Concerns about organophosphate toxins

Organophosphate poisoning results from the exposure to organophosphates and whilst most commonly results from exposure to insecticides or nerve agents, concerns about the presence of organophosphate toxins in aircraft cabins have also recently hit the headlines following the news that BA pilot Richard Westgate’s death was associated with the presence of organophosphate toxins in his body – toxins that are present in aircraft cabin air.

Littleborough resident Barbara Sutcliffe has been campaigning tirelessly for justice regarding organophosphates for a number of years and is convinced that the chemical contributed to the death of her husband Harold in 2010.

Research undertaken by Ms Sutcliffe has included uncovering evidence that found that some products caused impaired memory and concentration, nightmares and confusion.

She is also convinced that there is a link between organophosphates and a large number of suicides among sheep farmers and has calculated that in the ten years from 1995, more than 1,000 shepherds ended their own lives.

In the case of Mr Westgate's death, the Senior Coroner for the County of Dorset has advised BA and the CAA of his concerns and it is understood that he has told BA that “urgent action should be taken to prevent future deaths”.

British Airways (BA) and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have been given 56 days to reply to a Coroner’s report to ‘prevent future deaths’

The report to BA and the CAA makes a series of statements about the presence of toxins in cabin air and their potential effects on occupants.

The report then demands statements from both organisations about what they intend to do to prevent further deaths.

A spokesperson for British Airways said: “We will respond to the coroner in due course. It would be inappropriate to comment further while proceedings are continuing.”