Information about http://www.btny.purdue.edu/Pubs/PPP/PPP-20.pdf
…
Tags: acute toxicity, arlene blessing, cooperative extension service, extension entomologist, fred whitford, hollingworth, michigan state university, osmun, pesticide labels, pesticide poisonings, pesticide registration, pesticide toxicity, professor emeritus, programs coordinator, purdue pesticide programs, purdue university, richard edwards, rograms, table of contents page, toxicologist,Pages: 12
Language: english
Created: Mon Jun 4 16:51:32 2001
Display cached document
Page 1
Page 2
Page 3
Page 4
Page 5
Page 6
Page 7
Page 8
Page 9
Page 10
Page 11
Page 12
PPP-20
PURDUE PESTICIDE PROGRAMS
URDUE ESTICIDE ROGRAMS
Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service
PESTICIDES AND PERSONAL SAFETY
Fred Whitford, Purdue Pesticide Programs Coordinator
C. Richard Edwards, Extension Entomologist
Jonathan J. Neal, Pesticide Toxicologist
Andrew G. Martin, Purdue Pesticide Programs Specialist
John Osmun, Professor Emeritus, Purdue University
Robert M. Hollingworth, Pesticide Toxicologist, Michigan State University
Edited by Arlene Blessing, Purdue Pesticide Programs
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
PESTS AND PESTICIDES ........................................................................................................ 2
PESTICIDE REGISTRATION .................................................................................................... 2
PESTICIDE LABELS ................................................................................................................. 3
PESTICIDE TOXICITY .............................................................................................................. 3
Hazard ................................................................................................................................. 5
Modes of Action and Symptoms of Pesticide Poisonings ................................................... 5
Acute Toxicity ...................................................................................................................... 5
Chronic Toxicity ................................................................................................................... 6
Acute Toxicity of Carbamate and Organophosphorous Insecticides .................................. 6
Poisoning Symptoms of Carbamate and Organophosphorous Insecticides ...................... 7
Treatment of Carbamate and Organophosphorous Insecticide Poisonings ....................... 7
Medical Tests for the Effects of Carbamate and Organophosphorus Insecticide Exposure 7
Toxicity of Pyrethrin and Pyrethroid Insecticides ................................................................ 7
Treatment of Poisoning by Fumigants ................................................................................ 8
PESTICIDE EXPOSURE ........................................................................................................... 8
Preventing Pesticide Exposure ........................................................................................... 9
Protective Clothing and Personal Safety ............................................................................. 9
Handling Pesticide-Contaminated Clothing ......................................................................... 9
Pesticide Safety Tips ........................................................................................................... 9
PLAN OF ACTION FOR ACUTE PESTICIDE POISONINGS .................................................. 11
SOURCES FOR PESTICIDE INFORMATION .......................................................................... 12
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS .......................................................................................... 12
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ............................................................................................................ 12
PURDUE UNIVERSITY COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE · WEST LAFAYETTE, IN 47907
2
PESTS AND PESTICIDES
TABLE 1. PESTICIDE TYPES AND TARGET PESTS.
Pests include plants and animals that vector dis-
ease, interfere with the production of food and fiber Type of Pesticide Target Pest(s)
crops, or otherwise detract from our quality of life.
avicide birds
Pesticides are natural or synthetic substances used by
bactericide bacteria
man to control pest organisms by disrupting some part defoliant plants
of their life processes. Literally, the term pesticide desiccant plants, insects
means to "kill pests." Pesticides also include sub- fungicide fungi
stances such as attractants, repellents, and growth growth regulator insects and plants
regulators which may not kill the target pest(s). Thus, herbicide weeds
all compounds used to control and manage pests are insecticide insects
classified as pesticides. Examples of specific types and miticide/acaricides mites
their target pests are given in Table 1. molluscicide mollusks
nematicide nematodes
piscicide fish
PESTICIDE REGISTRATION repellents insects, vertebrates
rodenticide rodents (vertebrates)
sexual sterilants insects, vertebrates
All pesticide manufacturers are legally required by
silvicide trees and shrubs
the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act
(FIFRA) to conduct extensive scientific testing of their sessment, and human safety before a product can be
pesticides and pesticide products to demonstrate that federally registered. Product information and data must
strict standards for registration, as prescribed by law, be reviewed by EPA before a label is granted. It
have been met prior to their sale and use in the United normally takes seven to ten years and approximately
States (Fig. 1). The EPA requires the manufacturer of $40 million to $100 million to bring a new active ingre-
a pesticide product to provide information and data on dient from discovery to the retail market. This significant
active ingredient and product chemistry, toxicology, investment in scientific evaluation and regulatory scru-
residues, application rates, environmental impact as- tiny is essential to assure today's consumers that pes-
FIGURE 1. THE FEDERAL PESTICIDE REGISTRATION PROCESS.
