Pesticides are valuable pest management tools, and like any tool, they must be used carefully and responsibly. Minimizing exposure is an important first step toward reducing your risk of pesticide poisoning. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) provides benefits to the applicator and is a visual expression of appropriate and legal pesticide use.\
Use all pesticides safely. Read the pesticide product label and comply with all directions. Failure to do so may not only subject you to state and/or federal penalties, but it also may place you, your family, and the environment at a greater risk of pesticide exposure

Ogg, Clyde

Schulze, Larry D.

English

DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska

University of Nebraska - Lincoln DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln Historical Materials from University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Extension 1985 G85-758 Protective Clothing and Equipment for Pesticide Appliactors (Revised September 2002) Larry D. Schulze University of Nebraska - Lincoln, lschulze1@unl.edu Clyde Ogg University of Nebraska - Lincoln, cogg1@unl.edu Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/extensionhist  Part of the Agriculture Commons, and the Curriculum and Instruction Commons Schulze, Larry D. and Ogg, Clyde, "G85-758 Protective Clothing and Equipment for Pesticide Appliactors (Revised September 2002)" (1985). Historical Materials from University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension. 1230. https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/extensionhist/1230 This Article is brought to you for free and open access by the Extension at DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln. It has been accepted for inclusion in Historical Materials from University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension by an authorized administrator of DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln. G85-758-A Revised September 2002  Protective Clothing and Equipment for Pesticide Applicators Pesticides are valuable pest management tools, and like any tool, they must be used carefully and responsibly. Minimizing exposure is an important first step toward reducing your risk of pesticide poisoning. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) provides benefits to the applicator and is a visual expression of appropriate and legal pesticide use. Clyde L. Ogg, Extension Educator -Pesticide Education Larry D. Schulze, Pesticide Education Specialist z Manage your Risk  z What is Toxicity?  z Read the Pesticide Product Label  z Use Personal Protective Equipment  z Which PPE is Right?  z Protective Clothing  z Protect you Head, Eyes and Hands  z Protect your Lungs  z Protective Clothing Care  z Wash Up!  z Be Prepared!  z Purchasing PPE   Use all pesticides safely. Read the pesticide product label and comply with all directions. Failure to do so may not only subject you to state and/or federal penalties, but it also may place you, your family, and the environment at a greater risk of pesticide exposure. Manage your Risk Wearing protective clothing and equipment when handling or applying pesticides reduces the risk of pesticide poisoning by reducing the risk of exposure. This idea is expressed by the Risk Formula: Risk = Toxicity x ExposureUnderstanding the toxicity of a product and the potential for personal exposure allows you to lower your risk. No matter how toxic a substance is, if the amount of exposure is kept low, risk can be held at an acceptably low level. The toxicity of a substance can't be changed, but risk can be managed, and the applicator is the manager.  What is Toxicity? All pesticides are toxic. They differ only in the degree of toxicity. Because of this characteristic, pesticides are potentially dangerous to people if exposure is high. Pesticide product labels have signal words that clearly indicate the degree of toxicity associated with a given product (Table I). The signal words indicate the degree of potential risk to a user, not the expected level of control.   Pesticides can enter the human body three ways: 1) through the mouth (orally); 2) by absorption through the skin or eyes (dermally); and 3) by breathing into the lungs (inhalation). Along with the signal words, pesticide product labels also include route of entry statements and specific actions a user must take to avoid exposure. Read the Pesticide Product Label Route of entry statements indicate the outcome that can be expected from different kinds of exposure. For example, a pesticide label might read: "Poisonous if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Rapidly absorbed through the skin and eyes." This tells the user that this pesticide is a potential hazard through all three routes of entry, and that skin and eye contact are particularly hazardous. The specific action statements normally follow the route of entry statements and indicate what must be done to prevent accidental poisoning. With