Prepare properly for pesticide spill


The key to preventing serious problems is knowing how to transport, handle and store dangerous chemicals properly.


P


esticide spills can harm your health, crops, community and environment. They can also be difficult and costly to clean up. Pesticides, like any chemical product, can enter the body through various routes:


Inhalation (breathing). If pesticides are airborne, they can be inhaled into the lungs, and from there, enter the bloodstream. This is why a respirator must be used. Ingestion (swallowing). Pesticides or pesticide residue can be accidentally swallowed and cause health effects through the digestive system. A harmful amount can be swallowed unknowingly – if you have pesticide residue on your hands, and then smoke or eat. This is why you must wear impermeable gloves, and wash your hands thoroughly before smoking or eating.


Absorption through the eyes. If splashed in the eyes, many pesticides can cause extreme and permanent damage, including blindness. Always protect your eyes with splash-proof goggles. Consider the location of the nearest clean running water – if splashed in the face with pesticide, you will need to thoroughly flush the eyes with lots of clean water, without delay. Absorption through the skin. The most common route of exposure for pesticide applicators is through the skin. All areas of skin can absorb dangerous quantities of pesticides. but some absorb pesticides much more easily than other.


The effect of pesticides can either be acute (short-term) or chronic (long- term). It is important to recognize the


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symptoms of acute exposure to chemicals. Immediate


treatment can mean the difference


between mild effects and serious illness. Ensure that a worker who has been severely exposed to a pesticide or is


Chemical spill kit PAUL FIGUEROA, WSDA


suspected of pesticide poisoning is taken to a physician without delay for medical examination. Do not attempt a self diagnosis. See your doctor right away. The following symptoms are general for all pesticides. Some might be mistaken for the flu and include: • Headache, fatigue, nausea, and stomach cramps.


• Thirst, nervousness, diarrhea, and moodiness.


• Loss of appetite or weight, dizziness, and weakness.


• Constricted pupils, blurred vision, and irritation of eyes, skin, nose, and throat.


Spills can be prevented by transporting, storing and handling pesticides properly.


Here are some general guidelines: • Make sure pesticides are secure during transport.


• Drive appropriately for road conditions.


• Have suitable shelving and lighting in the storage area.


• Follow laws and safety procedures when storing pesticides.


• Have a good loading platform where you fill the sprayer.


• Make sure application equipment does not have faulty hoses or valves. • Mix, load and apply pesticides


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