Safety Precautions & Worker Protection Standards
         

College of

 Agriculture

Department of

 Agronomy

Agronomy

 Publications

Agronomy

 Extension

         

 

Proper use of herbicides and other pesticides is important to the safety of humans and the environment. Pesticide labels contain precautionary statements to inform people of the potential hazards and safeguards associated with pesticides. The types of precautionary statements may vary depending on particular product and its use. Examples of issues that may require precautionary statements are: 1) use of protective clothing, 2) exposure to domestic animals, 3) storage, 4) disposal of excess pesticides, rinsates and containers, 5) toxicity to fish and wildlife, 6) groundwater, and 7) endangered species. To assure the pesticide is used in a safe manner, it is important to read and follow the label directions.

Worker Protection Standards (WPS) were established to protect pesticide handlers and agricultural workers. This federal EPA regulation requires that employees are informed about pesticide use and protection practices. WPS requires pesticide safety training for workers and handlers, display of safety posters, and access to labeling and other specific information at a central location. Further protection is ensured by excluding workers from areas being treated with a pesticide, REI (Restricted-Entry Intervals) following a pesticide application, and proper use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). REI's and protective clothing requirements are listed on the pesticide label.

Some herbicide products are classified as Restricted Use Pesticides because they have a higher potential for affecting the environment, humans, or animals. Herbicides currently classified as Restricted Use appear below. Pesticide certification is required to purchase and use these products.

AAtrex FieldMaster LeadOff
Atrazine FulTime Liberty ATZ
Axiom AT Gramoxone Extra Lumax
Balance Gramoxone Max Marksman
Balance Pro Guardsman Micro-Tech
Basis Gold Harness ReadyMaster ATZ
Bicep II Magnum Harness Xtra Simazat
Buctril/Atrazine Hoelon Sterling Plus
Bullet Keystone Stratos
Degree Laddok Surpass EC
Degree Xtra Lariat Surpass 100
Epic Lasso TopNotch

When Restricted Use Pesticides are used, accurate records of the application are required by federal law. An applicator must make a written record within 30 days after the application. Records to keep include product name and EPA registration number, total amount applied, location, crop or site of application, size of treated area, name and certification number of applicator or supervisor, and date of application.

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For problems, questions, or permission to reprint information from this website, please contact Mike Marshall. Last Update: 02/23/04.