Bromomethane is used to kill a variety of pests including rats, insects, and fungi. It is also used to make other chemicals or as a solvent to get oil out of nuts, seeds, and wool. It moves very quickly into the air when released to the environment or when present in soil or water. It breaks down slowly in air over several years. It breaks down quickly in soil over a few days.
Small amounts can move from the soil into the groundwater.
It breaks down in groundwater over a period of several months. It does not build up in plants or animals. Breathing very, very low background levels in the environment Breathing contaminated air with high levels near waste sites Breathing air where it has been used as a pesticide Breathing workplace air where it is made or used Usually not found in surface water, soil, or food. If you breathe bromomethane you may develop a headache and begin to feel weak and nauseated several hours later. If you breathe large amounts, fluid may build up in your lungs and it may be hard to breathe.