SOURCE: The Bottom Line. Winter 1991. DowElanco.
3
ticides not only provide the benefits of their registered INFORMATION
ON LABELS
EXAMPLE
uses, but that they do so with little or no adverse impact Use Classification RESTRICTED-USE PESTICIDE for retail sale to
and application only by certified applicators or
on people or the environment. persons under their direct supervision
PESTICIDE LABELS
Brand Name
Formulation
ZAPO
WETTABLE POWDER
Common Name GRATOL (Tripheno)................15%
INERT..................................... 85%
Pesticide labels are required to contain specific Chemical Name TOTAL 100%
types of information (Fig. 2). The label is a legal docu- THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS 15% GRATOL
ment. It is the responsibility of the user to follow the label
Signal Word DANGER
in its entirety to ensure that use, site and target pest POISON
requirements, as well as mixing, application, safety,
environmental, storage, and disposal precautions, are KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN
Statement of Practical
satisfied. Following all label directions is essential to Treatment
Rinse thoroughly in running water if pesticide
gets in the eyes. 1-800-xxx-xxxx
safe, effective, and environmentally sound pesticide DIRECTIONS FOR USE: It is a violation of
application. It is imperative that the pesticide label be Directions For Use Federal law to use this product in a manner
inconsistent with its labeling.
read and understood thoroughly before the pesticide is For control of lovebugs, gnats, and sand fleas,
mix 1 oz. per quart of water.
used. Remember, the pesticide user is bound by Reentry Statement DO NOT REENTER AREA WHERE ZAPO
HAS SEEN APPLIED FOR 24 HOURS.
law to follow all label directions!
HAZARDS TO HUMANS
Precautionary Statements ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS
PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL HAZARDS
PESTICIDE TOXICITY Storage and Disposal
· Store product in original container.
· Triple rinse (or equivalent)
· Then offer for recycling, or puncture and
dispose of in a sanitary landfill.
Toxicity is the capacity of a compound to cause Name And Address
Of Manufacturer
SMITH CHEMICAL CO.
1002 Common Name Street
harm to a living organism. Some pesticides are inher- Chemitown, State 10234
EPA Registration Number
ently more poisonous than others. In all cases, the EPA Establishment Number
EPA REG. NO. 210-080
EPA EST. NO. 210-IN-01
Net Contents 5 lbs.
toxicity is dose-related. For example, the more toxic the
pesticide, the smaller the dose required to cause harm.
A goal in pesticide application is to apply an amount that FIGURE 2. INFORMATION ON PESTICIDE LABELS.
Source: Inspector Training Manual. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
is not toxic to humans and other animals but is, never-
4
theless, poisonous to the target pest. When this is not cies; for instance, pyrethroid insecticides are much more
possible, addtional precautions are necessary (see sec- toxic to insects than to mammals.
tion on Pesticide Exposure, page 8).
LD50 values are not always given on the pesticide
Toxic effects from pesticides may result from a label; rather, the toxicity of a product is reflected by one
single exposure (acute toxicity) or from exposure over of three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
an extended period of time (chronic toxicity). LD50 These signal words reflect the relative toxicity of the
values commonly are used to compare acute toxicity of pesticide product, with DANGER being highly toxic,
pesticides. An LD50 represents the individual dose followed by WARNING (moderately toxic), and CAUTION
required to kill 50 percent of a population of test animals (slightly toxic). Signal words can also reflect the toxicity
(e.g., rats, fish, mice, cockroaches). LD50 values provide of the formulation's sublethal effects such as skin and
measures of acute toxicity when test animals are fed eye irritation. Examine Table 2 for the relationships
pesticide-treated feed or water (oral LD50) or when the between toxicity and signal words. A pesticide with an
pesticide is applied to the skin of the animal (dermal oral LD50 of less than 50 mg/kg normally will bear the
LD50). Because LD50 values are standard measure- signal word DANGER on its label. However, a highly toxic
ments (stated in mg of pesticide per kg of body weight), pesticide could be specially formulated (microencapsu-
it is possible to compare relative toxicities among pesti- lation, for instance) to reduce the toxicity as compared to
cides. The lower the LD50, the less pesticide required to a similar, non-encapsulated product. Pesticides with
kill; i.e., a pesticide with an LD50 value of 10 mg/kg is 10 low mammalian toxicity (oral LD50 greater than 500 mg/
times more toxic than a pesticide with an LD50 of 100 mg/ kg) generally will carry the signal word CAUTION. How-
kg. The toxicity of a pesticide is related to the mode of ever, if the pesticide might cause damage to the skin or
entry of the chemical into an organism. Often the LD50 eyes, the signal word WARNING would be used in spite
for inhalation is lower (more toxic) than the LD50 for of the product's oral LD50. The purpose of signal words
ingestion, which is in turn lower than the LD50 for dermal is to alert the user to the toxicity of the product.
