WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
ORGANIZATION
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DE LA SANTE ORGANISATION POUR L'ALIMENTATION
ET L'AGRICULTURE
VBC/DS/75.12
ORIGINAL: ENGLISH
DATA SHEETS ON PESTICIDES No. 12
June 1975
LINDANE
It must be noted that the issue of a Data Sheet for a
particular pesticide does not imply endorsement of the pesticide by
WHO or FAO for any particular use, or exclude its use for other
purposes not stated. While the information provided is believed to
be accurate according to data available at the time when the sheet
was compiled, neither WHO nor FAO are responsible for any errors or
omissions, or any consequences therefrom.
The issue of this document does Ce document ne constitue pas une
not constitute formal publication. Il ne doit faire
publication. It should not be l'objet d'aucun compte rendu ou
reviewed, abstracted or quoted résumé ni d'aucune citation sans
without the agreement of the l'autorisation de l'Organisation
Food and Agriculture des Nations Unies pour
Organization of the United l'Alimentation et l'Agriculture
Nations or of the World Health ou de l'Organisation Mondiale de
Organization. la Santé.
LINDANE
Part 1 - General information
CLASSIFICATION
Primary use: insecticide
Secondary uses: acaricide, rodenticide, vermifuge
Chemical group: organochlorine compound
Data sheet No. 12
Date issued: June 1975
1.1 COMMON NAME: lindane (ISO)
Identity: Product containing not less than 99% of the gamma
isomer of -1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane.
Synonyms: Local synonyms:
gamma-BHC (refers to 100% pure gamma isomer)
gamma-HCH (refers to 100% pure gamma isomer)
OMS 17
1.2 SYNOPSIS: An organochlorine pesticide of moderate mammalian
toxicity which is degraded slowly in the environment and can accumulate
in mammalian tissues.
1.3 SELECTED PROPERTIES
1.3.1 Physical characteristics
When pure a colourless crystalline solid m.p. 112.9°C. Lindane is
required to contain not less than 99% of the <F;S>g<F;> isomer and have
a minimum m.p. of 112°.
1.3.2 Solubility
Water at 20°C very slightly soluble, 10 ppm. Moderately soluble in
absolute alcohol, 6.7%; slightly soluble in petroleum oils, soluble in
acetone, aromatic and chlorinated solvents.
1.3.3 Stability
Stable to air, light, heat and carbon dioxide: not attacked by strong
acids but in the presence of alkali it is dehydrochlorinated to
trichlorobenzene. Corrosive to aluminium.
1.3.4 Vapour pressure
Low: 9.4 x 10-6 mm Hg at 20°C. It is volatile enough for use in
heated dispensers.
1.4 AGRICULTURE, HORTICULTURE AND FORESTRY
1.4.1 Common formulations
There are wettable powders of all concentrations, emulsifiable
concentrates up to 20%, suspensions, solutions in organic solvents up
to 507., dusts between 0.5 and 3%, granules between 3 and 4%, baits,
preparation for fumigation and aerosol. One hundred per cent. crystals
are also available. Often used with other insecticides, and with
fungicides in seed dressings. There are FAO specifications for dusts,
wettable powders, emulsifiable concentrates and emulsions, solutions,
and for various mixtures.
1.4.2 Susceptible pests
Effective as contact and stomach poison with some fumigant action
against most insects and mites. Has been particularly effective
against biting flies, lice, fleas, ticks and sites attacking livestock.
1.4.3 Use pattern
Originally used widely as pre-harvest treatment an fruits, vegetables
and other edible craps. Uses an stone, pome, citrus and berry fruits
have almost ceased, and other foliage applications have largely stopped
in Europe and North America but continue elsewhere. Used on forage
crops and cereals by application to plants or soil and as a seed
dressing, alone or in combination with fungicides. Soil uses require
long post-treatment intervals (e.g. one to three years) before planting
edible crops. Aerosols, smokes and vapours sometimes used on
vegetables and fruit crops in glasshouses.
Extensively used for ectoparasite control on livestock, but not so
widely used for post-harvest protection of cereals, pulses and nuts and
for treating food storage and agricultural premises (not milk rooms)
and holds of ships.
1.4.4 Unintended effects
Produces taint in some crops, but less than that caused by mixed
isomers of BHC. Not generally phytotoxic unless used excessively, but
injury to potatoes and walnuts has been reported. Can also damage
leek, lettuce, onion and radish seeds, and other seeds if moisture
content is high. More toxic to young than adult animals: should not be
used an animals leas than three months old. One year after
application, about 60% of lindane applied to the soil can be removed.
1.5 PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAMME
Has been extensively used as residual spray against the mosquito vector
of malaria and triatomid vectors of Chagas' disease. Applied as
residual spray in the form of water dispersable powder at target doses
of 0.5 g a.i.m2.
