EPA wants input on occupational exposure assessments for three pesticides

Washington — The Environmental Protection Agency is seeking feedback on updated occupational exposure assessments for three seed treatment pesticides to which exposure may cause negative health effects.

EPA issued separate assessments for clothianidin, imidacloprid and thiamethoxam. Collectively known as neonicotinoids, these pesticides “work by disrupting the central nervous system of insects” and are used to limit seed and plant damage. They can trigger harmful neurological, reproductive or developmental effects in workers exposed to high amounts.

“The majority of these risks result from commercial seed treatment, particularly the cleaning of seed treatment equipment, even when the use of maximum personal protective equipment is considered,” the agency says.

EPA notes that the products are used on many crops, turf, ornamentals and pet flea treatments, and have a number of indoor and outdoor commercial and residential uses.

Recent revisions to EPA’s seed treatment exposure assessment data, which now reflect research from the Agricultural Handler Exposure Task Force, helped produce higher dermal and inhalation exposure and risk estimates for numerous seed treatment tasks, according to the agency.

Comments on the assessments are due Sept. 24.