Field evaluation of protective clothing against non-agricultural pesticides

The effectiveness of three different types of protective overalls was investigated both in the laboratory and in the field during timber spraying. Polyester cotton overalls and two different types of disposable overalls were tested. In the laboratory, each type of protective overall was evaluated for penetration and permeation in accordance with European Standards. Following a pilot survey, a total of twelve field surveys were carried out, with each of the three types of protective overall being worn in four different surveys. Laboratory tests suggested that disposable overalls should be more effective than the polyester cotton overalls. However, field trials indicated that there was very little difference between the three types. Wide ranges of both potential exposure (i.e. the mass of pesticide collected on the outer patches) and the mass of pesticide under the protective overall were observed. Similarly, there was a wide range of penetration factors for the whole suit. It is therefore important to ensure that protective overalls be changed at frequent intervals. Safe working practices should be promoted regardless of the type of protective clothing worn.