens were treated with aqueous solutions of nuvan, methyl parathion and thimet separately for 30 days, they displayed hyperirritability after 4 +/- 2 days, manifested in climbing behaviour at the surface of the water. They remained clinging to the wall of the container for long intervals without feeding. Owing to decalcification the shell became thin, fragile and semitransparent. The higher concentration of pesticides resultant into zero percent of fecundity and viability while in lower concentration the number of egg masses as well as number of egg capsules/egg mass showed significant decrease in comparison to the control groups. In higher concentration of pesticides the development was not proper but irregular and it was arrested at any stage. On the basis of relative toxicity on the mortality and other aspects of reproductive performance these three organophosphorus pesticides could be ranked nuvan greater than methyl parathion greater than thimet.

For more Ecotoxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for PHORATE (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

1.30e+01

1.60e+02

3.00e+00

1.5E+01(G)

3.40e-03

2.00e-04

Volatile

3.80e+01

4.90e+02

9.10e+00

1.5E+01 (G)

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. This substance may be hazardous to the environment. Special attention should be given to birds and bees. This substance does enter the environment under normal use. Great care, however, should be taken to avoid any additional release, for example through inappropriate disposal.

Phorate's production may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams; its use as an insecticide, acaricide, and nematicide will result in its direct release to the environment. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.000638 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates phroate will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase phorate will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 1.5 hours. Laboratory experiments indicated rapid gas-phase photolysis of phorate under midsummer sunlight conditions with observed half-lives <30 minutes. If released to soil, phorate is expected to have low to slight mobility based upon Koc values ranging from 543-3200. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected based upon a Henry's Law constant of 4.37X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization. Biodegradation studies suggest phorate will biodegrade in soils (half-lives ranging from 5 to 68 days) and in the water column (half-lives ranging from 1 to 1.5 days). If released into water, phorate is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the Koc values. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 14 and 105 days, respectively. However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. A BCF of 90 for juvenile sheepshead minnows suggests bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate. Half-lives for the hydrolysis of phorate at pH 5.7, 8.5, 9.4, and 10.25, were 52, 61, 62, and 33 days, respectively, producing diethyl disulfide, hydrogen sulfide, and formaldehyde uner alkaline conditions. Occupational exposure to phorate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where phorate is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to phorate via inhalation of ambient air, and ingestion of food. (SRC

Phorate's production may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC); its use as an insecticide, acaricide, and nematicide(1) will result in its direct release to the environment.

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values ranging from 543 to 3,200(2-4) indicate that phorate is expected to have low to slight mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of phorate from moist soil surfaces is expected(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 4.37X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 0.000638 mm Hg(3) and water solubility, 50 mg/l(3). However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization(SRC). Phorate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC), based upon its vapor pressure(3). The rate of photolysis for phorate in soil was reported as 0.3758 per day at 25 °C(5), which corresponds to a half-life of 1.8 days(SRC). Biodegradation studies suggest phorate will biodegrade in soils with half-lives ranging from 5 to 68 days(6,7).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values ranging from 543 to 3,200(2-4) indicate that phorate is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(5) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 4.37X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 0.000638 mm Hg(3) and water solubility, 50 mg/l(3). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(5), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 14 and 105 days, respectively(SRC). However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column(SRC). The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 810 days if adsorption is considered(6). According to a classification scheme(7), a BCF of 90(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate(SRC). Half-lives for the hydrolysis of phorate at pH 5.7, 8.5, 9.4, and 10.25 were 52, 61, 62, and 33 days, respectively, producing diethyl disulfide, hydrogen sulfide, and formaldehyde uner alkaline conditions(9). No significant catalytic effect was observed in the presences of several metal oxides(9). Aqueous solutions of phorate are degraded by light with a half-life of 1.1 days(3). Half-lives of 1.2 days and 1.1 days were determined for phorate in active sediment and water, respectively(9). In shake flasks tests, phorate showed more degradation in the presence of non-sterile estuarine sediment, half-life of about 1 day, than in the presence of sterile sediment, half-life of about 1.5 days(10). The half-lives of phorate in shake flasks containing a non-sterile sediment-water slurry were less than 1 day(10). The half-lives (days) of phorate in water of the Limon River, Venezula that had been filtered through cellulose acetate with 0.45 um porosity were 12.63 (dark) and 11.87 (sunlight); half-lives (days) in non-filtered water exposed to sunlight were 12.46 (open) and 11.46 (closed)(11).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), phorate, which has a vapor pressure of 0.000638 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase phorate is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 1.5 hours(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 2.5X10-10 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC), that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Laboratory experiments indicated rapid gas-phase photolysis of phorate under midsummer sunlight conditions with observed half-lives <30 minutes(4).

