The greenhouse work environment: a modifier of occupational pesticide exposure? |
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Authors: | Yonatal Mesfin Tefera Leigh Thredgold Dino Pisaniello |
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Institution: | 1. Adelaide Exposure Science and Health, School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia;2. Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia |
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Abstract: | AbstractGreenhouses are enclosed structures which have various characteristics that enhance crop productivity, but the implications for workers’ pesticide exposure and uptake are not well understood. A narrative literature review was conducted to explore the mechanism/s of interactions between greenhouse characteristics and occupational pesticide exposure. Using a “work”, “worker” and “workplace” conceptual framework, the greenhouse environment (hot and humid microclimate, limited space and dense crop arrangements) combines with work characteristics (high work and pesticide use intensity, multi-tasking, predominantly manual spraying techniques and quick reentry to treated farms) to potentially increase occupational pesticide exposure, compared with open field farming. Greenhouse environments, are variable but have been shown to influence pesticide availability, route, pathways and frequency of exposure, deposition and distribution on a worker’s body as well as use and performance of exposure control methods. Training programs can emphasize the differences in exposure potential between greenhouse and open field farming. Development of tailored guidelines for exposure control strategies to better suit the level of uniqueness of greenhouse agriculture seems warranted. |
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Keywords: | Greenhouse work worker workplace pesticide exposure pesticides |
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