Tempo 20 wp
Encyclopedia
Tempo 20 WP is an insecticide that has been in use since the late 1980s. It is used in commercial passenger aircraft and in schools. The ingredients were considered a trade secret and not disclosed until recently. It was initially registered with the United States Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) by Mobay Chemical Corporation, a partnership between Bayer AG and Monsanto. The trademark now belongs to Bayer AG (I.G. Farbenindustrie AG), who manufactured similar products called Zyklon A and Zyklon B
during World War II.
Environmental illness caused by Tempo 20 WP can mimic common diseases, like pink eye, asthma, allergies, heart attack, stroke, influenza, bronchitis, mental retardation, Parkinson's Disease, and pneumonia.
Tempo insecticides are on the EPA restricted use pesticide list published by the EPA. Injuries have been associated with the misuse of this product and similar products.
The product consists of glass particles from 0.5 to 17 microns coated with insecticide that are easily lofted into the air by footsteps and light breezes. Glass dust becomes lodged permanently in the lungs and eyes, where it increases risk of developing cancer and autoimmune disease. Glass dust is expelled from the body slowly through the intestines and kidneys. The active ingredient is cyfluthrin, which is a synthetic neurotoxin fortified by cyanide that may contribute to immune disorders. Chronic disease process can be delayed and could take an extended period of time to develop.
Various documents indicate testing has been accomplished to verify safety for the following uses.
It is considered to be a "restricted use pesticide" due to risks associated with the following.
The Hazard Communication Standard first went into effect in 1985 and has since been expanded to cover almost all workplaces under OSHA jurisdiction. The details of the Hazard Communication standard are rather complicated, but the basic idea behind it is straightforward. It requires chemical manufacturers and employers to communicate information to workers about the hazards of workplace chemicals or products, including training.
OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) was first adopted in 1983 in the United States with limited scope (48 FR 53280; November 25, 1983). In 1987, scope was expanded to cover all industries where employees are potentially exposed to hazardous chemicals (52 FR 31852; August 24, 1987).
This is managed nationally by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. When a state has an approved plan, this is managed by that state instead.
The standard is identified in 29 C.F.R. 1910.1200.
The summary for 29 C.F.R. 1910.1200 is as follows.
Employers shall maintain copies of any material safety data sheets ...
and shall ensure that the material safety data sheets are readily
accessible during each work shift to employees when they are in
their work area(s); and,
Employers shall ensure that employees are provided with information
and training ... to detect the presence or release of a hazardous
chemical in the work area ... the physical and health
hazards of the chemicals in the work area ...
The United States Department of Defense does not manage hazards in accordance with public law.
Employers must conduct training in a language comprehensible to employees to be in compliance with the standard. Workers must be trained at the time of initial assignment and whenever a new hazard is introduced into their work area. The purpose for this is so that workers can understand the hazards they face and so that they are aware of the protective measures that should be in place.
When OSHA conducts an inspection, the inspector will evaluate the effectiveness of the training by reviewing records of what training was done and by interviewing employees who use chemicals to find out what they understand about the hazards.
The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates transportation of Dangerous Goods
within the territory of the US by Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
All chemical manufacturers and importers must communicate hazard information through labels and Material Safety Data Sheet
(MSDSs). Employers whose employees may be exposed to hazardous chemicals on the job must provide hazardous chemical information to those employees through the use of MSDSs, properly labeled containers, training, and a written hazard communication program. This standard also requires the employer to maintain a list of all hazardous chemicals used in the workplace. The MSDSs for these chemicals must be kept current and they must be made available and accessible to employees in their work areas.
Chemicals that may pose health risks or those that are physical hazards (such as fire or explosion) are covered. List of chemicals that are considered hazardous are maintained according to the use or purpose. There are several existing sources that manufacturers and employers may consult. These include:
There are other sources of information about chemicals used in industry as a result of state and federal laws regarding the Community Right to Know Act.
The Air Resources Board is responsible for public hazard disclosures in California. Pesticide use disclosures are made by each pest control supervisor to the County Agricultural Commission. Epidemiology information is available from the California Pesticide Information Portal, which can be used by health care professionals to identify the cause for environmental illness.
Under the Oregon Community Right to Know Act (ORS 453.307-372) and the federal Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) Title III, the Office of the State Fire Marshal collects information on hazardous substances and makes it available to emergency responders and to the general public. Among the information which companies must report are:
The information can be obtained in the form of an annual report of releases for the state or for specific companies. It is available on request from the Fire Marshal’s Office and is normally free of charge unless unusually large quantities of data are involved.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency
registers pesticides and insecticides as either unclassified or restricted use pesticide (RUP). Unclassified pesticide is available over-the-counter. This is a licensing program program exists in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture
and state regulatory agencies.
