thisplace.com.au - Pesticide Safety

Always read the label before using a product. The label should include all the information that you will need to know about using the product such a

active ingredient - identity and amount
any other toxic ingredients, including toxic solvents
warning labels, including poison schedule, safety directions, first aid instructions etc
a list of crops and pests the pesticide is registered for use on
recommended application rates and any restrictions on application methods
storage and mixing instructions
recommendations for other additives
withholding periods batch number and dates of manufacture and/or expiry
the manufacturing company's contact details incompatibilities with other compounds

Pesticide Toxicity

The relative toxicity of pesticides varies widely. How each pesticide will affect the individual depends on metabolism, body weight and general health. Chemicals may enter the body in several ways

inhalation of spray vapours or droplets
through the unbroken skin
through wounds ( cuts ,grazes etc )
ingestion ( by mouth ) with food, drink or cigarettes

The adverse effects of toxic chemicals may be noticed immediately ( acute toxicity ) or they may result from a slow accumulation over time ( chronic toxicity ). In either case, long term damage to health may be irreversible. If you use toxic pesticides regularly, attend regular medical checkups.

Pesticide Application

always wear appropriate protective clothing and avoid eating, drinking, smoking or going to the toilet during the mixing, spraying or clean-up process
when mixing, do it in a well ventilated area
accurately measure the correct amount
never put chemicals into food or drink containers
avoid spraying in conditions of high wind
keep nozzles free from blockages by using appropriate filters and formulations
if they do become blocked, clean them with a soft brush- do not suck or blow them with your mouth
always thoroughly clean up after you have finished
clean all equipment in an area where run-off will not cause problems
triple rinse containers and dispose of them carefully
wash clothing and yourself (and don't spare the soap)
store in a cool place, and away from children

Emergency Situations

do not panic
rinse any contamination off the body and seek professional medical advice as soon as possible
if the pesticide has been swallowed, immediately contact the poisons centre, as inducing vomiting may not be the correct action to take with some compounds
with a spillage onto the body thoroughly wash off using soap
if splashed in the eyes - hold eye open under clean running water for 15 minutes and seek medical advice
inhalation - immediately move to area with fresh air and seek medical advice
swallowing - immediately contact the Poisons Information centre on 131126

Source: DPI ( department of primary industries )