How to avoid risks from pesticide use

The pesticides are chemicals that are used for the control or elimination of pests of animals and/or plants that may damage crops or crops, popularly known as fumigation.

Pests can be grasses, birds, microbes, mammals, fish, nematodes, molluscs and all kinds of insects.

The pesticides they are toxic to both humans and other animals and therefore appropriate prevention measures must be taken. This type of product can cause serious health problems for people, which is why in some Autonomous Communities it is necessary to have an accreditation as a drug user pesticides.

To determine the risk of poisoning, various factors must be considered, such as: toxicity of the chemical group, time of exposure, entry routes, types of formulation (powder, granules, liquids, etc.), environmental conditions and the knowledge of the risk by the operator of the products pesticides.

The professional must take into consideration various points to protect himself when using these types of products, starting by always purchasing them in original packaging. Use with extreme caution, mixing, pouring or loading always outdoors or in well ventilated areas.

The professional must also have a Personal protective equipment (EPI) suitable, such as suits, gloves, glasses, respiratory masks, and so on. The following aspects should be taken into account when applying pesticides:

• Appropriate machinery must always be used to spray the pesticides, it must always be the same in perfect condition.
• Never apply against the wind or use the mouth to open or unclog nozzles.
• Do not clean nozzles that are working or still under pressure.
• It should be used work clothes waterproof to protect your back when working with a backpack.
• Long sleeves and pants should be worn, and the head should be covered with waterproof clothing.
• After each use, wash the work clothes.
• The use of safety gloves, they should be flexible and comfortable, preferably made of nitrile or natural rubber.
• As regards the work shoes, the most common type are the rubber boots, always placed under the pants.

In this area the respiratory protection it is essential to use a mask or protective mask appropriate to the particularities of each pesticide.