Most workers working in parks and recreation are involved in the provision of landscape and horticultural services.
Broad spectrums of biocidal agents (pesticides and herbicides) are used in horticulture. Exposure to herbicides and pesticides arises through their preparation, application and though secondary exposure of bystanders.
The main categories of pesticides are organophosphates, organochlorines and carbamate pesticides.
Organochlorine and organophosphate pesticide exposure causes a range of neurological effects. Exposure to bipyridylium herbicides may cause severe inflammation of the respiratory tract, necrotic damage to the liver and kidneys and hemorrhage.
Hand arm vibration and noise are also hazards in this sector from regular use of tools and machines such as pedestrian controlled powered lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and chainsaws and hedge trimmers.
Whole body vibration also occurs from ride on mowers.
