By Blake Jackson
Paraquat dibromide, commonly known as paraquat, is a widely used burndown and preplant herbicide designed to control emerged grass and broadleaf weeds in row crops, vegetables, and specialty crops. It is the active ingredient in products such as Gramoxone, Quik-Quat, Parazone, Bonedry, Helmquat, and Devour.
First registered in 1964, paraquat is classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a restricted-use pesticide because of its high acute toxicity. It carries the signal word “Danger-Poison.”
The PennState extension teams says that even small amounts can be fatal if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through damaged skin. Labels prominently warn that the product is fatal if ingested or inhaled, causes severe eye injury, and is corrosive to skin. Shockingly, every year, 1 to 2 deaths are reported from the accidental ingestion of paraquat.
Health effects depend on the amount and route of exposure. Skin contact may cause redness, blistering, and tissue damage, especially with prolonged exposure or open wounds. Inhalation of spray droplets can irritate the respiratory tract and may lead to nosebleeds.
If swallowed, paraquat burns the mouth and digestive tract and can spread through the body, severely damaging the lungs, liver, and kidneys. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, abdominal pain, confusion, rapid heartbeat, muscle weakness, fluid buildup in the lungs, seizures, and, in severe cases, respiratory failure.
Because of these risks, applicators must wear label-required personal protective equipment (PPE), including long sleeves, long pants, chemical-resistant gloves, protective eyewear or a face shield, appropriate footwear, and a NIOSH-approved respirator. Mixers and loaders must also wear a chemical-resistant apron.
To reduce accidental poisonings, federal regulations now require closed-system packaging, certified applicator use only, and mandatory EPA-approved training every three years. These safeguards are critical to protecting applicators, workers, and the public.
FAQs
- What is paraquat used for?
It is used to control emerging weeds before planting or crop emergence.
- Why is paraquat restricted?
It is highly toxic and can be fatal if misused.
Only certified applicators who complete required training.
- What are common poisoning symptoms?
Nausea, breathing difficulty, organ damage, and confusion.
To reduce deadly exposure through skin contact or inhalation.
Photo Credit: istock-cactusoup
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, General, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety