Pesticide Emergency Management and Environmental Protection | Washington State Approval #2024-009 O

Instructor: Sarah Racine

Pesticides carry the risk of causing hazardous emergencies and environmental damage. Pest managers can use this one-credit course, approved by the Washington State Department of Agriculture, to learn the essentials of safe, legal pesticide application.

A management plan is the cornerstone of safe pesticide use. Consider whether pesticides are the best choice or whether non-toxic pest management solutions will do the job. Notify the public, post warning signs and prepare responses to hazardous exposure.

Emergency management starts before you arrive at the jobsite. Begin by mastering safe chemical selection, equipment use, application techniques, cleanup, disposal and recordkeeping. Mix, transport and store pesticides in safe service containers.

No matter how much you prepare, you may still face leaks, spills and misapplications. Learn how to provide simple treatments for exposure to skin, clothing, eyes and the respiratory system.

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

– Describe appropriate ways to handle and apply pesticides.
– Identify pesticide safety measures to protect people and the environment from pesticide exposure.
– Discuss effective equipment selection, safe application techniques and proper practices for cleanup and disposal.
– Recognize different types of pesticide emergencies and corresponding first aid measures.
– Explain how to handle pesticide emergencies such as leaks, spills and misapplications.