1.6 HOUSEHOLD USE
Limited household use, usually as aerosol combined with pyrethrins.
Used in home gardens.
LINDANE
Part 2 - Toxicology and risks
Common name: lindane
Data sheet No. 12
Date issued: June 1975
2.1 TOXICOLOGY - MAMMALS
2.1.1 Absorption route: readily absorbed from gastrointestinal tract.
Dermal absorption is less important.
2.1.2 Mode of action: central nervous system stimulant producing
convulsions.
2.1.3 Excretion products: once absorbed, lindane is distributed to
various tissues or organs accumulating above all in the fat depots.
The compound is eliminated only in small amounts in the urine and
faeces and is found in the milk. The main part is excreted in the
urine after metabolization into dechlorinated compounds and various
trichlorophenols and conjugates.
2.1.4 Toxicity, single dose
Oral: LD50 rat 88-225 mg/kg
Dermal: LD50 rat (M) 1000 mg/kg
rat (F) 900 mg/kg
Dermal: LD50 rabbit 900-1000 mg/kg
Most susceptible species
Cattle: Minimum toxic dose 25 mg/kg; for calf 5 mg/kg. Young
animals are more sensitive than adults.
2.1.5 Toxicity, repeated doses
Oral: daily administration of 32 mg/kg of lindane to rats for six
months produced nervous signs (trembling, spasms) fatty degeneration of
the liver and of the epithelium of the renal tubules, vacuolization of
the cerebral cells and a marked increase in the mortality rate. At a
daily dose of 10 mg/kg for 17 months there were no abnormalities.
Dermal: rabbits have withstood 10 but not 25 mg/kg/day by cutaneous
application. Details are not available.
Inhalation: no information.
Cumulation of compound: lindane accumulates in all tissues and organs
especially in the rat depots but to a lesser extent than some other
isomers of BHC.
Cumulation of effect: the toxic effect of lindane is increased by
repeated doses because of the cumulation of the compound in the body.
2.1.6 Dietary studies
Short-term: dogs were fed dietary levels of 0, 25, 50, 100 or 200 ppm
(0, 0.625, 1.25, 2 5 or 5.0 mg/kg/day) for seven weeks. There was
reduced weight gain at 100 and 200 ppm (1.5 and 5.0 mg/kg/day) and
liver-weight increase at 200 ppm (5.0 mg/kg/day). There were no other
effects. Dose independent convulsive episodes were seen in a separate
study at 25 ppm (0.625 mg/kg/day) and there vas an elevated serum
alkaline phosphatase level at 100 ppm (2.5 mg/kg/day).
Long-term: in a two-year rat study a no-effect level of 50 ppm (2.5
mg/kg/day) was noted. At 100 ppm (5 mg/kg/day) and higher there was
liver injury. In another study there was alight liver hypertrophy at
So ppm (2.5 mg/kg/day) and the no-effect level was deemed to be 25 ppm.
2.1.7 Supplementary studies of toxicity
Carcinogenicity
Rat: no increase in tumours was seen in rats fed a maximum of 100 ppm
(5 mg/kg/day) of lindane throughout their life-span.
2.1.8 Modifications of toxicity
The acute toxicity of lindane was increased by a factor of 1.9 when
rats were fed a low protein diet.
2.2 TOXICOLOGY - MAN
2.2.1 Absorption
See 2.1.1. The oral route is an important route of absorption with
lindane.
2.2.2 Dangerous doses
Single: the dangerous done of lindane has been estimated at 7-15 g
but a young suffered serious illness including a convulsion after
ingesting a carefully measured dose of 45 mg intended as a vermifuge.
A number of children have been poisoned by sating as little an part
of-one 0.33 g tablet of lindane.
Repeated: in patients receiving 180 mg/day for several days there was
dizziness and diarrhoea after several days. Of 15 patients receiving
45 mg three times a day for three days, six shoved sone toxic symptoms.
2.2.3 Observations of occupationally exposed workers
Of 148 spray operators who applied lindane during an antimalaria
campaign about 40% became affected. The clinical examination showed
digestive and respiratory disorders, cutaneous symptoms and
neurological effects. There is a lack of precise information on the
chemical composition of the hexachlorocyclohexane used, an the
conditions, of application and on the amount absorbed.
A number of reports have suggested that lindane may be a causative
agent in certain blood dyscrasias particularly aplastic anaemia. In
the most recent study a group of 79 subjects was examined. These
persons were known to be exposed to lindane for periods of several
weeks to several years. No clinical symptomatology nor physical
evidence of disease clearly attributable to this exposure could be
demonstrated. In some reports of blood dyscrasias it has been
suggested that an exposure to lindane was responsible. Such effects
have not been reported in cases of undoubted intoxication by lindane.