this pesticide example, the statement might read: "Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing. Do not breathe spray mist." Before handling, mixing, loading or applying any pesticide, read the label directions completely. If the label calls for the use of PPE, comply fully with those directions. The label will define the minimal PPE required for various tasks. Note that the PPE required for mixing and loading may exceed the PPE required during application. Use Personal Protective Equipment The type of PPE needed depends both on the toxicity of the pesticide being used and the formulation (liquid, granular, wettable powder, etc.). Some labels, especially agricultural pesticides, are affected by Table I. Pesticide label signal words and relative toxicities. Signal Word Toxicity Oral Lethal Dose (for 150 pound person)Danger* Highly toxic Few drops to 1 teaspoon**Warning Moderately toxic 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoonCaution Low toxicity 1 ounce to more than a pint* May include a skull and crossbones symbol and the word "Poison." ** Less for a child or person weighing under 150 pounds.the Worker Protection Standards and specifically state that certain items of clothing, equipment, eyewear, footgear and gloves must be used. Others do not include a statement. In general, the more toxic the pesticide, the greater the need for PPE. Which PPE is Right? If a pesticide label does not have specific PPE requirements, always take reasonable precautions. Use the route of entry and specific action statements from the label to determine the type and degree of protection needed to handle the pesticide safely. Remember that liquid pesticides are often more hazardous to use than dry formulations, and that extra protection is warranted while mixing or loading pesticides. Recognize that in cases where there will be prolonged exposure to the spray or where the application is being made in an enclosed area, you must use extra protection. Protective Clothing Any time you are using pesticides, you should wear at least a long-sleeved shirt and long-legged pants, or coveralls (woven fabric) that fully cover your arms and legs. Select garments made of cotton instead of cotton/polyester blends. Disposable coveralls, such as those made of Tyvek®, provide adequate protection to a pesticide applicator under most conditions. Protective suits made of plastic, rainwear, and fabric coated with PVC, butyl or neoprene may be needed for certain applications. Shoes and socks also should be worn. Avoid sandals, thongs, and cloth or canvas shoes to minimize exposing feet to liquid pesticides. Leather shoes are suitable while using most pesticides, however, leather will absorb liquids. Therefore, wear chemical-resistant boots while working with highly toxic liquid pesticides (signal word: DANGER), and when there may be prolonged exposure to any pesticide spray. Applicators who must mix and load liquid concentrates, especially those that are highly toxic, also should wear a chemical-resistant apron. Protect your Head, Eyes and Hands Protection for your head is also advisable and in some cases is specifically required. In general, a wide-brimmed, easily cleaned hat that will keep pesticides away from the neck, eyes, mouth and face is adequate. Avoid hats with cloth or leather sweatbands as these will absorb pesticides. Baseball-style caps have headbands that readily absorb and retain pesticides. Labels that specify the use of headgear are generally found on highly toxic liquid concentrates. Wear a waterproof hood or plastic hard hat with a rain-trough edge (to keep drips off your neck and back) and a plastic sweatband when working with these pesticides. Pesticides are readily absorbed through the eyes and can cause eye injury. Precautionary statements on the labels of pesticide liquids having the signal words WARNING or DANGER generally indicate the use of eye protection. Use goggles or a face shield whenever such a statement is on the label. Adequate protection with goggles is provided if the right type of venting is selected (Figure 1). Some goggles are made wider over the bridge of the nose to be compatible with respirators. Safety goggles have three types of venting: z open vents for impact protection only, not recommended for use with pesticides;  z indirect vents for protection from pesticide and other chemical splash;  z non-vented for protection from gases, mists and fumes. Gloves also are often needed for mixing, loading and applying pesticides. Unlined, liquid-proof neoprene, butyl, PVC or nitrile gloves with tops that extend well up on the forearm are best. Avoid lined gloves because the lining can absorb the chemicals and is hard to clean. Latex gloves, commonly used by medical personnel, do not provide adequate dermal protection. Avoid cotton gloves because they also can absorb pesticides. In most cases, wear gloves under the sleeves to keep the pesticide from running down the sleeves and into the glove. When