Dow AgroSciences has dedicated field representatives who can help train herbicide applicators on appropriate safety tips for any vegetation management program. Here are some tips to get you started.
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Here are some general tips herbicide mixers, handlers and applicators should follow when on an application site:
- Put on clean clothes every morning. When washing clothes, be sure to wash PPE separately from other laundry.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves when the label requires it or when there is prolonged or frequent contact. Use gloves that are made of waterproof material.
- Wear rubber or vinyl boots with socks.
- Use protective eyewear when the label directs.
- Wear a hat or helmet to protect your hair and scalp.
- For more information on these and other PPE, view the other product-related literature.
How to Read a Label/MSDS
Pesticide labels are required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and describe allowable use of a product. Along with the MSDS, the label is the main source of information about how to use the product safely and legally.Information on a pesticide label includes:
- Name of product
- Chemical and common name of the active ingredient
- Ingredient statement, including percent of content and type of formulation
- Name and address of manufacturer
- EPA registration and establishment numbers
- Signal words and symbols
- Pesticide precautionary statement
- Worker Protection Standard requirements and precautions
- Statement of practical treatment
- Directions for use
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
- Content is specified and required by the EPA
- Information includes handling and storage, first aid, exposure controls, physical and chemical properties, environmental data, and disposal considerations
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Applicator Safety Tips
When handling herbicides on-site, always follow proper safety precautions. Keep in mind the importance of and safety behind making the mixtures, applying the products and cleaning up after an application.
Mixing products
- Be aware of all mixing requirements and procedures indicated on the product labels.
- Keep containers below eye level when opening and pouring.
- Keep fill hoses above water level in the spray tank to prevent back-siphoning.
- Be aware of wind direction before pouring to minimize exposure downwind.
Applying products
- Determine wind direction to avoid drift.
- Check equipment for loose connections or cracked hoses.
- Test equipment to ensure proper functioning. Make necessary repairs before each use.
- Minimize overhead spraying.
Cleaning up after an application
- Use a nozzle brush or other device to clear clogged nozzles.
- Follow storage and disposal instructions found on the label based on the herbicide container size used.
- Be sure to thoroughly clean spray equipment before using to apply any other herbicides.
- Use a returnable, refillable container management system to reduce your liability of improper container disposal and reduce worker exposure.
Back to Application Tips and Training
Other product-related literature:
Worker Protection Standards Quick Reference.
Vistas. 2008;21(4):8-9.
Information provided by http://www.bugwood.org/PAT/06labelsandlabeling.html.
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