Using Pesticides Safely and Correctly

Before Using a Pesticide
Read the Label thoroughly!
Be familiar with all precautions.
Be familiar with First Aid information.
Put on the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Pesticide Exposure
Personal Protective EquipmentPesticides can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or absorption by the skin and eyes. The skin usually receives the most exposure, so it is important to cover as much of the body as possible. Make sure you wear the required protective clothing (printed on the label) before opening the pesticide container.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)MinPPE is clothing and other equipment worn to protect the body from contact with pesticides or pesticide residues. Wear the items of protective clothing the label requires: for example, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, overalls, nonabsorbent gloves (not leather or fabric), rubber footwear (not canvas or leather), a hat, goggles, or a dust mist filter. If no specific clothing is listed, non-absorbent gloves, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed shoes are recommended. Contact lenses may trap materials on the eyes; wear eye protection or remove contact lenses before mixing and applying pesticides.

When Mixing or Applying a Pesticide
Never smoke or eat while mixing or applying pesticides. You could easily carry traces of the pesticide from your hands to your mouth. Also, some pesticide products are flammable.
Follow the “Directions for Use” on the label carefully.
Use only for the purpose listed.
Use only the amount directed, at the time and under the conditions specified.
Twice the amount will NOT do twice the job. You could harm yourself, others, or the plant/area/pet you are trying to protect.
Always mix or dilute the pesticide outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Only use the amount listed on the label and measure the pesticide carefully. (Never use the same measuring cups or spoons that you use in the kitchen.)
Mix only the amount that you need for each application. Do not prepare larger amounts to store for possible future use. The pesticide will degrade and become ineffective over time. (See “Calculating the Correct Amount To Use”).
Keep children, pets (including birds and fish), and toys (including pet toys) away from areas where you mix and apply pesticides for at least the length of time required on the label. If no time is listed on the label, wait until the pesticide has dried before reentering the area.
If clothing becomes saturated in spray solution or contaminated with the pesticide concentrate, dispose of it immediately. Wash any parts of the body that may have been exposed to the pesticide, with soap and water, and finish the job in fresh, clean clothing.
Bait StationIndoors or outdoors, never put bait for insects or rats, mice, and other rodents where small children or pets can reach it. Pesticides that are formulated as baits (containing a feed attractant) are still pesticides.
Consider selective insecticides, with a limited range of target pests, to avoid harm to non-target organisms.