Degradation half-lives of phorate in various soils were: sandy loam, 7 days; silty clay loam, 9 days; and clay loam, 8 days(1). One-half of the applied phorate dosage to silt loam soil could no longer be detected after 6 days when applied to the soil surface and after 30 days when mixed with the upper 4-5 inch soil layer(2). In silt loam soil, phorate persisted beyond 16 weeks at 25 °C(3). The half-life of phorate in clay loam soil when applied as a granular formulation ranged from 5 to 10 days(4). In a field study, 67 and 70% of phorate was lost within 28 days from silty clay loam soil(5). Bioassays indicate the half-life of phorate, when applied to the top 4 inches of sandy loam soil at a concentration of 10 ppm, is about 68 days(6). In flooded agricultural loam soil, 1.7, 6.0, and 9.9% of the applied C14-phorate had been evolved as C14-CO2 after 3, 7, and 14 days incubation, respectively(7). In non-flooded soils, 1.3, 2.3, and 3.3% of the applied C14-phorate had been evolved as C14-CO2 after identical incubation periods(7). Half-lives of 1.2 days and 1.1 days were determined for phorate in active sediment and water, respectively(8). In a 1 week laboratory assay, phorate mineralization was not significantly greater in soils with a history of phorate use than in soils with no history of phorate use(9). The microbial degradation of phorate in loam soil, sandy soil, and muck soil led to the formation of phorate sulfone and phorate sulfoxide; formation was much less in sandy soil(10). Phorate, when applied at a rate of 1.25 kg AI/ha to black clay loam soils under flooded conditions, degraded quickly(11). In shake flask tests, phorate showed more degradation in the presence of non-sterile estuarine sediment, half-life of about 1 day, than in the presence of sterile sediment, half-life of about 1.5 days(12). The half-lives of phorate in shake flasks containing a non-sterile sediment-water slurry were less than 1 day(12). In studies where 32 farm soils were incubated with phorate, initial half-lives of freshly-applied phorate ranged from <1 to >16 weeks(13). Accelerated degradation was stimulated by a single application and occurred most readily at pH's >7.4(13).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of phorate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 2.5X10-10 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 1.5 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). The observed half-life of phorate in 1% ethanol (in sterile water), phosphate buffered solutions, at 25 °C is 0.60 weeks at pH 5.0, 0.55 weeks at pH 6, 0.57 weeks at pH 7, and 0.68 weeks at pH 8(2). Half-lives for the hydrolysis of phorate at pH 5.7, 8.5, 9.4, and 10.25 were 52, 61, 62, and 33 days(3). Hydrolysis of phorate under alkaline coniditions produces diethyl disulfide, hydrogen sulfide, and formaldehyde; no significant catalytic effect was observed in the presences of several metal oxides(3). In a field trial, the half-life for phorate on apple tree leaves was 0.2 days(4). The half-life of phorate on plant foliage ranged from 1.4 to 3.6 days(5). Aqueous solutions of phorate are degraded by light with a half-life of 1.1 d(6). Calculated half-lives for phorate on alfalfa and coastal bermuda grass were 3.6 and 1.4 days, respectively(7). Laboratory experiments indicated rapid gas-phase photolysis of phorate under midsummer sunlight conditions with observed half-lives <30 minutes(9).

Juvenile sheepshead minnows, Cyprinodon variegatus, after 28 days exposure to phorate had a BCF of 90(1). According to a classification scheme(2), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate(SRC). Bioconcentration of phorate from culture media by the blue green algae Anabaena sp. (ARM 310) and Aulosira fertilissima (ARM 68) was studied(1). Bioconcentration factors for phorate in Anabaena sp. were 3, 6 and 12 at 2.5, 5 and 10 ug/ml, respectively(3). In Anabaena fertilissima, at 2.5, 5 and 10 ug/ml of phorate, max bioconcentration of phorate was reached after 16, 16 and 32 hr, respectively, with bioconcentration factors of 8, 12 and 11 for the respective doses(3). Elodea nuttallii plants grown for 2 weeks in water with a deposit of C14-phorate in the bottom soil accumulated 30% of the originally soil-applied radiocarbon in their tissues; 56% of phorate accumulated in plant tissues when the insecticide was applied directly to the water(4).

