Methyl bromide health effects

Evidence that many of these compounds can have adverse effects on the immune, endocrine and nervous systems and that some are carcinogenic has grown during the last decade. The role of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and of methyl bromide in the ozone layer depletion is well established (ref. 3).It is therefore not surprising that many halogenated derivatives are cast as environmental and health villains by various concerned groups who call for total phase out of chlorine and chlorinated hydrocarbons. 

Alexeeff GV, Kilgore WW, Munoz P, et al. 1985. Determination of acute toxic effects in mice following exposure to methyl bromide. J Toxicol Environ Health 15 109-123. 

Anger WK, Setzer JV, Russo JM, et al. 1981. Neurobehavioral effects of methyl bromide inhalation exposures. Scand J Work Environ Health 7 (SuppI 4) 40- 47. 

EPA. 1986b. Health and environmental effects profile for methyl bromide. Cincinnati, OH U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Health and Environmental Assessment. ECAO-CIN-P182. EPA/600/X-86/171. 

Sato M, Miyagawa M, Honma T, et al. 1985. Subacute effects of methyl bromide dosed by inhalation exposure to rats. Ind Health 23 235-238. 

Tanaka S, Arito H, Abuku S, et al. 1988. Acute effects of methyl bromide on electroencephalographic activity and sleep-wakefulness in rats. Ind Health 26 101-114. 

A. Inhalation is the most important route of exposure. The ACGIH recommended workplace exposure limit (TLV-TWA) in air is 1 ppm (3.9 mg/m ) as an 8-hour time-weighted average. Toxic effects are generally seen at levels of 200 ppm, and the air level considered immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) is 250 ppm. NIOSH considers methyl bromide a potential occupational carcinogen. 

---