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Pesticide Exposure Hazards in the Built Environment
Pesticides are inherently toxic and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes them as chemicals used to kill or control pests. These pests may include insects, rodents, bacteria, fungi, and other organisms.
Regarding pesticide use and indoor air quality (IAQ), the EPA shares a study that found 75% of U.S. households used at least one pesticide product indoors during the prior year. Products used most often include insecticides and disinfectants. Another study the EPA mentions suggests that 80% of most people's exposure to pesticides occurs indoors and that measurable levels of up to a dozen pesticides have been found in the air inside homes. These same pesticides are used in schools, offices, and other buildings.
Exposure to pesticides can also occur when contaminated soil or dust floats or is tracked indoors from the outside. Contact could even come from pesticide containers stored indoors, from indoor surfaces that collect and then release the pesticides, and from products with pesticides on them that are brought indoors.
Potential health effects due to pesticide exposure can vary widely. According to the EPA, exposure to pesticides may result in:
- Irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat
- Damage to the central nervous system and kidneys
- Increased risk of cancer
Symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Muscular weakness
- Nausea
Chronic exposure to some pesticides can result in damage to the:
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Endocrine and nervous systems
Every few years a “new” pesticide emerges to take the place of an “older” more “dangerous” pesticide. The theory of unity of biology indicates what is bad for bugs is likely bad for people, think lead-based paint, arsenic, DDT, etc. Whether you are dealing with proven pesticides or emerging products, it’s important that families, workers, and building occupants are not exposed to dangerous concentrations. While some pesticides quickly degrade, others may remain a potential threat for a long period.
To identify exposure risks to pesticides and other potentially hazardous substances in the built environment, the industrial hygiene and building science experts at Clark Seif Clark, Inc. (CSC) offer testing, consulting, training, and monitoring services. If a pesticide is found in excess or in undesired locations, our professionals can help develop solutions to prevent, eliminate, or mitigate any current and future exposure risks. CSC also recently sponsored an educational video about pesticides and IAQ that can be seen below.
For more information on pesticides or other indoor environmental quality issues, call CSC at 800-807-1118. Please visit www.csceng.com to learn about our additional services.
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