Most farmers use chemicals on their farms which are used to control pests and are known as pesticides. Included under the headings are: herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides, fungicides, and others. While all of these affect humans, more people are affected seriously by insecticides and herbicides.

The most important source of information about a pesticide is its label. Manufacturers are required to provide information regarding what the pesticide is to be used for, how it can be used, how toxic it is, how to mix it, rate of application, precautions to take, re-entry times, kind of clothing and personal protective equipment needed, the antidote (if there is one), and the symptoms of poisoning if exposed to the pesticide.

Other information about the use, storage, handling, or disposal of the pesticide may be found on the label. Always read the label before purchasing, mixing, and applying a pesticide.

Before purchasing a pesticide, check the label to determine the toxicity level. The three common toxicity levels are indicated by signal words which are: “highly toxic”; “Danger” or “Poison” (also showing a skull and crossed bones); “Moderately Toxixc”: Warning; and “Slightly Toxic: Caution”.

Pesticides are classified either as “ For General Use” or “Restricted”. Anyone can use a pesticide labelled “General”. However, one marked, “Restricted” can only be purchased by someone certified to work with such pesticides. Check with your extension office for information on the point.

Brand names are used to advertise a pesticide. The label will list the chemical’s name and/or the name of its active ingredient. In case of an emergency, always refer to the name of the active ingredient. This will ensure correct information regarding clean up or emergency medical treatment. The name of the manufacturer and the EPA registration number shown on the label should he used in such emergency situations.

Pesticides can be injected into a human body through three routes methods which are: 1: ingestion: swallowed or eaten; 2: through respiration; breathed as a mist, dust, fumes or smoke; and 3: through dermal contact; absorbed through the skin. Reactions and symptoms of pesticide poisoning may appear within minutes of exposure or may take hours or days to appear. Reaction time is dependent on such factors as. the kind of pesticide, the strength of pesticide, toxicity level, the amount of the pesticide received, length of exposure time, the route of entry, and others. Some people may experience allergic reactions by using pesticides.

Pesticides are necessary for agricultural production but potential hazards to users are not adequately emphasized. Accidents involving pesticides are usually due to improper handling, mixing, application, or failure in using proper protective equipment.

The minimum protection when working with pesticides is long sleeves, long pants, shoes and socks, rubber gloves, and splash-proof eye protection, regardless of the toxicity level of the pesticide. Rubber boots and a respirator are necessary when working with moderately or highly toxic pesticides. The EPA’s recommendations include wearing a double layer of clothing. This can be accomplished by wearing cover-alls over the long pants and long-sleeve shirt, and rubber boots over shoes and socks.

The use of gloves is mandatory when working with highly toxic pesticides. It is recommended that only unlined rubber or neoprene (nitrile, etc.) gloves be used when handling or using pesticides. Unlined gloves should be thoroughly washed (inside and outside) after each use. Gloves should be at least 12 inches long to provide adequate protection for wrists and cuffs should be inside sleeves for most of the time. This will keep runoff pesticide from getting into gloves. However, when working overhead, put cuffs of gloves outside sleeves. Check rubber type gloves for leaks each time they are washed. Do this by filling gloves with water and fold the cuff over to put pressure on the water in glove. If there are holes, water will leak out. Discard gloves with leaks. Never use gloves made of cloth or leather when handling pesticides unless specified on the label.

It is necessary to wear splash-proof goggles when handling pesticides. Not only can the pesticide be absorbed through the eyes but the acidity of a pesticide can cause permanent eye injuries also. When pouring or mixing concentrates it is preferable to use a full-face shield to protect the face from splashes. Always wash the goggles or face shield with soap and water after use.

Unlined rubber or neoprene (nitrile, etc.) boots should be worn over work shoes or in place of work shoes when mixing or applying pesticides. Pull the legs of trousers over the tops of boots to help prevent spilled pesticide from getting inside boots. Wash boots with soap and water after each use. Never wear cloth or leather boots when mixing or applying pesticides. Cloth or leather boots will absorb pesticides and allow the pesticide to contact the skin of the leg or foot and will be a source of residues causing chronic exposure.

A water-proof hat should be worn when mixing or applying pesticides because pesticides can be readily absorbed through the scalp. The hat should have a brim to keep drift or splashes off ears and neck. Plastic safety hats are ideal for use with pesticides and should be washed in soap and water after each use. Cloth hats may absorb pesticides and contaminate the wearer. Never use cloth hats.

Respirators are designed to prevent inhaling toxic fumes and mists. They should be used when mixing or applying pesticides if the label specifies the need. Choose the correct cartridge for the type of pesticide being used. The manufacturer or supplier can provide guidance on selecting correct cartridges. Replace cartridges when the odour of the pesticide becomes noticeable or when breathing becomes difficult during use. The life of cartridges will vary with the concentration of pesticide in the respirator, and the breathing rate of the temperature, humidity and composition of the cartridge.