exposure. The mammalian toxicity of a pesticide is
important in helping to determine the potential hazard Whenever possible, choose pesticides that have
associated with its use; however, this does not mean high LD50 values. Pesticide products displaying the
that pesticides with low mammalian toxicity also are less signal word CAUTION or WARNING are less toxic -- have
toxic to target pests. In fact, the opposite is usually true. higher LD50 values -- than those labeled DANGER. It is
Pesticidal effects can vary significantly between spe- imperative that applicators adhere to the directions on
TABLE 2. SIGNAL WORDS USED IN LABELING. Signal words assigned to pesticide labels reflect the single most
serious TYPE of toxic effect achieved during laboratory testing of the product; the signal word on a given label is based on
oral OR dermal OR respiratory effects, but generally not all three.
Oral Toxicity Dermal Toxicity
Signal Amount which
Word LD50* might kill LD50 Eye Effects Skin Effects
DANGER Up to and A taste to a Up to and Corrosive: Corrosive
including teaspoonful including corneal opacity
50 mg/kg 200 mg/kg not reversible
WARNING From 50 to A teaspoonful 200 thru Corneal opacity: Severe
500 mg/kg to an ounce 2000 mg/kg reversible within irritation
7 days; irritation at 72 hours
persisting for 7 days
CAUTION Greater than Greater than Greater than No corneal opacity: Mild to
500 mg/kg an ounce 2000 mg/kg no irritation, or moderate
reversible within
7 days
* LD50 values are stated in mg of pesticide per kg of body weight. One mg/kg = one part per million (ppm); and 1 ppm
can be thought of as 1 inch in 16 miles, or 1 drop in 50 gallons, or 1 second in 12 days, etc. See page 14.
NOTE: ALL pesticide labels must include the statement, KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
5
the pesticide label and remember that all pesticides are
potentially capable of producing toxic effects. Treat all Coma
Convulsions Pinpoint pupils
pesticides with respect. Headache Blurred vision
Excessive tearing
Dizziness
Hazard Salivation
Hazard as related to pesticide use must be consid- Sweating
ered separately from the toxicity of a given pesticide or
pesticide product. Hazard varies according to expo- Tightness in chest
sure. The more the exposure, the greater the danger
Rapid heatbeat
involved in using the pesticide. Therefore, the hazard Elevated blood
(risk) associated with a given pesticide or pesticide pressure
product is dependent upon the toxicity of the compound Vomiting
Rashes
and the probability of exposure. The hazards associ-
Cramps
ated with pesticide use and application can be reduced Reddening of
skin
by selecting products that are of low toxicity and by Diarrhea
taking proper measures to prevent exposure. The
degree of hazard associated with a pesticide product Tremors
depends on the following:
Muscle
twitching
· Toxicity of the active ingredient
· Concentration of the active ingredient
· Type of formulation
· Type of protective clothing worn
· Rate of application
Muscle weakness
· Frequency of application
· Method of application
· Persistence in the environment
One of the ways that hazard can be reduced is by
the type of formulation. Granular formulations, as com- Blisters
pared with dusts containing the same percentage active
ingredient, result in less exposure for the applicator.
The label, therefore, may carry the signal word CAUTION
FIGURE 3. SYMPTOMS OF PESTICIDE POISONING.
instead of WARNING. Careful reading of the label is Source: Pesticide Education Manual: A Guide to Safe Use and Handling.
required to determine the exact nature of potential Pennsylvania State University.
hazards and the precautions required for safe handling.
addressed. Information on other pesticides can be
Additional sources of information regarding the tox- obtained the from the EPA publication, Recognition and
icity and hazard of pesticide products can be found on Management of Pesticide Poisonings (EPA-735-R-98-
pesticide labels and material safety data sheets (MSDS), 003), March 1999.
or by contacting universities, regulatory agencies, pes-
ticide manufacturers, pesticide dealers, libraries, etc. Acute Toxicity
Modes of Action and Symptoms of All pesticides are designed to disrupt essential meta-
Pesticide Poisonings bolic processes of the target pest. These processes
may be neural, hormonal, cellular, or structural. In order
Pesticides are classified according to their biologi- to relate the specificity of a pesticide to possible effects
cal activities and chemical structures. Biological effects on humans, the similarity or lack of similarity of mode of
differ greatly among pesticide classes. Because of the action in the pest to that in humans must be considered.