working with hands over your head, roll glove tops into a cuff to deter pesticide from running down the gloves to your forearms. Persons who apply fumigants should be especially attentive to the label statements about personal protective equipment. Some fumigants penetrate rubber, neoprene and leather, and if trapped inside can cause severe skin irritation or be absorbed through the skin. Protect your Lungs The lungs and lining of the respiratory system readily absorb pesticide dusts and vapors from the air. Respiratory protection, therefore, is essential whenever the label calls for it and is recommended during mixing and loading, even if not required by the label. Respiratory protection is also recommended whenever an applicator will be exposed to intensive concentrations of pesticide dusts, fumes or vapors. The type of respirator an applicator uses will be determined by the type and toxicity of the pesticide, application site and other factors. Dust respirators are acceptable when applying pesticide dusts and granules. They are not recommended for liquid pesticide spraying Always read the pesticide label for product-specific recommendations. Two-strap dust respirators provide much more protection than the one-strap dust mask. They seal better while maintaining their shape and integrity. There are models with exhale valves that make breathing easier, padding over the bridge of the nose for a better seal and comfort, and stronger straps. A cartridge respirator is suitable when exposure will be intermittent, but if exposure will be continuous, a canister respirator should be worn. If the oxygen supply is likely to be low because of heavy concentrations of highly toxic pesticides, a supplied-air respirator or self-contained breathing apparatus will be needed (Figure 2). Respirators used while applying pesticides should be approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and care of the respirator. Filters, cartridges, and canisters must be approved for pesticide use (those designated as removing and trapping organic vapors) and must be replaced at proper intervals. Inspect and test respirators before use to insure a snug fit against the face. Users with facial hair may not be able to obtain an adequate seal. Exposed parts of the mask must be cleaned after each use, and the cartridges should be stored in an airtight container. Protective Clothing Care Figure 2. Self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) with a cylinder air supply (top) and an air line that connects to a safe air source (bottom).Applicators who routinely work with pesticides should wear clean clothing daily, reserve one set of clothing for pesticide work if possible, and launder and store pesticide-contaminated clothing separately. For more information on laundering pesticide contaminated clothing, see "Laundering Pesticide Contaminated Clothing," NebGuide G943, available from your Extension office or on the web at http://www.ianr.unl.edu/pubs/textiles/g943.htm and Table II. Clothing that has become wet from pesticides should be removed immediately. Fast action will reduce your exposure to the pesticide. Destroy clothing (including shoes and boots) saturated with concentrate or finished spray of highly toxic pesticides. Waterproof and chemical-resistant hats, gloves, boots and goggles also should be washed daily and hung to dry. Test gloves for leaks by filling them with water and gently squeezing. Wash Up! Good personal hygiene is essential. Soap and water is cheap insurance against pesticide contamination. Wash your hands and face often when working with pesticides. Keep soap and water with you wherever you are working. Never smoke, eat, drink or use the toilet after handling pesticides without first washing your hands! Shower immediately after using pesticides and before changing into clean clothes. Be Prepared! Take the pesticide label with you when seeking medical care. Have emergency telephone numbers handy. (Refer to the "Pesticide Safety Telephone Hotlines" card, EC2501, for a list of toll-free numbers.) If you experience any pesticide poisoning symptoms (nausea, skin rashes, headaches, coughing, diarrhea, chest pain, twitching or seizures), see your physician immediately. (See Extension Circular EC2505, "Signs and Symptoms of Pesticide Poisoning.") Hotline cards and Extension Circulars are available from your Extension office or may be available on the Web at http://www.ianr.unl.edu/pubs. Purchasing PPE Protective clothing and equipment is becoming more and more available. For those pesticide applicators who can't locate sources of PPE, a partial list of suppliers is included in Table III. Table II. Laundering pesticide-solid clothing.z Treat all clothing worn while handling or applying pesticides as contaminated!  z Handle ALL contaminated clothing with chemical resistant gloves.  z Wash clothing daily and separately from the family wash.  z Pre-rinse, pre-soak or pre-treat with a stain remover.  z Use HOT water.  