Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
tion. Too much wind, however, can increase the possibility of exposure due
to drift.
At the other extreme, agricultural pesticide use in the northern United
States in the early spring may take place in temperatures at or barely above
freezing. Pesticide handlers working in cold weather are amenable to the use
of protective suits or coveralls over another set of clothing. In these condi-
tions, however, some rubber or plastic garments may become stiff and brittle.
Pesticide handlers also may need protection against glare, sunburn, and the
harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.
2.
Terrain
Most agricultural pesticide use in greenhouses, on nurseries, and on row
crop farms is located in areas easily traversed either on foot or by vehicle.
Chemical-resistant footwear is practical and often indicated in such situations.
In some forestry, pasture, and rangeland areas, however, pesticide application
must be undertaken on rough, ungraded terrain not accessible by vehicles.
Under these conditions, the use of chemical-resistant footwear and leg cover-
ings may be a lower priority than reducing exposure to physical risks such as
abrasions and animal bites by wearing sturdy (such as leather) footwear and leg
coverings.
F. WORKPLACE SAFETY AMENITIES.
1. Decontamination Areas
Agricultural establishments range in complexity from the traditional one-
family farm to large, complex corporations. Regardless of the size of the es-
tablishment, onsite running water for decontamination, private dressing
rooms, hot showers, and professional laundry service are the exception rather
than the rule. The majority of agricultural establishments do not have a con-
trolled, "factory-like" setting. Many agricultural establishments do not have
potable running water anywhere on the premises except at the "office" which
may be a personal residence. There is usually no specific indoor facility pro-
vided for handlers to change into or out of PPE or to wash themselves after
handling pesticides. The "decontamination facility" at the facility headquarters
will often consist of cold running water, a bar of soap, and a stack of paper
towels. This facility is often located in an unprotected outdoor site.
Water sources for decontamination may be even more primitive for per-
sons handling pesticides at sites removed from the headquarters facility. Han-
dlers may be assigned duties that are many miles from the headquarters and far
removed from any source of running water. Running water is often plentiful