great diversity of pesticides, it will not be possible to Pesticides that affect a pest in a unique manner (e.g.,
cover all the symptoms and treatments in this publica- growth regulators) have little effect on humans; con-
tion. Instead, only those pesticides that present the versely, pesticides that are toxic to systems similar to
greatest potential toxicity and hazard to humans will be those in man--such as the nervous system--may pose a
6
greater potential hazard to humans. The symptoms of Acute Toxicity of Carbamate and
pesticide poisoning (Fig. 3) are specific to the pesticide Organophosphorous Insecticides
or pesticide class . The applicator should be aware that
the poisoning symptoms described on the pesticide Carbamate and organophosphorous insecticides,
label are associated with that class of pesticide. Gen- which act as neurotoxins, are among the most toxic
eral symptoms of acute chemical poisoning are head- classes of pesticides. The mammalian toxicity of pes-
ache, nausea, dizziness, irritation of the skin or eyes, or ticides in these classes ranges from 1mg/kg (highly
the appearance of a rash. If any of these symptoms-- toxic) to 4000 mg/kg (slightly toxic). A large percentage
or any of the symptoms listed on the pesticide label-- of carbamate and organophosphorous insecticides are
should occur during use of a pesticide, discontinue use, in the high to moderate toxicity categories. This is
eliminate possible sources of further contamination, because the target site of these pesticides, the insect
and seek help. nervous system, is similar to that of mammals. Carbam-
ate and organophosphorous insecticides interfere with
Chronic Toxicity the proper signaling between nerve cells and between
nerves and the muscles they activate (Fig 4). Because
Chronic exposure to pesticides and other hazard- muscles are responsible for the movement of the dia-
ous chemicals can result in delayed or long-term health phragm during breathing, severe poisoning by organo-
effects. Chronic effects may include deterioration of phosphates and/or carbamates can cause the victim to
organs (especially the liver) and the nervous system, stop breathing and die from lack of oxygen. Normal
cancer, and changes or alterations in the reproductive movement of muscles requires a nerve signal to initiate
system. Pesticides that are found to pose unacceptable a muscle contraction. At the site of contact between a
risks from chronic exposure are removed from use. As nerve and muscle (neuromuscular junction), the nerve
in acute toxicity, chronic toxicity is dose-related. Health (upon receiving a signal from the central nervous sys-
effects will appear first in those populations with the tem) releases a chemical, acetylcholine, which signals
most pesticide exposure (e.g., production workers and the muscle to contract. In normal situations, the acetyl-
pesticide applicators). Pesticide applicators should choline is then removed by an enzyme, acetylcholines-
take appropriate protective measures to reduce their terase, and the muscle can relax. If the acetylcholine is
long-term exposure to pesticides. not removed, the muscle will remain in a state of
SYNAPSE BETWEEN SENSORY AND
CONNECTOR NERVE ENDINGS
CROSS SECTION OF
SPINAL CORD RECEPTOR
CELL BODY OF SENSORY
NERVE CELL
DIRECTION
OF IMPULSE
MUSCLE
CELL BODY OF
MOTOR NERVE CELL
FIGURE 4. DIAGRAM OF NERVE COMMUNICATION IN MAN. A SIMPLE REFLEX ACTION.
7
contraction. Carbamate and organophosphorous in- organophosphorous insecticides can inhibit acetylcho-
secticides are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors -- that is, linesterase irreversibly, leading to loss of
they prevent the acetylcholinesterase from removing acetylcholinesterase. Inhibition by organophosphorous
the acetylcholine from the neuro-muscular junction. At insecticides can be reversed by administration of
a high enough concentration of the neurotoxic insecti- pralidoxime, which will prevent loss of acetylcholinester-
cide, the muscle will attain a state of permanent con- ase. However, pralidoxime is also an acetylcholinester-
traction. If the muscles that move the diaphragm are ase inhibitor. While it is useful in treatment of
permanently contracted, breathing will cease. organophosphorous insecticide poisoning, it can exac-
erbate carbamate poisoning. In order to assure proper
Poisoning Symptoms of Carbamate and treatment, the poisoning agent must be positively iden-
Organophosphorous Insecticides tified. It is virtually impossible to distinguish carbamate
poisoning from organophosphorous insecticide poison-
Acetylcholine also is used as a signal from one ing based on symptoms alone. The label on the pesti-
nerve to another. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors can cide container may be the only source for determining
disrupt acetylcholine signaling in the central nervous the poisoning agent.
