Chlorpyrifos to be phased out of market

The US Environmental Protection Agency has changed the specifications for use of insecticides containing chlorpyrifos (trade names: Dursban, Lorsban), an ingredient used in pet flea-and-tick products, in cattle eartags, and as a treatment for pasture, woodland, and farmsteads.

The EPA is taking action to stop formulation of many products containing chlorpyrifos. Specifically, the agreement stops manufacture of products containing chlorpyrifos by December 2000 for many residential uses, including use in pet flea-and-tick collars. The EPA is taking action mainly to protect the safety of consumers, especially children.

In a 1997 agreement between the EPA and manufacturers of products containing chlorpyrifos, manufacturers voluntarily pulled from the market many products containing the ingredients, including shampoos and dips intended for use on companion animals. At that time, manufacturers were not mandated to remove chlorpyrifos from pet flea-and-tick collars. Retail sale of chlorpyrifos-containing products is allowed until Dec 31, 2001.

At this point, use of chlorpyrifos in cattle ear tags will still be allowed, and it is still allowed on pasture, woodland, and farmsteads. The EPA.encourages veterinarians to wear gloves and wash hands after handling products containing chlorpyrifos.

Details are available online at www.epa.gov/pesticides.