CHEMICAL SAFETY
12
Pesticide Hazards and Toxicity Levels
Extreme care must be taken when working around
chemicals. Be familiar with the toxicity levels of
the chemicals you are using and recommended
protective gear that each operator should use
before starting.
Every pesticide container has a label on it that
designates its level of toxicity. This toxicity level
then requires the operator to use specific
protective gear whenever working with this
chemical.
Toxicity Level
Protective Gear
DANGER POISON
High Risk
Goggles, Respirator,
Avoid Fumes, Gloves
and Skin Protection
WARNING POISON
Medium Risk
Goggles, Avoid Fumes,
Gloves and Skin
Protection
CAUTION POISON
Low Risk
Avoid Fumes, Gloves
and Skin Protection
Protective Clothing
It is necessary to wear adequate protective
clothing, respirators, boots, goggles and gloves to
reduce the risk of contact with chemicals. CHECK
THE PESTICIDE LABELS FOR DIRECTIONS ON
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING TO BE WORN WHILE
HANDLING A PESTICIDE.
1. Respirators – Only use NIOSH-approved
respirators. Do not use different parts from
different respirator manufacturers.
Change filters each day during handling of
chemicals. Always replace the cartridge with a
new cartridge at the beginning of the spray
season. Replace the cartridge when a
chemical odor becomes apparent or it
becomes difficult to breathe.
Check the seal of the respirator before working
with chemicals. The respirator will not function
properly if the operator has a beard, mustache,
sideburns or they are unshaven.
2. Goggles or Face Shields – To protect your
eyes from chemical splashing and chemical
dust, wear goggles that fit snugly on your face.
Eye glasses and shop safety glasses DO NOT
provide adequate protection. Goggles that
protect the sides of your face with indirect
ventilation to prevent fogging should be used.
Never wear contact lenses when working with
chemicals. Use a rubber or plastic strap to
secure the goggles to your face. Cloth or
elastic headbands will absorb chemicals.
Full-face protection may be required when
handling some pesticides. Full-face shields will
offer more protection to exposed skin than
goggles.
3. Gloves – Never use lined gloves, gloves with
wristbands, or leather gloves as these
materials will absorb pesticides. Chemical
resistant Neoprene or natural rubber gloves will
provide the best protection. The edge of the
glove should be folded over at the cuff to
prevent liquid from dripping down your sleeve
when you raise your arms. Sleeves should be
secured tightly around the gloves.
