Hexachlorocyclohexane

H301: Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311: Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H331: Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

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]

H373: May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P203, P260, P261, P262, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P308+P316, P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P361+P364, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H312: Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

H362: May cause harm to breast-fed children [Reproductive toxicity, effects on or via lactation]

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]

P203, P260, P263, P264, P270, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P317, P318, P319, P321, P330, P362+P364, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal. Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-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)

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Wear respiratory protection. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Pick up and arrange disposal without creating dust. Sweep up and shovel. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": A high-efficiency particulate arrestor (HEPA) or charcoal filters can be used to minimize amt of carcinogen in exhausted air ventilated safety cabinets, lab hoods, glove boxes or animal rooms ... Filter housing that is designed so that used filters can be transferred into plastic bag without contaminating maintenance staff is avail commercially. Filters should be placed in plastic bags immediately after removal ... The plastic bag should be sealed immediately ... The sealed bag should be labelled properly ... Waste liquids ... should be placed or collected in proper containers for disposal. The lid should be secured & the bottles properly labelled. Once filled, bottles should be placed in plastic bag, so that outer surface ... is not contaminated ... The plastic bag should also be sealed & labelled. ... Broken glassware ... should be decontaminated by solvent extraction, by chemical destruction, or in specially designed incinerators. /Chemical Carcinogens/

SRP: 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 air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": There is no universal method of disposal that has been proved satisfactory for all carcinogenic compounds & specific methods of chem destruction ... published have not been tested on all kinds of carcinogen-containing waste. ... summary of avail methods & recommendations ... /given/ must be treated as guide only. /Chemical Carcinogens/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for Hexachlorocyclohexanes (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Wear respiratory protection. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided.

Precautions for safe handling: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid formation of dust and aerosols. Further processing of solid materials may result in the formation of combustible dusts. The potential for combustible dust formation should be taken into consideration before additional processing occurs. Provide appropriate exhaust ventilation at places where dust is formed.

Appropriate engineering controls: Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Wash hands before breaks and immediately after handling the product.

Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for Hexachlorocyclohexanes (15 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. For solids, prevent dust cloud and avoid inhalation of dust. (ERG, 2024)

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Storage site should be as close as practical to lab in which carcinogens are to be used, so that only small quantities required for ... expt need to be carried. Carcinogens should be kept in only one section of cupboard, an explosion-proof refrigerator or freezer (depending on chemicophysical properties ...) that bears appropriate label. An inventory ... should be kept, showing quantity of carcinogen & date it was acquired ... Facilities for dispensing ... should be contiguous to storage area. /Chemical Carcinogens/

Acute Oral: 0.003 mg/kg/day (L134)

Intermediate Oral: 0.00001 mg/kg/day (L134)

Acute Oral: 0.05 mg/kg/day (L134)

Intermediate Oral: 0.0006 mg/kg/day (L134)

Chronic Oral: 0.008 mg/kg/day (L134)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

Eye/face protection: Face shield and safety glasses. Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).

Skin protection: Handle with gloves.

Body Protection: Complete suit protecting against chemicals. The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.

Respiratory protection: Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a full-face particle respirator type N100 (US) or type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator. Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Dispensers of liq detergent /should be available./ ... Safety pipettes should be used for all pipetting. ... In animal laboratory, personnel should ... wear protective suits (preferably disposable, one-piece & close-fitting at ankles & wrists), gloves, hair covering & overshoes. ... In chemical laboratory, gloves & gowns should always be worn ... however, gloves should not be assumed to provide full protection. Carefully fitted masks or respirators may be necessary when working with particulates or gases, & disposable plastic aprons might provide addnl protection. ... Gowns ... /should be/ of distinctive color, this is a reminder that they are not to be worn outside the laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

Hexachlorocyclohexane (all isomers) appears as white to yellow powder or flakes. Musty odor. The gamma isomer is known as lindane, a systemic insecticide. Toxic by ingestion or inhalation.

