Airborne microorganisms, endotoxin, and (1→3)-β-D-glucan exposure in greenhouses and assessment of respiratory symptoms among workers.

Objectives: Greenhouse operations are an important sector of the horticulture industry, also known as the Green Industry. The objectives of this study were (i) to investigate exposure levels to airborne culturable fungi, bacteria (total culturable bacteria and actinomycetes), endotoxin, and (1→3)-β-D-glucan in three Midwest greenhouses during summer and winter using multiple exposure assessment methods; (ii) characterize the load of microorganisms on greenhouse floors and determine potential microbial source strengths of the floors for aerosolizing microbial biocontaminants, and (iii) to estimate the prevalence of rhinitis, wheezing, asthma, and other respiratory symptoms/conditions among greenhouse workers.

Methods: Stationary inhalable aerosol samples were collected from each greenhouse using Button Inhalable Aerosol Samplers.