Pesticide Safety is in Your Hands
The United States seems to be facing an insect epidemic this year as summer unfolds in a blaze of glory. While rising temperatures are driving all other life forms to cooler places (hello air-conditioned office), grasshoppers are undeterred by the annual power-flex of the sun. This insect invasion is one reminder of why pesticides are widely used in the agricultural industry. Pesticide application is one of the most convenient and efficient methods of mitigating insect damage to crops and hay pastures alike. However, pesticide exposure to humans can be incredibly dangerous and care should be taken to avoid exposure.
The toxicity of pesticides varies by the concentration of the product, the route of entry, and the length of exposure. Symptoms of pesticide toxicity include headache, dizziness, convulsions, or even death. Additionally, there is concern that prolonged exposure may cause reproductive harm and various types of cancers. 75% of all U.S. pesticide use is in the agricultural industry, increasing the risk of toxicity and illness to farmers and agricultural workers. Producers can encounter agri-chemicals during mixing, via overspray, or by coming into contact with residues. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 95% of all pesticide exposure is through the skin, therefore reducing dermal contact is an effective way to prevent negative side effects from these substances.
Some preventive measures are as follows:
- Spray at low wind to avoid overspray.
- Wear appropriate clothing, such as pants, a long-sleeved shirt and work boots to reduce contact area.
- Wear proper personal protective equipment, such as ventilators, eye protection, and chemical resistant gloves.
- Don’t re-enter spray areas until the restricted-entry interval expires.
- Change contaminated clothing and shower as soon as possible after exposure.
Pesticide safety is in your hands. Reduce your risk of exposure by taking these simple steps.
Find additional info on pesticide safety here.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606636
https://extension.psu.edu/potential-health-effects-of-pesticides