Quantitative assessment of health risks associated with the application of pesticides used to control the European corn borer. Feasibility study. Adour Valley. Gers and Hautes-Pyrénées departments
In October 2002, the Midi-Pyrénées Regional Health Agency was contacted by two local health departments following public concerns regarding the aerial application of pesticides on sweet corn crops. These concerns stemmed from the fact that people living near the agricultural plots affected by these applications were complaining of various nonspecific symptoms, particularly respiratory issues. The objective of this study is to conduct a quantitative assessment of health risks and to discuss its relevance in light of available knowledge. A secondary objective of this study is to describe the variability in exposure depending on the type of application—by tractor, straddle sprayer, or helicopter—as well as depending on the application periods. The results of the metrological campaign suggest that concentrations resulting from tractor-based applications are higher than those associated with straddle sprayers. Regarding the health risk assessment approach, the results do not suggest a health risk associated with exposure to active ingredients regardless of the type of treatment used. However, reservations must be made regarding the available toxicological reference values, which do not pertain to the respiratory tract and are therefore not suitable for airborne exposure. Furthermore, the health risk assessment regarding the solvents used could not be completed due to a lack of toxicological data and sufficiently precise measurements. The following recommendations can be proposed: - better information for residents living near treatment sites regarding the phytosanitary treatments carried out in the vicinity of their homes; - the use of appropriate techniques to minimize particle drift or resuspension; - from a scientific standpoint, the development of toxicological reference values adapted for the respiratory tract.
Author(s): Pouey J, Riviere S
Publishing year: 2006
Pages: 51 p.
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