Hexachlorobenzene

GENERAL INFORMATION
Hexachlorobenzene, a synthetic organic chemical, is a white crystalline solid. It does not occur naturally in the environment. Currently there are no commercial uses of hexachlorobenzene in the United States. It was used as a fungicide and to make fireworks and ammunition. Although it is not currently used commercially in the United States, hexachlorobenzene was widely used as a pesticide until 1965. It was also used in the production of rubber and wood preservatives. It breaks down very slowly and still persists in the environment. Small particles stick to soil and remain in sediments in the bottoms of water bodies; it accumulates in plants, grasses, fish, marine animals, birds and animals.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing hexachlorobenzene well in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for many years could experience liver or kidney problems; reproductive difficulties; increased risk of cancer.