#604 Acute inhalation toxicity
Objective of the study
The study provides information on health hazard likely to arise from a short-term exposure through exposure by inhalation.
The information to be provided should allow the identification of effects following a single exposure to the pesticide, and in particular to establish:
- the toxicity of the active ingredient and formulated product;
- the time course and characteristics of the effects with full details of behavioural changes and possible gross pathological findings at post-mortem; and
- where possible mode of toxic action.
While the emphasis should be on estimating the toxicity ranges involved, the information generated should also permit the active ingredient to be classified regarding its acute hazard.
The information generated through acute toxicity testing is of particular value in assessing hazards likely to arise in accident situations.
Circumstances under which the study is recommended to be required
The inhalation toxicity study is recommended if the end-use product consists of, or under the conditions of use will result in, a respirable material (e.g. gas, vapour, aerosol, or particulate)
Test organism
The study is normally conducted in the rat.
Test substance
- Technical grade active ingredient
- Formulated product
Typical endpoints of the study
Mortality: inhalation LC50 (mg a.i. / kg bw)
Test guidelines
The following test guidelines may be used for determination of acute inhalation toxicity:
- OECD Guidelines for the Testing of Chemicals. Test No. 403: Acute inhalation toxicity
- US EPA Health Effects Test Guidelines. OPPTS 870.1300: Acute inhalation toxicity