WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
ORGANIZATION
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DE LA SANTE ORGANISATION POUR L'ALIMENTATION
ET L'AGRICULTURE
VBC/DS/75.20
ORIGINAL: ENGLISH
DATA SHEETS ON PESTICIDES No. 20
1975
CAMPHECHLOR
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.
Part 1 - General information
CLASSIFICATION
Primary use: insecticide
Secondary uses: acaricide
Chemical group: organochlorine
compound
Data sheet No. 20
Date issued: December 1975
1.1 COMMON NAME: Camphechlor (ISO)
Identity: Chlorinated camphene containing 67-69% of chlorine.
The number of individual chemicals comprising camphechlor and their
structure is unknown.
Synonyms: Toxaphene Local synonyms
(Toxaphene is a registered trade mark in some countries, but is
a common name in others.)
1.2 SYNOPSIS:
A mixture of organochlorine pesticides of moderate mammalian
toxicity which is stored to some degree in body fat.
1.3 SELECTED PROPERTIES:
1.3.1 Physical characteristics:
A yellow to amber waxy solid with an aromatic pine-like smell,
melting range 65-90°C.
1.3.2 Solubility:
Water at 20°C practically insoluble (ca 3 ppm) alcohol at
25-30°C, moderately soluble (12%), soluble in acetone, benzene and
most organic solvents.
1.3.3 Stability:
Dechlorinated by exposure to strong sunlight, in alkaline
media, in the presence of iron and some other catalysts and above
155°C. Non-corrosive in the absence of moisture. Incompatible with
strongly alkaline pesticides.
1.3.4 Vapour pressure (volatility):
0.2-0.4 mm.Hg at 25°C.
1.4 AGRICULTURE, HORTICULTURE AND FORESTRY
1.4.1 Common formulations
Emulsifiable concentrates, 40, 60 and 80% (often with 0.5%
epichlorohydrin to improve stability); wettable powders, 40%; dusts
and granules, 5, 10 and 20%; baits, 1% in bran; oil solutions. Often
mixed with other pesticides. There are FAO specifications for
camphechlor technical, emulsifiable concentrates and solutions, and
draft specifications for dusts and granules. There are provisional
draft specifications for mixed e.c. formulations with DDT and DDT +
parathion-methyl.
1.4.2 Susceptible pests
Effective by stomach and contact action against a wide range of
insects and mites. Used particularly against armyworms, cutworms,
earworms, budworms, thrips, beetles, weevils, grasshoppers and
ectoparasites of sheep, cattle and pigs.
1.4.3 Use pattern
Widely used as pre-harvest treatment on cotton, cereal grain,
oil-seed, vegetable, fruit and nut crops. The main worldwide crop
use is on cotton. Most treatments are by foliar application of
sprays, dusts and granules, except for the use of bran baits to
control cutworms. Camphechlor is often applied to crops as a mixture
with other pesticides. There are no post-harvest uses.
Camphechlor has a major worldwide use for the control of
ectoparasites of sheep, cattle (not lactating dairy cattle) and
pigs, particularly ticks and mites causing scabies. Treatment is
usually by emulsion sprays or dips, or solutions applied by
backrubbers.
1.4.4 Unintended effects
Not phytotoxic except to cucurbits. May cause off-flavours in
tobacco.
1.5 PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAMMES
Camphechlor has been used as a rodenticide spray on field mice.
It has no public health use at present.
1.6 HOUSEHOLD USE
Camphechlor is too toxic for household use.
Part 2 - Toxicology and risks
2.1 TOXICOLOGY - MAMMALS
2.1.1 Absorption route:
Absorbed by the intact skin and from the gastrointestinal
tract, the degree of absorption depending upon the vehicle. Also
absorbed by inhalation.
2.1.2 Mode of action:
Diffuse stimulation of the brain and spinal cord resulting in
generalized convulsions of a tonic or clonic character.
2.1.3 Excretion products:
Although camphechlor is reported to be fairly readily
eliminated from the body no information is available on the chemical
nature of the excretion products.
