German approach to risk mitigation measures for workers re-entering pesticide-treated fields
摘要
Harmonised models have been developed in the European Union for standard spray applications of plant protection products, which are mandatory for non-dietary human exposure assessment within the Member States. However, in contrast to the underlying calculations, the implementation of risk mitigation measures remains inconsistent among Member States. Here, we present the German system of risk mitigation measures for workers entering fields treated with pesticides. This system has been developed over recent years and is based on harmonised exposure assessments using EFSA guidelines and the OPEX-Calculator tool. This tiered system prescribes specific personal protective equipment and work time restrictions based on crop groupings, exposure scenarios, and residue dissipation, ensuring clear and enforceable safety instructions. The German approach balances effective worker protection with practical feasibility and may serve as a model approach for further harmonisation of risk mitigation measures within the European Union.