Loaders data base

Data-Base Proposal for Use in Predicting Mixer-Loader-Applicator Exposure... 

Data obtained through a search of the published literature on mlxer/loader and applicator exposure studies were evaluated and summarized by application technique and chemical class. As a result of this work. It was clear that the data In the open literature as they currently exist are Insufficient to produce a data base capable of predicting exposure for risk assessment purposes. However, It was encouraging that where acceptable data of sufficient volume were available the correlations were quite good. 

So we began by looking at the possibility of developing a generic exposure data base for at least the limited group, mixer-loader/applicators. This group was a good candidate because the exposure values as defined above are primarily dependent on the physical parameters involved In the application process such as ... 

Another point which can be made from the example summaries shown here Is the Indication of comparability of exposures to application rates. In Table II, for example, the range of dermal exposures for Organophosphates applied at. 5 - 3 lbs Al/acre Is quite similar to the range of dermal exposures for Chlorinated Hydrocarbon Insecticides applied at 1 - 3 lb Al/acre shown In Table III. And the general relationship Is further Indicated by the proportional Increase In the range of dermal exposures noted for Organophosphates applied at 3 - 4 lb Al/acre shown In Table IV. These examples, however, only serve to encourage us to believe In the viability of a data base for mixer-loader/appllcator exposures If more data were available that could be compared on an equal basis. 

There are many more exposure studies done in private industry and by government agencies than the number available In the published literature. It Is the data In these studies which offers the best hope for constructing a viable data base for predicting mlxer-loader/applicator exposures. The benefits are clear In cost and time savings. There Is a limit In any society to the amount of resources that can be spent on risk assessment. It would be far better to Jointly apply those resources to areas where data Is Inadequate or where the data will provide more usable information for risk assessment. Mlxer-loader/applicator data offers a special opportunity to test this premise because It can be reported and used on a generic basis which would Improve the quality of risk assessments while at the same time minimize the potential loss of proprietary Information and cost to companies. 

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