Fenthion use to cease in Australia from October 2015

Products containing fenthion may not be used after October 2015 in Australia, according to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). This marks the end of a 12-month phase out period that commenced following the finalisation of the review into fenthion and subsequent cancellation of the active constituent. Existing stocks can be used until current permits and conditions expire in October 2015. Any product that remains unused should be disposed of responsibly.

 

Fenthion is a broad-spectrum organophosphorus insecticide which used to control insect pests in agricultural, commercial and domestic situations and external parasites on cattle. Fenthion is also used to control pest birds in and around buildings. According to APVMA, the review of fenthion commenced in late 1998 based on environment, human health, residues in food and trade concerns. The agency suspended a number of uses of fenthion in the past several years and published final review decision in October 2014 to ban most uses of fenthion, but allowed a phase-out period of 12 months to enable use of cancelled products.