z Use the highest water level.  z Use the longest wash cycle.  z Use the heavy-duty liquid detergent.  z Line dry.  z Wash clothing two or three times if heavily soiled or if pesticides are highly toxic, or consider discarding.  z After washing, run the machine through a complete cycle with detergent.  Table III. Suppliers of personal protective equipment.Ag Chem Equipment Co., Inc. 202 Industrial Park Rd. Jackson, MN 56143 Phone: 800-760-8800 Fax: 800-317-5155 Web site: www.sprayparts.com Agri-Safety, Inc. Covington Rd., Hwy. 94 Palo, IA 52324 Phone: 800-777-2991 / 319-396-2010 Fax: 319-396-1757 Airgas P.O. Box 1010 Germantown, WI 53022-8210 Phone: 800-558-8900 / 262-255-7300 Fax: 800-237-7307 Web site: www.airgas.com Compliance Safety, Inc. P.O. Box 676 Northbrook, IL 60062 Phone: 800-340-3413 / 847-498-4141 Fax: 847-498-6776 Email: compliancesafety@worldnet.att.net Web site: www.compliancesafety.com Continental Safety Equipment 1014 11th St., N.E., Suite D Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-3812 Phone: 800-844-7004 / 319-364-7757 Fax: 319-364-3238 Email: iasales@csesafety.com Web site: www.csesafety.com Davis Equipment 5225 N.W. Beaver Dr. Johnston, IA 50131 Phone: 800-747-8300 / 515-270-8300 Fax: 515-270-0117 Email: davis@mail.dwx.com Web site: www.davisequipment.com Dunrite, Inc. 3405 N Yager Rd. Fremont, NE 68025-7880 Phone: 800-782-3061 / 402-721-3061 Fax: 402-721-3040 Web site: www.dunriteinc.com   and   Main Office: 7300 Washington Avenue Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Phone:(952) 829-2950 Fax: (952) 829-2992 / (800) 887-6476 Customer service: (952) 829-2999 /(800) 373-5846 Email: safety@elvin.com Elvin Safety Supply, Inc. 4617 S 139th St. Omaha, NE 68137-4512 Phone: 800-373-1654 / 402-861-6584 Fax: 402- 861-6586 Web site: www.elvin.com Fisher Scientific 4500 Turnberry Dr. Hanover Park, IL 60133 Phone: 800-772-6733 Fax: 800-772-7702 Web site: www.fishersafety.com G & L Clothing 1801 Ingersoll Des Moines, IA 50309 Phone: 800-222-7027 / 515-243-7431 Fax: 515-243-4527 Email: ganlclothing@dwx.com Web site: www.gandlclothing.com Gempler's, Inc. 100 Countryside Drive P.O. Box 270 Belleville, WI 53508 Phone: 800-382-8473 Fax: 800-551-1128 Web site: www.gemplers.com General Fire & Safety 3210 E 14 St. Des Moines, IA 50316 Phone: 800-383-3206 / 515-265-3206 Fax: 515-265-0840 Email: brucemccann@aol.com   and   2431 Fairfield St., Ste. A Lincoln, NE 68521 Phone: 800-228-4555 / 402-476-4646 Fax: 402-476-5238 Email: rlipert@cs.com Web site: rjlipert.hypermart.net/   and  5641 S 85th Circle Omaha, NE 68127 Phone: 800-383-3473 / 402-556-6100 Fax: 402-556-8055 Web site: www.generalfireandsafety.com Global Industrial Equipment 22 Harbor Park Dr., Dept. LK Port Washington, NY 11050 Phone: 800-433-4848 / 516-625-3456 Fax: 800-336-3818 Email: service@globalindustrial.com Web site: www.globalindustrial.com GT Midwest 4350 Lafayette Ave. Omaha, NE 68131 1026 Phone: 402-551-2300 Fax: 402-551-4769 Web site: www.gtmidwest.com Hagemeyer Vallen Safety 841 Remington Blvd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 Phone: 800-372-3389 Fax: 630-759-0575 Web site: www.vallen.com Helget Safety Supply, Inc. 4144 S 87th St. Omaha, NE 68127 Phone: 402-339-1066 Fax: 402-339-1736 Hunt Cleaners, Inc. 600 W Hwy. 30 Cozad, NE 69130-2234 Phone: 800-262-4568 / 308-784-3366 Fax: 308-784-4169 Web site: www.huntcleaners.com Lab Safety Supply 401 S Wright Rd. Janesville, WI 53546 Phone: 800-356-0783 / 608-754-2345 Fax: 800-543-9910 Email: custsvc@labsafety.com Web site: www.labsafety.com Lesco, Inc. 1876 N.W. 92nd Ct. Clive, IA 50325 Phone: 800-454-4834 / 515-267-8474 Fax: 515-267-8672 Email: timgio@pionet.net Web site: www.lesco.com Mid-Continent Safety 8910 H St. Omaha, NE 68127 Phone: 800-835-7233 or 402-593-7974  and   2909 S Spruce Wichita, KS 67216-6689 Phone: 800-835-7233 Web site: www.midsafe.com Omark Safety Precision Industries, Inc.  File G758 under: PESTICIDES, GENERAL D-6, Safety Revised September 2002, 11,500   Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Elbert C. Dickey, Director of Cooperative Extension, University of Nebraska, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension educational programs abide with the non-discrimination policies of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the United States Department of Agriculture.3505 104th St. Des Moines, IA 50322 Phone: 800-7233 / 515-278-5422 Fax: 515-278-5702 Email: safety@omarksafety.com Web site: www.omarksafety.com 4611 S 96th St. P.O. Box 3377 Omaha, NE 68127 Phone: 800-373-7777 / 402-593-7000 Fax: 402-593-7054 Web site: www.precisionind.com Quad City Safety, Inc. 5311 Tremont Ave. Davenport, IA 52807 Phone: 800-383-6850 / 563-445-2170 Fax: 563-445-2171 Email: safety@quadcitysafety.com Web site: www.quadcitysafety.com Woodard Company Animal Health Premix Division 1565 280th St. Webster City, IA 50595-0395 Phone: 800-247-4896 / 515-832-3594 Fax: 515-832-3768 Email: woodard@ncn.net Web site: www.woodardco.com 

