[3][6] This prompted the State of California to review existing toxicology studies and establish a "Public Health Goal" that limits bentazon in drinking water to 200 parts per billion.

The EPA requires ground water and environmental hazard advisory labels on all commercially available herbicides containing bentazon.

Both statements warn against application and/or disposal of bentazon directly into water, or in areas where soil leaching is common.

[8] In another study using dogs, prostate inflammation was also observed along with previously noted health effects [1][6] In experiments conducted on hamsters, mice and rats, bentazon was not found to cause gene mutations to damage to DNA and chromosomes.

[2] Bentazon has been classified by the EPA as a "Group E" chemical, because it is believed to be non-carcinogenic to humans (as based on testing conducted on animals).

Workers applying the herbicide would be most exposed to bentazon, and so have been advised to wear protective clothing (goggles, gloves and aprons) at all times when handling the chemical.

[1][10] Workers handling bentazon must wash their hands before eating, drinking, smoking, and using the bathroom to minimize contact with skin.