Solar Panel Installation Workers Exposed to Pesticides During Two Agricultural Applications - Michigan, August 2023...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Occupational Health
• Toxicology

Background:

• Agricultural pesticide applications pose exposure risks to individuals working near farmland.
• Michigan regulations permit solar panel installations on or near agricultural lands.
• Nonagricultural workers, such as solar panel installers, may lack awareness of pesticide exposure risks and health effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on incidents of pesticide exposure among solar panel installation workers in Michigan.
• To highlight the potential health risks for nonagricultural workers in proximity to farmland.
• To emphasize the importance of pesticide safety and awareness for workers in rural settings.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of reports submitted to Michigan's state pesticide surveillance program.
• Identification of two distinct events involving solar panel workers experiencing illness after pesticide exposure.
• Review of symptoms temporally associated with nearby agricultural pesticide applications.

Main Results:

• Two separate events in August 2023 and May 2024 involved 10 solar panel installation workers reporting pesticide exposure symptoms.
• Reported illnesses were temporally linked to nearby agricultural pesticide applications.
• Pesticide applicator adherence to label instructions is vital for preventing bystander exposure.

Conclusions:

• Nonagricultural workers installing solar panels near farmland are at risk of pesticide exposure.
• Enhanced awareness and proactive communication between employers, farmers, and workers can mitigate risks.
• Adherence to pesticide application guidelines and use of protective measures are essential for worker safety.