CHEMICAL SAFETY

 

Crop protection chemicals are necessary to ensure the production of food from our nation’s farms and ranches.  They protect from unwanted weeds, insects, rodents, fungus and diseases.  These chemicals must also be handled with care to reduce potential worker exposure.

·       Always read the label.  All crop protection chemicals include information on the proper use of the chemical, safe handling, storage and first aid information.

·       Obtain Material Safety Date Sheets (MSDS) for the crop protection chemicals that you use.  MSDS contain additional health hazard data, spill or leak procedures and handling information.  Be sure to keep a set separate from the storage area.

·       Wear the personal protective equipment (PPE) required by the label.  PPE that should be available on the farm and ranch includes:  chemical-resistant gloves, coveralls, boots, hat and apron; approved respirator with cartridges for pesticides; and chemical protection goggles and face-shield.

·       Store crop protection chemicals in storage areas that can be locked to keep bystanders and children out.  Be sure to label the storage area as containing pesticides.

·       Launder chemical-soiled clothing separately from your other laundry.

Inspection

___Y  ___N  Chemicals properly labeled

___Y  ___N  Chemical in locked storage area

___Y  ___N  Correct PPE available and used

___Y  ___N  MSDS maintained for all chemicals

___Y  ___N  Application equipment operates properly

___Y  ___N  Mixing/loading area on concrete