These workers prepare pesticide solutions by diluting concentrated formulations with water, measuring and combining various generic paraquat products that contain either 2 or 3 pounds of active ingredient per gallon, and loading the mixtures into application equipment. Some degree of exposure and risk exists every time these pesticides are handled, whether through splashes onto unprotected skin during pouring, inhalation of small droplets, or contact with spray mix while repairing clogged nozzles.
Routes of paraquat exposure for chemical mixers
Dermal and inhalation routes represent the most significant pathways of paraquat exposure for chemical mixers. Exposure can occur in multiple scenarios throughout their workday.
- Splashes or mists during mixing and dilution processes
- Contact with clothing, equipment, or surfaces containing pesticide residue
- Inhalation of airborne droplets in open cabs or poorly ventilated spaces
- Skin contact through damaged or defective safety equipment
- Tracking paraquat residues into homes on shoes and boots
Fatal poisoning occurs primarily when chemical absorption through the skin increases after prolonged contact with undiluted or diluted paraquat solutions. In many cases, exposure happens because employees are not provided with proper safety equipment, like goggles, gloves, helmets, or bodysuits, or the equipment provided is damaged or defective. The effect is dose-dependent, and when combined with other factors such as genetic disposition, the risk becomes even greater.
Scientific evidence and manufacturer negligence
According to recent scientific studies, paraquat significantly increases the likelihood of developing Parkinson's disease among exposed individuals. There has been a steady flow of epidemiological studies documenting a positive association between occupational paraquat exposure and Parkinson's disease occurrence. Increasing evidence suggests this link exists even when precautions are taken and safety recommendations are followed.
The most common injury associated with paraquat is Parkinson's disease, a debilitating nervous system disorder affecting as many as 60,000 people in the United States annually.
Paraquat products handled by chemical mixers
Chemical mixers handled paraquat formulations containing different amounts of active ingredients. The constant exposure to skin contact and inhalation that results from their daily tasks is a result of measuring, diluting, and preparing toxic solutions for application.
Relevant job titles
- Chemical mixer
- Pesticide mixer
- Agricultural chemical mixer
- Herbicide mixer
- Crop protection mixer
- Chemical handler
- Pesticide preparation technician