G85-758 Protective Clothing and Equipment for Pesticide Appliactors (Revised September 2002)

UNL | Libraries

University of Nebraska - Lincoln 
DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln 
Historical Materials from University of 
Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Extension 
1985 
G85-758 Protective Clothing and Equipment for Pesticide 
Appliactors (Revised September 2002) 
Larry D. Schulze 
University of Nebraska - Lincoln, lschulze1@unl.edu 
Clyde Ogg 
University of Nebraska - Lincoln, cogg1@unl.edu 
Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/extensionhist 
 Part of the Agriculture Commons, and the Curriculum and Instruction Commons 
Schulze, Larry D. and Ogg, Clyde, "G85-758 Protective Clothing and Equipment for Pesticide Appliactors 
(Revised September 2002)" (1985). Historical Materials from University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension. 
1230. 
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/extensionhist/1230 
This Article is brought to you for free and open access by the Extension at DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - 
Lincoln. It has been accepted for inclusion in Historical Materials from University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension by an 
authorized administrator of DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln. 
G85-758-A 
Revised September 2002 
 
Protective Clothing and Equipment for Pesticide 
Applicators 
Pesticides are valuable pest management tools, and like any tool, they must be used carefully and 
responsibly. Minimizing exposure is an important first step toward reducing your risk of pesticide 
poisoning. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) provides benefits to the applicator and 
is a visual expression of appropriate and legal pesticide use. 
Clyde L. Ogg, Extension Educator -Pesticide Education 
Larry D. Schulze, Pesticide Education Specialist 
? Manage your Risk  
? What is Toxicity?  
? Read the Pesticide Product Label  
? Use Personal Protective Equipment  
? Which PPE is Right?  
? Protective Clothing  
? Protect you Head, Eyes and Hands  
? Protect your Lungs  
? Protective Clothing Care  
? Wash Up!  
? Be Prepared!  
? Purchasing PPE  
 
Use all pesticides safely. Read the pesticide product label and comply with all 
directions. Failure to do so may not only subject you to state and/or federal penalties, but it also may 
place you, your family, and the environment at a greater risk of pesticide exposure. 
Manage your Risk 
Wearing protective clothing and equipment when handling or applying pesticides reduces the risk of 
pesticide poisoning by reducing the risk of exposure. This idea is expressed by the Risk Formula: 
Risk = Toxicity x Exposure
Understanding the toxicity of a product and the potential for personal exposure allows you to lower your 
risk. No matter how toxic a substance is, if the amount of exposure is kept low, risk can be held at an 
acceptably low level. The toxicity of a substance can't be changed, but risk can be managed, and the 
applicator is the manager.  
What is Toxicity? 
All pesticides are toxic. They differ only in the degree of toxicity. Because of this characteristic, 
pesticides are potentially dangerous to people if exposure is high. Pesticide product labels have signal 
words that clearly indicate the degree of toxicity associated with a given product (Table I). The signal 
words indicate the degree of potential risk to a user, not the expected level of control. 
  