2.1.4 Toxicity, single dose
Oral LD50 rat (M) 90 mg/kg
rat (F) 80 mg/kg
Dermal LD50 rat (M) 1075 mg/kg
rat (F) 780 mg/kg
Most susceptible species: Dog, oral LD50 25 mg/kg
2.1.5 Toxicity; repeated doses
Oral: A dose of 25 mg/kg daily for five days per week was
fatal to dogs; when two dogs were administered 10 mg/kg, one dog
died after 33 days, the other survived and was sacrificed after
3-1/2 years. Four dogs administered 5 mg/kg all survived. There is
no information on the pathology in this study.
In another study camphechlor was administered to dogs in
capsules at 4 mg/kg per day for 44 days or 106 days. There was some
indication of central nervous system stimulation after
administration on certain occasions. No gross abnormalities were
evident but histopathology revealed some liver and kidney damage.
Inhalation: The mouse LC50 for two hour exposures is about
2000 mg/m3 of air per minute.
Dermal: Repeated dermal applications to rabbits at 40 mg/kg
led to death of 50% of the animals within a short time.
Cumulation of compound: Camphechlor although stored to some
extent in fat; after termination of exposure residues in fat
disappear rapidly.
Cumulation of effect: Due to the low level of storage of fat
and the relatively rapid excretion, the cumulation of camphechlor
can be expected to be low compared to most organo-chlorine
compounds.
2.1.6 Dietary studies
Short term: Rats were fed dietary levels of 50 or 200 ppm
(2.5 or 10 mg/kg/day) for nine months. The only abnormalities were
histological changes in the liver in three out of 12 rats fed 50 ppm
(2.5 mg/kg/day) and six out of 12 fed 200 ppm (10 mg/kg/day). There
are conflicting reports of the chronic toxicity of camphechlor to
rats; thus at 25 ppm 1.25 mg/kg/day) in the diet there was no
effect; at 100 ppm (5 mg/kg/day) there was liver damage. At dietary
levels of 1200 ppm (60 mg/kg/day) for eight weeks there were no
toxic effects; 250 ppm (12.5 mg/kg/day) was tolerated for 12 weeks.
Dogs were fed 0 (control), 5, 10 or 20 ppm (0, 0.125, 0.25 or
0.5 mg/kg/day) of camphechlor to their diet for periods up to 24
months. None of the feeding levels produced any changes either gross
or histological nor were there any clinical abnormalities.
Long term: Rats were fed unspecified levels of camphechlor
throughout their lifetime. There was increase in liver weights at
25 ppm (1.25 mg/kg/day) in the diet and a minimal degree of hepatic
cell enlargement with peripheral migration of granules.
2.1.7 Supplementary studies of toxicity
Reproduction: A 3-generation, 6-litter reproduction study was
conducted whereby rats were fed dietary levels of 25 or 100 ppm
(1.25 or 5 mg/kg/day) starting 79 days before mating and continuing
for 36 to 39 weeks. The only abnormalities found were slight liver
alterations in the group fed 100 ppm (5 mg/kg/day). The progeny were
viable normal in size and in anatomical structure.
2.1.8 Modifications of toxicity
No information.
2.2 TOXICOLOGY - MAN
2.2.1 Absorption:
See 2.1.1, ingestion is an important route of absorption in
cases of poisoning with camphechlor.
2.2.2 Dangerous doses
Single: The estimated and minimum acute lethal oral dose of
camphechlor for man is reported to be 2-7 g. Dermal application of
46 g as a single dose is very dangerous. It appears that 10 mg/kg
oral or less leads to non-fatal convulsions in some cases, but no
effect in others.
Repeated: Repeated daily dermal doses of 2.4 g are very
dangerous.
2.2.3 Observations of occupationally exposed workers
No information reported.
2.2.4 Observations on exposure of the general population
Camphechlor was not among the 15 pesticides most frequently
found in the 888 total diet studies conducted from 1964 to 1967.
When found camphechlor usually occurred in leafy vegetables at an
average level of 0.005 ppm.
2.2.5 Observations of volunteers
Human subjects were exposed in a closed chamber to an aerosol
of camphechlor for 30 minutes a day for 10 consecutive days at an
average concentration of 500 mg/m3 of air. After three weeks they
received the same exposure in three consecutive days. Based upon an
assumed retention of 50% of the inhaled camphechlor each individual
received a dose of 75 mg daily or about 1 mg/kg/day. Complete
physical and laboratory examination failed to reveal any toxic
manifestations.
