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Acrylamide
MHEL
Acrylamide is a white, man-made solid used in the manufacture of polyacrylamide, a gel-like chemical used in the manufacture of many products including paper, adhesives, thickening agents, photographic chemicals and dyes. Polyacrylamide products are also added to drinking water supplies to remove unwanted particles. Acrylamide may get into drinking water if small amounts of it remain in these products.
Acrylamide causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether acrylamide causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of acrylamide in the workplace suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of acrylamide damages the nervous and reproductive systems of laboratory animals.
12/93
Alachlor
MHEL
Alachlor is a white, man-made pesticide widely used to control weeds and grasses among corn, soybeans, peanuts and other crops. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application or improper waste disposal.
Alachlor causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether alachlor causes cancer in humans is unknown. Exposure to high levels of alachlor damages the eyes, liver, kidneys, blood and spleen of laboratory animals.
12/93
Aldicarb
MHEL
Aldicarb is a white, man-made pesticide widely used to control insects and other pests on potatoes, citrus, cotton, peanuts and other crops. In New York State, use of aldicarb is severely restricted and it can only be used to treat pests on commercial ornamental plants and potatoes (except on Long Island). It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application.
Exposure to high levels of aldicarb damages the nervous system of humans and laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
12/93
Aldicarb sulfone
MHEL
Aldicarb sulfone is a breakdown product of aldicarb, a man-made pesticide. In New York State, use of aldicarb is severely restricted and it can only be used to treat pests on commercial ornamental plants and potatoes (except on Long Island). It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application.
Exposure to high levels of aldicarb sulfone damages the nervous system of humans and laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
12/93
Aldicarb sulfoxide
MHEL
Aldicarb sulfoxide is a breakdown product of aldicarb, a man-made pesticide. In New York State, use of aldicarb is severely restricted and it can only be used to treat pests on commercial ornamental plants and potatoes (except on Long Island). It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application.
Exposure to high levels of aldicarb sulfoxide damages the nervous system of humans and laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
12/93
Atrazine
MHEL
Atrazine is a white, man-made pesticide widely used to control weeds among corn, sorghum, pineapple, citrus and other crops. It is also used for weed control on industrial and non-agricultural land. Atrazine generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application or improper waste disposal.
Atrazine causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether atrazine causes cancer in humans is unknown. Exposure to high levels of atrazine damages the heart, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals and reduces the weight of offspring born to animals exposed before, during and after pregnancy.
12/93
Benzene
MHEL
Benzene is a naturally occurring substance and a major industrial chemical made from coal and oil. As a pure chemical, benzene is a colorless liquid. It is used as a solvent and in the manufacture of other chemicals. Benzene is also found in petroleum products such as gasoline. It generally gets into drinking water from gasoline or fuel oil spills, leaking storage tanks or by improper waste disposal.
Benzene has been associated with an increased risk of leukemia in industrial workers who breathed large amounts of the chemical over a long time in workplace air. Benzene has also caused cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer among exposed industrial workers and laboratory animals are believed to increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Benzene has also been associated with damage to the blood-cell-forming tissues and the immune and nervous system of industrial workers and laboratory animals.
Bromochloromethane
MHEL
Bromochloromethane (also called chlorobromomethane) is a colorless to pale yellow man-made liquid used as a liquid fire-extinguishing agent, as a grain fumigant, and as an intermediate (building-block) in the production of other chemicals. It generally gets into drinking water after improper disposal of chemical waste.
Information on the toxicity of bromochloromethane in humans and laboratory animals is limited, particularly with respect to the effects of long-term exposure. Exposure to high concentrations of bromochloromethane in air for a short period of time resulted in disorientation, headache, nausea, and irritation of the eyes and throat. Studies on laboratory animals show that exposure to high concentrations of bromochloroethane damages their nervous system, lungs, liver, and kidneys. Chemicals which cause adverse effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/90
Bromomethane
MHEL
Bromomethane (also called methyl bromide) is a colorless gas with very little odor. At very high levels, the gas has a sweet odor. Bromomethane is used mainly as a fumigant to kill insects in crops, soil and buildings. It is also used to manufacture other industrial chemicals. In the past, it was used in some fire extinguishers and as a refrigerant. There is evidence that low levels of bromomethane can occur in drinking water as a result of disinfection but contamination may result from improper use or disposal.
