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Grocery Store Alert September 12, 2002Dear store management: The Pesticide Analytical and Response Center (PARC) would like to bring to your attention potential health concerns related to the accidental release of pesticide products on retail store shelves by children. PARC is a multi-agency organization established to coordinate investigations into complaints of adverse human, animal, or environmental effects from exposure to pesticides. This year, PARC investigated a case of pesticide exposure in a grocery store where a young child pushed the release button on the top of a pesticide spray can, releasing the spray into the child's face. Several brands of pesticide products (such as Raid, Off, Deep Woods, Hot Shot insecticide) for control of ants, roaches, wasps, spiders and flying insects have release buttons built into the top of the container. After review of U. S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations, PARC determined that many of these pesticide products are exempt from child-resistant packaging requirements provided the label contains signal words appropriate for the product's toxicity. PARC's investigation documented that many of these products are placed on the lower three shelves of grocery stores within reach of young children. To prevent future exposures and accidental releases, the PARC Board requests that store managers review the display locations for these products. It is the PARC Board's recommendation that these products be placed on higher shelves or in areas of limited availability to children to ensure child safety. Your cooperation in preventing pesticide poisoning incidents with children is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions or want information about PARC and pesticide-related issues, please contact the PARC board coordinator at 503-731-4025. Please share this information with regional managers and other staff. This letter may be downloaded from the PARC website at www.ohd.hr.state.or.us/eoe/parc under publications and resources, store alert. Sincerely, Michael Heumann, MPH, MA Department of Human Services/ Oregon Health Services PARC Board Co-Chair |
