Improper use of an insecticide at a kindergarten.
In a German kindergarten cockroaches were destroyed by a commercial firm. A preparation containing pyrethrum and its synergist piperonyl butoxide and the organic phosphorus pesticide chlorpyriphos was sprayed. While cleaning the rooms, the staff complained of health effects. Thereupon the kindergarten was closed until further notice, samples were taken by the health authorities for chemical analysis, and an environmental medical evaluation was initiated. The analytical results are presented. The toxicological significance of the employed insecticides, their environmental persistence, and the problems associated with pest control in such institutions are discussed and recommendations given.
Fischer
A B
AB
Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany.
Eikmann
T
T
D016902:Air Pollution, Indoor / Q000032:analysis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D000818:Animals; D004390:Chlorpyrifos / Q000032:analysis*; D002849:Chromatography, Gas; D003058:Cockroaches; D004391:Dust / Q000032:analysis; D004784:Environmental Monitoring; D005858:Germany; D006801:Humans; D007306:Insecticides / Q000032:analysis*; D010571:Pest Control / Q000379:methods; D010882:Piperonyl Butoxide / Q000032:analysis; D011722:Pyrethrins / Q000032:analysis*; D012578:Schools, Nursery
D004391:Dust; D007306:Insecticides; D011722:Pyrethrins; D004390:Chlorpyrifos; D010882:Piperonyl Butoxide