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BOONVILLE, Mo. – Pesticide handling remains one of the most hazardous tasks on the farm, says Todd Lorenz, University of Missouri Extension agronomist.
Quick action after exposure is essential, but taking the correct action is just as important, Lorenz says. February is National Pesticide Safety Education Month, making it an ideal time to revisit critical information about pesticide safety on farms and in home gardens. Proper knowledge and quick action can save lives and injuries.
Extension agronomists like Lorenz helped provide commercial pesticide recertification training to nearly 1,000 Missourians in the past year. According to estimates from the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, MU Extension’s pesticide safety education program saves the state $10 million to $17 million annually across agricultural, landscape and structural sectors.
Symptoms of pesticide exposure can differ based on the degree of exposure and the type of pesticide involved, Lorenz says.
Skin exposure may lead to redness, swelling or blistering. Sensitive areas such as the eyes, nose, mouth and throat are highly vulnerable. If chemicals are absorbed through the skin, damage to internal organs may result. Other possible symptoms include nausea, vomiting, cramping, diarrhea and shortness of breath, which may mean lungs are affected. Additional signs may include drooling, rapid breathing, fatigue, sleeplessness, muscle twitching and numbness.
Immediate medical attention is critical if pesticide exposure is suspected. “It’s always better to be safe than sorry,” Lorenz says. “Call 911 or your local poison control center, describe the symptoms, and have the pesticide label ready for emergency responders.”
Finally, Lorenz recommends that you reduce risks by using nonchemical control methods to reduce or eliminate pest problems.
Immediate response steps
- Eyes: Hold eyelids open and flush with water for 15 minutes. Call 911.
- Inhalation: Move the person to fresh air. If they are not breathing, perform artificial respiration and call 911.
- Ingestion: If the person is conscious, give water or milk immediately. Call 911.
- Skin contact: Rinse skin with water for at least 15 minutes. Do not apply ointments. Remove contaminated clothing.
- In all cases: Seek medical treatment. First aid can help but should never replace professional care.
Tips to reduce exposure
- Keep food and drinks away from pesticide applicators and pesticides.
- Wash hands thoroughly and change clothing after working with pesticides.
- Wear proper personal protective equipment.
- Don’t spray outside on windy or rainy days.
- Don’t buy more pesticides than you need. Dispose of unused pesticides properly.
- Keep pesticides away from pets, children and toys.
For emergencies, you can also call Poison Help at 800-222-1222, available 24/7. The line is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and offers interpretation in 161 languages.
Organizations including the Weed Science Society of America, the American Phytopathological Society and the Entomological Society of America encourage everyone working with pesticides to review safety practices and emergency response steps.
Related story: February is National Pesticide Safety Education Month