Simulated Air Levels of Volatile Organic Compounds following Different Methods of Indoor Insecticide Application

摘要

Many general health complaints that may be attributed to indoor insecticide exposure are also consistent with exposure to the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used as inert ingredients in insecticidal formulations. However, few indoor insecticide labels make ventilation or reentry recommendations that would help to limit exposure to these compounds. The Indoor Air Quality Model developed by the U.S. EPA was used to simulate potential VOC air levels following hypothetical indoor application of emulsifiable concentrate (EC), broadcast aerosol, and aerosol fogger formulations. Estimated VOC levels were highest for foggers and lowest for EC sprays (peak concentrations of 328 and 20.5 mg/m~3, respectively). However, all three application methods produced indoor air levels that were in the range of values expected to produce health complaints among certain individuals. Three hours of enhanced ventilation decreased air levels by as much as 75-80%. However, enhanced ventilation was most effective when vigorously applied immediately after application.