Dicrotophos ((E)-2-Dimethylcarbamoyl-1-methylvinyl dimethyl phosphate) is a hazardous chemical commonly used in production, but it can cause many adverse health effects for workers. This article will provide a detailed analysis of the risks and health impacts of Dicrotophos in the workplace.
1. What is Dicrotophos ((E)-2-Dimethylcarbamoyl-1-methylvinyl dimethyl phosphate)?
Dicrotophos (C₈H₁₆NO₅P) is a chemical compound belonging to the organophosphate group, with a chemical structure consisting of a dimethylcarbamoyl group and a dimethyl phosphate group. It is primarily used as a pesticide in agriculture, especially for controlling pests on crops. Its chemical structure is unique with a vinyl linkage, which gives Dicrotophos a strong effect on the nervous system of insects.
This substance works by inhibiting the enzyme cholinesterase in the body of organisms, which stops the breakdown of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter. The accumulation of acetylcholine causes uncontrolled stimulation, ultimately leading to paralysis of the nervous system and the death of the affected organisms. Dicrotophos can be dangerous with long-term exposure or in unsafe conditions, as it can also affect human health, especially when inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
| No. | Chemical Name in Vietnamese | Chemical Name in English | HS Code | CAS Number | Chemical Formula |
| 1. | Dicrotophos | Dicrotophos ((E)-2-Dimethylcarbamoyl-1-methylvinyl dimethyl phosphate) | 29201900 | 141-66-2 | C₈H₁₆NO₅P |
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2. Where does Dicrotophos ((E)-2-Dimethylcarbamoyl-1-methylvinyl dimethyl phosphate) originate from in the production process?
Dicrotophos primarily appears during the production process through synthesis in pesticide manufacturing and processing plants. It is an organophosphate compound produced for use as a pesticide on agricultural products like cotton and corn. During production, dicrotophos is synthesized through chemical reactions between raw materials such as dimethyl carbamate and other phosphorus-containing compounds. When these substances react, dicrotophos is created with its characteristic chemical structure, providing effective insecticidal properties.
The main source of dicrotophos in the workplace is from the synthesis and handling processes in the pesticide manufacturing industry, where these substances can be released into the air, water, or come into contact with workers through direct handling of the chemical or during equipment maintenance.

3. Industries that use Dicrotophos ((E)-2-Dimethylcarbamoyl-1-methylvinyl dimethyl phosphate) in production
This compound is used mainly in agriculture to control a wide range of pests that harm crops, especially beetles, leafhoppers, and other harmful insects. It is an organophosphate pesticide widely applied in agricultural production sectors such as growing cotton, corn, vegetables, and fruit trees. This pesticide helps protect crops from pest attacks, especially pests on cotton plants, where it is used to minimize damage to cotton bolls and seeds.
Other industries may also use dicrotophos in agricultural products to ensure productivity and product quality; however, its use requires caution regarding occupational safety and the health protection of users. Because dicrotophos can be harmful to human health, it is only permitted for use under strict conditions, ensuring there is no risk of affecting the community and the surrounding environment.
4. How does Dicrotophos ((E)-2-Dimethylcarbamoyl-1-methylvinyl dimethyl phosphate) affect workers?
When exposed to Dicrotophos, an organophosphate pesticide, workers can experience numerous health problems, primarily due to its mechanism of action on the nervous system. Dicrotophos inhibits the enzyme cholinesterase, leading to an accumulation of acetylcholine in the body, which causes poisoning symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, anxiety, and tremors in the limbs. These effects can progress to more serious problems like convulsions, loss of motor coordination, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.
In addition, workers may also experience eye and skin problems upon direct contact with Dicrotophos. These symptoms include tearing, excessive salivation and sweating, as well as rhinitis. The severity of poisoning and the health effects depend on the dose and duration of exposure. Individuals with long-term exposure to Dicrotophos may face long-term health issues such as impaired physiological function, especially reproductive capacity, and damage to the kidneys and liver.
5. Safe permissible concentration of Dicrotophos ((E)-2-Dimethylcarbamoyl-1-methylvinyl dimethyl phosphate) for human exposure
The safe permissible concentration of Dicrotophos for human exposure depends on the safety standards at the workplace. According to occupational exposure guidelines, the recommended long-term exposure level (TWA) should not exceed 0.25 mg/m³. This is the safe permissible level in the workplace air to avoid adverse health effects. Additionally, regulations require workers to avoid direct skin contact as Dicrotophos can be absorbed through the skin and pose a risk of poisoning.

On a basic level, if working in an industrial environment, it is crucial to adhere to safety standards and limit exposure to Dicrotophos. Organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States provide guidelines and safety principles to protect workers from the negative impacts of chemical substances.
6. Measures to mitigate the health effects of Dicrotophos ((E)-2-Dimethylcarbamoyl-1-methylvinyl dimethyl phosphate) on workers
To mitigate the health effects of Dicrotophos ((E)-2-Dimethylcarbamoyl-1-methylvinyl dimethyl phosphate) on workers, strict prevention and protection measures must be applied. First and foremost, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential. Workers should wear gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing when working with this chemical, especially during spraying or direct handling of Dicrotophos. In addition, using exhaust fans and effective ventilation systems helps reduce the risk of respiratory exposure, limiting the absorption of Dicrotophos through the skin and lungs.
Furthermore, a reasonable work schedule should be implemented to reduce the duration of exposure to this chemical. Regular health monitoring for workers is necessary, especially tracking indicators related to neurological function and cholinesterase levels in the blood, as Dicrotophos inhibits this enzyme, causing symptoms of neurotoxicity.
Providing comprehensive training and guidance to workers on how to use Dicrotophos safely is also a critical factor. This not only helps raise awareness of the risks but also encourages the application of safety measures throughout the work process.
Finally, the handling and storage of Dicrotophos must comply with strict regulations on occupational safety and the environment. Dicrotophos should be stored in well-ventilated, enclosed areas and handled with care to prevent its release into the environment and exposure to workers.
These measures, combined with safety procedures, will help minimize the adverse health effects of Dicrotophos on workers.
Occupational safety training: Workers need to be trained and educated about the risks and safety measures when working with this type of chemical. This training should be provided periodically and regularly to ensure understanding and proper adherence to safety rules.
Periodically conduct occupational environmental monitoring in factories and enterprises, collecting and analyzing harmful factors for workers, thereby adjusting to reduce hazard levels to prevent occupational diseases for them.
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