Ohio State Univeristy Offers Safe Spraying Tips

Posted by Christina Bucciere|July 10, 2014

Knowing some simple safety precautions to take when using a pesticide sprayer is key for farmers to reduce the potential for injuries, said Andy Bauer, an Ohio State University Extension agricultural health and safety professional.

According to a statement on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, the EPA estimates 10,000 to 20,000 physician-diagnosed pesticide poisonings occur each year among the approximately two million U.S. agricultural workers.

Bauer said there are more instances of unintended pesticide contact this time of year because of increased chemical applications during spring planting.

Precautions to take:

Keep the label on each container so everyone can see what it contains and its safety precautions.
Read the label on the product you are using. The label will identify the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) you need to wear when handling the product and the hazards of using that product.
Always follow the application rate as directed on the product label.
Always wear eye protection, gloves, long-sleeve shirt and long-leg pants when handling chemicals, and take your time when mixing.
Triple-rinse empty pesticide containers and do not reuse them; dispose of empty containers properly after rinsing.
Immediately wash with clean water and change your clothes if pesticides are sprayed or spilled on you. Wash your work clothes separately from other clothing after mixing and using pesticides to prevent cross-contamination of yourself and your family.
Wash your hands before eating, drinking, chewing gum, using tobacco or touching your nose or mouth.

To read the full news release, click here.