Iowa State University Extension
Before
you work with pesticides, read the precautionary statements
on the chemical label and review this checklist to make sure
you have the right kind of protective clothing. Careful attention
to the clothes you wear can minimize pesticide exposure.
Do you
have the right gloves? Chemically resistant gloves may be
made of neoprene, butyl rubber, or nitrile polymers in various
thicknesses. Thicker gloves offer more protection, but give
less manual dexterity. Gloves must resist the chemical in
use, fit well, and extend over the wrist halfway to the elbow.
Cotton and leather gloves are not recommended for pesticide
use or application, although they may help to keep hands warm
or provide a good grip for other tasks.
Do you
need coveralls? Cotton coveralls help reduce the amount of
pesticide that gets on your regular work clothing, underclothing,
and your skin. Other coveralls, such as those made of Tyvek
(regular, polyethylene-coated, or Saranex-23P) or Comfort-Gard
II, offer better resistance to penetration of liquid
sprays.
After
contamination, disposable coveralls should be discarded as
hazardous waste in the same way as pesticide containers or
bags. You could cut up the coveralls to be sure no one else
picks them up to wear by mistake.
Do you
need an apron? A chemically resistant apron worn during mixing
and loading will help prevent full-strength concentrate spills
from getting on your clothes and your body. Clean aprons regularly
by agitating them in a bucket of hot soapy water. Hang rubberized
clothing to air dry; never place in an automatic dryer.
Do you
need a respirator? This will be specified on the label. Use
respirators with appropriate filters to screen out pesticides
and dust. Respirators must fit tightly to your face and not
leak, so a beard or mustache would have to be shaved. Clean
respirators after every use and replace filters regularly
for safety.
Do you
have goggles? Goggles can help protect your eyes from chemical
splashes, sprays and dust. If you wear glasses, get goggles
that can fit over them. Usually the goggles that wrap around
to the side of your face offer the best protection. Some styles
are vented to prevent fogging. Select a style that feels comfortable
and fits tightly over your face.
Do you
have everything you need? Check your local hardware, discount,
or chemical supply store. Your local Extension office also
keeps a list of catalog sources to order protective clothing
by mail.
For
more information about protective clothing, contact the County
Extension office at, or call the ISU Home Economics Answerline
at 1-800-262-3804.
Disclaimer
and Reproduction Information: Information in NASD does not
represent NIOSH policy. Information included in NASD appears
by permission of the author and/or copyright holder. More
NASD Review: 04/2002
This
news release was distributed by Iowa State University Extension
as part of the Safe Farm program. Safe Farm promotes health
and safety in agriculture. It is funded by the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health, Iowa State University,
and a network of groups that serve Iowa farm workers and their
families. Distribution date: June 1992.
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