Occupational illnesses from cholinesterase-inhibiting pesticides among agricultural applicators in California, 1982-1985.
California pesticide illness investigation reports involving toxicity category I or II organophosphate and carbamate pesticide exposures among agricultural pesticide applicators were reviewed for the years 1982-1985. The pesticides associated with each illness were recorded, and the exposures were classified as chronic, short-term, or accidental. Illnesses were associated with a range of pesticides, including both organophosphates and carbamates in both toxicity categories I and II. Approximately 19% of the illnesses were due to accidents. Overall, the analysis identified a need for improving occupational health surveillance and the regulations governing worker health and safety.
Brown
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SK
Hazard Evaluation Section California Department of Health Services Berkeley.
Ames
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RG
Mengle
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DC
D000062:Accidents, Occupational / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000382:Agricultural Workers' Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000453:epidemiology; D002140:California; D002219:Carbamates; D002800:Cholinesterase Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007306:Insecticides / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009943:Organophosphorus Compounds; D012449:Safety
D002219:Carbamates; D002800:Cholinesterase Inhibitors; D007306:Insecticides; D009943:Organophosphorus Compounds