Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
CAUTION
—This word signals you that the product is slightly toxic.
An ounce to more than a pint taken by mouth could kill the average adult.
Any product that is slightly toxic orally, dermally, or through inhalation or
that causes slight eye or skin irritation must be labeled
CAUTION
and
CAUTION
appear on labels of pesticides that are slightly toxic (Toxicity
Category III) and relatively nontoxic (Toxicity Category IV), respectively.
The statements that immediately follow the signal word, either on the
front or side of the pesticide label, indicate which route or routes of entry into
the body (mouth, skin, lungs, eyes) you must particularly protect. Many
pesticide products are hazardous by more than one route, so study these
statements carefully. DANGER-POISON followed by "May be fatal if
swallowed or inhaled" gives a far different warning than "DANGER:
CORROSIVE—causes eye damage and severe skin burns."
All pesticide labels contain additional statements to help you decide the
proper precautions to take to protect yourself, your workers, and other persons
(or domestic animals) that may be exposed. Sometimes these statements are
listed under the heading "Hazardous to Humans and Domestic Animals." The
statements usually follow immediately after the route-of-entry statements.
They recommend specific action you should take to prevent poisoning
accidents. These statements are directly related to the toxicity of the pesticide
product (signal word) and the route or routes of entry that must be protected.
These statements contain such items as "Do not breathe vapors or spray mist"
or "Avoid contact with skin or clothing" or "Do not get in eyes." There is a
distinct difference between "May be harmful if swallowed" and "Harmful if
swallowed," as well as the difference between "Do not get in eyes" and "Avoid
getting in eyes." The variation and the strength of the statement depends on
the signal word for the product. These specific-action statements help you
prevent pesticide poisoning by taking the necessary precautions and wearing
the correct protective clothing and equipment.
10. Statement of Practical Treatment
Most pesticide labels tell you how to respond to an exposure. The
instructions usually provide first aid measures, describe exposures that warrant
medical attention, and contain specific instructions for the attending physician.
Most labels also provide a phone number to use in case of poisoning or some
other accident involving the product.
Typical statements include:
•
In case of contact with the skin, wash immediately with plenty of soap
and water.
