Organophosphate (OPs) insecticides are widely used on a large variety of crops. Examples of work activities involving OPs include:
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Greenkeepers who mix, load or apply organophosphate pesticides may need health monitoring, because organophosphates are listed in Schedule 14 of the model WHS Regulations. Outdoor work also brings UV and noise exposure, so skin checks and hearing tests are often included. Employees Health can run these onsite at golf courses, sports grounds and councils across Australia.
Organophosphate pesticides can lower the activity of cholinesterase, an enzyme in the blood. Health monitoring includes a baseline red cell and plasma cholinesterase test, followed by a repeat test towards the end of a working day on which organophosphates have been used, so the doctor can compare results.
Organophosphate insecticides are the main chemicals in turf care that trigger mandatory health monitoring when exposure is significant. Other products may need monitoring where there is a significant health risk and a valid test is available. Check the Safety Data Sheets and your chemical register, and speak with a doctor experienced in health monitoring if you are unsure.
Greenkeepers spend much of their day outdoors, so their UV exposure is high. Workplace skin checks can help identify spots that need further medical review, alongside sun protection controls such as shade, scheduling and protective clothing.
If greenkeepers are required to wear hearing protection because noise exceeds the exposure standard, audiometric testing must be provided within 3 months of starting and at least every 2 years. Ride-on mowers, blowers and trimmers can all contribute to noise exposure.