2.2.4 Observations on exposure of the general population
Total diet studies in one country showed that the total dietary intake
of lindane was 0.00006 mg/kg. In one European country levels of
lindane in fat were 0.42-0.43 ppm whereas in an Asian country the
levels were 1.43 ppm. In another country in the Americas mainly ß BHC
and no lindane (g BHC) was detected in human fat.
2.2.5 Observations of volunteers
No information.
2.2.6 Reported mishaps
In an Eastern European country 11 persons became intoxicated after
consuming coffee containing sugar which accidentally became
contaminated with about 4% of lindane. General signs of poisoning
appeared between 20 minutes and four hours after ingestion and included
loss of consciousness and convulsion. There appear to have been no
dealths, and recovery following treatment was rapid.
2.3 TOXICITY TO NON-MAMMALIAN SPECIES
The entries in these sections are intended to draw attention to
special risks and to give warnings of any needs for special
precautions.
2.3.1 Fish
Toxic to fish (LC50:0.01-4.4 for several species after 96 hours'
exposure).
2.3.2 Birds
Toxic to birds (LC50:50-200 mg/kg for several species). Evidence of
cumulative effect. Possibility of damage to eggs if used excessively on
poultry or in poultry houses.
2.3.3 Other species
Toxic to bees.
LINDANE
Part 3 - For regulatory authorities
Common name: lindane
Data Sheet No. 12
Date issued: June 1975
RECOMMENDATIONS ON REGULATION OF COMPOUND
3.1 RECOMMENDED RESTRICTIONS ON AVAILABILITY
(For definition of categories see introduction.) Liquids over 50%
category 3 and over 5% category 4. Solids over 20% category 4.
All other formulations category 5.
3.2 TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
All formulations
Should be transported or stored in clearly labelled leak-proof
containers out of reach of children and away from food and drink.
3.3 HANDLING
All formulations categories 3 and 4
Protective clothing (see part 4) should be used by those handling
concentrates. Adequate washing facilities should be available close at
hand. Eating, drinking and smoking should be prohibited during
handling and before washing after handling.
Formulations category 5
No facilities other than those needed for the handling of any
chemical need be required.
3.4 DISPOSAL AND/OR DECONTAMINATION OF CONTAINER
All formulations
If not decontaminated, the container must either be burned or crushed
and buried below topsoil. Care must be taken to avoid subsequent
contamination of water sources. Container may be decontaminated (for
method, see paragraph 4.3 on part 4). Decontaminated containers should
not be used for food and drink.
3.5 SELECTION, TRAINING AND MEDICAL SUPERVISION OF WORKERS
All formulations categories 3 and 4
Pre-employment medical examination of workers desirable. Persons
with history of active liver disease should be excluded from contact.
Training of workers in techniques to avoid contact essential.
Formulations category 5
Warning of workers to minimize contact essential.
3.6 ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS RECOMMENDED IF DISTRIBUTED BY AIRCRAFT
Pilot and loaders should have special training in application methods
and early symptoms of poisoning. Flagmen, if used, should wear
overalls and be located well away from the dropping zone.
3.7 LABELLING
All formulations
Minimum cautionary statement
This formulation contains lindane, a toxic substance which is poisonous
if swallowed. Keep the material out of reach of children and well away
from foodstuffs, animal feed and their containers.
3.8 RESIDUES IN FOOD
3.8.1 Maximum residue levels
The Joint FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues (1973) has
recommended the following limits:
Vegetables............................................... 3 ppm
Cranberries, cherries, grapes, plums and strawberries.... 3 ppm
Fat of meat (cattle, pigs, sheep)........................ 2 ppm
Beans (dried)............................................ 1 ppm
Raw cereals.............................................. 0.5 ppm
Eggs (shell free)........................................ 0.1 ppm
Milk and milk products (fat basis)....................... 0.1 ppm
Poultry (fat basis)...................................... 0.7 ppm
Rice (rough)............................................. 0.5
Sugar beet (roots or foliage)............................ 0.2 ppm
LINDANE
Part 4 - Prevention of poisoning in man and emergency aid
Common name: lindane
Data Sheet No. 12
Date issued: June 1975
4.1 PRECAUTIONS IN USE
4.1.1 General
Lindane is an organochlorine pesticide of moderate toxicity which is
slowly degraded in the environment and can accumulate in tissue.
4.1.2 Manufacture and formulation
TLV
ACGIH 0.5 mg/m3; USSR 0.05 mg/m3
Vapours and dusts should be controlled preferably by mechanical means.
Protective equipment for the skin and respiratory protection is usually
necessary.
4.1.3 Mixers and applicators
When opening the container and when mixing, care should be taken to
avoid contact with the south and eyes. If necessary, a facial visor
and gloves should be worn. Mixing, if not mechanical, should always be
carried out with a paddle of appropriate length. The applicator should
avoid working in spray mist and avoid contact with the mouth.