Two items are requited by law for all registered pesticides and insecticides.
The product label describes how to use the product.
The Material Safety Data Sheet provides specific safety and hazard information, and this must be provided to physicians in the event that the product has been miss-used so that appropriate diagnostic testing and treatment can be obtained in a timely manner.
RUP requires license for purchase. The process required to obtain a pest control licenses is regulated by a combination of state laws, federal laws, common law, and private company policies.
All RUP applications must be recorded to identify the date, location, and type of pesticide applied. Federal law requires a minimum record retention period, which may be 3 years or longer depending upon state laws.
There are two categories of license: supervisor and applicator. A pest control supervisor license is required to purchase RUP and keep records. The pest control supervisor must ensure pest control applicators are competent to use any restricted use products.
Further information can be obtained from the following organizations.
40 CFR Part 170 requires the following in the United States.
Environmental health and safety outside the workplace is established by the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act
(EPCRA), which is managed by the EPA and various state and local government agencies.
State and local agencies maintain epidemiology
information required by physicians to evaluate environmental illness.
Air quality information must be provided by pest control supervisors under license requirements established by the Worker Protection Standard
when Restricted use pesticide is applied.
The list of restricted use pesticides is maintained by the US EPA.
Additionally, specific environmental pollutants are identified in public law, which extends to all hazardous substances even if the item is not identified as a restricted use pesticide by the EPA. As an example, cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, and cynoff contain cyanide, which is one of the most toxic substances known to man, but some of the products that contain these chemicals may not be identified as restricted use pesticide.
Some specific chemicals, such as cyaniate, cyanide, cyano, and nitrile compounds, satisfy the specific hazard definition that is identified in public law regardless of whether or not the item is identified on the list of restricted use pesticides maintained by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Most developed countries have similar regulatory practices. Pesticides and insecticides interests in the European Union are managed by the European Environment Agency
.
Environmental illness share characteristics with common diseases. For example, cyanide exposure symptoms include weakness, headache, nausea, confusion, dizziness, seizures, cardiac arrest, and unconsciousness. Influenza
and heart disease
include the same symptoms.
Failure to obtain proper disclosure that is required by physicians will result in improper, ineffective, or delayed medical diagnosis and treatment for environmental illness caused by exposure to hazardous substance and by exposure to radiation.
The Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration within the Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining the list of hazardous materials within the United States.
All hazardous materials that are not created at the work site must be transported by motor vehicle. The safety and security of the public transportation system is enforced by Department of Transportation.
United States Department of Transportation
regulates mandatory labeling requirements for all hazardous materials. This is in addition to requirements by other federal agencies, like the United States Environmental Protection Agency
, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration
.
DOT is responsible for enforcement actions and public notification regarding hazardous chemical releases and exposures, including incidents involving federal workers.
DOT requires that all buildings and vehicles containing hazardous materials must have signs that disclose specific types of hazards to protect the safety of certified first responder
.
is a potentially hazrdous substance depending upon the route of entry into the body. The CAS# is 68359-37-5. Products containing cyfluthrin must be marked with the word hazard or warning based on the potential for eye damage.
Disclosure and training are required for workplace exposure. Cyfluthrin is subject to "Right to know
" laws governing public health.
Pyrethroids are detoxified to some extent by the liver when ingested. Human skin tends to block pyrethroids, which are not absorbed rapidly. Cyfluthrin can cause numbness, itching, burning, stinging, and tingling following skin and mucous membrane contact. Lips, tung, sinus, throat, lungs, and eye tissue may swell. The onset of symptoms can take 1 or 2 days to appear after initial exposure but symptoms may also occur during exposure or within a few hours. Sweating or exposure to sun or heat may make skin irritation worse. Repeated exposure can make symptoms worse.
Cyfluthin is absorbed readily during inhalation exposure where it is not detoxified by the liver. Aerosol and particle exposure can be fatal. Inhalation toxicity tests with rats shows "Median lethal dose" is greater than 1,089 ug/l in 1 hour tests, and ranged from 469 - 592 ug/l in 4 hour tests for the chemical cyfluthrin.
Cyfluthrin is the root cause of a number of industrial injuries that occur every year due to inadequate worker protection and improper public safety.
