Health Canada is making changes to the way that mothballs are labelled, to ensure that they're used safely and kept away from children, who can easily mistake them for candies.
The agency announced Wednesday new labelling requirements for mothballs and moth flakes containing naphthalene, the pesticide whose vapour helps kill off fabric-eating moths and larvae.
The labels will be revised to:
- add directions to store the product in a dry place out of the reach of children and pets;
- add directions to open the product only in a well-ventilated area, and to carefully reseal the container after application
- restrict the use of mothballs and moth flakes to indoor use only, in airtight containers
- reduce the maximum application rate
As well, the packaging itself must be changed to discourage children from accidentally eating the balls. The new packaging must also minimize the release of vapours from the package.
Manufacturers have until September, 2013 to meet the new requirements.
The changes come after Health Canada said it re-evaluated naphthalene, a pesticide whose vapours can cause nausea, dizziness and vomiting.
"Children are at risk of eating mothballs because the product looks like candy. They can develop diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, lack of appetite, fever, abdominal pain and painful urination and dark urine," Health Canada says.
They can also develop hemolytic anemia, the abnormal breakdown of red blood cells.
To reduce the risks of mothballs, Health Canada advises:
- fabric items stored in mothballs should be aired out for several days before they are used.
- the airing out should be done outdoors in an area not accessible to children or pets, preferably in direct sunlight.
- if possible, clothing or fabrics should be washed before using.
