asked the Minister for Fisheries if he is aware that a weed-killer known at 245T, containing dioxin, which is more lethal than arsenic or strychnine, has been in general use throughout State forests for some time; and the measures taken, and to be taken, for the protection of forestry workers likely to be exposed to this poisonous substance.
Written Answers. - Use of Weed Killer.
447.
The chemical formulation 245T, which may contain as a contaminant the element TCDD, better known as dioxin, has been in use in State forests for the specific purpose of control of woody weeds. It is also used in agriculture and horticulture as a brushkiller under various trade names.
The British Advisory Commission on Pesticides and other Toxic Chemicals is satisfied that provided the dioxin content of the 245T formulation is not greater than one part per ten million there is no risk to man or his environment. This requirement is stipulated for all formulations of 245T approved under the British Ministry's approval scheme for pesticides. My Department purchase only those formulations of 245T that have been certified as meeting the British approval scheme requirements.
While 245T is not a dangerous chemical to work with, workers are required to take precautions normally associated with the use of non-hazardous pesticides including the use of protective clothing and face masks and washing of exposed skin before meals and after work.
Despite the fact that I am assured that the chemical 245T in the formulation used here by my Department poses no threat to man or his environment I have, in view of the public concern about its use, requested the research branch of my Department to seek an acceptable substitute.