system. This disruption can cause headaches, dizzi-
ness, nausea, restlessness, anxiety and, in severe Medical Tests for the Effects of Carbamate and
poisonings, convulsions. Mild poisonings are often Organophosphorous Insecticide Exposure
accompanied by "flu-like" symptoms: headache, nau-
sea, vomiting, and dizziness. These symptoms may be Because of irreversible inhibition, chronic exposure to
mis-diagnosed as the flu. More severe poisonings will organophosphorous insecticides can depress an
be accompanied by restlessness and anxiety and individual's level of acetylcholinesterase. In the course
progress to muscle twitching, weakness, tremor, loss of of a spray season, significant depletion of acetylcho-
coordination, vomiting, and diarrhea. Hypersecretion linesterase can occur, making the applicator more
(sweating, tearing, and salivating) also may occur. If vulnerable to damaging effects from both
the insecticide is inhaled, effects on the lungs (tightness organophosphorous and carbamate insecticides. Medi-
in the chest, wheezing, and coughing) often occur. If the cal tests are available to determine acetylcholinesterase
poisoning is life-threatening, the victim may become levels; but because these levels vary among individuals,
unconscious, incontinent, or convulsive, or may suffer a baseline acetylcholinesterase level must be estab-
a depression in respiration. lished prior to exposure. Once a person's base level of
acetylcholinesterase has been determined, the effects
Treatment of Carbamate and Organophosphorous of exposure to organophosphorous insecticides can be
Insecticide Poisonings detected by a reduction in the level of acetylcholinester-
ase. Individuals who show reduced acetylcholinester-
While carbamate and organophosphorous insecti- ase levels should not apply organophosphorous insec-
cides both are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, there are ticides until their acetylcholinesterase levels return to
some important differences in their mode of action. normal. The body normally makes new acetylcholines-
Poisonings from exposure to carbamate insecticides terase on a continuous basis, and levels return to normal
may result after only a short exposure but generally can after several weeks. Thus, persons handling organo-
be reversed faster than poisonings from phosphate insecticides for an extended period should
organophosphorous insecticides. If treated in time, consider (in consultation with their physician) a program
inhibition by carbamates is completely reversible. If the for monitoring acetylcholinesterase.
vital signs can be maintained, the victim eventually will
recover. It is especially critical to maintain an oxygen Toxicity of Pyrethrin and Pyrethroid Insecticides
supply to the body. Atropine as an antidote for carbam-
ate poisoning because it will partially block the action of Naturally occurring pyrethrins and synthetic com-
acetylcholine. This allows the muscles to relax until the pounds (pyrethroids) which act similarly are neurotox-
body removes enough of the carbamate to return ins, but they are not acetylcholinesterase inhibitors; they
acetylcholinesterase activity to normal. Atropine re- affect the electrical signal that travels within a nerve.
lieves the poisoning symptoms while the body's detoxi- Insects and fish are much more susceptible to pyre-
cation system works to remove the carbamate. throids than are mammals, in which severe pyrethroid
poisoning rarely is seen. Pyrethroids can irritate skin
Atropine also is an antidote for poisoning by and eyes and produce allergic reactions, so proper
organophosphorous insecticides. Unlike carbamates, clothing and eye protection is important when handling
which are completely reversible inhibitors, liquid formulations. Some individuals report tingling,
8
stinging, burning, itching, or numbness after dermal Dermal absorption is the most common route of
contact with pyrethroids. These effects may occur pesticide exposure for the applicator. Contact with the
immediately or two to four hours after exposure. They concentrated product during mixing and loading pre-
do not cause sensitization and generally disappear sents the greatest risk of exposure. The degree of
after 24 hours. absorption depends on the properties of the pesticide,
its formulation, and the parts of the body exposed. The
Treatment of Poisoning by Fumigants forearms and hands are the most likely sites of pesticide
accumulation during normal pesticide applications.
Fumigants pose a high inhalation hazard. Victims Hands left unwashed after pesticide use can contami-
of poisoning by fumigants should be removed to fresh nate other parts of the body. Figure 5 gives examples
air immediately. Some fumigants are corrosive to lung of specific body regions and their relative susceptibility
tissue and cause pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs). to pesticide absorption. Eyes also are extremely sen-
Victims should be placed in a reclining position, with sitive to pesticides. They are highly absorptive, and
care being given to minimize movement and maintain direct eye injury can occur when pesticides are acciden-
breathing. tally splashed in the face.
