Exposure to pesticides in apple and pear orchards

The occupational exposure to pesticides among fruit growers in Belgium was investigated in a series of studies performed in 1997 and 1998. Potential exposure during mixing and loading, application and re-entry was determined. Respiratory exposure was assessed with personal air samplers and potential dermal exposure with gauze patches and cotton gloves. Dislodgeable foliar residues were measured by taking whole leaves. Respiratory exposure during all tasks was very small compared with potential dermal exposure. Hand exposure during mixing and loading was greater than or similar to total potential exposure during application. The body distribution of the pesticide contamination during application and harvesting was highest for the hands and the upper legs. The potential dermal exposure values are discussed in relation to a re-entry exposure model. The potential respiratory and dermal exposure was compared with the existing local AOEL values.