Glycol is hygroscopic and absorbs water vapor from the atmosphere. This activates the acidic properties of lignosulfonic acid, sodium salt.
Sodium lignosulfonate
is a dry powder acid that magnifies the lethality of Tempo 20 wp by creating cyanide gas.
Cyanide exposure plays a role in immune system injury. Exposure limits listed here and in product safety literature are "one time limits" that do not provide protection for repeated exposure that is associated with the development of the following health issues:
Cyanide is one of the fastest acting and most lethal toxins known to man. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, inhalation exposure of over 546 ppm of hydrogen cyanide is fatal within 10-minutes, and 110 ppm is considered life-threatening within one hour. Cyanide inhalation can mimic heart attack and stroke because the most sensitive tissue for cyanide asphyxiation are cardiac muscle and brain tissue.
The liver processes cyanide and reduces toxicity to some extent when ingested.
Inhaled cyanide products are not detoxified by the liver. The 8 hour workplace exposure limit is no more than 10 ppm (11 mg/m3) of air.
Toxicity and lethality depends upon the route of entry into the body.
OSHA recommends 15 CFM fresh air circulation in buildings. Cyanide accumulate inside closed structures that lack proper ventilation as cyfluthrin degrades.
The cyanide content of cyfluthin can contribute to the development of hypersensitivity disease, autoimmune disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other serious illnesses following repetitive sub-lethal exposure.
Cyanide exposure plays a role in neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's, and dystonia.
Respirators are required to prevent inhalation of powdered silica dust. The treatment after inhalation is to keep airways open and provide oxygen.
This is considered to be a hazardous substance by US Department of Transportation and US Environmental Protection Agency, and it is carcinogenic under California Proposition 65.
Inhaling finely divided crystalline silica dust in very small quantities (OSHA allows 0.1 mg/m3) over time causes silicosis, bronchitis, and cancer. The dust is lodged in the lungs and continuously irritates them causing cellular tissue damage reducing air capacity. Silica particles do not dissolve over clinically relevant periods of time. This creates a hazard for people exposed to products that contain powdered crystalline silica. Children, asthmatics of any age, allergy sufferers, and the elderly (all of whom have reduced lung capacity) can be affected in much less time. Amorphous silica, such as fumed silica is not associated with development of silicosis, but may cause irreversible lung damage in some cases. Laws restricting silica exposure with respect to the silicosis hazard specify that they are concerned only with silica that is both crystalline and dust-forming, which is the type used with Tempo 20 WP.
Aluminum is one of the non-protein components of amyloid plaque associated with Alzheimer's disease. Silicon is associated with increase risk of cancer and osteoporosis. Magnesium aluminum silicate contains both.
Do not breathe. The treatment after inhalation is to keep airways open and provide oxygen. A self contained breathing apparatus should be used to avoid inhalation.
Inhaling fine dust particles in very small quantities over time can lead to bronchitis
, emphysema
, or other diseases. In the body, magnesium aluminum silicate particles dissolve slowly and may form mud, which may be expectorated from the lungs and ingested. This exposes the body to silicon and aluminum that can pose health risks. Children, asthmatics of any age, allergy sufferers, and the elderly (all of whom have reduced lung capacity) can be affected in much less time.
United States Environmental Protection Agency
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is an agency of the federal government of the United States charged with protecting human health and the environment, by writing and enforcing regulations based on laws passed by Congress...
(EPA) by Mobay Chemical Corporation, a partnership between Bayer AG and Monsanto. The trademark now belongs to Bayer AG (I.G. Farbenindustrie AG), who manufactured similar products called Zyklon A and Zyklon B
Zyklon B
Zyklon B was the trade name of a cyanide-based pesticide infamous for its use by Nazi Germany to kill human beings in gas chambers of extermination camps during the Holocaust. The "B" designation indicates one of two types of Zyklon...
during World War II.
Environmental illness caused by Tempo 20 WP can mimic common diseases, like pink eye, asthma, allergies, heart attack, stroke, influenza, bronchitis, mental retardation, Parkinson's Disease, and pneumonia.
Tempo insecticides are on the EPA restricted use pesticide list published by the EPA. Injuries have been associated with the misuse of this product and similar products.
