Spray deposition patterns during simulated work activities by lawn care specialists

This simulated field study investigated patterns of spray deposition on the clothing of lawn care applicators using a tank truck and handheld spray gun. The purpose was to provide a basis for designing a protective garment for lawn care specialists. The influence of flow rate and experience level of applicators on spray deposition was studied. FD&C Blue #1 dye was sprayed simultaneously by novice and experienced applicators in timed walks. There were four replications at full and at reduced flow rates. Spray garments were cut into 23 pieces representing body parts. Dye was recovered using four rinses of distilled water and analyzed by standard spectrophotometric techniques. Significantly more dye was deposited on the lower portion of the body, both front and back legs, than on other body parts. The amount on the lower legs accounted for 59% of the total, while hands accounted for 28%. There was a tendency for experienced applicators to have more dye on their clothing than the novice applicators. The amount of dye deposition did not differ significantly with flow rate. The findings provide a basis for designing clothing and developing recommendations to improve protection for lawn care specialists.