EPA: Stop use of pesticide Dacthal (DCPA)

We wish to inform you that the EPA has issued an emergency order suspending the registrations of all pesticide products that contain DCPA (dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate), also known as Dacthal. This order will prohibit the use of existing stocks of DCPA for any purpose, effective immediately. This decision has been made in response to its identified health risks, recent health assessments, and safety evaluations that highlight the potential dangers associated with DCPA.

Therefore, all UC locations systemwide must immediately cease all uses of DCPA. There is no phase-out or “grace period” for existing stocks. 

Health effects of DCPA:

DCPA has been linked to several adverse health effects, including but not limited to:

• Respiratory Issues: Prolonged or high-level exposure can cause respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.
• Skin and Eye Irritation: Direct contact with DCPA may lead to irritation of the skin and eyes, causing redness, itching and discomfort.
• Birth Defect: Frequent contact could harm unborn babies by altering fetal thyroid levels, leading to low birth weight, impaired brain development, decreased IQ and impaired motor skills.
• Potential Carcinogenicity: Recent studies have raised concerns about the long-term cancer risks associated with DCPA exposure, particularly in environments where it is used extensively.

If your location is using pesticides, we ask that you reinspect the inventory of your pesticides immediately. If you have determined that your location has any DCPA in stock, all DCPA should be removed from your inventory by disposing of the material as hazardous waste, or by returning the unused product to the manufacturer AMVAC.

Disposal Instructions:

To ensure safe and responsible disposal of any existing DCPA products, please follow these guidelines:

1. Do Not Use: Cease any use of DCPA immediately. Do not apply or handle this substance further.
2. Contain and Store: Store any remaining DCPA in its original container, securely closed, and in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
3. Contact Local Authorities or Hazardous Waste Vendor: Reach out to your local waste management authority or your hazardous waste vendor for information on designated drop-off locations or scheduled collection services for hazardous materials.
4. Follow Proper Disposal Procedures: Ensure that the disposal process adheres to all local, state and federal regulations concerning hazardous waste.

For further information, please consult the EPA emergency order: https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2024-17431/emergency-order-suspending-the-registrations-of-all-pesticide-products-containing-dimethyl.

Thank you for your attention in this important matter and your cooperation in adhering to this ban and contributing to a safer community environment. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please reach out to Jim Farrar (jjfarrar@ucanr.edu) at Integrated Pest Management (IPM) or Duwon Choi (dwchoi@ucanr.edu) at Risk & Safety.

Duwon Choi
Risk & Safety Specialist

Read more