For List 2 inerts, the EPA is monitoring ongoing testing and gathering existing information on the potential adverse effects of these chemicals to determine if further regulatory action is required. The EPA has no particular regulatory plans for List 3 and List 4 inerts. The Forest Service will incorporate new data on inerts into updated fact sheets as it becomes available. Inert ingredients in putrescent whole egg solids formulations include white mineral oil, guar gum, and sodium tetraborate decahydrate. Guar gum is a plant gum which is used in foods and which is only slightly toxic.
Mineral oil is a hazard if inhaled.
Other inert ingredients have not been publicly identified by the manufacturer. Exposure to formulated products may cause eye irritation. These health effects evaluations have taken into consideration the potential for both worker and public exposure from Forest Service operations. This information has been used in assessing health risks and consequently in formulating protective measures to reduce risk to forest workers and to the public. Section VII of this fact sheet, Safety Precautions, provides guidance for the safe handling and use of putrescent whole egg solids.