In four different soils with percent organic carbon ranging from 0.087 to 0.65, phorate had an average Koc of 3200(1). Koc values of 543(2) and 2400(3) have also been reported for phorate. Phorate was found to be only slightly mobile in soil column studies(4). Phorate was less mobile in degraded chernozem and in black marsh soil, than in brown forest soil(4). According to a classification scheme(5), these Koc values suggest that phorate is expected to have low to slight mobility in soil. Phorate is most readily adsorbed to mineral solids and to silty loam and clay soils when the soils are dry(4). A soil mobility factor of 1.2 was calculated for phorate using soil column studies with Hagerstown silty clay loam (4.3% organic matter, 30% clay, pH 5.5) and Lakeland sandy loam(3.3% organic matter, 10% clay, pH 6.2)(6). A mobility factor of 1 represents no movement, while a mobility factor of 6 represents maximum movement(7). In a field study using watershed soils and their corresponding pond sediments, phorate was adsorbed more extensively by pond sediments (organic matter 1.4%, clay content 25%) than by Ca-saturated soils (organic matter 2.4%, clay content 16%)(7).

The Henry's Law constant for phorate is 4.73X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 0.000638 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 50 mg/l(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that phorate is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 14 days(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 105 days(SRC). However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column(SRC). The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 810 days if adsorption is considered(3). The presence of sediment in the water column has been shown to inhibit volatilization of phorate(4). Phorate's Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). However, volatilization is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to soil(SRC). Phorate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC), based upon its vapor pressure(1).

GROUNDWATER: Phorate was detected in groundwater samples in California at a maximum concentration of 20 ug/l and in Iowa at an unspecified concentration(1). A total of 428 pesticide samples were analyzed from 9 different sites and 14 wells between 1989-1994 from a shallow aquifer in central South Dakota; phorate was detected six times(2). Phorate was not detected in 38 wells (Jul 1994-Jun 1995) in five counties in California(3). Phorate was not detected in groundwater of the 1034 sites sampled in agricultural and urban settings in 1993-1995 in 20 major hydrologic basins of the US; the detection limit for phorate was 0.002 ug/l(4).

SURFACE WATER: Phorate was detected in Lake Erie at an unspecified concentration(1). In water samples from the River Po, Italy, phorate was detected at a maximum concentration of 3.4 ng/l in February 1988(2). Phorate was detected (maximum concentration, ug/l)in water samples from the Maumee River (maximum concentration, ug/l) (0.090), Sandusky River(0.863), Honey Creek (0.226), Rock Creek (0.090), Lost Creek (0.202), and the Cuyahoga River (0.865) between April 1983 and December 1991(3). Phorate was detected in Calabrian Rivers in Southern Italy in 1988 at concentrations <5 ng/l(4).

RAIN/SNOW/FOG: Phorate was detected in three of 146 samples of rain in the Vallombrosa and Renon forest areas in Italy in May 1988 at a maximum concentration of 0.03 ug/l(1). Phorate was not detected in urban or agricultural rain sampled in Mississippi from Apr-Sept 1995(2).

Phorate was detected in approximately 5% of Lone Creek, Colorado stream water samples receiving irrigation return flows between April 1993-April 1994, with a maximum concn of 0.6 ug/l(1). In Kansas, 1973, phorate was detected in tailwater samples from tailwater pits, used to collect irrigation runoff, at a mean concn of 1.6 ppb and 1.8 ppb, for pits serving sorghum fields and cornfields, respectively(2). In tailwater samples from tailwater pits in Kansas in 1974, phorate was detected at a mean concn of 0.1 ppb for pits serving both corn fields and sorghum fields(2).

