Pesticide Applicator Core Curriculum Tutorials

Pesticide Environmental Stewardship > Core Tutorials


		Core Level Module 4: Toxicity of Pesticides A pesticide is any substance used to control pests. Pests may be target insects, vegetation, fungi, etc. Most control the pests by poisoning them. Unfortunately, pesticides can be poisonous to humans as well. Some are very poisonous, or toxic, and may seriously injure or even kill humans. Others are relatively non-toxic. Pesticides can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or mouth. The most important thing to remember is that you should always use caution whenever you work with any pesticide! Goals of This Module * Understand what toxicity is and how it affects humans. * Learn the three routes of entry (how pesticides enter the body) and the importance of each. * Be familiar with how toxicity is measured and what is meant by label warning statements. Click here to open Module 4

		Core Level Module 7: Safety Precautions with Pesticides You are an applicator working with toxic materials and are interested in safeguarding your health. You also want to protect other people and the environment from pesticide injury. Many pesticide accidents result from careless practices or ignorance. Learn safe procedures contained in this module! Goals of This Module * Learn proper safety precautions for before, during and after pesticide application. * Understand the importance of cleanup measures. * Understand the need for personal protective equipment. Click here to open module 7

		Core level Module 8: Personal Protection for the Applicator and Worker Pesticides can enter the body through the skin, the eyes, the mouth, and the lungs.The most common cause of pesticide poisoning for applicators is through skin contact. Some pesticides enter the body through the skin quite readily. Concentrates can be especially dangerous. Some parts of the body absorb pesticides extremely fast and need extra protection. Two such areas are the head and the scrotum. Most of a pesticide spilled on your skin is absorbed in the first few minutes. If any pesticide is spilled on you, wash it off immediately. It is best to avoid direct contact with pesticides by wearing the proper protective clothing. The pesticide label will tell you what protective equipment is necessary. Goals of This Chapter * Understand the importance of personal protective equipment worn during pesticide application. * Understand why there are different fabrics and materials used to protect applicators and how they differ. * Learn the importance of and method for layering protective clothing. * Learn the basics of respirators and their use. Click here to open Module 8