Pesticide Application and Personal Protection

Methods of Application

• FOLIAR: Pesticide solution sprayed onto foliage; droplets atomized via nozzle.
• SEED APPLIED: Controls stored pests or early field pests and diseases.
• BAITS: Ready-to-use for rodent or snail control.

Planning

• Goal of Planning: Ensures no surprises in the field during application.
• Label Information: Critical for crop type, pests addressed, spray volume, and required protective equipment (PPE).

Mixing

• Equipment Needs: Measuring tools (avoiding pesticide bottle caps) and mixing implements must be on-hand to ensure an accurate mix.
• Follow Mixing Steps: Only mix required amounts following the label guidance.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Types of PPE: Includes body, head, eye, airway, hand, and foot protection.
• PPE Management: Ensure the correct PPE is available, sized properly, and kept clean.
• Decontamination: Clean PPE and equipment after application to prevent contamination.

Exposure Routes

• Inhalation, Ingestion, Dermal Absorption: Different body parts have varying absorption rates; key for understanding safety equipment needed.

Field Application

• Operational Measures: No eating, smoking, or mobile phone use during application; maintain clear areas around the application site to avoid exposure.
• Check Equipment: Ensure sprayers are in good working order before use.

Decontamination Process

• Post-Application Cleanup: Keep PPE on for equipment decontamination, rinse equipment, and dispose of containers properly.

Summary of Guidelines

• Pesticide Safety: Effective at every step—planning, mixing, application, decontamination, and disposal.
• Maintain awareness of hazards associated with pesticide use, and always prioritize PPE for safety.