White or yellowish powder or flakes

White crystalline powder

White-colored powder

Colorless, sand-like powder

Grayish or brownish amorphous solid /crude product/

Characteristic musty odor /crude product/

Varies with isomeric composition

MP: 113 °C

The different isomers differ widely in their melting points.

Insoluble in water

Soluble in 100% alcohol, chloroform, ether

SOL IN ETHYL ALCOHOL & ETHYL ETHER

Practically insoluble in water.

Soluble in benzene and chloroform.

VP: 0.0317 mm Hg at 20 °C

VP: Approx 0.5 mm Hg at 60 °C

Stable under recommended storage conditions.

Stable toward moderate heat but decomposed by alkaline substances.

Stable to light, heat, air, carbon dioxide and strong acids.

Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions - Carbon oxides, hydrogen chloride gas.

When heated to decomposition it emits highly toxic fumes of phosgene, HCl.

123.82 Ų [M+H-H3Cl3]+ [CCS Type: TW; Buffer gas: N2; Ionization: GC-APCI+; Note: in source fragment]

Technical grade contains 68.7$ alpha-BHC, 6.5% beta-BHC, 13.5 gamma-BHC

Decomposed by alkaline substances

The various isomers differ greatly in their solubilities.

Crystal structure

Formula unit

Magnetic anisotropy

Optical coefficient

Refractive index

Space group

Unit cell

Unit cell parameter

Carcinogens

Pharmaceuticals -> Listed in ZINC15

Breast Feeding; Lactation; Milk, Human; Anti-Infective Agents; Antiparasitic Agents; Insecticides

Agrochemicals -> Pesticide active substances

Active substance -> EU Pesticides database: Not approved

Organochlorine pesticide

No rapid reaction with air. No rapid reaction with water.

Halogenated Organic Compounds

Halogenated aliphatic compounds, such as HEXACHLOROCYCLOHEXANE, are moderately or very reactive. Halogenated organics generally become less reactive as more of their hydrogen atoms are replaced with halogen atoms. Materials in this group may be incompatible with strong oxidizing and reducing agents. Also, they may be incompatible with many amines, nitrides, azo/diazo compounds, alkali metals, and epoxides.

Incompatible materials: Strong oxidizing agents.

Potentially violent reaction with dimethylformamide + iron.

/N,N-dimethylacetamide/ acts as a dehydrohalogenating agent, and reaction with ... hexachlorocyclohexane is very exothermic and may become violent, particularly if iron is present. /N,N-dimethylacetamide: halogenated compounds/

There is a potentially dangerous reaction of hexachlorocyclohexane with DMF /N,N-Dimethylformamide/ in presence of iron. A similar potentially dangerous reaction occurs with carbon tetrachloride.

