GENERAL INFORMATION
2,4,5-TP is a white organic powder with little odor. Until Silvex was banned in 1985, the greatest use of 2,4,5-TP was as a post emergence herbicide for control of woody plants and broadleaf herbaceous weeds in rice and bluegrass turf, in sugarcane, in rangeland improvement programs, and on lawns. Aquatic uses included control of weeds in ditches and riverbanks, on floodways, along canals, reservoirs, streams, and along southern waterways. The major source of 2,4,5-TP in drinking water is residue of the banned herbicide.
HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing silvex in excess of the MCL over many years could experience liver problems.
MCL ADVISORY - ACTION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
2,4,5-TP levels were detected in your water sample to exceed the maximum contaminant level (MCL).
ACTION IS OPTIONAL
2,4,5-TP levels were detected in your water sample but do not exceed the maximum contaminant level.
WEBSITE RESOURCES
- Ohio Department of Health - Private Water Systems Program - Water Quality - Organic Contaminants
- USEPA - Water: Basic Information about Regulated Drinking Water Contaminants - Basic Information about 2,4,5-TP (Silvex) in Drinking Water
- ATSDR - Toxic Substances Portal - Chlorophenols
FACT SHEETS
- ATSDR ToxFAQs Fact Sheet - Chlorophenols
- USEPA - Consumer Fact Sheet on 2,4,5-TP (SILVEX)