Phosmet

A cholinesterase inhibitor that may cause CNS effects resulting in convulsions and respiratory depression; Can be absorbed through skin; [ICSC] Highly toxic cholinesterase inhibitor; [CAMEO] A man who attempted suicide by ingestion was brought by friend to emergency room with symptoms including oral and bronchial secretions and respiratory distress requiring intubation; Within an hour health care personal began developing symptoms of poisoning; A nursing assistant who had contact with the patients skin and bodily fluids required intubation and was hospitalized for 9 days; Two nurses who were exposed only by inhalation in close proximity to the patient developed symptoms including confusion, nausea, abdominal cramps, and dyspnea; Many poisoning cases have been reported from the use of animal dips and shampoos by pet owners, groomers, and veterinary assistants; [HSDB] Not likely to be teratogenic, based on animal studies; [REPROTOX] The average of two baseline respective cholinesterase activity determinations three days apart, with no exposures to enzyme inhibiting pesticides for at least 30 days, is recommended for each worker prior to exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors because of large inter-individual differences in published baseline values. To be established at least once a year. Removal from workplace exposures is recommended until the cholinesterase activity returns to within 20% of baseline. [TLVs and BEIs]

Source: Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases

Cancer Classification: Suggestive Evidence of Carcinogenicity, but Not Sufficient to Assess Human Carcinogenic Potential

Source: Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Phosmet safe storage

Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Separated from food and feedstuffs.

Source: ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Phosmet storage conditions

Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well vented area away form other pesticide, alkaline conditions, water and other forms of moisture. Where possible, automatically transfer material from drums or other storage containers to process containers. Sources of ignition such as smoking and open flames are prohibited where this chemical is handled, used, or stored. Metal containers involving the transfer of this chemical should be grounded and bonded. Whenever this chemical is used, handled, manufactured, or stored, use explosion-proof electrical equipment and fittings.

Source: Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Phosmet incompatible materials

Not compatible with other pesticides under alkaline conditions. Contact with water, steam or moisture forms phthalic acids. Slightly corrosive to metals in the presence of moisture.

Source: Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Phosmet reactivity

Organophosphates, such as PHOSMET, are susceptible to formation of highly toxic and flammable phosphine gas in the presence of strong reducing agents such as hydrides. Partial oxidation by oxidizing agents may result in the release of toxic phosphorus oxides. Storage above 113 F, may lead to decomposition. [EPA, 1998].

Source: CAMEO Chemicals