2.2.6 Reported mishaps
There are a number of isolated reports of convulsions and death
resulting from the ingestion of camphechlor. In one case, among 10
persons in a family who had eaten collards recently sprayed with 9%
camphechlor emulsion, seven developed symptoms consistent with
camphechlor poisoning. All individuals recovered. Analysis of the
greens revealed extremely heavy levels of camphechlor. Doses of 9.5
to 45 mg/kg of camphechlor were estimated to have been consumed.
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.
2.3.2 Birds
Variable. Toxic to several species.
2.3.3 Other species
Low toxicity to bees.
Part 3 - For regulatory authorities
RECOMMENDATIONS ON REGULATION OF COMPOUND
3.1 RECOMMENDED RESTRICTIONS ON AVAILABILITY
(For definition of categories see introduction.) Liquid
formulations over 50%, category 3, and over 5%, category 4. Solid
formulations over 20% category 4. All other formulations, category
5.
3.2 TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
All formulations, categories 3 and 4
Should be transported or stored in clearly labelled rigid and
leakproof containers under lock and key secure from access by
unauthorized persons and children. No food and drink should be
stored in the same compartment.
Formulations, category 5
Should be transported or stored in clearly labelled leakproof
containers, out of reach of children, away from food and drink.
3.3 HANDLING
All formulations, categories 3 and 4
Full protective clothing (see part 4) should be provided for
all handling of the compound. Adequate washing facilities should be
available at all times during handling and should be close to the
site of handling. 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 are required.
3.4 DISPOSAL AND/OR DECONTAMINATION OF CONTAINERS
All formulations
Container must either be burned or crushed and buried below
topsoil. Care must be taken to avoid subsequent contamination of
water sources. Decontamination of containers in order to use them
for other purposes should not be permitted.
3.5 SELECTION, TRAINING AND MEDICAL SUPERVISION OF WORKERS
All formulations, categories 3 and 4
Pre-employment and periodic medical examination of workers
desirable. Special account to be taken of the workers' mental
ability to comprehend and follow instructions. Training of workers
in techniques to avoid contact essential.
Formulations, category 5
3.6 ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS RECOMMENDED IF DISTRIBUTED BY AIRCRAFT
All formulations
Pilots and loaders should have special training in application
methods and recognition of early symptoms of poisoning. Use of
flagmen not recommended. Flagmen, if used, should wear overalls and
be located well away from the dropping zone.
3.7 LABELLING
Formulations
All formulations, categories 3 and 4.
Minimum cautionary statement
"Camphechlor is a toxic substance and may cause convulsions. It
may be absorbed through the skin or inhaled as dusts or mists. Avoid
skin contact; wear protective gloves and clean protective clothing
while using this material. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after
using. Keep the material out of reach of children and well away from
foodstuffs, animal feed and their containers."
Formulations
Formulations, category 5.
Minimum cautionary statement
"This formulation contains camphechlor, 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
Maximum residue limits have been established by the Joint
FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues. As these are subject to
change at annual reviews, the latest data will be found in the
report of the 1973 Joint FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues.
Part 4 - Prevention of poisoning in man and emergency aid
4.1 PRECAUTIONS IN USE
4.1.1 General
Camphechlor is an organochlorine pesticide of moderate toxicity
which penetrates the intact skin, and is absorbed by inhalation and
from the gastrointestinal tract. Most formulations should be handled
by trained personnel wearing protective clothing.
4.1.2 Manufacturers and formulations
T.L.V.
(A.C.G.I.H.) 0.5 mg/m3;
Closed systems and forced ventilation may be required to reduce
as much as possible the exposure of workers to the chemical.
4.1.3 Mixers and applicators
When opening the container and when mixing, protective
impermeable boots, clean overalls, gloves and respirator should be
worn. Mixing, if not mechanical, should always be carried out with a
paddle of appropriate length. When spraying tall crops or during
aerial application, a face mask should be worn as well as an
impermeable hood, clothing boots and gloves. The applicator should
avoid working in spray mist and avoid contact with the mouth.
Particular care is needed when equipment is being washed after use.
All protective clothing should be washed immediately after use,
including the insides of gloves. Splashes must be washed immediately
from the skin or eyes with large quantities of water. Before eating,
drinking or smoking, hands and other exposed skin should be washed.
