Insect Pests of Fruit, Plantation, Medicinal & Aromatic Crops (2+1)

II. Safe handling of pesticides

1. Storage of pesticide

a. Storehouse should be away from populated areas, wells, domestic water storage, tanks.
b. All pesticides should be stored in their original labeled containers in tightly sealed condition.
c. Store away from the reach of children, away from flames and keep them under lock and key.

2. Personal protective equipment: Protective clothing that cover arms, legs, nose and head to protect the skin.

a. Gloves and boots to protect the skin.
b. Helmets, goggles and facemask to protect hair, eyes and nose.
c. Respiration to avoid breathing dusts, mists and vapour.

3. Safety in application of pesticides

• Safe handling of pesticides (Fig.) involves proper selection and careful handling during mixing and application.
a) Pesticide selection

• Selection of a pesticide depend on the type of pest, damage, losses caused, cost etc.
Safety before application: i) Read the label and leaflet carefully. ii) Calculate the required quantity of pesticide. iii) Wear protective clothing and equipment before handling. iv) Avoid spillage and prepare spray fluid in well ventilated area. v) Stand in the direction of the wind on back when mixing pesticides. vi) Don’t eat, drink or smoke during mixing. vii) Dispose off the containers immediately after use.
b) Safety during application
i) Wear protective clothing and equipment. ii) Spray should be done in windward direction. iii) Apply correct coverage. iv) Do not blow, suck or apply mouth to any spray nozzle. v) Check the spray equipment before use for any leakage.
c) Safety after application: i) Empty the spray tank completely after spraying. ii) Avoid the draining the contaminated solution in ponds, well or on the grass where cattle graze. iii) Clean the spray equipment immediately after use. iv) Decontaminate protective clothing and foot wear. v) Wash the hands thoroughly with soap water, preferably have a bath. vi) Dispose off the containers by putting into a pit. vii) Sprayed field must be marked and unauthorized entry should be prevented. First aid: In case of suspected poisoning, call on the physician immediately. Before calling on a doctor, first aid treatments can be done by any person. Swallowed poison: 1) during vomiting, head should be faced downwards. 2) Stomach content should be removed within 4h of poisoning. 3) To give a soothing effect, give either egg mixed with water, gelatin, butter, cream, milk, smashed potato. 4) In case of nicotine poisoning, give coffee or strong tea.
Skin contamination: 1) contaminated clothes should be removed. 2) Thoroughly wash with soap and water.
Inhaled poison: 1) Person should be moved to a ventilated place after loosing the tight cloths. 2) Avoid applying frequent pressure on the chest.