90 CIRCULAR 9 7 7, U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 



In preparing phosphorus baits the chief hazard is in handling the con- 

 centrates to make the solutions or in mixing with the sugar in the dry baits. 

 Take extreme care to avoid spilling the concentrates on the person or con- 

 taminating foods and utensils. There is much less hazard in handling the 

 formulated baits because of the low concentration of toxicant, but the 

 general precautions given on pages 82-83 should be followed. 



REPELLENTS 



Since repellents come into direct contact with the skin, the toxicity 

 problem is especially important. Every repellent recommended for 

 use b} r military personnel has been investigated by toxicologists to 

 estimate its systemic toxic, irritant, and sensitizing effects on man. 

 Clearance for use on military personnel does not constitute clearance 

 for general use by civilians because of possibly greater susceptibility 

 of women and children to the materials. However, the following 

 repellents are considered satisfactory for civilian use: Dimethyl 

 phthalate, 2-ethyl-l,3-hexanediol, Indalone, dimethyl carbate, and 

 benzyl benzoate. The M-1960 formula for treatment of clothing 

 and several skin repellent preparations have been cleared for use by 

 military personnel but not for civilians. 



No precise information on the toxicity of different repellents is 

 presented in this circular. Toxicity data on which clearance for 

 use has been based are available from the Food and Drug Adminis- 

 tration and the Army Environmental Health Laboratory. 



It is generally recognized that almost any substance may cause 

 allergic reactions in some individuals. Apparently 7 the incidence of 

 such reactions has not been high since no harmful reactions have been 

 reported in connection with the use of those repellents considered 

 satisfactory for civilian use. 



The repellents should not be considered innocuous. They may be 

 harmful if allowed to get into the eyes or if ingested. They may also 

 cause slight smarting of the skin, especially when perspiring. They 

 damage paints, plastics, and most synthetic fabrics. 



Special Precautions in Using Repellents 



Do not allow to get into the eyes. 



Store where small children cannot reach them. 



Do not allow to come in contact with painted or varnished surfaces or 

 plastics. 



Do not apply on synthetic cloth, such as rayon. 



If clothing is treated with a repellent, it is advisable to wear untreated 

 undergarments. Direct contact of treated clothing may cause smarting of 

 the tender parts of the body. 



