The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken a decisive step in protecting public health by issuing an emergency order to immediately stop the use of a popular pesticide and weedkiller, Dacthal. This action marks the first time in nearly 40 years that the agency has implemented such an order, and it underscores the significant risks associated with this chemical.

Why Dacthal is a Concern

Dacthal, also known by its chemical name dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA), has long been a go-to herbicide for controlling weeds in crops like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and onions. The EPA and environmental watchdogs have long expressed concern over the health risks it poses, particularly to farmworkers and fetuses. Recent findings escalated the situation, prompting the emergency order.

What makes Dacthal so dangerous? 

The EPA’s studies have revealed that exposure to this chemical can lead to significant health issues, especially for pregnant women. The most alarming findings relate to the potential impact on fetal development. The EPA warned that Dacthal exposure could cause changes in fetal thyroid hormone levels, leading to low birth weight, impaired brain development, lower IQ, and impaired motor skills later in life. The risks are particularly high for pregnant women who might unknowingly handle or be exposed to the chemical, with exposure levels estimated to be four to 20 times greater than what is considered safe.

The Urgent Need for Action

“It’s EPA’s job to protect people from exposure to dangerous chemicals,” said EPA assistant administrator Michal Freedhoff. “In this case, pregnant women who may never even know they were exposed could give birth to babies that experience irreversible lifelong health problems.”

One of the most concerning aspects of Dacthal is its persistence in the environment. Even when personal protective equipment is used, the EPA found that the chemical remains unsafe for extended periods. For example, while herbicide-treated fields are typically considered safe to access after 12 hours, Dacthal could still be harmful 25 days after application, according to the EPA. Additionally, the weedkiller can travel through the air, posing risks to those near treated fields.

Mily Treviño Sauceda, executive director of Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, praised the decision, calling it a “great first step” in safeguarding reproductive health and protecting families. The United Farm Workers president, Teresa Romero, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Farmworkers should not have to put their children at risk by doing the work needed to grow our food.”

The department’s swift response highlights the urgency of the situation and the need to protect vulnerable populations from exposure to this dangerous chemical.

How We Help Victims of Pesticide Exposure

With a national presence and a wealth of experience prosecuting pesticide exposure cases, Waters Kraus & Paul has battled corporate giants on behalf of individuals like you for 20 years, aggressively fighting to hold them responsible for failing to keep workers safe. If you have suffered catastrophic injury or cancer caused by Monsanto’s Roundup weed killer or other harmful chemicals, we can help.