Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Required safety gear protecting applicators from pesticide exposure - gloves, eye protection, respirators, coveralls based on product label.
Detailed Overview
Pesticide labels specify required PPE. Common requirements: (1) Gloves: chemical-resistant gloves for mixing and application. Nitrile or neoprene for most products. Dispose of contaminated gloves. (2) Eye protection: safety glasses or goggles when mixing or applying overhead. Prevents splash exposure. (3) Coveralls: long sleeve shirt and long pants minimum. Coveralls for extensive applications or toxic products. Prevents skin contact. (4) Respirator: dust mask for dust applications. Organic vapor respirator for some liquid applications. NIOSH-approved only. Fit-tested per OSHA. (5) Boots: leather or synthetic footwear protecting feet. (6) Apron: when mixing concentrated products protecting against spills. Label PPE statements: "Applicators must wear..." lists minimum required PPE. Some products require extensive PPE (respirator, coveralls, gloves, eye protection), others minimal (gloves only). Using less PPE than label requires is violation. Can use more than required for additional safety. PPE prevents: dermal exposure (skin absorption), inhalation (breathing vapors/particles), eye damage, ingestion (hand-to-mouth transfer). Proper use: don PPE before handling products, remove contaminated PPE before eating/drinking, wash hands after removing PPE, launder work clothes separately. Employer must provide PPE at no cost to employees.
When to Use
Use PPE as specified on product label for every application. Do not skip PPE to save time. Maintain PPE in good condition. Replace damaged gloves, respirator cartridges, contaminated clothing.
Required Skill Level
Should only be performed by licensed pest management professionals
Benefits
- Protects applicator health from pesticide exposure
- Required by label - legal compliance
- Prevents acute and chronic exposure effects
- Demonstrates safety consciousness
- Reduces liability from applicator exposure
Limitations
- Hot working in full PPE
- Ongoing cost for replacement supplies
- Respirators require fit testing and training
- Some PPE uncomfortable reducing compliance
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