Pesticides can enter the human body three ways: 1) through the mouth (orally); 2) by absorption through 
the skin or eyes (dermally); and 3) by breathing into the lungs (inhalation). Along with the signal words, 
pesticide product labels also include route of entry statements and specific actions a user must take to 
avoid exposure. 
Read the Pesticide Product Label 
Route of entry statements indicate the outcome that can be expected from different kinds of exposure. 
For example, a pesticide label might read: "Poisonous if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the 
skin. Rapidly absorbed through the skin and eyes." This tells the user that this pesticide is a potential 
hazard through all three routes of entry, and that skin and eye contact are particularly hazardous. The 
specific action statements normally follow the route of entry statements and indicate what must be done 
to prevent accidental poisoning. With this pesticide example, the statement might read: "Do not get in 
eyes, on skin, or on clothing. Do not breathe spray mist." 
Before handling, mixing, loading or applying any pesticide, read the label directions completely. If the 
label calls for the use of PPE, comply fully with those directions. The label will define the minimal PPE 
required for various tasks. Note that the PPE required for mixing and loading may exceed the PPE 
required during application. 
Use Personal Protective Equipment 
The type of PPE needed depends both on the toxicity of the pesticide being used and the formulation 
(liquid, granular, wettable powder, etc.). Some labels, especially agricultural pesticides, are affected by 
Table I. Pesticide label signal words and relative toxicities. 
Signal Word Toxicity Oral Lethal Dose (for 150 pound person)
Danger* Highly toxic Few drops to 1 teaspoon**
Warning Moderately toxic 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon
Caution Low toxicity 1 ounce to more than a pint
* May include a skull and crossbones symbol and the word "Poison." 
** Less for a child or person weighing under 150 pounds.
the Worker Protection Standards and specifically state that certain items of clothing, equipment, 
eyewear, footgear and gloves must be used. Others do not include a statement. In general, the more toxic 
the pesticide, the greater the need for PPE. 
Which PPE is Right? 
If a pesticide label does not have specific PPE requirements, always take reasonable precautions. Use 
the route of entry and specific action statements from the label to determine the type and degree of 
protection needed to handle the pesticide safely. 
Remember that liquid pesticides are often more hazardous to use than dry formulations, and that extra 
protection is warranted while mixing or loading pesticides. Recognize that in cases where there will be 
prolonged exposure to the spray or where the application is being made in an enclosed area, you must 
use extra protection. 
Protective Clothing 
Any time you are using pesticides, you should wear at least a long-sleeved shirt and long-legged pants, 
or coveralls (woven fabric) that fully cover your arms and legs. Select garments made of cotton instead 
of cotton/polyester blends. Disposable coveralls, such as those made of Tyvek®, provide adequate 
protection to a pesticide applicator under most conditions. Protective suits made of plastic, rainwear, and 
fabric coated with PVC, butyl or neoprene may be needed for certain applications. 
Shoes and socks also should be worn. Avoid sandals, thongs, and cloth or canvas shoes to minimize 
exposing feet to liquid pesticides. Leather shoes are suitable while using most pesticides, however, 
leather will absorb liquids. Therefore, wear chemical-resistant boots while working with highly toxic 
liquid pesticides (signal word: DANGER), and when there may be prolonged exposure to any pesticide 
spray. Applicators who must mix and load liquid concentrates, especially those that are highly toxic, 
also should wear a chemical-resistant apron. 
Protect your Head, Eyes and Hands 
Protection for your head is also advisable and in some cases is specifically required. In general, a wide-
brimmed, easily cleaned hat that will keep pesticides away from the neck, eyes, mouth and face is 
adequate. Avoid hats with cloth or leather sweatbands as these will absorb pesticides. Baseball-style 
caps have headbands that readily absorb and retain pesticides. Labels that specify the use of headgear 
are generally found on highly toxic liquid concentrates. Wear a waterproof hood or plastic hard hat with 
a rain-trough edge (to keep drips off your neck and back) and a plastic sweatband when working with 
these pesticides. 
Pesticides are readily absorbed through the eyes and can cause eye injury. Precautionary statements on 
the labels of pesticide liquids having the signal words WARNING or DANGER generally indicate the 
use of eye protection. Use goggles or a face shield whenever such a statement is on the label. Adequate 
protection with goggles is provided if the right type of venting is selected (Figure 1). Some goggles are 
made wider over the bridge of the nose to be compatible with respirators. Safety goggles have three 
types of venting: 
? open vents for impact protection only, not recommended for use with pesticides;  
? indirect vents for protection from pesticide and other chemical splash;  
? non-vented for protection from gases, mists and fumes. 
Gloves also are often needed for mixing, loading and applying pesticides. Unlined, liquid-proof 
neoprene, butyl, PVC or nitrile gloves with tops that extend well up on the forearm are best. Avoid lined 
gloves because the lining can absorb the chemicals and is hard to clean. Latex gloves, commonly used 
by medical personnel, do not provide adequate dermal protection. Avoid cotton gloves because they also 
can absorb pesticides. In most cases, wear gloves under the sleeves to keep the pesticide from running 
down the sleeves and into the glove. When working with hands over your head, roll glove tops into a 
cuff to deter pesticide from running down the gloves to your forearms. 
Persons who apply fumigants should be especially attentive to the label statements about personal 
protective equipment. Some fumigants penetrate rubber, neoprene and leather, and if trapped inside can 
