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142649 - OnePass Applicator (28-September-2020)
Safety
Learning to use herbicides safely is extremely important.
A careless approach will only lead to needless exposure
to yourself or others. It can also lead to non-target
damage to desirable plants.
This section will help you to better understand some
basic principles of chemical safety.
• Always read the herbicide label completely before
opening the container. To view the entire label on
some products, you must peel back the tape as
many are folded accordion style and taped closed.
• Make sure you have all the proper personal
protection equipment (PPE) that is listed on the label
before opening the container.
• Any household items used for herbicide or pesticide
use, such as measuring cups, stir sticks, etc. should
not be reused in the house. They should be thrown
out or used only for herbicide control use.
• Some herbicide solutions are concentrated and
must be diluted with another liquid (usually water)
for use. Do not add more herbicide than the
maximum rate allowed on the label. Adding more
than what is allowed will not give better control
and, in most cases, it is illegal.
• Estimate the area to be treated and try to mix only
the amount you need. Do not dump any excess, but
use the solution on the target pests (weeds, grass,
etc). If you need to clean the chemical applicator
afterwards, a mixture of ammonia and water will
break down most chemical residues left in the unit.
Never assume an applicator is perfectly clean.
• The best shoes to wear when applicating will
be made of chemical resistant rubber or plastic
materials. Don’t wear tennis shoes or other shoes
made from absorbent materials when applying
herbicides. After application, remove your shoes
before entering the house, so herbicide residue is
not tracked inside.
• Pay close attention to label instructions regarding
re-entry times. The use of certain products may
require that people or pets stay out of the treated
area for a specific amount of time.
• Store all herbicides and pesticides, application
equipment, and mixing containers away from the
reach of children or pets. These chemicals must be
kept in the original container with the label intact.
• Be aware that not all organic herbicides are “safe”.
Read labels carefully. If you are unsure, research
the product or use a product you are familiar with.
USE HERBICIDES SAFELY
In the pesticide industry, the definition of “exposure”
means getting a pesticide or herbicide on the skin or in
the body.
How serious the hazard is depends on two things:
1. The length of exposure (how long the chemical
is left on the body)
2. The toxicity of the chemical.
An examination of the Signal Words show that there are
various degrees of toxicity.
The Four “Exposure” Contact Points
1. Dermal exposure (Getting chemicals on the skin)
• In chemical exposure, typically 95% of exposure
will occur on the skin. Some areas of the body are
more absorptive than others. The most absorptive
skin on the body is around the genital area. If
you have to take a restroom break while applying
chemical or when mixing, be sure to wash your
hands thoroughly with soap and water first.
Other areas of the body that are highly absorptive
is the scalp, forehead and ears. Be aware of any
cuts or abrasions on the skin that could come in
contact with any chemical.
2. Inhalation Exposure
(Breathing in chemical vapor or dust)
• Inhalation exposure is most likely to occur in
poorly ventilated areas or from breathing in
overspray. If inside, open windows to create air
circulation. Do not turn on the central air or fumes
could be transported to other rooms. If outside, be
aware of wind conditions. The wind can catch the
chemical and blow it into your face.
3. Ocular Exposure
(Chemicals entering through the eye)
• The eyes will easily absorb certain chemicals and
should be protected. Ocular exposure is most likely
to occur from a splash during mixing or from spray
being blown into the face. Wear goggles or a face
shield to prevent this from happening.
4. Oral Exposure (By swallowing)
• Oral exposure most often occurs when residue is
passed from the hands to food being consumed. It
can also occur while taking a smoke break. Be sure
to wash your hands with soap and water before
handling a cigarette or eating.
HERBICIDE EXPOSURE & CONTACT POINTS