Humans exposed to bromomethane in workplace air have had damage to the lungs, kidney, liver and nervous system. Laboratory animals exposed to high levels of bromomethane showed damage to the nose, lungs, blood, stomach, kidney, liver, heart, nervous system and male reproductive system. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in exposed industrial workers and laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
8/91
Butyl Alcohol
MHEL
Butyl alcohols are central nervous system depressants and are 2 to 5 times more acutely toxic than ethanol in the rat. Toxic symptoms are usually more severe and more prolonged than those in ethanol intoxication with equivalent doses. Exposures to vapors result in marked irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, headache, vertigo and drowsiness, central nervous system depression, hypotension, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea (HSDB, 1993). In general tertiary alcohols are more toxic than corresponding normal alcohols (Gosselin et al., 1984). TBA is classified as a moderate ingestion hazard and is a slight skin irritant.
Tertiary alcohols are metabolized slowly and incompletely so their toxic effects are especially persistent. They are partially excreted in the urine as glucuronides. Liver damage was believed to be the cause in late deaths after single doses of various butanols, including tert-butyl in rats (Gosselin et al., 1984). No entries are listed for TBA in the IRIS or HEAST databases at this time (IRIS, 1993, HEAST, 1992).
Last Revised: NYSDOH BTSA ~1994
Carbofuran
MHEL
Carbofuran is a white, man-made pesticide widely used to control insects and other pests on corn and other crops. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after crop application.
Some people exposed to large amounts of carbofuran in the workplace suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of carbofuran damages the nervous and reproductive systems of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
12/93
Carbon tetrachloride
MHEL
Carbon tetrachloride is a clear, man-made liquid. Until the mid-1960's, it was widely used as a household cleaning fluid, in fire extinguishers, as a grain fumigant and as a treatment for hookworm. It is currently used in the manufacture of refrigerants and propellants for aerosol cans. Carbon tetrachloride generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Carbon tetrachloride causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not carbon tetrachloride causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some humans exposed to large amounts of this chemical have had nervous system, liver and kidney damage. Exposure to high concentrations of carbon tetrachloride damages the male reproductive system in laboratory animals.
Rev. 3/91
Chlordane
MHEL
Chlordane is a colorless-to-amber, man-made pesticide that was widely used to control agricultural and home/garden pests until most uses were banned in the mid-1970s. In New York State, Chlordane was used for the underground control of termites until that use was banned in 1987. Chlordane generally gets into drinking water after improper waste disposal or when it is injected in soil that is close to a well.
Chlordane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether Chlordane causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of Chlordane suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of Chlordane damages the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals.
NYSDOH BTSA 12/93 (a 1997-08 revision exists)
Chloroethane
MHEL
Chloroethane (also called ethyl chloride is a colorless, man-made gas. It was once widely used in the production of leaded gasoline but is now used primarily as a foaming agent for plastic products, as a refrigerant, as a solvent, and as a building block in the production of other chemicals, including plastics, dyes and pharmaceuticals.
Some people exposed to large amounts of chloroethane in air had heart, lung, stomach and central nervous system damage. Exposure to large amounts of chloroethane damaged the heart, central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys and spleen of laboratory animals.. Chloroethane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not chloroethane causes cancer in humans is unknown.
Chloromethane
MHEL
Chloromethane is also known as methyl chloride. It is a clear, colorless gas. It has a faint, sweet, odor that is noticeable only at levels that may be toxic. It is heavier than air, and is extremely flammable. Chloromethane is found in air, surface water, groundwater, soil, and sediment. It is present at very low concentrations throughout the atmosphere. Most of the chloromethane that is released into the environment is from natural sources, such as chemical reactions that occur in the oceans. It is also given off when materials like grass, wood, charcoal, and plastics are burned. It is present in lakes and streams and has been found in drinking water. Other sources of exposure are cigarette smoke, polystyrene insulation, aerosol propellants, and chlorinated swimming pools. There is no evidence that chloromethane causes cancer in people. In animal studies, male mice that breathed contaminated air for 2 years developed tumors in their kidneys, but female mice, and male and female rats did not. There are no known reliable medical tests to determine whether you have been exposed to chloromethane. Symptoms resembling drunkenness and food poisoning, along with a sweet odor of the breath, may suggest to a doctor that a person has been exposed to chloromethane.
Last Revised: DCDOH based on ATSDR. April, 2004
Cumene
MHEL
Cumene (also called isopropylbenzene) is a colorless liquid that is used to make other chemicals and as a solvent in paints and perfumes. It is also found in gasoline. Cumene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal or leaking gasoline storage tanks.
Exposure to high levels of cumene damages the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
9/92
2,4-D
MHEL
2,4-D (also called 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) is a white, man-made pesticide used to control weeds and grasses among agricultural crops (corn, wheat, sorghum, rice) and on rangeland and pastures. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 2,4-D and other related chemicals suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of 2,4-D damages the liver, kidneys and blood of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in workers and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
12/93
Dacthal and Tetrachloroterephthalic Acid
MHEL
Dacthal (dimethyl-2,3,5,6-tetrachloroterephthalate) is an herbicide used to control weeds in turf, ornamentals and a wide variety of agricultural crops. It is also used to control weeds in residential lawns. Dacthal degrades in the environment to form several chemicals which are soluble in water and can leach into groundwater.
