In40 CFR156.62, theEPA established fourToxicity Categories for acute hazards ofpesticide products, with "Category I" being the highest toxicity category (toxicity class). Most human hazard, precautionary statements, and humanpersonal protective equipment statements are based upon the Toxicity Category of the pesticide product as sold or distributed. In addition, toxicity categories may be used for regulatory purposes other thanlabeling, such as classification for restricted use and requirements forchild-resistant packaging.
In certain cases, statements based upon the Toxicity Category of the product asdiluted for use are also permitted. A Toxicity Category is assigned for each of five types of acute exposure, as specified in the table below.[citation needed]
The four toxicity categories, from one to four are:
In the following table, the leftmost column lists the route of administration.
| I | II | III | IV | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OralLD50 | Up to and including 50 mg/kg | From 50 to 500 mg/kg | From 500 to 5000 mg/kg | Greater than 5000 mg/kg |
| Inhalation LC50 | Up to and including 0.2 mg/L | From 0.2 to 2 mg/L | From 2. to 20 mg/L | Greater than 20 mg/L |
| Dermal LD50 | Up to and including 200 mg/kg | From 200 to 2000 mg/kg | From 2000 to 20,000 mg/kg | Greater than 20,000 mg/kg |
| Eye Effects | Corrosive;corneal opacity not reversible within 7 days | Corneal opacity reversible within 7 days; irritation persisting for 7 days | No corneal opacity; irritation reversible within 7 days | No irritation. |
| Skin Effects | Corrosive | Severe irritation at 72 hours | Moderate irritation at 72 hours | Mild or slight irritation at 72 hours |
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