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Technical-grade hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) is produced as a mixture of isomers (primarily the alpha, beta, gamma, delta, and epsilon isomers). It is white or yellowish powder or flakes. HCH is used as a systemic insecticide. It is also found in special shampoos, lotions, and powders for the treatment of hair lice. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: After HCH ingestion there is a latent period varying from about 0.5 hr to several hours. Signs of hyperirritability and CNS excitation: vomiting, faintness, tremor, restlessness, muscle spasms, ataxia, and clonic and tonic convulsions. Infants and children may experience hyperpyrexia. There have been reports of postictal coma of variable duration, leading within 24 hr to respiratory failure and death. A second bout of convulsions may occur after consciousness is regained. Retrograde amnesia has been described. Pulmonary edema (with cyanosis and dyspnea) was observed in 2 fatally poisoned children. Dermatitis and urticaria has been found occasionally. Three cases of leukemia (paramyeloblastic and myelomonocytic) were reported in men exposed to lindane with or without co-exposure to other chemicals. Many cases of aplastic anemia have also been associated with exposure to hexachlorocyclohexane or lindane, and death from lung cancer was increased among agricultural workers who had used hexachlorocyclohexane and a variety of other pesticides and herbicides. All HCH isomers induced dose-dependent cytotoxic effects, lindane being the most toxic. This isomer was also able to induce significant increase in micronucleus frequency. The genotoxic test of beta-HCH showed a positive induction of micronucleus at 100 ug/L and a significant cytotoxicity at 50 ug/L. alpha-HCH was unable to induce any significant increase in micronucleus frequency confirming that alpha-HCH is a non-genotoxic agent. ANIMAL STUDIES: HCH is neurotoxic at acute doses and causes degenerative effects on chronic exposure. Marked induction and inhibition of the antioxidant enzymes, especially in the cortex and to varying degrees in other brain regions, was seen in HCH treated rats. Oral exposure to technical-grade HCH or individual isomers caused tumors in rodents at two different tissue sites. Dietary administration of technical-grade HCH (66.5% alpha isomer, 11.4% beta isomer, 15.2% lindane, 6.4% delta isomer, and 0.5% other isomers), lindane, alpha- or beta-hexachlorocyclohexane, or mixtures of various isomers caused liver tumors in both sexes of several strains of mice. In addition, dietary exposure to technical-grade HCH caused tumors of the lymphoreticular system in mice of both sexes. In animals, ingestion of technical-grade HCH was reported to induce dominant-lethal mutations in mice. It did not induce chromosome aberrations in bone marrow cells of Syrian hamsters. Dietary feeding of technical HCH at 125 and 250 ppm to rats have not shown any adverse effects on reproductive function and were comparable to control animals in a three-generation study. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: Signs of intoxication in mallards or pheasants at LD50 level include polydipsia, regurgitation, hyperexcitability, ataxia, ptosis, fluffed feathers, hyporeactivity, imbalance, slowness, stumbling, phonation, tenseness, shakiness, jitteriness, sitting, ataraxia, withdrawal, tremors, masseter tenseness, spasms, aggressiveness, fear-threat displays, backing, circuling, asthenia, tongue protruding sideways from bill (mallards), and immobility.

Hexachlorocyclohexane is a neurotoxin that interferes with GABA neurotransmitter function by interacting with the GABA-A receptor-chloride channel complex at the picrotoxin binding site, causing over stimulation of the central nervous system. It is also believed to inhibit sodium/potassium-transporting ATPases and be an endocrine disruptor. In the liver, hexachlorocyclohexane is thought to cause oxidative stress by interfering with hepatic oxidative capacity and glutathione metabolism, increasing lipid metabolism, and inhibiting magnesium ATPase activity. Hexachlorocyclohexane may also inhibit gap junction and intercellular communication, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor promotion. (L108, L109, A60)

Hexachlorocyclohexane is a neurotoxin that interferes with GABA neurotransmitter function by interacting with the GABA-A receptor-chloride channel complex at the picrotoxin binding site, causing over stimulation of the central nervous system. It is also believed to inhibit sodium/potassium-transporting ATPases and to be an endocrine disruptor. In the liver, hexachlorocyclohexane is thought to cause oxidative stress by interfering with hepatic oxidative capacity and glutathione metabolism, increasing lipid metabolism, and inhibiting magnesium ATPase activity. Hexachlorocyclohexane may also inhibit gap junction and intercellular communication, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor promotion. (L108, L109, A60)

Classification of carcinogenicity: 1) evidence in humans: inadequate; Overall summary evaluation of carcinogenic risk to humans is Group 2B: The agent is possibly carcinogenic to humans. /From table/ /Hexachlorocyclohexanes/

Cancer Classification: Group B2 Probable Human Carcinogen

CLASSIFICATION: B2; probable human carcinogen. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: Assays in four strains of mice have yielded positive carcinogenicity results for t-HCH administered in diet. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Inadequate. One case report of a Japanese sanitation employee with acute leukemia was associated with occupational exposure to HCH and DDT.

