Human Safety, Personal Protective Equipment, and First Aid
Protect the applicator first
Pesticide exposure routes are dermal, inhalation, oral, and ocular. Dermal is the most common, so PPE selection starts with the label. Understand the PPE categories: coveralls, chemical-resistant gloves and boots, aprons, eye protection (goggles/face shield), respirators, and headgear. Chemical-resistant does not mean impermeable - gloves and boots must be rinsed and replaced per label. Know the difference between a dust/mist respirator and a vapor-removing cartridge, and that fit testing and medical evaluation are required for respirator use.
Learn first aid basics: move the victim to fresh air, remove contaminated clothing, wash skin with soap and water, flush eyes for at least 15 minutes, and call poison control (1-800-222-1222) or emergency services. Never induce vomiting unless directed. Know the signs of organophosphate/carbamate poisoning (cholinergic symptoms: salivation, sweating, pinpoint pupils, vomiting) and that some products require a specific antidote under medical direction. Understand the Worker Protection Standard: REI, notification, decontamination supplies, and training for handlers and workers.
Trap: questions that suggest "just use gloves" for a product whose label requires a respirator and coveralls. The label's PPE section is a minimum. Another trap: giving food or drink to an unconscious victim - never do this.
Rule of thumb: read the label's PPE and first-aid sections before opening the container, and keep soap, water, and a phone within reach of every mixing site.