- Tempo 2 WP; CAS# 432-1337
- Tempo 20 WP; CAS# 432-1338
- Tempo 2; CAS# 3125-462
The product consists of glass particles from 0.5 to 17 microns coated with insecticide that are easily lofted into the air by footsteps and light breezes. Glass dust becomes lodged permanently in the lungs and eyes, where it increases risk of developing cancer and autoimmune disease. Glass dust is expelled from the body slowly through the intestines and kidneys. The active ingredient is cyfluthrin, which is a synthetic neurotoxin fortified by cyanide that may contribute to immune disorders. Chronic disease process can be delayed and could take an extended period of time to develop.
- SilicosisSilicosisSilicosis, also known as Potter's rot, is a form of occupational lung disease caused by inhalation of crystalline silica dust, and is marked by inflammation and scarring in forms of nodular lesions in the upper lobes of the lungs...
- Retardation
- Parkinson's Disease
- Kidney diseaseNephropathyNephropathy refers to damage to or disease of the kidney. An older term for this is nephrosis.-Causes:Causes of nephropathy include administration of analgesics, xanthine oxidase deficiency, and long-term exposure to lead or its salts...
- Intestinal disease
- BronchitisHypersensitivity pneumonitisHypersensitivity pneumonitis is an inflammation of the alveoli within the lung caused by hypersensitivity to inhaled organic dusts. Sufferers are commonly exposed to the dust by their occupation or hobbies.-Pathophysiology:Hypersensitivity pneumonitis involves inhalation of an antigen...
- HypersensitivityHypersensitivityHypersensitivity refers to undesirable reactions produced by the normal immune system, including allergies and autoimmunity. These reactions may be damaging, uncomfortable, or occasionally fatal. Hypersensitivity reactions require a pre-sensitized state of the host. The four-group classification...
- Autoimmune diseaseAutoimmune diseaseAutoimmune diseases arise from an overactive immune response of the body against substances and tissues normally present in the body. In other words, the body actually attacks its own cells. The immune system mistakes some part of the body as a pathogen and attacks it. This may be restricted to...
- Eye disease
- Gulf War syndromeGulf War syndromeGulf War syndrome or Gulf War illness describes a medical condition that affected veterans and civilians who were near conflicts during or downwind of chemical weapons depot demolition, after the 1991 Gulf War. A wide range of acute and chronic symptoms have included fatigue, musculoskeletal...
- Learning and Memory Deficit
Uses
Tempo 20 WP product literature indicates it is used in and around the following.- Industrial veterinary facilities
- School children
- United States federal buildings and military facilities
- Commercial aviation|Commercial aircraft
Various documents indicate testing has been accomplished to verify safety for the following uses.
- Dairies and dairy product processing plants
- Grain mills
- Granaries
- Livestock housing
- Pet kennels
- Poultry houses
- Warehouses
- Transportations vessels such as trucks, trailers, and rail cars
It is considered to be a "restricted use pesticide" due to risks associated with the following.
- Commercial greenhouses
- Nurseries
- Sod farms
- Grass grown for seed
Regulation
Tempo 20 WP is considered to be a hazardous substance, and must satisfy regulatory requirements.Hazard Communication Standard
Most developed countries have laws and that stipulate workplace health and safety requirements for toxic substances, including government agencies that provide information and enforcement.Canada
Canada uses the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System to provide worker protection.- Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
Europe
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work provides information about worker health and safety agencies located in the European Union.United States
A summary of workers rights is available from OSHA: Employee Workplace Rights.The Hazard Communication Standard first went into effect in 1985 and has since been expanded to cover almost all workplaces under OSHA jurisdiction. The details of the Hazard Communication standard are rather complicated, but the basic idea behind it is straightforward. It requires chemical manufacturers and employers to communicate information to workers about the hazards of workplace chemicals or products, including training.
- Hazard Communication StandardHazard Communication StandardThe Hazard Communication Standard requires employers to disclose toxic and hazardous substances in workplaces. This is related to the Worker Protection Standard....
OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) was first adopted in 1983 in the United States with limited scope (48 FR 53280; November 25, 1983). In 1987, scope was expanded to cover all industries where employees are potentially exposed to hazardous chemicals (52 FR 31852; August 24, 1987).
This is managed nationally by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. When a state has an approved plan, this is managed by that state instead.
The standard is identified in 29 C.F.R. 1910.1200.
The summary for 29 C.F.R. 1910.1200 is as follows.
Employers shall maintain copies of any material safety data sheets ...
and shall ensure that the material safety data sheets are readily
accessible during each work shift to employees when they are in
their work area(s); and,
Employers shall ensure that employees are provided with information
and training ... to detect the presence or release of a hazardous
chemical in the work area ...
hazards of the chemicals in the work area ...
