The incident occurred when a resident incorrectly applied the restricted use pesticide Weevil-Cide (pellets), containing aluminum phosphide under the house to address a pest problem. The application created strong odors in the house and the resident attempted to wash the material away. Aluminum phosphide when mixed with water creates phosphine gas which is toxic and can ignite spontaneously in air. TCEQ notified EPA of the incident and requested assistance. OSC Enders and an
EPA Team have mobilized to assess site conditions and begin cleanup
operations.
PRODUCT LABELING:
RESTRICTED USE PESTICIDE DUE TO THE HIGH ACUTE INHALATION TOXICITY OF PHOSPHINE GAS
For retail sale to Dealers and Certified Applicators only. For use by Certified Applicators or persons under their direct supervision, and only for those uses covered by the Certified Applicator’s certification. Refer to the directions in this Applicator’s Manual for requirements of the physical presence of a Certified Applicator.
A FUMIGATION MANAGEMENT PLAN MUST BE WRITTEN FOR ALL FUMIGATIONS PRIOR TO ACTUAL TREATMENT.
THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED WITHIN 100 FEET OF ANY BUILDING WHERE HUMANS AND/OR DOMESTIC ANIMALS DO OR MAY RESIDE ON SINGLE AND MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES AND NURSING HOMES, SCHOOL (EXCEPT ATHLETIC FIELDS) DAYCARE FACILITIES AND HOSPITALS.
