Occupational Exposure to Mycotoxins and Preventive Measures
Abstract Occupational exposure to mycotoxins occurs primarily via inhalation but also via dermal contact. An important factor for occupational mycotoxin exposure is assigned to the release of contaminated airborne dust. When handling of products and materials on an industrial scale, high amounts of contaminated airborne dust can be generated. An updated review of the respective literature on mycotoxins in occupational settings illustrates the widespread occurrence of mycotoxins. Standards for the assessment of occupational airborne mycotoxin exposure are missing. Despite several caveats, comparison of a calculated inhalative intake with recommendations for tolerable oral intake can be one approach to assess health risks. To minimize health risks, preventive measures have to be implemented at several starting points, including adjusted agricultural practices as well as technical exhaust right at the place of dust release or the use of appropriate personal protection devices.