SOIL: Phorate was detected in soil samples from 3 agrichemical facilities in Illinois at a mean concentration of 267 ug/kg(1). Phorate was detected in soil samples from the bottom of tailwater pits in Kansas in 1973, at a mean concentration of 2.3 ppb and 2.1 ppb, for pits serving sorghum fields and corn fields, respectively(2). Phorate was detected in tailwater pit bottom soil samples serving cornfields in Kansas in 1974, at a mean concentration of 9.6 ppb(2). Phorate was detected in cropland soil samples in 1972 (minimum concentration, ppm dry weight)in Alabama(0.04), Georgia(0.02), Illinois(0.40), Louisiana(0.04), Mississippi(0.03), North(0.01) and South Carolina(0.04)(3). In 1971, phorate was detected in cropland soil in Illinois at a concentration of 0.08 ppm dry weight(4).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: Phorate was detected in ambient air (max concn, ng/cu m) in Augusta, Maine (1.3), New Mexico (108.7), and Portland, Oregon (14.5) in 1971(1). Phorate was detected at a concentration of 0.13 ng/cu m in one of the ten air samples collected during a 10 day cruise up the Mississippi river in June 1994 from New Orleans, LA to St. Paul, MN(2).

RURAL/REMOTE: Air and atmospheric particulate were sampled from the Vallombrosa forest in Italy during Apr-Jun 1989; phorate was found in the gaseous phase at concentrations ranging from 0.02 to 0.04 ng/cu m; no measurable quantities were found in the particulate phase(1).

SOURCE DOMINATED: Phorate was detected in 5 out of 60 air samples taken within 800 meters of two pesticide formulation plants in Arkansas in 1971, at a mean concn of 1.2 ng/cu m(1). In air samples taken within 275 meters of a pesticide formulation plant in Tennessee in 1971, phorate was detected in 16 out of 56 samples, with a mean concn of 3.1 ng/cu m(1). The concn of phorate was 0.6 ng/cu-m and 0.2 ng/cu m, at a pesticide formulation plant and storage shed, respectively, in South Florida in 1974(1).

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number P094, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

Potential candidate for liquid injection incineration with a temperature range of 650-1600 °C and residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds. Also, a candidate for rotary kiln incineration with a temperature range of 820 to 1600 °C with regidence times for liquids and gases: seconds; solids: hours. Also, a candidate for fluidized bed incineration with a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C with residence times for liquids and gases: seconds; solids: longer.

Mix phorate with excess calcium oxide or sodium hydroxide and sand or other adsorbent... . Sodium hydroxide (or sodium carbonate) can also be added to the mixture to help speed the reactions when calcium oxide is used as the main alkali. The amount of calcium oxide or sodium hydroxide to use depends on the amount of pesticide to be disposed of and, to some extent, the concentration of active ingredient in the pesticide and the actual chemical nature of the active ingredient. ...For safety, a preliminary test should be made in which a very small amount of the pesticide and akali are mixed and observed briefly to make sure it does not react too vigorously. Sizable quantities of pesticides can be disposed of in several smaller batches, rather than all at once, for added safety. Recommendable methods: Incineration and hydrolysis. Peer-review: For large amt: Incineration in a unit with effluent gas scrubbing is recommendable. (Peer-review conclusions of an IRPTC expert consultation (May 1985))

Hydrolysis: Alkaline hydrolysis leads to complete degradation. Alkaline salts of O,S-diethylphosphorodithioate, formaldehyde, and ethyl mercaptan are non-toxic. Acid hydrolysis leads to complete degradation. Essentially the same products as alkaline hydrolysis.

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ Health: TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin. Inhalation or contact with some of these materials will irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution. /Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable/

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ Fire or Explosion: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion and poison hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water. /Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable/

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering. /Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable/

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible. /Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable; Organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for PHORATE (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

3018 152(organophosphorus pesticide, liquid, toxic)

UN 2783; Organophosphorus pesticides, solid, toxic, NOS

UN 3018; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic, NOS

UN 2784; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic, flammable, NOS, flashpoint 23 °C or more

UN 3017; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic, flammable, NOS, flashpoint less than 23 °C

IMO 6.1; Organophosphorus pesticides, solid, toxic, NOS; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic, flammable, NOS, flashpoint 23 °C or more; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic, flammable, NOS, flashpoint less than 23 °C; Organophosphorus pesticides, liquid, toxic, NOS

49 216 74; Organophosphorus pesticides (compounds and preparations), liquid, (Poison B), (insecticides, not elsewhere classified, other than agricultural)

49 216 75; Organophosphorus pesticides (compounds and preparations), liquid, (Poison B), (insecticides, agricultural, not elsewhere classified)

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.

Severe marine pollutant

Symbol: T+, N; R: 27/28-50/53; S: (1/2)-28-36/37-45-60-61

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: I