Dacthal causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether Dacthal causes cancer in humans is unknown. Dacthal damages the liver, kidneys, thyroid gland and lungs of laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes.
The chemical formed from the degradation of Dacthal that is most frequently found in groundwater is tetrachloroterephthalic acid. Information on the health effects of tetrachloroterephthalic acid is limited. Thetrachloroterephthalic acid causes changes in the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands and in the ovaries of laboratory animals exposed to high levels for 90 days. Long term studies in animals to evaluate the cancer causing potential and other possible long term health effects of tetrachloroterephthalic acid have not been conducted.
The US EPA has not established drinking water standards for Dacthal or tetrachloroterephthalic acid. New York State has a standard of 50 (g/L for Dacthal and tetrachloroterephthalic acid in public water supplies.
Last revised: November, 1995
Dibromochloropropane
MHEL
Dibromochloropropane (also called DBCP) is a colorless, man-made gas that was once applied to soil to control pests on agricultural crops and commercial grass. Its use has not been allowed since 1977. Dibromochloropropane generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Dibromochloropropane damages the genetic material (genes) of animals and bacteria and causes cancer in many organs in mice and rats exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Based on these data, dibromochloropropane is likely to cause cancer in humans exposed for long periods of time. Some men exposed to large amounts of dibromochloropropane in workplace air suffered reproductive system damage. Exposure to high levels of dibromochloropropane damages the reproductive system, liver, kidneys and adrenal glands of laboratory animals.
12/93
1,2-Dichlorobenzene
MHEL
1,2-Dichlorobenzene (also called ortho-dichlorobenzene) is a colorless, man-made solid used as an intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of other chemicals such as dyes and herbicides and as a deodorizer of industrial wastewater. It is also found in some engine degreasers and paint removers. 1,2-Dichlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Some people exposed to large amounts of 1,2-dichlorobenzene have suffered liver and blood damage. Exposure to high levels of 1,2-dichlorobenzene damages the liver, kidneys and blood of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
Last revised: December 1993
1,4-Dichlorobenzene
MHEL
1,4-Dichlorobenzene (also called para-dichlorobenzene) is a colorless solid and a component of mothballs, deodorizers, and some pesticides. It generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
1,4-Dichlorobenzene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not 1,4-dichlorobenzene causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some humans exposed to large amounts of this chemical have had nervous system and liver damage. Exposure to high concentrations of 1,4-dichlorobenzene causes damage to the liver, kidneys and nervous system of laboratory animals.
Rev. 3/91
Dichlorodifluoromethane (Freon 12)
MHEL
Dichlorodifluoromethane (Freon 12) is a colorless, man-made gas. It was once widely used as an aerosol propellant but now it is used primarily as a refrigerant and as a foaming agent for plastic products.
Some people exposed to large amounts of dichlorodifluoromethane in workplace air had heart, lung, and central nervous system damage. Exposure to large amounts of dichlorodifluoromethane damaged the heart, liver, central nervous and respiratory systems, and possibly the kidneys of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals may also pose a risk to humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
October, 1991
1,1-Dichloroethane
MHEL
1,1 Dichloroethane is a colorless, man-made liquid. It is used primarily to make 1,1,1 trichloroethane and other chemicals, and is found in cleaning agents used to remove paint, varnish, and grease. It is a breakdown product of 1,1,1 trichloroethane.
There is some evidence that 1,1 dichloroethane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may also increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels for long periods of time. Exposure to high levels of 1,1 dichloroethane damages the kidneys of laboratory animals and has caused delayed growth in the offspring of animals exposed during pregnancy.
June, 1990
1,2-Dichloroethane
MHEL
1,2-Dichloroethane is a clear, man-made liquid. It is used primarily to make vinyl chloride and solvents that remove grease, glue and dirt. This chemical can be found in some household cleaning agents, adhesives, pesticides and paint removers. 1,2-Dichloroethane is also added to leaded gasoline to prevent engine knock. It generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
1,2-Dichloroethane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not 1,2-dichloroethane causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some humans exposed to large amounts of this chemical have had nervous system, liver, lung, kidney and heart damage. Exposure to high concentrations of 1,2-dichloroethane causes a decreased ability to fight infection in laboratory animals.
