Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
and have an impact on the selection of appropriate PPE for agricultural pesti-
cides.
Most emulsifiable concentrate formulations and some other agricultural
formulations have petroleum-based solvents (often xylene), which are a poten-
tial hazard to humans orally, dermally, ocularly, and through inhalation. The
PPE requirements must reflect the toxicity not only of the active ingredient,
but also of the solvents. Other additives do not present direct hazards to hu-
mans, but do increase the hazard potential of the active ingredient. The proper-
ties of some additives may increase the potential for dermal penetration; others
may enhance the adherence of the pesticide to surfaces, including PPE and
skin. Still others may increase the potential of the active ingredient to "spread
out," thereby potentially contaminating larger areas of skin or PPE.
D.
EXPOSURE SCENARIOS
One of the challenges in establishing PPE guidelines for agricultural pes-
ticide operations is the extensive number of distinct exposure scenarios to be
found in agriculture. These scenarios are important not only in ascertaining
the degree of pesticide exposure, but also in assessing the level of effort re-
quired by the user—an important factor in determining heat-stress potential.
1.
On Foot
Persons handling pesticides while on foot are, in general, the most likely
to receive direct exposure to the pesticide. They are necessarily in close prox-
imity to the pesticide regardless of whether mixing, loading, applying, flag-
ging, cleaning, adjusting, or repairing contaminated equipment or entering
treated areas to ventilate or to remove fumigation tarps. Even minor spray
drift will contact the handler. The close proximity of applicator to equipment
magnifies any equipment inadequacies or imperfections. A dripping or par-
tially clogged nozzle, an unfastened cap, a leaky hose, or a loose connection
are extremely likely to result in handler exposure.
Figure 6.5
shows a worker
spot treating a field on foot.
In addition to direct contact with the pesticide, indirect exposure is also
likely through such actions as brushing against plants, animals, or other items
just treated with pesticides or from overhead fallout of pesticide, such as mists,
drips, or dusts.
The potential for heat-induced illness is also likely to be highest for han-
dlers on foot. Not only are they often exposed to direct, unshaded sunlight,
they are also often carrying, pushing, pulling, or otherwise manipulating
equipment or pesticide containers.
