What Is Creosote?

Creosote forms when coal or beechwood or other woods are burned at very hot temperatures. It can also be derived from the resin of the creosote bush. The most common form of creosote in the workplace and at hazardous waste sites is coal tar creosote.

Identification

• Coal tar creosote is often used in wood preservatives. It can also be used as a pesticide. Certain medicines, especially those used to heal skin diseases, have coal tar creosote in them. Beechwood creosote had been used for many years as a disinfectant, laxative, cough treatment and for pneumonia and tuberculosis. It is no longer in use.

Warning

• As creosote is highly toxic in large quantities, it is best for workers who work with the chemical to shower before leaving their employment site. Asthma and breathing problems are sometimes a result of exposure to creosote smoke. Food and water that has been contaminated by the chemical, or inhaling vapors, can cause burning sensations at the back of the throat and stomach pain.

Considerations

• Workers employed in rubber and tire and steel factories are exposed to creosote. Employees who work around asphalt as well as those with railroad companies may come in contact with the chemical. Those who work in the wood preservative and coke-producing industries may also be exposed

Significance

• The exposure limit is set at .02 milligrams of coal tar creosote within a cubic meter of air over 8 hours of a work day by the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Prevention

• Using wood not treated with creosote will help keep creosote out of your home. Wood creosote can build up in a chimney if it is not cleaned or damp wood is used. Having the chimney cleaned on a regular basis prevents the buildup of creosote, which can cause fires. It's best not to use a creosote pesticide. Employees working around creosote should wash their clothes away from their homes.