The United States Department of Defense does not manage hazards in accordance with public law.
Employers must conduct training in a language comprehensible to employees to be in compliance with the standard. Workers must be trained at the time of initial assignment and whenever a new hazard is introduced into their work area. The purpose for this is so that workers can understand the hazards they face and so that they are aware of the protective measures that should be in place.
When OSHA conducts an inspection, the inspector will evaluate the effectiveness of the training by reviewing records of what training was done and by interviewing employees who use chemicals to find out what they understand about the hazards.
The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates transportation of Dangerous Goods
Dangerous goods
Dangerous goods are solids, liquids, or gases that can harm people, other living organisms, property, or the environment. They are often subject to chemical regulations. "HazMat teams" are personnel specially trained to handle dangerous goods...
within the territory of the US by Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
All chemical manufacturers and importers must communicate hazard information through labels and Material Safety Data Sheet
Material safety data sheet
A Material Safety Data Sheet is a form with data regarding the properties of a particular substance....
(MSDSs). Employers whose employees may be exposed to hazardous chemicals on the job must provide hazardous chemical information to those employees through the use of MSDSs, properly labeled containers, training, and a written hazard communication program. This standard also requires the employer to maintain a list of all hazardous chemicals used in the workplace. The MSDSs for these chemicals must be kept current and they must be made available and accessible to employees in their work areas.
Chemicals that may pose health risks or those that are physical hazards (such as fire or explosion) are covered. List of chemicals that are considered hazardous are maintained according to the use or purpose. There are several existing sources that manufacturers and employers may consult. These include:
- Any substance for which OSHA has a standard in force, including any substance listed in the Air Contaminants regulation.
- Substances listed as carcinogens (causing cancer) by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) or the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
- Substances listed in the Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents, published by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH).
- Restricted Use Products (RUP) Report; EPA
There are other sources of information about chemicals used in industry as a result of state and federal laws regarding the Community Right to Know Act.
The Air Resources Board is responsible for public hazard disclosures in California. Pesticide use disclosures are made by each pest control supervisor to the County Agricultural Commission. Epidemiology information is available from the California Pesticide Information Portal, which can be used by health care professionals to identify the cause for environmental illness.
Under the Oregon Community Right to Know Act (ORS 453.307-372) and the federal Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) Title III, the Office of the State Fire Marshal collects information on hazardous substances and makes it available to emergency responders and to the general public. Among the information which companies must report are:
- Inventories of amounts and types of hazardous substances stored in their facilities.
- Annual inventories of toxic chemicals released during normal operations.
- Emergency notification of accidental releases of certain chemicals listed by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The information can be obtained in the form of an annual report of releases for the state or for specific companies. It is available on request from the Fire Marshal’s Office and is normally free of charge unless unusually large quantities of data are involved.
Worker Protection Standard
The United States Environmental Protection Agency
United States Environmental Protection Agency
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is an agency of the federal government of the United States charged with protecting human health and the environment, by writing and enforcing regulations based on laws passed by Congress...
registers pesticides and insecticides as either unclassified or restricted use pesticide (RUP). Unclassified pesticide is available over-the-counter. This is a licensing program program exists in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture
United States Department of Agriculture
The United States Department of Agriculture is the United States federal executive department responsible for developing and executing U.S. federal government policy on farming, agriculture, and food...
and state regulatory agencies.
Two items are requited by law for all registered pesticides and insecticides.
- Product Label
- Material Safety Data Sheet
The product label describes how to use the product.
The Material Safety Data Sheet provides specific safety and hazard information, and this must be provided to physicians in the event that the product has been miss-used so that appropriate diagnostic testing and treatment can be obtained in a timely manner.
RUP requires license for purchase. The process required to obtain a pest control licenses is regulated by a combination of state laws, federal laws, common law, and private company policies.
All RUP applications must be recorded to identify the date, location, and type of pesticide applied. Federal law requires a minimum record retention period, which may be 3 years or longer depending upon state laws.
There are two categories of license: supervisor and applicator. A pest control supervisor license is required to purchase RUP and keep records. The pest control supervisor must ensure pest control applicators are competent to use any restricted use products.
Further information can be obtained from the following organizations.
- AAPCO—Assoc. of American Pesticide Control Officials
- AAPSE—American Assoc. of Pesticide Safety Educators
- CTAG—Certification and Training Assessment Group
- CPARD—Certification Plan & Reporting Database
- POINTS—Pesticide of Interest Reporting Database
- NASDA Pesticide Safety Programs
- Division of Toxicology and Environmental Medicine; Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
- National Toxicology ProgramNational Toxicology ProgramThe National Toxicology Program is an inter-agency program run by the United States Department of Health and Human Services to coordinate, evaluate, and report on toxicology within public agencies....