Rev. 3/91
1,1-Dichloroethene
MHEL
1,1-Dichloroethene (also called 1,1-dichloroethylene) is a colorless, man-made liquid used to make food packaging, plastic materials, flame-retardant coatings for fabrics, fiber and carpet backing, and piping and coating for steel pipes. 1,1-Dichloroethene also forms in the groundwater when other common environmental contaminants, such as solvents (trichloroethene), break down. The solvents are used as cleaners and degreasers of metals and generally get into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Humans exposed to high levels of 1,1-dichloroethene have had nervous system and liver damage. 1,1-Dichloroethene damages the liver, kidneys, lungs, heart and nervous system of laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Birth defects have been observed in the offspring of laboratory animals exposed to high levels of this chemical in air during pregnancy. 1,1-Dichloroethene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Whether or not it causes cancer in humans is unknown.
Rev. 3/91
Cis-1,2-Dichloroethene
MHEL
Cis-1,2-dichloroethene (also called cis-1,2-dichloroethylene) is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent and as an intermediate (building block) to make other chemicals. It is also a breakdown product of trichloroethene in the environment. Contamination of drinking water may occur if cis-1,2-dichloroethene or trichloroethene leaches into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Some people exposed to large amounts of cis-1,2-dichloroethene suffered nervous system damage. Exposure of laboratory animals to high levels of cis-1,2-dichloroethene damages the liver,blood and the nervous system and possibly the immune system. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
Last Revised: NYSDOH BTSA 2/1999 gmr
Trans-1,2-Dichloroethene
MHEL
Trans-1,2-Dichloroethene (also called trans-1,2-dichloroethylene) is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent and as an intermediate (building block) to make other chemicals. It is also a breakdown product of trichloroethene inthe environment. Contamination of drinking water may occur if trans-1,2-dichloroethene or trichloroethene leaches into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Some people exposed to large amounts of trans-1,2-dichloroethene suffered nervous system damage. Exposure of laboratory animals to high levels of trans-1,2-dichloroethene damages the liver and blood and the nervous and immune systems. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
Last Revised: NYSDOH BTSA 2/1999 gmr
Dichloromethane
MHEL
Dichloromethane (also called methylene chloride) is a colorless, man-made liquid. Its major uses are as an industrial solvent, paint and varnish remover, and in the manufacture of photographic film. It is also a solvent frequently used in chemistry laboratories. People exposed to high levels of dichloromethane in air show effects much like those produce by alcohol. Prolonged exposures may cause changes in blood and liver and decreased responses to visual and auditory stimulation. Most of these effects usually disappear fairly rapidly after exposure stops. Exposure to high concentrations of dichloromethane causes liver and kidney damage and affects the blood of laboratory animals. Dichloromethane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high concentrations over their lifetime. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
6/90
1,2-Dichloropropane
MHEL
1,2-Dichloropropane is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent, a soil fumigant and in the production of other chemicals.
Some people exposed to large amounts of 1,2-dichloropropane have experienced effects on the nervous system, blood and liver. Exposure to high concentrations of 1,2-dichloropropane has also damaged the liver, kidneys and adrenals of laboratory animals. 1,2-Dichloropropane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may
6/90
Epichlorohydrin
MHEL
Epichlorohydrin is a colorless, man-made liquid used in the manufacture of a wide variety of products, including paper, resins, plastics, cellulose, paints, varnishes and nail enamel. It is also used to make chemicals that are added to drinking water supplies to remove unwanted particles. Epichlorohydrin may get into drinking water if small amounts of it remain in these chemicals.
Epichlorohydrin damages the genetic material (genes) of animals, plants, and bacteria and causes cancer in laboratory rats and mice exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Based on these data, Epichlorohydrin is likely to cause cancer in humans exposed for long periods of time. Some people exposed to large amounts of Epichlorohydrin suffered liver and blood-cell damage Exposure to high levels of Epichlorohydrin damages the blood, liver, kidneys and male reproductive system of laboratory animals.
12/93
Ethylbenzene
MHEL
Ethylbenzene is a colorless liquid used as a solvent in the printing and paint industries. It is also used to make other chemicals and is found in gasoline. Ethylbenzene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal or gasoline spills.
People exposed to large amounts of ethylbenzene had nervous system damage. High levels of ethylbenzene damage the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals, and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
9/92
Ethylene Dibromide
MHEL
Ethylene dibromide (also called EDB) is a clear, colorless liquid that was once used as an additive to leaded gasoline and as a pesticide to control insects on many fruits, vegetables and grains. Leaded gasoline is not longer available and all major uses of ethylene dibromide as a pesticide were banned in 1983. It generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after crop application or improper waste disposal.
Ethylene dibromide damages the genetic material (genes) of animals, plants, and bacteria and causes cancer in many organs in mice and rats exposed to high levels over their lifetimes Based on these data, ethylene dibromide is likely to cause cancer in humans exposed for long periods of time. Some humans exposed to large amounts of ethylene dibromide suffered liver and kidney damage. Exposure to high levels of ethylene dibromide damages the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands and the reproductive system of laboratory animals.
