Development of a digital tool for semi-quantitative assessment of pesticide exposure risk in greenhouses

Abstract

Accurate assessment of occupational exposure to plant protection products in greenhouses poses specific challenges due to confined environments, operator variability, and the limited suitability of existing models under real working conditions. This study presents the development of a digital tool that implements a semi-quantitative model for evaluating pesticide exposure risk among greenhouse workers. The model integrates task-specific variables across four exposure scenarios: mixing and loading, application, maintenance and re-entry; and applies a logarithmic scoring system to calculate an exposure index. This index is then combined with a toxicity score derived from product hazard classifications to obtain a comprehensive risk level, interpreted using a five-tier classification scheme with corresponding preventive recommendations. The application includes a preliminary questionnaire to ensure basic safety conditions are met and incorporates an automated update mechanism that maintains an up-to-date list of authorized products based on official registries. The tool was developed with a focus on usability and structured logic, supporting efficient data entry and interpretability of results. Field testing was carried out in different greenhouses under commercial production located in southeast Spain, confirming the coherence and functionality of the tool under practical conditions.