Safety Rules for Pesticide Use

Before Spraying

• Read the whole label — dose, target crop, pre-harvest interval (PHI) and warnings.
• Buy only registered products in original sealed packaging.
• Prepare PPE: overalls or long sleeves, rubber gloves, mask, goggles and boots.
• Check the sprayer for leaks.

While Mixing and Spraying

• Mix outdoors or in a ventilated space; use a dedicated measuring cup — never food utensils.
• Do not eat, drink or smoke during the work.
• Spray morning or evening in low wind; stand upwind.
• Never spray against the wind, near water sources or beehives.

After Spraying

• Wash with soap and change clothes immediately; launder work clothes separately.
• Triple-rinse the sprayer; pour rinse water on the field, never into rivers/wells.
• Puncture and bury empty containers — never reuse them for anything.
• Store leftover products in a locked cabinet away from children and food.
• Respect the pre-harvest interval (PHI) and re-entry interval (REI).

Poisoning Signs and First Aid

Nausea, dizziness, heavy sweating, confusion. Move the person away from the chemical area, remove contaminated clothing, wash skin with soap and water. Take them to hospital with the product label — it helps the doctor choose the right treatment. Do not induce vomiting unless the label says so.