PESTICIDE EXPOSURE Respiratory exposure by inhalation occurs during
the handling of powders, dusts, fine sprays, and gases
Toxicity is the first part of the hazard equation; the (fumigants). The lungs provide a point of rapid entry into
second part is pesticide exposure. the bloodstream.
Oral exposure generally results from improper stor-
HAZARD TOXICITY x age or handling. Keep pesticides in their original
=
(RISK) EXPOSURE containers; never transfer pesticides into bottles or
food containers of any kind. This is extremely important
in case of poisoning, because unmarked containers
Before injuries can occur, pesticides must enter provide no instructions to medical personnel regarding
the body through one of three routes of exposure: pesticide class and treatment of the poisoning. Always
dermal (absorption through the skin or eyes); respira- keep pesticide containers tightly closed and out of the
tory (inhalation through the lungs); or oral (ingestion reach of children and animals.
by mouth).
scalp
forehead
ear canal
behind ear
jaw
armpit
abdomen
forearm
scrotum
top of hand
palm of hand
ball of foot
RATE OF 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
ABSORPTION
LOW HIGH
FIGURE 5. Rates of absorption in the human body depend on the pesticide formulation and the exposed areas of the body.
Source: The Safe and Effective Use of Pesticides. 1988. University of California, Publication 3324.
9
Preventing Pesticide Exposures Handling Pesticide-Contaminated Clothing
Here are some suggestions for reducing levels of Always assume that clothing worn while working
pesticide exposure and minimizing potential hazards: with pesticides has been contaminated. It should be
laundered after each use. The longer pesticide-
· Select the safest formulation--usually granular contaminated clothing remains unwashed, the more
or microencapsulated materials. difficult the process of pesticide removal. It is best to
· Use a pesticide with a reduced concentration of presoak contaminated clothing in hot water containing a
active ingredient. heavy-duty liquid detergent. Start the wash cycle after
· Reduce the rate of application to the lowest the presoaking water has been drained. Prerinsing and
effective level. regular washing are the most effective methods of
· Mix only enough pesticide to complete the as- removing low level pesticide contamination from cloth-
signed task. ing. Clean the washing machine immediately after the
· Select a method of application that minimizes wash cycle by running a complete cycle of new water
personal contact. and detergent through it. Line drying is preferable to
· Purchase only enough pesticide to do the job. machine drying, as it eliminates the potential for dryer
· Wear all protective clothing stipulated on the contamination. (for more details on line drying, PPP-38)
label.
· Avoid direct contact with the pesticide when Care must be exercised when handling pesticide
mixing and filling equipment. contaminated clothing. If there is any doubt that con-
· Use pesticides only in well-ventilated areas. taminated clothing can be laundered effectively, discard
· Be cognizant of others around you during appli- it. For example, absorbent clothing contaminated with
cation. Consider their safety. liquid concentrates should be discarded. Nonabsorbent
· Dispose of pesticide containers properly. items may be reused: certain types of chemical resis-
· Be attentive to re-entry intervals specified on the tant gloves, boots, and aprons.
label.
· Always keep pesticides in their original, labeled Pesticide Safety Tips
pesticide containers.
· Avoid pesticide drift. · Always read the label before buying and/or using
· Avoid conditons which might lead to ground pesticides. Use pesticides only for the purpose(s)
water contamination. listed and in the manner directed.
· Pesticides that require special protective clothing
Protective Clothing and Personal Safety or equipment should be used only by trained,
experienced applicators.
Preventing exposure to pesticides requires per- · Do not apply more than the specified amount of
sonal protective equipment (PPE) as shown in Table 3. pesticide: It is illegal to apply more than labeled
The types of PPE required vary according to the toxicity rates. Over-application is wasteful and can harm
of the pesticide. Read the pesticide label for complete people and the environment.
instructions and specific requirements related to PPE. · Keep pesticides away from food, dishes, and
Notice that mixing pesticides normally requires more utensils.
personal safety equipment than applying them (except · Keep children and pets away from pesticides and
fumigation). This is because the mixing process neces- areas where pesticides have been applied.
sitates handling pesticides in their most concentrated · Do not smoke or eat while applying pesticides;
form. Pesticide exposures can be minimized by follow- avoid inhaling pesticides.
ing all safety precautions found on the pesticide label. · Never spray pesticides outdoors on a windy day.
Remember, the primary line of defense against expo- · When mixing pesticides, be careful to avoid splash-
sure to pesticides is personal protective equipment. ing.
