Chlorophenoxy Herbicides
Quick Reference
What are Chlorophenoxy Herbicides?
These are herbicides that are used in residential and commercial applications as well as industrial agriculture. They are some of the most common herbicides globally. They kill broadleaf grasses by mimicking plant hormones and causing rapid, unchecked growth, depleting nutrients and killing the plant. They can be transported in small commercial containers, bulk containers or tanker trucks.
Crew Safety
- Staging/Perimeter
- 50 m for spills/leaks.
- 800 m if a large tank (rail car, semi-truck) is involved in a fire.
- Additional Resources
- No other resources needed for patient care. Fire Department for containment of large spill.
- PPE requirements
- Contact and splash precautions (gloves, eye protection and gown depending on situation). *Dermal exposure is low risk, but if copious quantities present gown should be worn.
- Safely initiating patient contact
- Crew may meet the patient in a safe location and assist with decontamination.
- Crew not to enter an area with active spraying of herbicides ongoing to avoid inhalation of aerosols.
- Crew not to approach large quantities of liquid herbicides. Our PPE is sufficient only for incidental exposure during decontamination.
Effect on the Patient
Most toxic effects are the result of intentional ingestion of a large quantity. Dermal exposure may result in irritation of skin, but minimal to no risk of systemic toxicity. Ingestion of a large quantity may cause metabolic acidosis, vomiting and diarrhea, headache, and confusion with behaviour disturbances. In rare cases of severe toxicity tachydysrhythmias may occur.
Patient Decontamination
If eyes are exposed flush with water for 10 – 15 minutes. Remove contaminated clothing. Wash exposed skin with a mild detergent and water.
Patient Treatment
- Manage symptoms as per BCEHS CPGs.
- If ingested obtain IV access with infusion of N/S. Clearance is through renal excretion, and IV fluids help ensure clearance is timely.
Safe Transfer of Care
No concern for secondary contamination or off-gassing, provided initial decontamination occurred.
Paramedic and Equipment Decontamination
None should be required. If inadvertent dermal contact with an herbicide occurred, wash area with mild soap and water.
Quick Access Resources
DPIC Monograph
Paramedic Specialist Safety Data Sheet
No SDS available.
Emergency Response Guidebook
Revision History
| Version | Date | Changes | Author |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 2026-05-01 | Initial version | Clinical Hub |