Harvesters potential exposure

Application of the test substance to the target crop prior to harvest represents a worst-case scenario for potential exposure to workers for the crop category. 

The major area (approximately 60%) of the potential exposure of the applicators was located on the legs, whereas 50% of the potential exposure of the harvesters was equally distributed to the hands and torso. Total body exposure differed significantly between workers. 

The variances of potential dermal exposure are presented in Table 1. Very large "within-worker" variances of potential exposure of the hands resulted in insignificant differences between workers. For harvesters, a similar result was obtained for potential exposure of the body parts. For both applicators and harvesters, significant "between-worker" differences of total potential exposure were observed. 

Figure 1 shows the distribution of the potential exposure. The major area of potential exposure of the applicators (approximately 60%) was located on the legs, particularly the lower legs. Exposure of the legs of the harvesters was approximately half that of the applicators. For harvesters, approximately 25% of the exposure was located on the torso and another 25% on the hands. 

Due to the pioneering efforts of Gunther, et al, Cl) we now have a standard procedure to determine dislodgeable residues. This is the component of the residue which is considered available for exposure during harvesting and other cultural activities that involve intimate contact with treated foliage. The technique has been widely used and allows the comparison of residue decay dynamics for different compounds under different situations. The data gathered in this way have relevance to potential exposure. 

Noting that most lead is removed during processing, DOH says, There is still a chance some pieces will remain, and warns that pregnant women and children under six should not eat venison harvested with lead bullets. Others should minimize their potential exposure and use their judgment about consuming game that was shot with lead-based ammunition. ... 

Figure 1 Distribution of the potential dermal exposure of applicators (N = 3, n = 9) to propoxur and of harvesters (N = 6, n = 18).

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