Wood Treatment | Alabama Approved

Instructor: Sarah Racine

Wood is the most renewable resource, and the extraction and processing of wood products take far less energy, carbon, and water than other raw materials. To use wood as a structural material for various demands, such as utility poles, fence posts, marine pilings, lumber, timbers, and plywood, the wood must be properly treated with chemicals to protect the wood from pests. This practice is known as wood treatment.

After completing this course users will be able to:

• Outline strategies for wood treatment systems and practices.
• Operate and properly adhere to regulations concerning the use of Restricted-Use Pesticides.
• Identify common pests of wood, including insects, fungi, and marine-borers.

Instructor: Gene Merkl

PPE comprises the clothing and devices you wear to protect your body from contact with pesticides. Wearing PPE can reduce exposure (dermal, inhalation, ocular, or oral) and thereby lower the chances of pesticide injury, illness, or poisoning. It is important that all pesticide applicators and handlers understand the protections and limitations of PPE. Proper PPE selection, use, and care are essential.

Although pesticide accidents and emergencies are rare, they do occur. Pesticides spilled on the ground or burning in a fire can contaminate water, soil, and air; damage plants; injure livestock, wildlife, or pets; and endanger the health of the applicator and emergency responders. Pesticide spills and fires may lead to financial loss due to cleanup, liability claims, and fines assessed by government agencies. Do all that you can to prevent accidents, but be prepared in case of an emergency.

After completing this course participants will be able to:

• Identify where on the label to find the minimum clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) required to handle a given pesticide product.
• State the criteria to properly select skin, eye, and respiratory protection required by the pesticide label based upon your expected use and exposure.
• Discuss how pesticide releases from spills and fires can endanger humans and the environment.
• Explain how to execute an emergency response plan.