Splashes must be washed immediately from the skin or eyes with large
quantities of water. Before eating, drinking or smiting, hands and
other exposed skin should be washed.
4.1.4 Other associated workers (including flagmen in aerial operations)
Persons exposed to lindane and associated with its application should
observe the precautions described above in 4.1.3 under "mixers and
applicators".
4.1.5 Other populations likely to be affected
With good agricultural practices subject to 4.2 below other populations
should not be exposed to hazardous amounts of lindane. Measurable
levels of the pesticide, however, have been detected in the body fat of
the general population in a number of countries.
4.2 ENTRY OF PERSON INTO TREATED AREAS
The general population should be kept out of treated areas for at least
one day.
4.3 DECONTAMINATION OF SPILLAGE AND CONTAINERS
Residues in containers should be emptied in a diluted form into a
deep pit taking care to avoid ground water. The empty container may be
decontaminated by mixing two or three times with water and scrubbing
the sides. Impermeable gauntlets should be worn during this work and a
soakage pit should be provided for the rinsings.
Spillage of lindane should be removed as much as possible into a deep
dry pit and the reminder washed away with large quantities of water.
4.4 EMERGENCY AID
4.4.1 Early symptoms of poisoning
Early symptoms of poisoning are nausea, vomiting, restlessness,
tremor and apprehension. Later convulsions may occur. Lindane
volatilized from heat vapourizers has produced great irritation of the
nose, eyes, throat with nausea and severe headache. Urticaria may
occur in sensitive individuals.
4.4.2 Treatment before person is seen by a physician, if these symptoms
owing exposure
The person should stop work immediately or otherwise remove himself
from the source of exposure. Contaminated clothing should be removed
and the affected skin washed with water and soap, if available, and the
area flushed with large quantities of water. If swallowed, vomiting
should be induced, if the person is conscious.
LINDANE
Part 5 - For medical and laboratory personnel
Common name: lindane
Data Shaft No. 12
Date issued: June 1975
5.1 MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT IN CASES OF POISONING
5.1.1 General information
An organochlorine pesticide of moderate toxicity which may be
absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and to a lesser extent by
inhalation and through the intact skin. Its mode of action is as a
central nervous system stimulant. Although it is readily excreted in
the urine and faeces there is a tendency for it to accumulate in body
tissues and organs especially in those tissues which have a high
lipoidal content.
5.1.2 Symptoms and signs
Mild symptoms of poisoning are nausea, vomiting, restlessness, tremor
and apprehension. Lindane volatilized from heat vapourizers may
produce great irritation of the nose, eyes and throat with nausea and
severe headache. Urticaria may occur in sensitive individuals. More
serious and advanced symptoms are repeated, violent clonic convulsions
sometimes superimposed on a continuous tonic spasm. Respiratory
difficulty and cyanosis secondary to the convulsions may occur. High
fever may also result. Death appears to be due to heart and
respiratory failure.
Reports of blood dyscrasias have not been clearly related to exposure
to lindane.
5.1.3 Laboratory
The presence of lindane in blood is indicative of absorption. The
blood levels associated with poisoning are not known. Other laboratory
findings are rise in blood pressure, fall in heart rate and changes in
the electroencephalogram.
5.1.4 Treatment
If the pesticide has been ingested, gastric lavage should be performed
with two to four litres of tap water followed by saline purgatives (30
g sodium sulfate in 250 ml of water). Barbiturates (preferably
phenobarbitone or pentobarbitone) or diazepam should be given IM or IV
in sufficient dosage to control restlessness or convulsions.
Mechanical respiratory assistance with oxygen may be required. Calcium
gluconate, 10 ml should be ingested four hourly. Contraindications are
oily purgatives epinephrine and other adrenergic drugs and central
stimulants of all types.
5.1.5 Prognosis
If the convulsions are survived, the chances of complete recovery are
good. However, in very severe cases, there is a possibility of
permanent brain damage secondary to continued anoxia resulting from
prolonged convulsions.
5.1.6 References of previously reported cases
The following references give methods of treatment used in cases of
poisoning:
Hayes, W. J., jr. Clinical handbook of economic poisons, U.S.
Publ. Hlth Ser., Publication No. 476 (revised 1963),
pp. 49-50
Bambov, H., Comakov, M. & Dimitrova, N. (1966) Savr. Med.,
17(16), 477-481 (in Bulgarian) Info. Cir. Tox. Peat.
Man. 23 Insert No. 12
Osuntokun, B. 0. (1964) W. Afr. med. J., 13(5), 207-210 Info.
Circ. Tox. Pest. Man. 17 Insert No. 137