Pesticides are a unique class of chemical and biological agents due to their intended purpose of killing or injuring some form of life that is detrimental to humans or the environment. Ideally, pesticides should be specific to the undesirable organisms, however many of them are injurious to non-target species as well. Since the indiscriminate use of pesticides could affect the health of people and the environment, their application must be carefully controlled to minimize exposure to non-target populations.
The Rutgers University Pesticide Program establishes guidelines for the safe use of pesticides on University property. Among its provisions are:
- Certification requirements for pesticide applicators.
- Safe use, handling, and storage guidelines.
- Medical surveillance of pesticide applicators.
- Personal protective equipment requirements.
- Inventory and storage of pesticides.
- Record keeping of pesticide applications.
REHS provides training in pesticide use and disposal, respiratory protection and fit testing, and inventory control. The Occupational Health office provides physical exams and blood cholinesterase testing for pesticide applicators.
References
- EPA Worker Protection Standard (40 CFR 170)
- NJAES Pesticide User Policy
- Early Reentry Record Form
- Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE) Pesticide Management
- Pesticide Database - Identifies Cholinesterase Inhibitors
- Pesticide Application Records Form
- Pesticide Application Records Form -Excel
Contacts
Overall Program Management:
Steve Etzold
(848) 445-3020
steve.etzold@rutgers.edu
Medical Surveillance - Occupational Health
Alice Farrell
(848) 932-8254
aaf147@echo.rutgers.edu
