Operation – Using the Pump (continued)
18
Step Three: Clean pump and decontaminate after use.
When done using the sprayer, it is important to clean the pump and decontaminate yourself. Do not
store the pump when saturated with chemicals, as it is unsafe and could also result in damage to the
equipment.
WARNING
Clean up and decontamination procedures must be followed after each use.
Improper equipment clean up and disposal of chemicals can result in dangerous chemical
exposure to humans and the environment, as well as equipment damage.
Personal decontamination is required after spraying to minimize unsafe exposure to chemicals
and potential illness.
1. Drain pump
system
If there is excess pesticide left in the pump system, drain the pump
system:
a) Disconnect power to the pump and relieve system pressure.
b) Find a suitable container in which to drain the unused pesticide.
c) While wearing rubber gloves, eye protection, and all other required
personal protective equipment, allow pesticide to drain into container.
2. Unused
chemical
Properly store or dispose of unused chemical:
a) If the unused pesticide is to be stored for future use:
Store all unused pesticide in its original, or a suitably marked,
container in a secure location out of the reach of children & animals.
b) If remaining pesticide is to be disposed:
Properly dispose of the remaining chemical and its container per the
chemical manufacturer’s recommendation and according to local
hazardous waste disposal regulations.
3. Flush pump
Flush the pump per the chemical manufacturer’s recommendations.
A general procedure is as follows:
a) Add fresh water to the pump system.
b) Reconnect power to the pump.
c) Operate the pump system and discharge all rinse water onto an area
that can accept dilute pesticide application.
d) Add 5 gallons of the chemical manufacturer’s recommended cleaning
solution. Operate the pump system, collecting the discharged solution
if recommended by the manufacturer.
e) After flushing, disconnect power to the pump and be sure all system
pressure is relieved.
f) Dispose of cleaning solution discharge as recommended by the
manufacturer of the solution.
4. Decontaminate
& launder
Decontaminate yourself after you are finished handling chemicals:
a) Remove all clothing worn during spraying and chemical handling.
b) Wash all exposed parts of the body with soap and water.
c) Launder clothing separately from other wash.
