The Ultimate Guide to Safe Use of Pesticides in Agriculture

In this article, we will discuss the ultimate guide to safe use of pesticides in agriculture. Safety issues in pesticide uses, Precautions are taken while purchasing pesticides, storing, handling, preparing spray solution and application, etc.

What Are Pesticides?

The term pesticides is used to those chemicals which kill pests and these pest may includes insects, animals, mites, diseases, or even weeds is called pesticides.

These chemicals are classified into different categories, including herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, rodenticides, nematicides, and bactericides, etc. Their primary function is to exterminate or deter pests that can inflict harm on crops, decrease their productivity, and disseminate illnesses.

Pesticides are generally available in a concentrated form, which are to be diluted and used except in ready to use dust and granules.

They are highly toxic and available in different formulations.

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Guide to Safe Use of Pesticides in Agriculture

When prevention alone is not enough, using a pesticide might be necessary. To stay safe while using pesticides, remember these guidelines:

• Dispose of leftover pesticides and their containers correctly.
• Choose the right pesticide for the task.
• Purchase the correct amount of pesticide.
• Take necessary precautions when mixing and applying pesticides.
• Safely store and transport pesticides.

Safety issues in pesticide uses

Pesticides can pose a threat to both pests and humans, as they contain toxic elements that can be harmful if not handled with care.

Nevertheless, taking suitable precautions can prevent these harmful effects from occurring. Pesticides can cause adverse effects if ingested intentionally or accidentally, or if they come into contact with skin for prolonged periods.

Additionally, pesticide particles can enter the respiratory system when sprayed, leading to further health risks. Contamination of drinking water, food, or soil is also a possibility, so it is vital to exercise caution during transport, storage, and handling. Regular cleaning and maintenance of spray equipment can prevent leaks, and people working with pesticides should receive proper training to ensure their safe use.

Pesticide label with example

In India, it is mandatory for pesticide containers to bear toxicity labels. These labels come in four colors: red, yellow, blue, and green, and identify the level of toxicity of the contained pesticide.

This labeling system is in line with the Insecticides Act of 1968 and the Insecticides Rules of 1971. The label typically includes information such as the brand name, manufacturer’s name, and the name of the antidote to be used in case of accidental consumption.

The color mark on the label is a crucial aspect and represents the toxicity level of the material. The labeling scheme is designed to ensure the safe handling and use of pesticides.

Precautions are taken while purchasing pesticides

To ensure the safe handling and use of pesticides, it is crucial to follow certain guidelines when purchasing them.

1.First and foremost, it is essential to buy pesticides or biopesticides only from registered dealers who have a valid license.

2.It is also essential to purchase only the required quantity of pesticides for a single operation in a specified area.

3.When purchasing pesticides, one should check for approved labels on the containers or packets, as well as the batch number, registration number, and date of manufacture or expiry.

4.It is also important to ensure that the pesticides are well-packed in containers.

5.Finally, it is vital to always purchase pesticides with a proper bill or invoice, which should include all necessary details such as the batch number, manufacturing date, and expiry date.

By following these guidelines, one can ensure the safe and responsible use of pesticides.

Precautions are taken while storing pesticides

Proper storage of pesticides is essential to ensure their safety and prevent accidents.

1.It is advisable to store pesticides away from house premises and keep them in their original containers.

2.Pesticides and weedicides should be stored separately in designated areas marked with warning signs to avoid confusion.

3.The storage area should be inaccessible to children and livestock.

4.It should also be well-protected from direct sunlight and rain to prevent the containers from getting damaged or the chemicals from deteriorating.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure the safe storage of pesticides and minimize any potential risks.

Precautions are taken while handling, preparing spray solution and application

Transportation and application of pesticides require careful handling and adherence to safety guidelines.

1.Pesticides should be kept separate during transportation, and bulk pesticides should be carried with utmost care to the site of application.

2.Clean water should always be used, and protective clothing such as hand gloves, face masks, caps, aprons, and full trousers should be worn to cover the entire body.

3.It is important to protect your nose, eyes, ears, and hands from spillage of the spray solution. Before use, read the instructions on the pesticide container label carefully.

4.The solution should be prepared as per requirement, and granular pesticides should be used as they are.

5.The right equipment and nozzle size should be selected, and separate sprayers should be used for insecticides and weedicides.

6.Only the recommended dose and dilution should be applied. Spray operations should be conducted on cool and calm days, preferably in sunny weather.

7.The recommended sprayer should be used for each spray, and the spray operation should be conducted in the wind direction.

8.After the spray operation, the sprayer and buckets should be washed with clean water using detergent/soap.

9.Animals and workers should be kept away from the field immediately after the spray.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure safe transportation and application of pesticides.

Precautions are taken after applications of pesticides

1.To properly dispose of leftover spray solutions, it’s important to find a safe and isolated area, like a barren land, for disposal.

2.When disposing of used or empty containers, crush them with a stick or stone and bury them deeply in the soil, away from water sources.

3.Always wash your hands and face with clean water and soap before eating or smoking.

4.If you notice any symptoms of poisoning, provide first aid immediately and take the patient to a doctor.

5.Make sure to show the empty container to the doctor as well.

Maintenance of sprayers

Thoroughly cleaning the inside and exposed parts of the sprayer after each use and before storage is crucial. Begin cleaning by washing the tank with soap and water, followed by a water rinse. Wettable powders and solutions can be easily cleaned by rinsing thoroughly with water. Follow these steps to clean the sprayer:

1.Half-fill the tank with clean water and shake it vigorously. Flush out the cleaning water through the nozzle by operating the sprayer.

2.Repeat the above procedure.

3.Remove nozzle tips and screens. Clean them in kerosene or detergent solution using a soft brush.

4.Avoid using a knife, wire, or any hard materials to clean the nozzle tips, and never blow into them with your mouth.

5.Half-fill the tank with water again and add a small amount of household soap.

6.Operate the pump to circulate the soap solution through the sprayer, and then flush it out through the sprayer nozzle.

7.At the end of the spraying season, follow the cleaning operations listed above and rinse the sprayer with light oil to protect metal and rubber parts from corrosion.

8.Remove nozzle tips, strainers, and screens, and apply a coating of light oil before storage.

We hope are you understand about Safe Use of Pesticides in Agriculture and precautions method while using, storing, purchases, transport and application of pesticides.

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FAQs

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Conclusion

Pesticides are indispensable in agriculture, but their heedless usage may trigger hazards. Therefore, it is crucial to employ safe practices while administering pesticides to safeguard human health, wildlife, and the environment. Farmers can regulate pests and diseases while minimizing the associated risks by adhering to best practices for safe use of pesticide in agriculture and embracing integrated pest management strategies.