12/93
Heptachlor
MHEL
Heptachlor is a white-to-tan, man-made pesticide that was widely used to control agricultural and home/garden pests until most uses were banned in the mid-1970s. In New York State, heptachlor was used for the underground control of termites until that use was banned in 1987. Heptachlor generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Heptachlor causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether heptachlor causes cancer in humans is unknown. Exposure to high levels of heptachlor damages the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals.
12/93
Heptachlor Epoxide
MHEL
Heptachlor epoxide is a breakdown product of heptachlor, a man-made pesticide that was widely used to control agricultural and home/garden pests until most uses were banned in the mid-1970s. In New York State, heptachlor was used for the underground control of termites until that use was banned in 1987. Heptachlor epoxide can be formed by the breakdown of hepatchlor by bacteria in the environment. It is also formed from heptchlor in the body. Heptachlor epoxide generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Heptachlor epoxide causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether heptachlor epoxide causes cancer in humans is unknown. Exposure to high levels of heptachlor epoxide damages the nervous system, liver and kidneys of laboratory animals.
12/93
Hexachlorobenzene
MHEL
Hexachlorobenzene is a man-made, white crystalline solid formed as a by-product during the manufacture of chlorinated solvents and pesticides. It was used as a fungicide and pesticide until it was banned in 1986. There are no current commercial uses of Hexachlorobenzene in the United States. Hexachlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Hexachlorobenzene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not Hexachlorobenzene causes cancer in humans is unknown. Humans exposed to high levels of Hexachlorobenzene have had blood, skin and liver disorders. Exposure to high concentrations of Hexachlorobenzene causes liver and kidney damage, birth defects and effects on the skin, nervous system, reproductive system and immune system in laboratory animals.
6/92
Hexachlorobutadiene
MHEL
Hexachlorobutadiene is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent in chlorine gas production, as a hydraulic fluid, as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of lubricants and rubber compounds, and as a pesticide. Hexachlorobutadiene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
Hexachlorobutadiene damages the kidneys, liver and nervous system of laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time. Hexachlorobutadiene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Whether or not it causes cancer in humans is unknown.
6/92
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene
MHEL
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene is a man-made, pale yellow or greenish yellow liquid with a unique, pungent odor. It is used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of chlorinated pesticides, flame-retardants, resins and dyes. It generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of hexachlorocyclopentadiene have experienced irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin. Hexachlorocyclopentadiene damages the lung, liver, kidney and adrenal glands of laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in exposed workers and laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
Lindane
MHEL
Lindane (also called gamma hexachlorocyclohexane (HCCH) or benzenehexachloride (BHC)) is a white, man-made pesticide that was once used to control insects and other pests on livestock, fruit, vegetable and forest crops. Most uses of lindane were stopped in the mid-1980s. It is still used to treat people with head and body lice and scabies, a skin disease caused by mites. Lindane generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Lindane causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether lindane causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of lindane suffered nervous system and blood damage. Exposure to high levels of lindane damages the liver and kidneys and the nervous, reproductive and immune systems of laboratory animals.
12/93
Methoxychlor
MHEL
Methoxychlor is a pale yellow, man-made pesticide used to control insects on livestock and agricultural and forest crops. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Exposure to high levels of methoxychlor damages the reproductive system of laboratory animals and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
12/93
Monochlorobenzene
MHEL
Monochlorobenzene (also called chlorobenzene) is a colorless, man-made liquid used as a solvent in resins, dyes, pesticides and perfumes, a degreasing agent and a chemical intermediate (building block) in the production of other chemicals. Monochlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Exposure to high levels of monochlorobenzene damages the liver, kidneys and blood-forming system of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
12/93
MTBE
MHEL
Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) is a colorless, man-made liquid with a distinctive odor which most people find disagreeable. It is added to gasoline to increase oxygen and boost octane. MTBE can contaminate groundwater after a gasoline spill or from a leaking gasoline storage tank. When gasoline containing MTBE enters groundwater, the MTBE spreads faster than the other gasoline components and is often the first chemical which is detected. For this reason MTBE is considered a good indicator of gasoline contamination in groundwater.
Data on the human health effects of MTBE are available from people whose gallbladders were injected with MTBE to dissolve gallstones, and from people exposed to MTBE while working at gas stations or driving cars fueled with gas containing MTBE. Information on side effects from treatment of gallstones and from studies of laboratory animals indicates that MTBE is not highly toxic following short-term exposure. Some persons who breathed MTBE from gasoline exposure have complained of headaches, nausea, dizziness, irritation of the eye, nose and throat, and feelings of spaciness or confusion. Studies with laboratory animals show that exposure to very high levels of MTBE affected the central nervous system, blood components, liver, kidneys, adrenals, and reproduction in laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in animals after high levels of exposure may pose a risk to humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Studies in laboratory animals which breathed or ingested high levels of MTBE over their lifetimes showed a slight increase in tumors. Whether exposure to MTBE causes tumors in humans is unknown.