Lindane (as gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane), hexachlorocyclohexane (technical grade), and other hexachlorocyclohexane isomers are reasonably anticipated to be human carcinogens based on sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity from studies in experimental animals. /Lindane and Other Hexachlorocyclohexane Isomers/

Hexachlorocyclohexanes

Group 2B: Possibly carcinogenic to humans

Volume 20: (1979) Some Halogenated Hydrocarbons

Volume Sup 7: Overall Evaluations of Carcinogenicity: An Updating of IARC Monographs Volumes 1 to 42, 1987; 440 pages; ISBN 92-832-1411-0 (out of print)

2B, possibly carcinogenic to humans. (L135)

Not directly listed by IARC, but related hexachlorocyclohexanes are assigned to Group 2B, possibly carcinogenic to humans (L2152, L2153).

Exposure to large amounts of hexachlorocyclohexane can harm the nervous system, producing a range of symptoms from headache and dizziness to seizures, convulsions and more rarely death. Hexachlorocyclohexane is known to damage the liver, kidneys, and immune system, as well as cause blood disorders and reproductive and developmental defects. Hexachlorocyclohexane is also potentially carcinogenic. (L108, L109)

◉ Summary of Use during Lactation

Topical application of lindane can increase lindane milk levels for at least several days. Because it is potentially toxic in infants, is a persistent environmental contaminant, and possibly has estrogenic effects that could decrease lactation as well as affect the nursing infant, another agent should be used rather than lindane.

◉ Effects in Breastfed Infants

In a telephone follow-up study, 9 mothers used lindane topically for head lice during breastfeeding. One reported irritability in her breastfed infant.

◉ Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk

Hexachlorocyclohexane appears to have some estrogenic activity which theoretically could suppress lactation.

Oral (L108) ; inhalation (L108) ; dermal (L108)

Lindane is absorbed significantly through the skin. A mean peak blood concentration of 28 nanograms per mL occurred in infants and children 6 hours after total body application of lindane lotion for scabies.

Oral (L108) ; inhalation (L108) ; dermal (L108)

Oral (L108) ; inhalation (L108) ; dermal (L108)

Oral(L108) ; inhalation (L108) ; dermal (L108).

Exposure to large amounts of hexachlorocyclohexane can harm the nervous system, producing a range of symptoms from headache and dizziness to seizures, convulsions and more rarely death. (L109)

Chemical: BENZENE HEXACHLORIDE

IRIS Current

Lindane is a moderately toxic compound via oral exposure, with a reported oral LD₅₀ of 88 to 190 mg/kg in rats. It is moderately toxic via the dermal route as well, with reported dermal LD₅₀ values of 500 to 1000 mg/kg in rats, 300 mg/kg in mice, 400 mg/kg in guinea pigs, and 300 mg/kg in rabbits.

LD50: 76 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (T14)

LD50: 50 mg/kg (Dermal, Rabbit) (T14)

LD50: 125 mg/kg (Intraperitoneal, Mouse) (T14)

LD50: 6 g/kg (Oral, Rat) (T13)

LD50: 1000 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (T13)

LD50: 177 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (T13)

LD50: 100 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (T13)

LD50: 75 mg/kg (Subcutaneous, Rabbit) (T13)

Mean lethal dose of technical BHC may be about 400 mg/kg when ingested by man.

LD50 Rat oral 100 mg/kg

LD50 Rabbit sc 75 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse oral 59 mg/kg

LD50 Chicken oral 597 mg/kg

For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for Hexachlorocyclohexanes (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Hexachlorocyclohexane poisoning is treated symptomatically. Gastric lavage, followed by the administration of activated charcoal, may be performed upon ingestion. (L148)

Pentylenetetrazol-antagonistic action was a property of 4 isomers tested orally for their ability to reduce the sensitivity of rats to the convulsant action of pentylenetetrazol. Minimally effective concn of HCH in rat brain was on order of beta-HCH greater than gamma-HCH greater than delta-HCH which was greater than alpha-HCH.

