Organophosphate esters in dust samples collected from Danish homes and daycare centers

The overall purpose of this study is to report the percentage of organophosphates in dust collected from daycare centres and homes. Organophosphates are used in a wide range of materials and products, including as flame retardants, and they are commonly found in indoor environments. Certain organophosphates have been associated with adverse health effects. The specific purpose of this study is threefold, as the authors aim (1) to report the percentage of selected organophosphates in dust samples collected from children's bedrooms and daycare centres, (2) to explore the correlation between levels of the individual organophosphates, and (3) to compare the results with other similar studies to get an idea of any variations in the presence of organophosphates over time and between different geographical environments. According to the authors, this information can add to existing knowledge about Danish children's exposure to organophosphates.

Overall, the results show that the concentrations of organophosphates in dust were higher in the daycare centres compared with the corresponding percentages registered in the homes of the children. The values found are in line with similar measurements from other industrialised countries. The authors assess that the children's exposure to organophosphates via dust ingestion in most cases is below the current limit values, with the reservation that inhalation and penetration through the skin are likely to be routes of substantial exposure for organophosphates in indoor environments.

The study is part of the Indoor Environment and Children’s Health (IECH) project, investigating the correlation between children's health and their indoor environment. In connection with the overall project, questionnaires were distributed to 17486 families in Denmark with children aged 1-5 years. The questionnaire had a response rate of around 63%. On the basis of the questionnaire survey, the researchers selected 500 children between 3 and 5 years for the study. Dust samples were collected from the bedrooms of these children. Moreover, samples were collected from their daycare centres (a total of 151 daycare centres).

Langer, S., Fredricsson, M., Weschler, C. J., Bekö, G., Strandberg, B., Remberger, M., Toftum, J., & Clausen, G. (2016). Organophosphate esters in dust samples collected from Danish homes and daycare centers. Chemosphere 154, 559-566.