4.1.4 Other associated workers (including flagmen in aerial
operation)
Persons exposed to camphechlor and associated with its
application should wear protective clothing and 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 practice subject to 4.2 below, other
populations should not be exposed to hazardous amounts of
camphechlor. Camphechlor was not among the 15 pesticides most
frequently found in total diet studies. When found it was usually in
leafy vegetables at an average level of 0.005 ppm.
4.2 ENTRY OF PERSONS INTO TREATED AREAS
Unprotected persons should be kept out of treated areas for at
least one day.
4.3 SAFE DISPOSAL OF CONTAINERS AND SPILLAGE
Residues in containers should be emptied in a diluted form into
a deep pit taking care to avoid contamination of ground waters.
Decontamination of containers in order to use them for other
purposes should not be permitted. Spillage should be removed as much
as possible into a deep dry pit and the remainder washed away with
large quantities of water.
4.4 EMERGENCY AID
4.4.1
Early symptoms of poisoning are characterized by nausea, mental
confusion, jerking of the arms and legs and by convulsions. In some
instances convulsions have begun suddenly without any warning signs
or symptoms.
4.4.2 Treatment before person is seen by a physician, if these
symptoms appear following exposure
The person should stop work immediately, remove contaminated
clothing and wash the affected skin with soap and water if
available, and flush the area with large quantities of water. If
swallowed vomiting should be induced if the person is conscious.
Part 5 - For medical and laboratory personnel
5.1 MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF CASES OF POISONING
5.1.1 General information
An organochlorine pesticide of moderate mammalian toxicity
which may be absorbed through the intact skin as well as by
inhalation and from the gastrointestinal tract. Its mode of action
is as a central nervous system stimulant producing convulsions. It
tends to accumulate in body tissues but to a lesser extent than many
other organochlorine compounds.
5.1.2 Symptoms and signs
Non-fatal poisoning has been characterized by nausea, mental
confusion, jerking of the arms and legs and by convulsions. Fatal
poisoning has been characterized by frequent repeated violent
convulsions and by cyanosis. The cyanosis may result from
interference of respiration by the convulsions although there is a
report of cyanosis appearing before convulsions.
5.1.3 Laboratory
There are no practical laboratory methods for determining the
extent of exposure to camphechlor.
5.1.4 Treatment
If the pesticide has been ingested, gastric lavage should be
performed with 2-4 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 I.M.
or I.V. in sufficient dosage to control restlessness or convulsions.
Mechanical respiratory assistance with oxygen may be required.
Calcium gluconate, 10% in 10 ml should be injected I.V. 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
Several incidences of poisoning by camphechlor are described
in:
McGee, L. C. & Reed, H. L. (1952) J. Amer. Med. Assoc., 149, 1124
Descriptions of poisoning cases are also given in:
Hayes, W. J.. Jr (1963) "Clinical Handbook on Economic Poisons",
U.S. Dept. Hlth Educ. Welfare Publ. Hlth Ser. Publ., No. 476,
pp. 49, 50, 73
5.2 SURVEILLANCE METHODS
There are no readily available techniques to determine the
degree of absorption prior to the appearance of symptoms.
5.3 LABORATORY METHODS
5.3.1 Detection and analysis
Residues of camphechlor in foodstuffs can be determined by gas
chromatography after removal of interferences by passage through a
sulfuric acid-Celite column and dehydro-chlorination: the
dehydrochlorinated camphechlor gives a characteristic pattern of
gas-chromatographic peaks. The method is described, with others, by
Zweig (1972). Additional clean-up procedures are given by the United
States Food and Drug Administration (1971). Camphechlor is also
detected and semi-quantitatively determined by the method of Abbott
et al. (1969).
5.3.2 Other tests in cases of poisoning
No information available.
REFERENCES
Zweig, G. in
Zweig, G., (Ed.) "Analytical Methods for Pesticides, Plant Growth
Regulators and Food Additives", Vol. VI, Academic Press, New York
and London, 1972, p. 514
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Pesticide Analytical Manual, Vol. I, 1971, Sections 211, 212
Abbott, D.C., Holmes, D. C. & Tatton, J. O'G.
Pesticide Residues in the Total Diet in England and Wales,
1966-1967.
II. - Organochlorine Pesticide Residues in the Total Diet, J. Sci.
Fd Agric., 1969, 20, 245