40 CFR Part 170 requires the following in the United States.
- Pesticide safety training
- Notification of pesticide applications
- Use of personal protective equipment
- Restricted entry intervals following pesticide application
- Eecontamination supplies
- Emergency medical assistance
Community Right to Know
Environmental health and safety outside the workplace is established by the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act
Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act
The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 is a United States federal law passed by the 99th United States Congress located at Title 42, Chapter 116 of the U.S. Code, concerned with emergency response preparedness....
(EPCRA), which is managed by the EPA and various state and local government agencies.
State and local agencies maintain epidemiology
Epidemiology
Epidemiology is the study of health-event, health-characteristic, or health-determinant patterns in a population. It is the cornerstone method of public health research, and helps inform policy decisions and evidence-based medicine by identifying risk factors for disease and targets for preventive...
information required by physicians to evaluate environmental illness.
Air quality information must be provided by pest control supervisors under license requirements established by the Worker Protection Standard
Worker Protection Standard
The Worker Protection Standard is intended to protect employees on farms, forests, nurseries, and greenhouses that are occupational exposured to agricultural pesticides....
when Restricted use pesticide is applied.
The list of restricted use pesticides is maintained by the US EPA.
Additionally, specific environmental pollutants are identified in public law, which extends to all hazardous substances even if the item is not identified as a restricted use pesticide by the EPA. As an example, cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, and cynoff contain cyanide, which is one of the most toxic substances known to man, but some of the products that contain these chemicals may not be identified as restricted use pesticide.
Some specific chemicals, such as cyaniate, cyanide, cyano, and nitrile compounds, satisfy the specific hazard definition that is identified in public law regardless of whether or not the item is identified on the list of restricted use pesticides maintained by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Most developed countries have similar regulatory practices. Pesticides and insecticides interests in the European Union are managed by the European Environment Agency
European Environment Agency
European Environment Agency is an agency of the European Union. Its task is to provide sound, independent information on the environment. It is a major information source for those involved in developing, adopting, implementing and evaluating environmental policy, and also the general public...
.
Environmental illness share characteristics with common diseases. For example, cyanide exposure symptoms include weakness, headache, nausea, confusion, dizziness, seizures, cardiac arrest, and unconsciousness. Influenza
Influenza
Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is an infectious disease caused by RNA viruses of the family Orthomyxoviridae , that affects birds and mammals...
and heart disease
Heart disease
Heart disease, cardiac disease or cardiopathy is an umbrella term for a variety of diseases affecting the heart. , it is the leading cause of death in the United States, England, Canada and Wales, accounting for 25.4% of the total deaths in the United States.-Types:-Coronary heart disease:Coronary...
include the same symptoms.
Failure to obtain proper disclosure that is required by physicians will result in improper, ineffective, or delayed medical diagnosis and treatment for environmental illness caused by exposure to hazardous substance and by exposure to radiation.
U.S. Department of Transportation
The Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration within the Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining the list of hazardous materials within the United States.
All hazardous materials that are not created at the work site must be transported by motor vehicle. The safety and security of the public transportation system is enforced by Department of Transportation.
United States Department of Transportation
United States Department of Transportation
The United States Department of Transportation is a federal Cabinet department of the United States government concerned with transportation. It was established by an act of Congress on October 15, 1966, and began operation on April 1, 1967...
regulates mandatory labeling requirements for all hazardous materials. This is in addition to requirements by other federal agencies, like the United States Environmental Protection Agency
United States Environmental Protection Agency
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is an agency of the federal government of the United States charged with protecting human health and the environment, by writing and enforcing regulations based on laws passed by Congress...
, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
The United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration is an agency of the United States Department of Labor. It was created by Congress of the United States under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, signed by President Richard M. Nixon, on December 29, 1970...
.
DOT is responsible for enforcement actions and public notification regarding hazardous chemical releases and exposures, including incidents involving federal workers.
DOT requires that all buildings and vehicles containing hazardous materials must have signs that disclose specific types of hazards to protect the safety of certified first responder
Certified first responder
A certified first responder is a person who has completed a course and received certification in providing pre-hospital care for medical emergencies. They have more skill than someone who is trained in basic first aid but they are not a substitute for advanced medical care rendered by emergency...
