Aquatic Pest Control
Applicator Training Manual

HERBICIDE SAFETY


D. D. Thayer




The herbicide applicator has the potential for greater exposure than would be considered normal. Therefore, it is very important to do everything possible to keep exposure to an absolute minimum. Most pesticide accidents and sources of excess exposure are the result of careless handling or mixing of concentrate and not using proper safety equipment. Herbicide labels and material safety data sheets advise what protective clothing and equipment should be worn, any precautions the handler should follow, a statement(s) of practical treatment in case of poisoning, statements concerning hazards to the environment, any physical or chemical hazards, a re-entry statement, and directions on proper storage and disposal. It is required, by law to have copies of labels and any supplementary labels in your possession at the application site for each herbicide used. Anyone who handles a pesticide must read and understand these label statements prior to using the product for the health and safety of yourself, your employees, your family, and others.


Types of Toxicity


Acute toxicity
Acute toxicity is caused by a single dose of a pesticide. Dermal exposure through splashes and spills is the most common route of exposure. Inhalation, eye exposure, and accidental swallowing may also account for some acute problems with some pesticides. Symptoms of poisoning are often rapid (0-48 hrs.) and there is little doubt as to the reasons for illness. If symptoms of poisoning appear, get medical attention and treatment immediately.


Chronic toxicity
Chronic toxicity occurs over a period of time, and because symptoms may be slow to appear, recognition often goes undetected for long periods of time. Chronic exposure is most often the result of contaminated clothing, leaky spray equipment, inadequate protective clothing and equipment, not properly cleaning spray equipment and most importantly, not cleaning yourself. The daily exposure to even low levels of some pesticides increases the risk of illness and the susceptibility to acute exposure, as residues of the pesticide build up in the body. No currently used aquatic herbicides fall into this category.


Pathways of Exposure


When pesticides are not handled properly the possibility for needless exposure exists. Even pesticides with low toxicity can irritate the nose, throat, eyes, and skin of some people. You should know the pesticides you are using and the methods available to protect yourself.


Pesticides have three major routes of entry into the body: oral, dermal and inhalation (Figure 2).



Figure 2. Pesticides have three major routes of entry into the body: oral, dermal and inhalation.


Oral exposure
Oral exposure is exposure from ingestion. Acute poisoning is most often caused by accidental swallowing, usually from carelessness. Eating, drinking and smoking while applying pesticides or before properly cleaning hands can contribute to oral ingestion of pesticides. The severity of the poisoning depends on the amount swallowed and the oral toxicity of the material.


Dermal exposure
Dermal exposure is exposure through skin absorption. The severity of the exposure depends on the absorptivity of the material, the size of the area affected, the period of time there is skin contact, and the part of the body affected. Improper handling of concentrate and equipment, wearing inadequate protective clothing, drift, and not washing after applying pesticide are the most common causes of dermal poisoning.


Inhalation exposure
Inhalation exposure results from breathing spray mist, vapors and dust. Poisoning caused by inhalation is most commonly due to prolonged exposure in poorly ventilated greenhouses and storage facilities and similar situations. Drift, improper use of a respirator, or the production of fine dust and droplets can contribute to this type of exposure.


Protective Equipment


ALWAYS READ THE LABEL before applying any pesticide. The label will state the protective clothing and equipment advised or required in order to use the product. A list of current safety equipment suppliers should be available from the Cooperative Extension Service or other state agencies. It is important to remember that nothing protects the applicator more than common sense and knowledge of the materials.


Clothing
When working with pesticides wear, at the least, a long sleeved shirt, long pants, shoes and socks. Some labels require additional protective clothing. When handling pesticide concentrates or mixing and loading the sprayer a liquid proof apron and rubber gloves is suggested, if not required. Required waterproof clothing can be obtained commercially.


Gloves
Wear gloves when handling concentrates. Gloves should be unlined and made of a water-proof material that does not contain any cotton, leather, or other fabric that will absorb chemicals. Sleeves should be worn on the outside of the gloves.


Hats
As with gloves, avoid fabrics that absorb liquid. Hats should be easy to clean or disposable.


Boots
Unlined rubber boots are a good investment for pesticide applicators because they are waterproof and easy to clean. White rubber boots can be purchased to help reflect and reduce the sun's heat. Work shoes made of canvas or leather absorb pesticides and can not be decontaminated easily; if the same shoes are worn every time you spray, you may increase the chances of dermal exposure. Pant legs should be worn on the outside of boots.


Face protection
Anytime concentrate is handled, goggles or a face shield should be worn. Eyes readily absorb pesticides and should be protected when spray mist or dust has the potential to drift.


Respiratory Protection
If the label states "do not breathe vapors or spray mist," a respirator may be required. There are a variety of respirators on the market; the type of device you need will depend on the toxicity of the material to be applied, the degree of ventilation, the recommendations on the label, and the dust or mist created during application. Be sure to use the right respirator and be sure to regularly replace cartridges or filters on regulators.


PRACTICE PROPER PESTICIDE PROTECTION

* Transport pesticides in a safe secure manner.
* Keep pesticides in original containers.
* Clean spills immediately.
* Store pesticides in a well-ventilated, secure, posted facility.
* Limit the number of people who can access stored pesticides.
* Keep an inventory of pesticides being stored.
* Wear proper protective clothing when handling pesticides.
* Clean equipment thoroughly.
* Dispose of empty containers properly.
* Know symptoms of pesticide poisoning.
* Know first aid for poisoning and where to get medical help.
* Do not eat, drink or smoke while applying or handling pesticides.
* Wash hands thoroughly prior to eating, drinking, smoking or using the bathroom and immediately following completion of spray operations or handling.