Re-evaluation Note REV2012-17, Re-evaluation Project Plan for Triflusulfuron-methyl

Pest Management Regulatory Agency
13 December 2012
ISSN: 1925-0649 (PDF version)
Catalogue number: H113-5/2012-17E-PDF (PDF version)

Introduction

In Canada, triflusulfuron-methyl is under re-evaluation by Health Canada's Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA). The PMRA's pesticide re-evaluation program considers potential risks as well as the value of pesticide products to ensure they continue to meet standards of modern science and current policy established to protect human health and the environment. Under the authority of section 16 of the  Pest Control Products Act, the registrant of triflusulfuron-methyl was notified of the initiation of the re-evaluation of triflusulfuron-methyl. Following this, the registrant of triflusulfuron-methyl technical grade active ingredient in Canada indicated their intention to support all uses included on the labels of commercial products in Canada. This Re-evaluation Note outlines a project plan and timeline for review, as well as summarizes the anticipated areas of focus related to the re-evaluation of triflusulfuron-methyl.

Triflusulfuron-methyl is a herbicide that has been registered in Canada since 1999. Triflusulfuron-methyl is currently registered for use on sugar beet, garden beet and root chicory (Use-Site Categories 13 and 14). The registered triflusulfuron-methyl end-use product is formulated as a wettable granule to be applied by ground application.

The project plan discussed below outlines the anticipated areas of focus and risk assessments required to complete the re-evaluation of triflusulfuron-methyl. Should additional information become available during the re-evaluation period that affects the regulatory status of triflusulfuron-methyl, the PMRA will reconsider the area(s) of focus and risk assessments required. Currently, a proposed re-evaluation decision for triflusulfuron-methyl is anticipated to be published for consultation in 2013.

Re-evaluation Project Plan

Human Health Risk Assessment

• A review of triflusulfuron-methyl toxicology was conducted in support of the initial registration and the toxicology database for triflusulfuron-methyl still meets current requirements.
• Occupational and dietary exposure assessments previously conducted to support the registered uses will be verified to ensure that health risks associated with the use of triflusulfuron-methyl continue to be acceptable.
• Based on the registered use pattern for triflusulfuron-methyl, a residential exposure assessment is not required.

Environmental Risk Assessment

• Environmental label statements will be updated to reflect current standards and the Toxic Substances Management Policy (TSMP) will be considered. Buffer zones for the protection of sensitive terrestrial and aquatic habitats will be calculated based on current practises.

Value

• The value of triflusulfuron-methyl will be considered. The viability of alternatives will be examined if risks of concern are identified.

Data Requirements

• No additional data requirements have been identified for triflusulfuron-methyl at this time.

Anticipated Timeline for Re-evaluation

• A proposed re-evaluation decision for triflusulfuron is anticipated to be published for consultation in 2013.

Additional Information

PMRA documents can be found on our website at www.healthcanada.gc.ca/pmra. PMRA documents are also available through the Pest Management Information Service. Phone: 1-800-267-6315 within Canada or 1-613-736-3799 outside Canada (long distance charges apply); fax: 613-736-3798; e-mail: pmra.infoserv@hc-sc.gc.ca