cause severe skin irritation or be absorbed through the skin. 
Protect your Lungs 
The lungs and lining of the respiratory system readily absorb pesticide dusts and vapors from the air. 
Respiratory protection, therefore, is essential whenever the label calls for it and is recommended during 
mixing and loading, even if not required by the label. Respiratory protection is also recommended 
whenever an applicator will be exposed to intensive concentrations of pesticide dusts, fumes or vapors. 
The type of respirator an applicator uses will be determined by the type and toxicity of the pesticide, 
application site and other factors. 
Dust respirators are acceptable when applying pesticide dusts 
and granules. They are not recommended for liquid pesticide 
spraying Always read the pesticide label for product-specific 
recommendations. Two-strap dust respirators provide much 
more protection than the one-strap dust mask. They seal better 
while maintaining their shape and integrity. There are models 
with exhale valves that make breathing easier, padding over 
the bridge of the nose for a better seal and comfort, and 
stronger straps. 
A cartridge respirator is suitable when exposure will be 
intermittent, but if exposure will be continuous, a canister 
respirator should be worn. If the oxygen supply is likely to be 
low because of heavy concentrations of highly toxic 
pesticides, a supplied-air respirator or self-contained breathing 
apparatus will be needed (Figure 2). 
Respirators used while applying pesticides should be 
approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and 
Health (NIOSH) and the Mine Safety and Health 
Administration (MSHA). Be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and care of 
the respirator. Filters, cartridges, and canisters must be approved for pesticide use (those designated as 
removing and trapping organic vapors) and must be replaced at proper intervals. Inspect and test 
respirators before use to insure a snug fit against the face. Users with facial hair may not be able to 
obtain an adequate seal. Exposed parts of the mask must be cleaned after each use, and the cartridges 
should be stored in an airtight container. 
Protective Clothing Care 
Figure 2. Self contained breathing 
apparatus (SCBA) with a cylinder air 
supply (top) and an air line that 
connects to a safe air source (bottom).
Applicators who routinely work with pesticides should wear clean clothing daily, reserve one set of 
clothing for pesticide work if possible, and launder and store pesticide-contaminated clothing separately. 
For more information on laundering pesticide contaminated clothing, see "Laundering Pesticide 
Contaminated Clothing," NebGuide G943, available from your Extension office or on the web at 
http://www.ianr.unl.edu/pubs/textiles/g943.htm and Table II. 
Clothing that has become wet from pesticides should be removed immediately. Fast action will reduce 
your exposure to the pesticide. Destroy clothing (including shoes and boots) saturated with concentrate 
or finished spray of highly toxic pesticides. Waterproof and chemical-resistant hats, gloves, boots and 
goggles also should be washed daily and hung to dry. Test gloves for leaks by filling them with water 
and gently squeezing. 
Wash Up! 
Good personal hygiene is essential. Soap and water is cheap insurance against pesticide contamination. 
Wash your hands and face often when working with pesticides. Keep soap and water with you wherever 
you are working. Never smoke, eat, drink or use the toilet after handling pesticides without first washing 
your hands! Shower immediately after using pesticides and before changing into clean clothes. 
Be Prepared! 
Take the pesticide label with you when seeking medical care. Have emergency telephone numbers 
handy. (Refer to the "Pesticide Safety Telephone Hotlines" card, EC2501, for a list of toll-free 
numbers.) If you experience any pesticide poisoning symptoms (nausea, skin rashes, headaches, 
coughing, diarrhea, chest pain, twitching or seizures), see your physician immediately. (See Extension 
Circular EC2505, "Signs and Symptoms of Pesticide Poisoning.") Hotline cards and Extension Circulars 
are available from your Extension office or may be available on the Web at 
http://www.ianr.unl.edu/pubs. 
Purchasing PPE 
Protective clothing and equipment is becoming more and more available. For those pesticide applicators 
who can't locate sources of PPE, a partial list of suppliers is included in Table III. 
Table II. Laundering pesticide-solid clothing.
? Treat all clothing worn while handling or applying pesticides as contaminated!  
? Handle ALL contaminated clothing with chemical resistant gloves.  
? Wash clothing daily and separately from the family wash.  
? Pre-rinse, pre-soak or pre-treat with a stain remover.  
? Use HOT water.  
? Use the highest water level.  
? Use the longest wash cycle.  
? Use the heavy-duty liquid detergent.  
? Line dry.  
? Wash clothing two or three times if heavily soiled or if pesticides are highly toxic, or 
consider discarding.  
? After washing, run the machine through a complete cycle with detergent.  
Table III. Suppliers of personal protective equipment.
Ag Chem Equipment Co., Inc. 
202 Industrial Park Rd. 
Jackson, MN 56143 
Phone: 800-760-8800 
Fax: 800-317-5155 
Web site: www.sprayparts.com 
Agri-Safety, Inc. 
Covington Rd., Hwy. 94 
Palo, IA 52324 
Phone: 800-777-2991 / 319-396-2010 
Fax: 319-396-1757 
Airgas 
P.O. Box 1010 
Germantown, WI 53022-8210 
Phone: 800-558-8900 / 262-255-7300 
Fax: 800-237-7307 
Web site: www.airgas.com 
Compliance Safety, Inc. 
P.O. Box 676 
Northbrook, IL 60062 
Phone: 800-340-3413 / 847-498-4141 
Fax: 847-498-6776 
Email: compliancesafety@worldnet.att.net 
Web site: www.compliancesafety.com 
Continental Safety Equipment 
1014 11th St., N.E., Suite D 
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-3812 
Phone: 800-844-7004 / 319-364-7757 
Fax: 319-364-3238 
Email: iasales@csesafety.com 
Web site: www.csesafety.com 
Davis Equipment 
5225 N.W. Beaver Dr. 
Johnston, IA 50131 
Phone: 800-747-8300 / 515-270-8300 
Fax: 515-270-0117 
Email: davis@mail.dwx.com 
Web site: www.davisequipment.com 
Dunrite, Inc. 
3405 N Yager Rd. 
Fremont, NE 68025-7880 
Phone: 800-782-3061 / 402-721-3061 
Fax: 402-721-3040 
Web site: www.dunriteinc.com  
 
