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Chemical compound: Sulfuryl Fluoride

Sulfuryl fluoride functions as both a structural and common fumigant, effectively combating a broad range of pests such as termites, powder post beetles, old house borers, bed bugs, carpet beetles, clothes moths, cockroaches, and rats and mice.

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Toxic Fluorine Compound: An Overview of Sulfuryl Fluoride
Toxic Fluorine Compound: An Overview of Sulfuryl Fluoride

Chemical compound: Sulfuryl Fluoride

In a move to enhance public safety, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has amended the labels for all sulfuryl fluoride products registered for residential use, effective from July 11, 2024 [1]. This decision follows a comprehensive review of the pesticide's use and safety measures.

Sulfuryl Fluoride, a colourless and odourless gas, is commonly used for pest control in various settings, including residential properties. It is a restricted use pesticide (RUP) and is registered for use in buildings, construction materials, furnishings, vehicles, dwellings, and food commodities [2].

The EPA has implemented a series of measures to ensure the safe use of sulfuryl fluoride in residential sites. These measures include sealing the structure before fumigation, posting warning signs, restricting access, carrying safety kits, and adhering to specific safety instructions as mandated by the pesticide registration [3].

The sealing of the structure is crucial to maintain the fumigant concentration as recommended by the manufacturer. Warning signs, printed in red on a white background, must be clearly visible at all entrances to the fumigated area. These signs include the word “DANGER—FUMIGATION” in letters at least two inches high, a skull and crossbones symbol at least one inch high, the fumigant name in letters at least one-half inch high, the date and time the fumigant was injected, and the name, address, and phone number of the registered fumigation company [3].

Treated structures must be secured against entry during the exposure period and after ventilation until declared safe for re-occupancy by a licensed supervisor [3]. Fumigating crews are required to carry safety kits containing protective equipment as directed by the fumigant's label and regulatory requirements [3].

It is important to note that sulfuryl fluoride is highly toxic by inhalation, potentially causing severe symptoms such as nausea, respiratory irritation, or worse. Chloropicrin, used as a warning agent for sulfuryl fluoride, causes smarting of the eyes, tears, discomfort, and has a pungent odour [1].

The EPA has been proactive in addressing concerns related to sulfuryl fluoride. In December 2009, they issued the final work plan for sulfuryl fluoride registration review, and in September 2010, a data call-in was issued [1]. In May 2021, they released the Draft Interim Re-Entry Mitigation Measures and three draft risk assessments for sulfuryl fluoride [1]. The EPA amended the mitigation measures by adding clarification on the clearance devices listed on their website in the same year [1].

In December 2016, the EPA's Office of Inspector General (OIG) issued a report titled "Additional Measures Can Be Taken to Prevent Deaths and Serious Injuries From Residential Fumigations" [1]. The OIG has a response related to sulfuryl fluoride, and Stewardship Plans and Sulfuryl Fluoride Site-Specific Structural Fumigation Site Logs are also mentioned [1].

The EPA published the Updated Label Language for the Sulfuryl Fluoride Revised Mitigation and Response to Comments on the Draft Interim Re-Entry Mitigation Measures Memorandum in June 2023 [1]. They have also provided a Registration Review Schedule for sulfuryl fluoride [1]. Furthermore, Sulfuryl fluoride Clearance Devices and Guidance on Sulfuryl Fluoride Clearance Device Testing are available [1].

Sulfuryl fluoride is a replacement for methyl bromide and is the only structural fumigant with residential uses [2]. The EPA's ongoing efforts demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the safe and environmentally responsible use of this pesticide.

References: 1. EPA Website 2. EPA Website 3. EPA Website

  1. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has amended the labels for all sulfuryl fluoride products registered for residential use, mandating changes effective from July 11, 2024.
  2. Sulfuryl fluoride, a restricted use pesticide (RUP), is used in various settings for pest control, including residential properties.
  3. The EPA has implemented multiple safety measures for the safe use of sulfuryl fluoride in residential sites, such as sealing the structure before fumigation and posting warning signs.
  4. These warning signs, clearly visible at all entrances to the fumigated area, include the phrase "DANGER—FUMIGATION" and specific details about the fumigant, the fumigation company, and the date and time of fumigation.
  5. Treated structures must be secured and not entered during the exposure period and after ventilation until declared safe for re-occupancy by a licensed supervisor.
  6. Fumigating crews are required to carry safety kits containing protective equipment as directed by the pesticide label and regulatory requirements.
  7. The EPA has been proactive in addressing concerns related to sulfuryl fluoride, issuing various reports, work plans, and recommendations to ensure its safe and environmentally responsible use in the home-and-garden, business, and health-and-wellness industries, among others.

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