Tips to handle ag waste pesticides safely

While no amount of safety precautions and protective measures can totally eliminate risks, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality recommends the following precautions to help minimize exposure when working with or handling waste pesticides and transporting waste materials.

Inspect containers. If, upon inspection, you suspect a container will tear or rupture when moved, do not attempt to move or load the container for transport. Notify collection site personnel for assistance.

Wear protective clothing and equipment (gloves, goggles, respirator, etc.) as recommended on product labels when handling pesticides.

Use respiratory protection as described on product labels. If you suspect that any of the older chemicals or unlabeled chemicals are highly volatile or are packaged under pressure, consider the need for appropriate respiratory protection.

If the product is not labeled, the label is not legible, or the label does not contain a panel labeled "Hazardous to Humans and Domestic Animals" with information on protective clothing, then wear protective clothing that you would normally wear when applying pesticides.

At a minimum, wear a longsleeved shirt with sleeves buttoned at the wrist; a pair of chemical-resistant gloves; preferably, a chemically resistant apron, rubber boots, goggles or full-face shield; and a wide-brimmed hat.

Have materials available to serve as spill control. A 10-pound bag of clay-type kitty litter, a shovel, and a bucket with lid can be used to contain spilled material including absorbent and any excavated soil.

Carefully handle all containers of waste and unused pesticide products to prevent containers from rupturing.

Securely pack waste material. Use only transport containers that are closed securely.

Line storage area of transport vehicle with plastic sheeting to contain spillage that might occur and simplify cleanup and decontamination.

Make sure labels are securely attached. It costs more to test unlabeled containers before disposal. nomical.

Keep containers dry during transport. Loads in open vehicles such as pickup trucks should be covered in case it rains.

Protect yourself and others from chemical exposure. Do not transport pesticide wastes in a manner that allows fumes to enter the passenger area of the vehicle used to transport them.

Be prepared for accidents. Make a list of the pesticides being transported including names, number of containers, and hazard class if known. Make a copy of the list and carry them both with you. Also, have a list of emergency phone numbers for fire and police assistance.

If you have an accident, take one list of pesticides with you when you go for help. Leave the other on the driver's seat in case emergency personnel arrive while you are away seeking help.

Drive carefully and go directly to the collection site after you load your vehicle. You are responsible for any spillage, damage, subsequent cleanup, and restoration that might occur while you are transporting the wastes, regardless of who caused the accident.

For chemical emergencies, phone (800) 424-9300. For exposure emergencies, phone (800) 764-7661 (Texas State Poison Control Center).