ASSESSMENT OF BELGIAN FLORISTS EXPOSURE TO PESTICIDE RESIDUES

Pesticides are known to be widely used on flowers to control insects and diseases during cropping. As a result, florists who handle daily a large number of flowers can be exposed to their residues. A study was conducted among Belgian volunteer florists to assess their exposure: sampling of flowers, residue analysis, transfer of residues from flowers to hands and their absorption through the skin after contact. 90 bouquets (roses, gerberas, and chrysanthemums) were collected in Belgium to be analysed. Florists were requested to wear during their professional activities two pairs of cotton gloves during two consecutive half days in order to assess the potential transfer to their hands and the dermal exposure. Finally, during the three most important periods for the sale of flowers in Belgium (Valentine's Day, Mother's Day and All Saints’ Day), 84 urine samples were collected from florists and control groups (24-hour urine) to assess the total exposure by measuring the concentrations of pesticides (parent compounds and metabolites). A huge variety of pesticide residues were detected: 107 on bouquets and 111 on the gloves. A total of 70 different pesticide residues and metabolites were identified in urine of florists. A vast majority of pesticide residues identified on cut flowers and on cotton gloves were also found in urine samples. A clear relation was then established between dermal exposure and excretion of pesticide residues in florist urines. Exposure was particularly critical for clofentezine with a maximum systemic exposure value four times higher than the acceptable exposure threshold (393% AOEL). Moreover, clofentezine was detected in urine of florists. In conclusion, the study leads to conclude that Belgian florists are exposed daily to pesticide residues, with potential effects on their health. Therefore, there is an urgent need to raise the awareness about pesticides residues among florists who should adopt better personal hygiene rules and among authorities who could strengthen the controls on imported cut flowers and set safety standards such as Maximum Residue Limits for residues on cut flowers.