Exposure to pesticides : Pt. III Application to chrysanthemums in greenhouses

During 20 applications with a spray pistol of methomyl to chrysanthemums, inhalation exposure as well as potential and actual dermal exposure were monitored. Inhalation exposure during mixing, loading and application averaged 5.1 microgram/hour. Dermal exposure of the hands during mixing and loading, and application was 13.1 mg/hour, and 0.8 mg/hour respectively. The potential exposure of the remaining parts of the body was 1.7 mg/hour, showing exposure mainly of the front torso (23%) and the legs (57%). The actual dermal exposure (excluding the hands) was 40 microgram/hour. Penetration of the pesticide through the overall was less than 5% on average. On the basis of the exposure data, the possible health risks for methomyl and 13 other pesticides, frequently used in ornamentals, was indicatively assessed. From the No-Observed-Adverse-Effect-Level (NOAEL) in animals an Indicative Limit Value (ILV) was derived: the ILV is considered as being indicative of the level of daily exposure for a worker which probably gives norise to adverse health effects. Calculations showed that the ILV for inhalation exposure was exceeded once, and the ILV for dermal exposure was exceeded by twelve pesticides. For reduction of the dermal exposure levels below the ILV the exposure of the hands has to be reduced e.g. by using impermeable gloves