In-flight spraying in aircrafts: determination of the exposure scenario

Summary: Exposure measurements were carried out in parked aircrafts during and after application of a biocide aerosol spray (simulated in-flight spraying). The aerosol product SRA spray (Standard Reference Aerosol Spray) was used for spraying. Concentrations of the pyrethrins – the active ingredients – in the air of the passenger cabin (airborne particles, measured during spray application and 40 minutes afterwards) varied from 11 to 65 μg/m3; those of the synergist piperonyl butoxide were 200 – 485 μg/m3. The concentrations on surfaces of the cabin furniture differed widely. Low concentrations were determined on surfaces in vertical positions (median values: pyrethrins ≤2 ng/cm2; piperonyl butoxide ≤17 ng/cm2), while under seats, on seats and on headrests the concentrations were up to 55.5 ng/cm2 for pyrethrins and 1162.5 ng/cm2 for piperonyl butoxide (median values). The inhaled doses for sprayers (using 100 g of spray) and persons sitting in the passenger cabin were calculated to be 17 μg for pyrethrins and 200 μg for piperonyl butoxide (maximum values). Maximum total external body doses for the applicators during spraying were 830 μg for pyrethrins and 8840 μg for piperonyl butoxide. The potential dermal dose for persons sitting in the passenger cabin was about a factor of two lower. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]