Who Can Conduct Training?
Worker Protection Standard (WPS) training may be conducted by:
1) a certified pesticide applicator (Private or Commercial Applicator) or
2) someone who has completed an EPA-approved train-the-trainer program.
Employers who are currently certified to apply restricted-use pesticides are not required to be trained.
Training for Workers and Handlers
Employers are responsible for making sure that untrained workers receive training before they enter any area where a restricted-entry interval (REI) has been in effect in the past 30 days. Handlers must be trained before performing any handler activity. There is no grace period for worker or handler training.
The training must be conducted in a manner and language that the employees can understand and must use EPA-approved training materials (see Training Resources). Employees must have the opportunity to ask questions during the training session.
Separate from the pesticide safety training, employers must tell workers and handlers where to find the following on the worksite: EPA WPS safety poster (or equivalent), application information, Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) and decontamination supplies.
Workers and handlers must be trained/re-trained annually. The employer must keep a record of the date, the EPA approval number of the WPS training material used, the participants, and the trainer’s name and certification number for each training session. Maintain training records on the establishment for two years from the training date for each worker and handler.
Note: The WPS outlines good safety practices for all farmers who use pesticides in their operations. Even if compliance is not required, consider using the WPS as a guide to develop your own safe practices and habits. Always read the pesticide label and follow precautionary statements carefully. Remember, the label is the law.