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Pentachlorophenol Wood Preservatives
Pentachlorophenol is a restricted use pesticide and is used industrially as a wood preservative for utility poles, railroad ties, and wharf pilings. Pentachlorophenol was widely used as wood preservative until 1987 when its use was restricted to certified applicators. Pentachlorophenol is considered a probable human carcinogen and exposure to high levels can also have other health risks.
For help selecting the proper type of treated wood for any setting, consider consulting the primary standard-setting body for treated wood, the American Wood-Preservers' Association (AWPA).
If you have questions about this, or any pesticide-related topic, please call NPIC at 1-800-858-7378 (7:30am-3:30pm PST), or email us at npic@ace.orst.edu.
Additional Resources on Pentachlorophenol Treated Wood:
- Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED)for Pentachlorophenol - U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Pentachlorophenol and its Use as a wood Preservative - U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Preliminary Risk Assessment: Pentachlorophenol ("Penta"), HCB and Dioxin: Questions and Answers - U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Public Health Statement for Pentachlorophenol - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
- ToxFAQs for Pentachlorophenol - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
- Toxicological Profile for Pentachlorophenol - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
- Pentachlorophenol - International Program On Chemical Safety (INCHEM)
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