· Avoid damage to or spills from pesticide contain-
After obtaining the proper equipment, give your ers.
employees and family members the necessary training · If you spill a pesticide on your skin, wash immedi-
for using it. If you are serious about reducing health ately with soap and water. If you contaminate
risks from pesticide exposure, you must inspect the job your clothing with a pesticide, change immedi-
site to ensure compliance with personal safety require- ately and launder it according to instructions
ments. given above.
10
· Wash with soap and water after using pesticides, · Store pesticides under lock in original containers
and launder clothes before wearing again. with proper labels. Never transfer a pesticide to
· If someone swallows a pesticide, call a physician, another container (e.g., soft drink bottle).
hospital, or local poison control center immedi- · Dispose of empty containers properly, as de-
ately. Keep the pesticide label or labeled con- scribed on the label.
tainer with you as a reference for the physician. · Keep adequate pesticide use and application
records.
TABLE 3. INTERPRETATION OF PESTICIDE LABEL STATEMENTS.
Label Statement Acceptable PPE Label Statement Acceptable PPE
Long-sleeved shirt and Long-sleeved shirt and Chemical-resistant gloves Barrier-laminate gloves,
long pants long pants, or or
Woven or non-woven Other gloves that glove
coverall, or selection charts or guid-
Plastic, or other barrier- ance documents indicate
coated coverall, or are chemical-resistant to
Rubber or plastic suit the pesticide for the
period of time required
Coverall worn over Coverall worn over short- to perform the task
short-sleeved shirt and sleeved shirt and short
short pants pants, or Chemical-resistant gloves Butyl gloves, or
Coverall worn over long- such as butyl or nitrile Nitrile gloves, or
sleeved shirt and long Other gloves that glove
pants, or selection charts or guid-
Coverall worn over an- ance documents indicate
other coverall, or are chemical-resistant to
Plastic, or other barrier- the pesticide for the per-
coated coverall, or iod of time required to
Rubber or plastic suit perform the task
Coverall worn over long- Coverall worn over long- Shoes Leather, canvas, or fabric
sleeved shirt and long sleeved shirt and long shoes, or
pants pants, or Chemical-resistant shoes,
Coverall worn over an- or
other coverall, or Chemical-resistant boots,
Plastic, or other barrier- or
coated coverall, or Chemical-resistant shoe
Rubber or plastic suit coverings (booties)
Chemical-resistant Chemical-resistant apron Chemical-resistant Chemical-resistant shoes,
apron worn over worn over coverall or footwear or
coverall or over long- long-sleeved shirt and Chemical-resistant boots,
sleeved shirt and long long pants, or or
pants Plastic, or other barrier- Chemical-resistant shoe
coated coverall, or coverings (booties)
Rubber or plastic suit Chemical-resistant boots Chemical-resistant boots
Chemical-resistant Plastic-or other barrier- Chemical-resistant hood Rubber or plastic coated
protective suit coated coveralls, or or wide-brimmed hat safari-style hat, or
Rubber or plastic suit Rubber or plastic coated
firefighter-style hat, or
Waterproof gloves Any rubber or plastic Plastic, or other barrier
gloves sturdy enough coated hood, or
to remain intact through- Rubber or plastic hood, or
out the task being Full hood or helmet that is
performed part of some respirators
Source: Personal Protective Equipment Guide. Coveralls,Gloves, and other Skin Protectants. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and
U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service.
11
PLAN OF ACTION FOR ACUTE situations where inducing vomiting might only cause
PESTICIDE POISONINGS additional damage. Vomiting should not be induced if
the pesticide formulation contains organic solvents or
A pesticide user should establish a plan of action to corrosives such as strong acids and bases since these
follow in case of a pesticide-related accident. Advanced materials can cause serious, permanent damage to
planning and preparation should be routine. Make sure sensitive tissues of the esophagus--or the lungs, if
all employees are familiar with appropriate emergency aspiration occurs.
procedures.
Pesticides on the Skin. Wash the pesticide off the victim
Contact Medical Personnel as soon as possible to prevent continued exposure and
injury.
Step one in any poisoning emergency is to prevent
further exposure and make sure the victim is breathing; · Remove clothing and drench the skin with water
then call emergency medical personnel. (shower, hose, faucet, pond, etc.).
· Cleanse skin and hair thoroughly with soap and
Maintain Vital Signs water. (Don't abrade or injure the skin while
washing.)
