Assessing occupational exposure to sea lamprey pesticides.

BACKGROUND

Sea lampreys are parasitic fish found in lakes of the United States and Canada. Sea lamprey is controlled through manual application of the pesticides 3-trifluoromethyl-4-nitrophenol (TFM) and Bayluscide(TM) into streams and tributaries. 3-Trifluoromethyl-4-nitrophenol may cause irritation and central nervous system depression and Bayluscide may cause irritation, dermatitis, blisters, cracking, edema, and allergic skin reactions.

OBJECTIVE

To assess occupational exposures to sea lamprey pesticides.

METHODS

We developed a wipe method for evaluating surface and skin contamination with these pesticides. This method was field tested at a biological field station and at a pesticide river application. We also evaluated exposures using control banding tools.

RESULTS

We verified TFM surface contamination at the biological station. At the river application, we found surfaces and worker's skin contaminated with pesticides.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommended minimizing exposures by implementing engineering controls and improved use of personal protective equipment.