Last Revised: NYSDOH BTSA 4/1998
Alternative: Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) is a colorless, man-made liquid with a gasoline-like odor. It is added to gasoline to increase the octane rating or to reduce carbon monoxide emissions. MTBE is also used medicinally to dissolve cholesterol gallstones in people by injecting it into the gallbladder. MTBE can contaminate groundwater from gasoline spills or leaking storage tanks and is often the first chemical to be detected from a gasoline spill. When gasoline containing MTBE enters groundwater, the MTBE spreads both farther and faster than the other gasoline components. For this reason MTBE is considered a good indicator of gasoline as the source of groundwater contamination.
Data on the health effects of exposure to MTBE are very limited. Information on side effects from the treatment of gallstones and from studies with laboratory animals indicates that MTBE is not highly toxic following short-term exposure. Exposure to high levels of MTBE affects the central nervous system, blood components, liver, kidneys, adrenals, and reproduction in laboratory animals. One study in laboratory animals showed a slight increase in tumors when the animals breathed high levels of MTBE over their lifetimes. Whether MTBE causes tumors in humans is unknown.
References
USGS investigation
Pentachlorophenol
MHEL
Pentachlorophenol is a white-to-tan, man-made pesticide that was once widely used to control bacteria, fungus, insects and other pests and as a wood preservative. Pentachlorophenol is no longer available to the general public, but is widely used by industry as a wood preservative for utility poles (powerline poles and fence posts, for example). It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Pentachlorophenol causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether Pentachlorophenol causes causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of Pentachlorophenol have suffered liver and kidney damage. Exposure to high levels of Pentachlorophenol damages the liver, kidneys and the reproductive system of laboratory animals.
12/93
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
MHEL
PCBs are a large group of related man-made chemicals that were used in many commercial and electrical products until their manufacture was banned in the mid-1970s. They generally get into drinking water from improper waste disposal or from leaking submersible water pumps.
Some types of PCBs cause cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether PCBs causes cancer in humans is unknown.. Industrial workers exposed to large amounts of PCBs suffered skin damage; however, these workers were also exposed to other, more toxic chemicals that may have caused the skin effects. There may be a link between a mother's increased exposure to PCBs and effects on her child's birthweight and behavior. Exposure to high levels of PCBs damages skin, liver and the nervous, immune and reproductive systems of laboratory animals. It also reduces the birthweight and changes the behavior of offspring born to animals exposed before, during and after pregnancy. A few individual PCBs cause birth defects in offspring born to animals exposed to high levels during pregnancy.
12/93
Styrene
MHEL
Styrene is a colorless, man-made liquid used to make plastics. Products made from styrene are used to remove unwanted minerals from drinking water supplies. Styrene generally gets into drinking water by leaching into groundwater after improper waste disposal.
Exposure to high levels of styrene damages the liver, kidneys and blood of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. There is conflicting evidence on whether styrene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Whether it causes cancer in humans is unknown.
12/93
1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene
MHEL
1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is a man-made, white crystalline solid used as a component in dialectic fluids and some fungicides. It generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene causes damage to the liver and kidneys and effects on blood in laboratory animals exposed to high levels.. An increased number of stillborns has been observed in laboratory animals exposed to high levels of this chemical during pregnancy. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
1,2,4,6-Tetrachlorobenzene
MHEL
1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene is a man-made, white solid used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of some herbicides, as a pesticide, in electric insulation and in moisture-resistant packing materials. It generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene had chromosome damage. Exposure to high concentrations of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene causes liver, kidney, and thyroid damage and effects on blood in laboratory animals. An increased number of stillborns has been observed in laboratory animals exposed to high levels of this chemical during pregnancy. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in exposed workers and laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
Tetrachloroethene
MHEL
Tetrachloroethene (also called tetrachloroethylene or perchloroethylene) is a colorless man-made liquid used as a solvent for dry cleaning fabrics, for removing grease from metal, and as an intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of other chemicals. It is found in some consumer products such as paint and spot removers, water repellents, silicone lubricants, adhesives and wood cleaners. Tetrachloroethene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal and from leaking storage sites.
Tetrachloroethene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in people who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not Tetrachloroethene causes cancer in humans is unknown. People exposed to large amounts of this chemical in the workplace or from hobbies have had nervous system damage. Exposure to high concentrations of Tetrachloroethene has also caused liver and kidney damage in laboratory animals.