.
Risks
There are multiple chemical risks associated with Tempo WP products, which contain the following.Cyfluthrin
CyfluthrinCyfluthrin
Cyfluthrin is a synthetic pyrethroid derivative that is used as an insecticide in restricted use pesticide and common household pesticide. It is a complex organic compound, and the commercial product is sold as a mixture of isomers. Like most pyrethroids, it is highly toxic to fish, invertebrates,...
is a potentially hazrdous substance depending upon the route of entry into the body. The CAS# is 68359-37-5. Products containing cyfluthrin must be marked with the word hazard or warning based on the potential for eye damage.
Disclosure and training are required for workplace exposure. Cyfluthrin is subject to "Right to know
Right to know
"Right to know", in the context of United States workplace and community environmental law, is the legal principle that the individual has the right to know the chemicals to which they may be exposed in their daily living. It is embodied in federal law in the United States as well as in local laws...
" laws governing public health.
Pyrethroids are detoxified to some extent by the liver when ingested. Human skin tends to block pyrethroids, which are not absorbed rapidly. Cyfluthrin can cause numbness, itching, burning, stinging, and tingling following skin and mucous membrane contact. Lips, tung, sinus, throat, lungs, and eye tissue may swell. The onset of symptoms can take 1 or 2 days to appear after initial exposure but symptoms may also occur during exposure or within a few hours. Sweating or exposure to sun or heat may make skin irritation worse. Repeated exposure can make symptoms worse.
Cyfluthin is absorbed readily during inhalation exposure where it is not detoxified by the liver. Aerosol and particle exposure can be fatal. Inhalation toxicity tests with rats shows "Median lethal dose" is greater than 1,089 ug/l in 1 hour tests, and ranged from 469 - 592 ug/l in 4 hour tests for the chemical cyfluthrin.
Cyfluthrin is the root cause of a number of industrial injuries that occur every year due to inadequate worker protection and improper public safety.
Glycol
The type of glycol used in Tempo 20 WP is considered to be a trade secret. The amount of glycol used in Tempo 20 WP is not hazardous by itself.Glycol is hygroscopic and absorbs water vapor from the atmosphere. This activates the acidic properties of lignosulfonic acid, sodium salt.
Lignosulfonic acid, sodium salt
Lignosulfonic acid, sodium salt has the following properties:- CAS# 8061-51-6
- Flammable.
- Explosive when disbursed as a dust in air.
- Strong oxidizing acid.
- Violent exothermic reaction when mixed with water (becomes extremely hot).
- Reacts with cyanide salts and cyanide related compounds to release gaseous hydrogen cyanide.
- Flammable and/or toxic gases are also often generated by reaction with dithiocarbamates, isocyanates, mercaptans, nitrides, nitriles, sulfides, and weak or strong reducing agents.
Sodium lignosulfonate
Sodium lignosulfonate
Sodium lignosulfonate is used in the food industry as a de-foaming agent for paper production and in adhesives for items that come in contact with food. It has antimicrobial and preservative properties, and is used as an ingredient in animal feeds...
is a dry powder acid that magnifies the lethality of Tempo 20 wp by creating cyanide gas.
Cyanide
Hydrogen cyanide is released from cyfluthrin due to the action of lignosulfonic acid, sodium salt when damp, such as with fog, with morning dew, with the moisture provided by the hygroscopic action of glycol in humid air, when inhaled, and when in contact with the surface of the eye. Half the cyanide gas in cyflutrhin is released within 3 days of exposure to air and ultraviolet light, and acid accelerates this process.Cyanide exposure plays a role in immune system injury. Exposure limits listed here and in product safety literature are "one time limits" that do not provide protection for repeated exposure that is associated with the development of the following health issues:
- HypersensitivityHypersensitivityHypersensitivity refers to undesirable reactions produced by the normal immune system, including allergies and autoimmunity. These reactions may be damaging, uncomfortable, or occasionally fatal. Hypersensitivity reactions require a pre-sensitized state of the host. The four-group classification...
- Asthma
- Chronic bronchitis
Cyanide is one of the fastest acting and most lethal toxins known to man. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, inhalation exposure of over 546 ppm of hydrogen cyanide is fatal within 10-minutes, and 110 ppm is considered life-threatening within one hour. Cyanide inhalation can mimic heart attack and stroke because the most sensitive tissue for cyanide asphyxiation are cardiac muscle and brain tissue.
The liver processes cyanide and reduces toxicity to some extent when ingested.
