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Document ID (ISN)53160
CIS number 90-227
ISSN - Serial title 0007-1072 - British Journal of Industrial Medicine
Year 1988
Convention or series no.
Author(s) Gun R.T., Grycorcewicz C., Esterman A.J., Bedwards J.B.
Title Ultralow volume application of organophosphate concentrate in grain terminals: A new occupational health hazard
Bibliographic information Dec. 1988, Vol.45, No.12, p.834-837. Illus. 10 ref.
Abstract The introduction of ultralow volume (ULV) application of the organophosphate pesticide Fenitrothion in grain terminals presents a risk to workers of skin contact with concentrate. Blood testing, by the Ellman method, of a group of 5 grain terminal workers working on grain treatment showed a lowering of mean red blood cell cholinesterase (RBC ChE) activity to 23 units/gmHb (normal value 28-40) with a range of 16-29. The probable cause was identified as percutaneous absorption of Fenitrothion concentrate by workers using ungloved hands to clean blocked drip feed nozzles. Modification of work practices was followed by a rise of mean RBC ChE to 33.6 units/gmHb (range 32-36).
Descriptors (primary) organophosphorus compounds; enzyme disturbances; metathion; hazard evaluation; pesticides
Descriptors (secondary) dangerous substances; skin absorption; enzymological tests; biochemical tests; toxicity evaluation
Document type D - Periodical articles
Subject(s) Agriculture, fishing, animal husbandry
Broad subject area(s) Chemical safety
Browse category(ies) Blood diseases
Esters and salts
Agricultural chemicals
Risk evaluation