LD50; Species: /Anas platyrhynchos/ (Mallard ducks) 3 month old female; oral about 1414 mg/kg /88 to 90% pure/

LD50; Species: (Pheasants) 3-4 months old female; oral 118 mg/kg (95% confidence limit: 93.6-148 mg/kg) /88 to 90% pure/

EC50; Species: Daphnia pulex, 1st instar; Conditions: static bioassay without aeration, 16 °C, pH 7.2-7.5, water hardness 40-50 mg/L as calcium carbonate and alkalinity of 30-35 mg/L; Concentration: 680 ug/L for 48 hr /technical material, 41.5%/

LC50; Species: Gammarus lacustris (Scud) mature; Conditions: static bioassay without aeration, 21 °C, pH 7.2-7.5, water hardness 40-50 mg/L as calcium carbonate and alkalinity of 30-35 mg/L; Concentration: 78 ug/L for 96 hr (95% confidence limit: 54-113 ug/L) /technical material, 41.5%/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for Hexachlorocyclohexanes (18 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/BIRDS and MAMMALS/ Signs of intoxication /to benzene hexachloride in mallards or pheasants at LD50 level include/ polydipsia, regurgitation, hyperexcitability, ataxia, ptosis, fluffed feathers, hyporeactivity, imbalance, slowness, stumbling, phonation, tenseness, shakiness, jitteriness, sitting, ataraxia, withdrawal, tremors, masseter tenseness, spasms, aggressiveness, fear-threat displays, backing, circuling, asthenia, tongue protruding sideways from bill (mallards), and immobility. Prolonged signs incl falling, sitting, using wings for pedestrian locomotion, ataraxia, and withdrawal. Signs appeared as soon as 30 min in mallards and 2 hr in pheasants, and mortalities usually occurred between 2 and 5 days in mallards and between 4 and 9 days after treatment in pheasants. Remission took up to 20 days. Emaciation, enlarged livers, and small spleens were observed on necropsy of mortalities and sacrificed survivors.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Histopathological changes in the immature ovary of Rasbora daniconius /fish/ exposed to a sublethal concentration (0.14 ppm) of benzene hexachloride for different time intervals, eg 96 hr, 7 days, 10 days and 15 days have been studied. Effects induced by benzene hexachloride are quite apparent soon after 96 hr exposure. The first symptoms reveal cytoplasmic and nuclear deformities in the oocytes. After 10 and 15 days exposure the toxic effect is severe and results in loss of most of the Stage I oocytes, degeneration of ovigerous lamellae and abnormal vacuolation in the Stage II oocytes. Vitellogenesis is arrested.

/OTHER TERRESTRIAL SPECIES/ BHC isomers (10-300 ppm) affected the growth and N-fixation enzyme activity of Spirillum lipoferum, Azotobacter vinelandii, Rhizobium astragali and R. japoncium grown on culture media. In S. lipoferum, effects on the enzyme activity were delta > alpha > gamma > beta and the effects on growth were delta > gamma > alpha > beta. In A. vinelandii, the enzyme activity was decreased by 27% and the microbial count decreased by 61% when treated with 150 ppm technical BHC. In R. astragali, a 40% decr in the microbial count was observed when treated with 250 ppm technical BHC. In R. japoncium, the enzyme activity was decreased by only 4% when treated with 300 ppm technical BHC. At 250 ppm, technical BHC slightly increased the growth /of the organism/.