Inhaled cyanide products are not detoxified by the liver. The 8 hour workplace exposure limit is no more than 10 ppm (11 mg/m3) of air.
Toxicity and lethality depends upon the route of entry into the body.
OSHA recommends 15 CFM fresh air circulation in buildings. Cyanide accumulate inside closed structures that lack proper ventilation as cyfluthrin degrades.
The cyanide content of cyfluthin can contribute to the development of hypersensitivity disease, autoimmune disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other serious illnesses following repetitive sub-lethal exposure.
Cyanide exposure plays a role in neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's, and dystonia.
Glass Dust
Glass dust may also be known as rock dust, quartz dust, and silicon dioxide. The CAS# is 14808-60-7Respirators are required to prevent inhalation of powdered silica dust. The treatment after inhalation is to keep airways open and provide oxygen.
This is considered to be a hazardous substance by US Department of Transportation and US Environmental Protection Agency, and it is carcinogenic under California Proposition 65.
Inhaling finely divided crystalline silica dust in very small quantities (OSHA allows 0.1 mg/m3) over time causes silicosis, bronchitis, and cancer. The dust is lodged in the lungs and continuously irritates them causing cellular tissue damage reducing air capacity. Silica particles do not dissolve over clinically relevant periods of time. This creates a hazard for people exposed to products that contain powdered crystalline silica. Children, asthmatics of any age, allergy sufferers, and the elderly (all of whom have reduced lung capacity) can be affected in much less time. Amorphous silica, such as fumed silica is not associated with development of silicosis, but may cause irreversible lung damage in some cases. Laws restricting silica exposure with respect to the silicosis hazard specify that they are concerned only with silica that is both crystalline and dust-forming, which is the type used with Tempo 20 WP.
Inhalation risks
- Silicosis: Respirable crystalline silica (quartz) can cause silicosis, a fibrosis (scarring) of the lungs. Silicosis may be progressive; it may lead to disability and death.
- Lung Cancer: Crystalline silica (quartz) inhaled from occupational sources is classified as carcinogenic to humans.
- Tuberculosis: Silicosis increases the risk of tuberculosis.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Some studies show excess numbers of cases of scleroderma, connective tissue disorders, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney diseases and end-stage kidney disease in workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica.
- Chronic Kidney Diseases. Several studies report excess cases of kidney diseases, including end stage renal disease, among silica-exposed workers.
- Non-Malignant Respiratory Diseases (other than silicosis): Some studies show an increased incidence in chronic bronchitis and emphysema in workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica.
Eye contact
Crystalline silica (quartz) causes corneal abrasion and can become permanently lodged in the eye.Magnesium aluminum silicate
Magnesium aluminum silicate is not considered to be a hazardous substance by US Department of Transportation and US Environmental Protection Agency, and it is not considered to be carcinogenic under California Proposition 65.Aluminum is one of the non-protein components of amyloid plaque associated with Alzheimer's disease. Silicon is associated with increase risk of cancer and osteoporosis. Magnesium aluminum silicate contains both.
Do not breathe. The treatment after inhalation is to keep airways open and provide oxygen. A self contained breathing apparatus should be used to avoid inhalation.
Inhaling fine dust particles in very small quantities over time can lead to bronchitis
Bronchitis
Acute bronchitis is an inflammation of the large bronchi in the lungs that is usually caused by viruses or bacteria and may last several days or weeks. Characteristic symptoms include cough, sputum production, and shortness of breath and wheezing related to the obstruction of the inflamed airways...
, emphysema
Emphysema
Emphysema is a long-term, progressive disease of the lungs that primarily causes shortness of breath. In people with emphysema, the tissues necessary to support the physical shape and function of the lungs are destroyed. It is included in a group of diseases called chronic obstructive pulmonary...
, or other diseases. In the body, magnesium aluminum silicate particles dissolve slowly and may form mud, which may be expectorated from the lungs and ingested. This exposes the body to silicon and aluminum that can pose health risks. Children, asthmatics of any age, allergy sufferers, and the elderly (all of whom have reduced lung capacity) can be affected in much less time.
Inhalation risks
- Alzheimer's: Respirable and ingested magnesium aluminum silicate may contribute to Alzheimer's disease.
- Osteoporosis: Respirable and ingested magnesium aluminum silicate may contribute to osteoporosis.
- Non-Malignant Respiratory Diseases (other than silicosis): Some studies show an increased incidence of chronic bronchitis and emphysema associated with magnesium aluminum silicate