September 28, 2001
Be Aware of Pesticide Security and Safety
LINCOLN, Neb. — The possibilities of chemical weapon attacks or attacks on food and water supplies, coupled with recent temporary bans on agricultural aircraft use by the Federal Aviation Administration, are prompting a new awareness of proper pesticide storage and security measures.
"We all need to go about our normal routines in the safe and proper use of pesticides, with perhaps a bit more attention paid to safe and secure storage due to the terrorism threats we are now facing as a nation," said University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension pesticide coordinator Larry Schulze.
"The events of the past few weeks bring a need for higher levels of awareness and responsibility among pesticide applicators," he said.
Schulze urged farmers, agri-chemical dealers, ag pilots, lawn care operators, exterminators and others who regularly store and use pesticides to review their management practices associated with storing pesticides and pesticide application equipment.
"These are simple, appropriate and justifiable steps to take," he said.
Schulze suggested the following 10-step review:
1. Ensure pesticide storage is secure and locked as appropriate.
2. Be aware of who has keys and access to pesticide storage areas.
3. Post all storage areas (i.e., "Pesticides — Keep Out").
4. Post names, addresses and telephone numbers for contact persons at the primary entrance to the storage area (list at least two people, if possible).
5. Regularly inspect storage facilities and maintain an inspection log.
6. Commercial pesticide applicators should be aware of who has access to pesticide storage areas during business hours.
7. Keep inventory records of pesticide products current and readily available.
8. Secure pesticide application equipment to prevent unauthorized access.
9. Ensure pesticide label and Material Data Safety Sheets are available on all stored pesticides.
10. Keep a list of emergency telephone numbers readily available, including fire, law enforcement and medical contacts.
"The above points are most important," said Schulze. "Our initial thoughts on pest management have taken a turn that we may not have considered only a month ago. Today we all have a responsibility to more closely monitor proper storage and use practices."
He recommended that homeowners also evaluate safe storage practices for their lawn, garden and household pesticides.
For more information, contact the UNL Pesticide Education Office at (402)472-1632 or access NU Cooperative Extension Circular EC01-2507, Safe Transport, Storage and Disposal of Pesticides.
University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension Crisis Resources
09/28/01-SR
Larry Schulze - Ph.D.
UNL Water Center/ Environmental Programs
Extension Pesticide Coordinator
(402) 472-1632
Steve Ress UNL Water Center - Communications Coordinator (402) 472-3305
Department: NU Water Center
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