Can you spot five problems with this picture?
Katie Moore, ©2024, Clemson Extension
(Water was used in sprayer for demonstration purposes)
Summer temperatures are here. This also means more weeds, insects, and other pests in yards. It is tempting to spray pesticides (herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, etc.) in the yard while wearing shorts and short-sleeve shirts. Is this safe, though?
If you said no, you are correct! The most common pesticide-related injuries are caused by skin exposure. Different pesticides can affect people differently. They can cause redness, itchy skin, rashes, blisters, and more. It is important, and usually required by the pesticide label, that applicators, at a minimum, wear gloves, long sleeves, pants, shoes, and socks. Pets are also vulnerable to pesticides and should not be in the area during application. Even when not required by the label, it is recommended to wear chemical-resistant footwear, such as rubber boots and eye protection. Body parts differ in how easily pesticides are absorbed. The tops of the feet, back of hands, neck, and head absorb pesticides easier than the palms and forearms. Therefore, in this photo, the applicator can be better protected by:
1. wearing protective boots/footwear
2. wearing protective gloves
3. wearing long sleeves
4. wearing long pants
5. refraining from spraying near pets
For more information, see HGIC 2751, Pesticide Safety.