7/92 (a NYSDOH BTSA 1998-02 revision also exists)
Toluene
MHEL
Toluene is a colorless liquid that is used to make other chemical and is found in many consumer products such as paints, lacquers, adhesives, rubber, dyes and gasoline. Toluene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal or leaking gasoline storage tanks.
Exposure to large amounts of toluene can damage the nervous system, liver and kidneys. High levels of toluene damage the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
Last Revised: NYSDOH BTSA 9/1992
Toxaphene
MHEL
Toxaphene is a yellow to tan, man-made pesticide that was once widely used to control insects on cotton, corn, soybeans, pineapple and other crops until most uses were banned in 1982. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Toxaphene causes cancer in laboratory animals that were exposed to high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals may increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether toxaphene causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some people exposed to large amounts of toxaphene suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of toxaphene damages the liver, kidneys and nervous system and immune systems of laboratory animals and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy.
12/93
2,4,5-TP
MHEL
2,4,5-TP (also called silvex or 2-(2,4,6-trichlorophenoxy)propionic acid) is a white, man-made pesticide that was once widely used to control weeds and brush on rangeland, right-of-ways, pastures, commercial and ornamental grass and around the home. Currently, there are no allowed uses of 2,4,5-TP. It generally gets into drinking water by runoff into surface water or by leaching into groundwater after application or improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 2,4,5-TP, related chemicals and their contaminants suffered nervous system damage. Exposure to high levels of 2,4,5-TP damages the liver and kidneys of laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in workers and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
12/93
1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene
MHEL
1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene is a man-made, white crystalline solid used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of other chemicals and some herbicides. It is also used as a solvent, a dye carrier and as a dielectric fluid. 1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene damages the liver and thyroid of laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene
MHEL
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is a man-made, colorless liquid used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of some herbicides. It is also used as a dye carrier, a solvent and a dielectric fluid. 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene damages the liver, kidneys, thyroid, adrenals and nervous system in laboratory animals exposed to high levels. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene
MHEL
1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene is a man-made, white crystalline solid. It is a component of some pesticides, dyes, solvents, lubricants, and electrical insulator coolants. 1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
Exposure to high concentrations of 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene causes liver, kidney and thyroid damage in laboratory animals. Chemicals which cause adverse effects in laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
Trichloroethene
MHEL
Trichloroethene (also called trichloroethylene) is a colorless, man-made liquid which is used primarily as a solvent for removing grease from metal. It has a variety of other uses such as a dry cleaning solvent and as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the production of other chemicals. It generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Trichloroethene causes cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer in laboratory animals also may increase the risk of cancer in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time. Whether or not trichloroethene causes cancer in humans is unknown. Some humans exposed to large amounts of this chemical have had nervous system, liver and kidney damage. Exposure to high concentrations of trichloroethene causes liver and kidney damage and effects on the immune system and blood in laboratory animals.
Rev.
Trichlorofluoromethane (Freon 11)
MHEL
Trichlorofluoromethane (Freon-11) is a colorless, man-made liquid. It was once widely used as an aerosol propellant but now it is used primarily as a refrigerant, as a foaming agent for plastic products and as a solvent/degreasing agent in the aerospace and electronic industry.
Some people exposed to large amounts of trichlorofluoromethane in workplace air had heart, lung and central nervous system damage. Exposure to large amounts of trichlorofluoromethane damaged the heart, liver, kidneys and central nervous and respiratory systems of laboratory animals. Chemicals which cause adverse effects in humans and laboratory animals may also pose a risk to humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
10/91
2,4,5-Trichlorophenol
MHEL
2,4,5-Trichlorophenol is a man-made, gray crystalline solid. 2,4,5-Trichlorophenol has not been made in the United States since 1983. In the past, it was used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the manufacture of several industrial and agricultural chemicals, and as a preservative for textiles, leather, rubber gaskets and adhesives. 2,4,5-Trichlorophenol generally gets into drinking water by improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 2,4,5-trichlorophenol had skin damage. Exposure to high concentrations of 2,4,5-trichlorophenol causes liver kidney damage and lowers body weight in laboratory animals. Chemicals which cause adverse health effects in exposed workers and laboratory animals may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed at lower levels over long periods of time.
6/92
1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-Trifluoroethane (Freon 113)
MHEL
1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane (Freon-113) is a colorless, man-made liquid. It is used as a degreasing/cleaning solvent, as a refrigerant, as a building-block for other chemicals and as a foaming agent for plastic products.
