Determination of Airborne Concentrations of Dichlorvos Over a Range of Temperatures When Using Commercially Available Pesticide Strips In a Simulated Military Guard Post
Abstract
Potential inhalational exposure to dichlorvos vapor associated with using commercially-based dichlorvos-impregnated resin strips (Nuvan Prostrips) in a simulated military guard post was evaluated. A varying number of these pesticide strips, ranging from the manufacturers guidelines ((3)-16 gram (g) strips) up to (12)-16 g strips, were placed in a small, enclosed space similar in size to a typical military guard post and static sampling simulating personal air sampling was conducted, followed by analysis using the OSHA Method 62. Air sampling was conducted within the space at discrete temperatures in the range of 26 C to 38 C to determine the airborne concentration generated at each temperature setting. Airborne concentrations were compared to established military exposure guidelines (MEGs) and the 8-hour OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) for dichlorvos (0.99 mg/m3). Findings indicated that exceeding the recommended number of strips as per manufacturers recommendations for the specific workspace volume and environmental conditions produced airborne dichlorvos concentrations above established occupational standards (1.77-3.70 mg/m3). Such exposures may potentially lead to adverse effects, such as loss of mental and visual acuity for the guard post watch standers. However, concentrations of airborne dichlorvos generated when adhering to manufacturer's guidelines based on workspace volume resulted in levels of 0.16-0.39 mg/m3, which were below the established occupational health limits. While dichlorvos-impregnated strips are not currently recommended for use in manned workspaces for periods > 4 hours, findings suggest that prolonged use (8 hours) of similar pesticide strips within manned spaces to kill disease-carrying insects may be a viable an safe option under similar conditions and in accordance with manufacturer's guidelines.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 22, 2013
- Accession Number
- AD1013033
Entities
People
- Mark A. Otto
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences