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Sampling scheme for pyrethroids on multiple surfaces on commercial aircrafts

Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology volume 20, pages 320–325 (2010)Cite this article

A Corrigendum to this article was published on 07 September 2010

Abstract

A wipe sampler for the collection of permethrin from soft and hard surfaces has been developed for use in aircraft. “Disinsection” or application of pesticides, predominantly pyrethrods, inside commercial aircraft is routinely required by some countries and is done on an as-needed basis by airlines resulting in potential pesticide dermal and inhalation exposures to the crew and passengers. A wipe method using filter paper and water was evaluated for both soft and hard aircraft surfaces. Permethrin was analyzed by GC/MS after its ultrasonication extraction from the sampling medium into hexane and volume reduction. Recoveries, based on spraying known levels of permethrin, were 80–100% from table trays, seat handles and rugs; and 40–50% from seat cushions. The wipe sampler is easy to use, requires minimum training, is compatible with the regulations on what can be brought through security for use on commercial aircraft, and readily adaptable for use in residential and other settings.

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Acknowledgements

This study was supported by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Office of Aerospace Medicine through the Air Transportation Center of Excellence for Airliner Cabin Environment Research (ACER), Cooperative Agreement 04-C-ACE-UMDNJ. Although the FAA has sponsored this project, it neither endorses nor rejects the findings of this research.

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  1. Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School/UMDNJ, Piscataway, 08854, New Jersey, USA

    Krishnan R Mohan & Clifford P Weisel

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  1. Krishnan R Mohan
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  2. Clifford P Weisel
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Correspondence to Clifford P Weisel.

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The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Mohan, K., Weisel, C. Sampling scheme for pyrethroids on multiple surfaces on commercial aircrafts. J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol 20, 320–325 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1038/jes.2009.26

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