Basics for keeping safe

Read your pesticide label to find out what to do if things go wrong. Make sure you know your emergency contacts and know what to do in the event of a major pesticide spill or pesticide poisoning.

Consider your health. Spraying pesticides safely takes skill, so you must be fit and well to use pesticides. If your health is not at its best, delay spraying until you are fit. Consider these health symptoms that could lead to excess exposure to pesticides.

• Migraine or blurred vision may stop you from fully focusing on the spraying task.
• Cuts or sores on your skin may allow the pesticide to be absorbed more easily through the damaged skin.
• A cold or sore eyes may distract you as it may not be safe to wipe your nose or eyes.
• Bandages or plasters, pesticide absorbed into the fabric can be in contact with your skin for a long time.
• Aches, pains or fevers may stop you from carrying and using the sprayer safely.

If your health is not at its best, delay spraying until you are fit.