Administer first aid while help is on the way. Main- · Dry the person and wrap in a blanket.
tenance of vital signs is imperative, and cardiopulmonary
resuscitation techniques may be required. The cause of Chemical Burns of the Skin. Taking immediate action is
death of most pesticide poisoning victims is respiratory extremely important.
failure. Many victims will recover if the supply of oxygen
· Remove contaminated clothing.
to the body can be maintained. Only a doctor will have the
· Wash skin with large quantities of cold running
medication and equipment necessary to treat a poison-
water.
ing victim properly. Always provide attending medical
· Immediately cover the affected area loosely with a
personnel with a copy of the pesticide label.
clean, soft cloth.
· Do not use ointments, greases, powders, or other
Eliminate Further Contamination
drugs recommended as first aid treatments for
chemical burns.
Ingested Pesticides. If an individual swallows a pesti-
cide, act immediately: Do not wait for symptoms to Pesticides in the Eye. It is very important to wash out the
appear. affected eye as quickly but as gently as possible.
The pesticide label will indicate whether or not · Hold eyelids open; wash eyes with a gentle stream
vomiting should be induced; care should be taken to of clean running water at body temperature, if
verify that vomiting is permissible. Never induce vomiting possible.
if the victim is unconscious or convulsive. In cases where · Continue washing for 15 minutes or more.
vomiting can be induced safely, fast action can mean the · Do not use chemicals or drugs in wash water; they
difference between life and death for the poisoning vic- may increase the potential for injury.
tim. Syrup of ipecac is useful for inducing vomiting; make
sure the victim assumes a forward kneeling position or Inhaled Pesticides. If the victim is in an enclosed area,
remains on his right side, if lying down, to prevent vomitus wear an appropriate respirator when removing the per-
from aspirating into the lungs. Gastric lavage--performed son from the contaminated area.
by a physician--is another method for removing stomach
contents. The latter must be performed as soon as · Immediately carry the victim to fresh air.
possible after ingestion of the pesticide--and no longer · Loosen all tight clothing.
than two hours afterward. After two hours, the pesticide · Apply artificial respiration if breathing has stopped
will have passed into the intestine, thus requiring a or is irregular.
different approach to effect removal of the poison; physi- · Keep the victim as quiet as possible.
cians can administer absorptive charcoals to prevent the · If the victim is convulsing, watch breathing and
absorption of the pesticide from the intestine and pro- protect the person from falling and striking his
mote its elimination in the feces. head. Pull the chin forward so that the tongue
does not block the air passage.
It is important to remember to consult the pesticide · Prevent chilling. Wrap patient in blankets but do
label before proceeding with first aid. There are certain not overheat.
12
SOURCES FOR PESTICIDE INFORMATION
Environmental Protection Agency Region V
Purdue Pesticide Programs Pesticides and Toxic Substance Branch
(765) 494-4566 (312) 353-2000
Purdue Cooperative Extension Service EPA Safe Drinking Water Hot Line
(888) 398-4636 (800) 426-4791
Office of Indiana State Chemist (Purdue Univ.) EPA Community Right-To-Know Hot Line
(765) 494-1594 (800) 535-0202
CHEMTREC Transportation Emergency
(800) 424-9300 PESTICIDE POISONING
National Pesticide Telecommunications Network (NPTN) Indiana Poison Center
(800) 858-7378 (800) 222-1222
Indiana Department of Labor PESTICIDE SPILL REPORTING
Bureau of Safety Education and Training
(317) 232-2688 Indiana Department of Environmental Management
(888) 233-7745
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS Think of one part per million (ppm) as:
1 inch in 16 miles
Local Police: 1 drop in 50 gallons
1 second in 12 days
1 penny in $10,000
State Police:
1 mg/kg = 1 ppm
Hospital: Think of one part per billion (ppb) as:
1 inch in 16,000 miles
Physician: 1 drop in 50,000 gallons
1 second in 32 years
Fire: 1 penny in $10,000,000
1µg/kg = 1 ppb
Ambulance:
Think of one part per trillion (ppt) as:
Indiana Poison Center: (800) 382-9097 1 inch in 16,000,000 miles
1 drop in 50,000,000 gallons
CHEMTREC: (800) 424-9300 1 second in 32,000 years
1 ng/kg = 1 ppt
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: The authors would like to thank Dr. John V. Osmun (Professor Emeritus of the
Department of Entomology) and Dr. Robert M. Hollingworth (Pesticide Toxicologist, Michigan State University)
for their contributions to the development of the original publication. Thanks are also given to Tammy Luck and
Jenifer Ingraham for their time and effort in the preparation and layout design of the manuscript.
REVIEWED: 5/01
The information given herein is supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service is
implied.
It is the policy of the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service, David C. Petritz, Director, that all persons shall have equal opportunity and access to the programs and
facilities without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, or disability. Purdue University is an Affirmative Action
employer.