Some people exposed to large amounts of 1,1,2-trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane in workplace air had heart, lung and central nervous system damage. Exposure to large amounts of 1,1,2-trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane damaged the heart, liver, kidneys, the central nervous and respiratory systems, and possibly the thyroid gland of laboratory animals. Chemicals which cause adverse effects in humans and laboratory animals may also pose a risk to humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
10/91
1,1,1-Trichloroethane
MHEL
1,1,1 Trichloroethane (also called methyl chloroform) is a colorless man-made liquid that is used primarily as a solvent for removing grease from metal. It has a variety of other solvent uses and is also used as a chemical intermediate (building block) in the production of other chemicals. 1,1,1 Trichloroethane generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal.
Some industrial workers exposed to large amounts of 1,1,1 trichloroethane have had nervous system, liver and cardiovascular system damage. Exposure to high concentrations of this chemical causes had nervous system, liver and cardiovascular system damage in laboratory animals. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
Trihalomethanes
MHEL
Trihalomethanes (THM's) are members of a group of organic chemicals that contain a single carbon atom, one hydrogen atom, and three atoms of either chlorine, bromine, or iodine, or a combination of their atoms. Of the many possible trihalomethanes, there are four that are prevalent in water supplies. They are: chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromoform. The total trihalomethane (TTHM) concentration is the sum of the concentrations of these four regulated THM's.
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Chloroform |
Bromo-
dichloromethane |
Bromoform |
Dibromo-
chloromethane |
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Trihalomethanes can be formed by the reaction of free chlorine with naturally occurring organic matter (precursors) in raw water. Factors that influence THM formation include the amount of precursors present, pH, temperature and treatment processes used.
Chloroform, which is generally, the THM found in the highest concentration, has been determined to be a carcinogen (cancer causing agent) in laboratory mice and rats. Therefore, chloroform is a potential human carcinogen although human studies to date have been inconclusive. Chloroform is known to cause liver damage following chronic exposure to high levels. The chemical similarities of the THM's suggest the possibility they all may be hazardous to health.
The potential human carcinogenicity of chloroform raises the possibility that an individual's risk of developing cancer will be increased by the long-term consumption of drinking water containing an elevated level of THM's. The risk of liver damage is also increased. It must be realized, however, that each person's susceptibility will vary depending on their general health, occupation, genetic history, use of alcohol and other drugs, smoking, nutritional habits, socioeconomic status as well as the ability of each person to deal with all the stresses placed upon them.
The standard established in Part 5 of the State Sanitary Code for THM's is 0.10 milligrams per liter (mg/l). Compliance is determined from results of quarterly sampling on a running annual average basis. The Department of Health policy is that production of THM's should be minimized to the greatest degree practical while maintaining disinfection benefits.
Preventative Measures: The level of exposure to THM's is relatively low. The New York State and Dutchess County Departments of Health are not recommending that you stop drinking or using the water. However, some people may wish to take certain practical measures which will reduce their exposure. Since the chemical tends to evaporate into the air, use of kitchen or bathroom exhaust fans when using water will reduce the levels of the chemical in the air in your home. Use of less water for bathing or cleaning will reduce exposure through breathing the vapors and through skin contact. Other individuals may choose to use bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes or install point of use treatment devices.
References
From state fact sheet (9/29/1986) and Staatsburg notice.
See also Disinfection Byproducts and Treatment Techniques.
Vinyl Chloride
MHEL
Vinyl chloride is a man-made colorless gas. It is used primarily to make polyvinyl chloride, a material used to manufacture a variety of plastic and vinyl products including pipes, wire and cable coatings, packaging materials, furniture and automobile upholstery, wall coverings, housewares, and automotive parts. It is also used as a refrigerant gas and in the manufacture of other industrial chemicals. Vinyl chloride generally gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal and breakdown of other solvents.
Vinyl chloride has been associated with increased risk of cancer and possibly miscarriage among industrial workers who were exposed to relatively large amounts of this chemical over a long time in workplace air. Vinyl chloride has also caused cancer in laboratory animals exposed at high levels over their lifetimes. Chemicals that cause cancer among exposed industrial workers and laboratory animals are believed to increase the risk of cancer in humans exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
3/91
Xylene
MHEL
Xylene is a colorless liquid used as a solvent in the printing, rubber, leather, paint and insecticide industries. It is also used to make other chemicals and is found in gasoline. Xylene occurs in three forms: ortho-xylene, meta-xylene, and para-xylene. The three forms have similar properties and are frequently grouped together and called total xylenes or just xylene. Xylene usually gets into drinking water from improper waste disposal or leaking gasoline storage tanks.
People exposed to large amounts of xylene had nervous system, liver and kidney damage. High levels of xylene damage the nervous system, liver kidneys and heart of laboratory animals, and the unborn offspring of laboratory animals exposed during pregnancy. Chemicals that cause adverse health effects in humans and laboratory animals after high levels of exposure may also pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans who are exposed to lower levels over long periods of time.
September, 1992 | 
