Health concerns on past exposure to chlordimeform fact sheet
Workers exposed to chlordimeform have an increased chance of developing bladder cancer. Bladder cancer can be treated if detected early.
Chlordimeform is a pesticide that was used extensively byaerial spraying on cotton crops in the north-western region of NSW between 1978 and 1986 and on other crops before 1976.
It was banned from use after serious health effects presented with overseas workers who manufactured the pesticide. Chlordimeform was commonly known as CGS500 or CGS800 in Australia.
Health effects from working with this chemical can occur up to 30 years after exposure.
Those who may have been exposed to chlordimeform at work include flaggers, mixers, markers, ground rig operators, drivers, loaders and pilots who sprayed the chemical from the air.
Workers exposed to chlordimeform have an increased chance of developing bladder cancer. Bladder cancer can be treated if detected early. Other symptoms include abdominal and back pain, hot sensation all over and anorexia.
Next steps
If you worked in the cotton growing industry and think you may be at risk:
- contact your doctor with information on your past work.
- take the regular urine tests that may be required.
- discuss any changes that you may have noticed in your health with a general practitioner (GP) or a urology specialist
For more information, call 13 10 50 or visit safework.nsw.gov.au.
Catalogue No. WC01606