3.00e-01

1.30e+00

5.50e-03

2.40e-02

2.50e-02

2.00e-01

1.50e-04

1.80e+00

5.10e-04

Volatile

3.00e+01

1.30e+02

5.50e-01

2.40e+00

2.50e+00

Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) is a synthetic chemical existing of eight isomers. Technical-grade HCH (BHC) consists of roughly 60-70% alpha-, 10-15% gamma-, 5-12% beta-, 6-10% delta- and 3-4% epsilon- isomers. BHC's former production and use as an insecticide resulted in its direct release to the environment. BHC was banned in the US in 1976 and in Canada in 1971; however, forms of HCH may still be used in some countries. If released to air, a vapor pressure range of 3.6X10-7 to an estimated 5.0X10-4 mm Hg indicates HCH will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase HCH 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 28-115 days. Particulate-phase HCH will be removed from the atmosphere by wet and dry deposition. If released to soil, HCH is expected to have moderate to slight mobility based upon Koc values of 400-3200. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected based upon Henry's Law constants of 4.3X10-7 to 4.8X10-5 atm-cu m/mole. HCH is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressures. The degradation half-life of HCH isomers was 33.9-184 days in cropped soils and 23.4-100 days in uncropped soils. If released into water, HCH is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the Koc values. There is limited data on the biodegradation of HCH under aerobic conditions in water; in contaminated underground water (anaerobic conditions), isomers had biodegradation rates of 0.003-0.011/day. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. BCFs of 327-1043 in fish suggest bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high to very high. HCHs are expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment, based on studies done with alpha- and gamma- isomers. Hydrolysis half-lives for alpha-HCH were reported as 1.2 years, 0.8 years and 30 days at pH values of 7, 8 and 9, respectively. In natural waters at pH 8 and 5 °C, the respective hydrolysis half-life of alpha- and gamma-HCH were 26 and 42 years. Hydrolysis half-lives for gamma-HCH have been reported as 936, 4331 and 92 hours at pH values of 5, 7 and 9, respectively. Since the insecticide BHC is no longer produced or used in the United States, occupational exposure to HCHs should be very low or non existent. Due to its long persistence time, extensive use of the insecticide BHC, and the propensity of HCH isomers to bioaccumulate, the general population may still be exposed to HCH from ingestion of food and to a lesser extent, ingestion of drinking water and inhalation of air. (SRC)

Hexachlorocyclohexane's (HCH) former production and use as the insecticide BHC (technical HCH, containing roughly 60-70% alpha-, 10-15% gamma-, 5-12% beta-, and 6-10% delta- and 3-4% epsilon-HCH)(1), led to its direct release to the environment(SRC). BHC was banned in the US in 1976 and in Canada in 1971; however, forms of HCH may still be used in some countries(1-2).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values of 400-3200(2-5) indicate that hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCH) are expected to have moderate to slight mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of HCH from moist soil surfaces is expected given estimated and measured Henry's Law constants of 4.3X10-7 to 4.8X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(6-8). HCH is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon vapor pressures of 3.6X10-7 to 5.0X10-4 mm Hg(6, 9-11). The degradation half-life of HCH isomers was 33.9-184 days in cropped soils and 23.4-100 days in uncropped soils(12).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: The degradation half-life of hexachlorocyclohexanes on cropped and uncropped soils were reported as follows(1):[Table#3327]

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values of 400-3200(2-5) indicate that hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCH) are expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(6) based upon estimated and reported Henry's Law constants of 4.3X10-7 to 4.8X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(7-9). HCHs are expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment, based on studies done with alpha- and gamma-isomers(SRC). Hydrolysis half-lives for alpha-HCH were reported as 1.2 years, 0.8 years and 30 days at pH values of 7, 8 and 9, respectively(10). In natural waters at pH 8 and 5 °C, the respective hydrolysis half-lives of alpha- and gamma-HCH were 26 and 42 years(10). Hydrolysis half-lives for gamma-HCH have been reported as 936, 4331 and 92 hours at pH values of 5, 7 and 9, respectively(11). According to a classification scheme(12), BCFs of 327-1043(13-14), suggest bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high to very high. There are limited data on the biodegradation of HCH under aerobic conditions in water; in contaminated underground water (anaerobic conditions), isomers had biodegradation rates of 0.003-0.011/day(15).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCH), which have vapor pressures of 3.6X10-7 mm Hg to an estimated 5.0X10-4 mm Hg(2-5), are expected to exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase HCH 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 28-115 days(SRC), calculated from rate constants of 5.7X10-11 to 1.9X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(5-6). Particulate-phase HCH may be removed from the air by wet and dry deposition(SRC).

