Webinar: Best Practices in the Detection and Monitoring of Pesticide Exposure

Last updated on June 16th, 2023 at 09:48 am

Summary: Farmers and agricultural workers are routinely exposed to a wide variety of chemicals. Toxicity Category I and II organophosphates (OPs) and N-methyl carbamates are cholinesterase-inhibiting insecticides commonly used in agriculture to kill insects or prevent them from damaging or destroying crops. Over-exposure to these chemicals results in the inhibition of the enzyme cholinesterase (ChE) which is utilized in the body’s conducting tissue, such as nerve and muscle motor sensory fibers. Acute toxic effects can include confusion, headache, and even loss of consciousness. Severe inhibition of ChE in the body can result in muscle paralysis, respiratory failure, seizures, coma, and death. Currently, there is no practice standard or national medical surveillance program for cholinesterase monitoring.

Purpose: This webinar will review cholinesterase testing and monitoring protocols based on programs from both California and Washington. Presenters will discuss ChE and its function in the body, routes of exposure, who is at risk, signs and symptoms, treatments, and prevention of exposure. Most importantly, presenters will share an established and recently updated protocol algorithm to guide your medical monitoring program. This protocol is designed to create awareness among your workers, set standards based on acceptable safe practices, and reduce incidents in the workplace.

Objectives: At the end of this webinar, participants will be able to …

1. Understand the health risks of cholinesterase (ChE)-inhibiting pesticide exposure.
2. Describe the aspects of exposure associated with decreased levels of ChE (who is at risk, type of pesticides, routes, signs and symptoms, treatment, and prevention)
3. Recognize the importance of establishing accurate baseline ChE monitoring for people who work with ChE-inhibiting pesticides in agriculture.
4. Recognize the importance of accurate and consistent ongoing ChE monitoring for people who work in agriculture.
5. Understand and follow the protocol for the ChE monitoring algorithm.

Intended Audience: Occupational safety managers, emergency service providers, doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and educators whose practice will be enhanced with the most current information on cholinesterase exposure and management

Watch the Recording Here