Exposure to biological fungicides, environmental microorganisms and oils in forestry harvesting

Abstract

New chemicals have been introduced into forestry harvesting during the past decade. In field experiments five harvesters and their operators were used to study exposure to biological fungicides, biodegradable oils and log colour-coding agents. Respiratory exposure to the biological fungicide Phlebiopsis gigantea, other basidiomycetes, environmental microorganisms and endotoxins was assessed using samples taken from the workers’ breathing zone. Exposure to biological fungicide was also estimated by antibody determinations from serum samples. Dermal exposure to biodegradable oils and biological fungicides was studied using a fluorescent tracer method and digital photography. Dermal exposure to log colour-coding agents was observed visually. The field survey indicated that respiratory and dermal exposure to biological fungicides, log colour-coding agents and hydraulic and chainsaw oils was insignificant during normal harvester operations. Skin contamination may occur during maintenance work such as the sharpening of chains or the handling of hydraulic hoses.

Keywords:

• Biodegradable oil
• butt rot antagonist
• forestry harvesting
• health effects

Acknowledgments

The Finnish Work Environment Fund financially supported this work. The authors thank Päivikki Susitaival, Dr Med. Sci., for her comments and support during the work.

Notes

Kallunki, H., Mäkinen, M., Ojanen, K., Laitinen, S. & Kangas, J. (Kuopio Regional Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 93, FI-70701 Kuopio, Finland). Exposure to biological fungicides, environmental microorganisms and oils in forestry harvesting.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Heikki Kallunki

Kallunki, H., Mäkinen, M., Ojanen, K., Laitinen, S. & Kangas, J. (Kuopio Regional Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 93, FI-70701 Kuopio, Finland). Exposure to biological fungicides, environmental microorganisms and oils in forestry harvesting.