AEROBIC: Hexachlorocyclohexane, present at 100 mg/L, reached 0% of its theoretical BOD in 2 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(1).

ANAEROBIC: Degradation of hexachlorocyclohexane isomers in anaerobic conditions incubated for two weeks in submerged Casiguran sandy loam was as follows(1):[Table#3324]

ANAEROBIC: First order biodegradation rates for hexachlorocyclohexanes were reported for contaminated underground aquifers in a study done 2008 to 2010(1). The gamma-isomer (lindane) was biodegraded, but concentrations were too low to calculate rates(1).[Table#3325]

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCH) with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals are 5.7X10-11 to 1.9X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1-2). These correspond to an atmospheric half-life of about 28-115 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). HCHs are expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment, based on studies done with alpha- and gamma- isomers(SRC). Hydrolysis half-lives for alpha-HCH were reported as 1.2 years, 0.8 years and 30 days at pH values of 7, 8 and 9, respectively(3). In natural waters at pH 8 and 5 °C, the respective hydrolysis half-life of alpha- and gamma-HCH were 26 and 42 years(3). Hydrolysis half-lives for gamma-HCH have been reported as 936, 4331 and 92 hours at pH values of 5, 7 and 9, respectively(4).

BCFs of 395-791 and 327-893 were found using carp (Cyprinus carpio), which were exposed for 10 weeks at respective concentrations of hexachlorocyclohexanes of 0.05 and 0.5 ppb(1). BCFs were 647-1043, measured in guppies (Poecilia reticulata) exposed to individual hexachlorocyclohexanes (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, delta-) for 10 days(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF range suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high to very high(SRC), provided the compound is not metabolized by the organism(SRC).

Based on reported data, the most abundant hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) isomers in the environment have Koc values of 400-3200(1-4). According to a classification scheme(5), this Koc range suggests that HCH is expected to have moderate to slight mobility in most soils(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCH) range from an estimated 4.3X10-7 to 4.8X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) using a fragment constant estimation method(1). Measured Henry's Law constant for the alpha-, beta- and gamma-isomers fall into this range with values of 4.4X10-7 to 6.68X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(2-3). This Henry's Law constant range indicates that HCH is expected to volatilize slowly from water surfaces and moist soil surfaces(4). HCH are not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon vapor pressures of 3.6X10-7 to 5.0X10-4 mm Hg(1, 5-7).

GROUNDWATER: Total hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) was detected in groundwater in 1991-1992 from a rural area of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, India at not detected to 978 ng/L(1). Groundwater from Kafr El-Zayat, Egypt contained HCH at 0.053-0.269 ppb in 1994(2).

DRINKING WATER: Hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCH) were detected in drinking water samples collected May-July 1987 in Ahmedabad City, India at 23.90-2488.7 ng/L with a mean of 256.99 ng/L(1). HCH was not detected in 12 drinking water samples collected 1992-1994 from three areas of Haryana, India(2). In tap water samples collected in 1994 from five locations of Nainital, India, HCH was found at mean concentrations of 1.183-3.782 ug/L(3). Drinking water wells in Bhopal, India contained HCH at 1.576-7.747 ppm (4.654 ppm average)(4). Tapwater from Kafr El-Zayat, Egypt contained HCH at 0.013 ppb in 1994(5). HCH was not detected in 19 source, 18 finish or 15 distribution water samples collected 2006 to 2007 from 19 US water utilities(6). HCHs were detected at 0.150-0.292 ng/mL in six different commercial brand bottled drinking water samples collected from supermarkets Nov 2007 to Mar 2008 in Mexico City(7).

