Baseline cholinesterase testing is recommended when workers handle Class I and Class II organophosphates or OP and N-methylcarbamates for more than 30 hours in 30 consecutive days.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only for Class III pesticides
• D. Not recommended

Answer: (A)

Baseline cholinesterase testing is used to establish a personal reference for a worker’s cholinesterase activity before they are exposed to pesticides that inhibit this enzyme. Organophosphates (Class I and II) and N-methylcarbamates can suppress cholinesterase, and when exposure is substantial—such as more than 30 hours in 30 consecutive days—having a baseline makes it possible to detect any real drop from that individual’s usual level, not just a random difference from others.

This kind of testing helps guide safety actions. If later tests show inhibition beyond expected variation, supervisors and medical staff can intervene—removing the worker from exposure, reinforcing controls, adjusting PPE, or providing medical evaluation. Baseline testing is specifically for those higher-exposure scenarios with these pesticide classes, so the statement is true and not limited to other pesticide classes or to no testing at all.