SURFACE WATER: Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) was detected in surface water samples collected from 8 locations on the Nile Delta at 22.00-294.393 ng/L(1). Water samples collected May 30, 1989 from the Gallego River, Spain, downstream from a lindane factory contained HCHs at 0.109-0.544 ppb(2). In water samples collected in 1992 from Lake Baikal, Russia, HCH was detected at 56-960 pg/L(3). HCH was detected at 199 and 359 pg/L in surface water samples collected from the Russian rivers of Yenisei in 2003 and Ob in 2005, respectively(4). HCH was detected in ponds without fish and with fish at mean concentrations of 2.94 and 0.81 ug/L, respectively; samples were collected in 1992 in rural India(5). Pond water samples collected from rice growing areas in India between 1992 and 1994 contained HCH at average concentrations of 2.2-9.0 ug/L(6). HCHs were detected in water collected from five lakes in Neonatal, India in 1994 at mean concentrations of 1.340-8.656 ug/L(7). HCH was detected in lake and river samples collected Aug-Sept 2003 from Yunnan Plateau, China at 0.24-21.95 and 2.71-37.56 ug/L, respectively(8).

SURFACE WATER: Surface water samples were collected from 8 locations in Lake Burullus (LB) and 4 locations outside the lake in the Mediterranean Sea (MS) in 2006; total hexachlorocyclohexane concentrations were as follows(1):[Table#3340]

SRP: 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 air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": There is no universal method of disposal that has been proved satisfactory for all carcinogenic compounds & specific methods of chem destruction ... published have not been tested on all kinds of carcinogen-containing waste. ... summary of avail methods & recommendations ... /given/ must be treated as guide only. /Chemical Carcinogens/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for Hexachlorocyclohexanes (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/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. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water. /Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable/

/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. /Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable/

/GUIDE 131 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS - TOXIC/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. 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, uphill and/or upstream. Ventilate closed spaces before entering. /Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable; Organochlorine 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. /Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable/

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

UN 2761; Organochlorine pesticides, solid, toxic.

UN 2762; Organochlorine pesticides liquid, flammable, toxic, flash point less than 23 degrees C

UN 2995; Organochlorine pesticides, liquid, toxic, flammable, flash point not less than 23 degrees C

UN 2996; Organochlorine pesticides, liquid, toxic

For more Shipping Name/ Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO (Complete) data for Hexachlorocyclohexanes (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

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. Organochlorine pesticide, solid, toxic; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic, flash point less than 23 °C; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable, flash point 23 °C or more; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic are included on the dangerous goods list. /Organochlorine pesticide, solid, toxic; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic, flash point less than 23 °C; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable, flash point 23 °C or more; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic/

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. Organochlorine pesticide, solid, toxic; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic, flash point less than 23 °C; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable, flash point not less than 23 °C; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic are included on the dangerous goods list. /Organochlorine pesticide, solid, toxic; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic, flash point less than 23 °C; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable, flash point not less than 23 °C; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic/ Organochlorine pesticide, solid, toxic; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic, flash point less than 23 °C; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable, flash point not less than 23 °C; Organochlorine pesticide, liquid, toxic

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Procurement ... of unduly large amt ... should be avoided. To avoid spilling, carcinogens should be transported in securely sealed glass bottles or ampoules, which should themselves be placed inside strong screw-cap or snap-top container that will not open when dropped & will resist attack from the carcinogen. Both bottle & the outside container should be appropriately labelled. ... National post offices, railway companies, road haulage companies & airlines have regulations governing transport of hazardous materials. These authorities should be consulted before ... material is shipped. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": When no regulations exist, the following procedure must be adopted. The carcinogen should be enclosed in a securely sealed, watertight container (primary container), which should be enclosed in a second, unbreakable, leakproof container that will withstand chem attack from the carcinogen (secondary container). The space between primary & secondary container should be filled with absorbent material, which would withstand chem attack from the carcinogen & is sufficient to absorb the entire contents of the primary container in the event of breakage or leakage. Each secondary container should then be enclosed in a strong outer box. The space between the secondary container & the outer box should be filled with an appropriate quantity of shock-absorbent material. Sender should use fastest & most secure form of transport & notify recipient of its departure. If parcel is not received when expected, carrier should be informed so that immediate effort can be made to find it. Traffic schedules should be consulted to avoid ... arrival on weekend or holiday ... /Chemical Carcinogens/