and  
 
Main Office: 
7300 Washington Avenue 
Eden Prairie, MN 55344 
Phone:(952) 829-2950 
Fax: (952) 829-2992 / (800) 887-6476 
Customer service: (952) 829-2999 /(800) 373-5846 
Email: safety@elvin.com 
Elvin Safety Supply, Inc. 
4617 S 139th St. 
Omaha, NE 68137-4512 
Phone: 800-373-1654 / 402-861-6584 
Fax: 402- 861-6586 
Web site: www.elvin.com 
Fisher Scientific 
4500 Turnberry Dr. 
Hanover Park, IL 60133 
Phone: 800-772-6733 
Fax: 800-772-7702 
Web site: www.fishersafety.com 
G & L Clothing 
1801 Ingersoll 
Des Moines, IA 50309 
Phone: 800-222-7027 / 515-243-7431 
Fax: 515-243-4527 
Email: ganlclothing@dwx.com 
Web site: www.gandlclothing.com 
Gempler's, Inc. 
100 Countryside Drive 
P.O. Box 270 
Belleville, WI 53508 
Phone: 800-382-8473 
Fax: 800-551-1128 
Web site: www.gemplers.com 
General Fire & Safety 
3210 E 14 St. 
Des Moines, IA 50316 
Phone: 800-383-3206 / 515-265-3206 
Fax: 515-265-0840 
Email: brucemccann@aol.com  
 
and  
 
2431 Fairfield St., Ste. A 
Lincoln, NE 68521 
Phone: 800-228-4555 / 402-476-4646 
Fax: 402-476-5238 
Email: rlipert@cs.com 
Web site: rjlipert.hypermart.net/  
 
and 
 
5641 S 85th Circle 
Omaha, NE 68127 
Phone: 800-383-3473 / 402-556-6100 
Fax: 402-556-8055 
Web site: www.generalfireandsafety.com 
Global Industrial Equipment 
22 Harbor Park Dr., Dept. LK 
Port Washington, NY 11050 
Phone: 800-433-4848 / 516-625-3456 
Fax: 800-336-3818 
Email: service@globalindustrial.com 
Web site: www.globalindustrial.com 
GT Midwest 
4350 Lafayette Ave. 
Omaha, NE 68131 1026 
Phone: 402-551-2300 
Fax: 402-551-4769 
Web site: www.gtmidwest.com 
Hagemeyer Vallen Safety 
841 Remington Blvd. 
Bolingbrook, IL 60440 
Phone: 800-372-3389 
Fax: 630-759-0575 
Web site: www.vallen.com 
Helget Safety Supply, Inc. 
4144 S 87th St. 
Omaha, NE 68127 
Phone: 402-339-1066 
Fax: 402-339-1736 
Hunt Cleaners, Inc. 
600 W Hwy. 30 
Cozad, NE 69130-2234 
Phone: 800-262-4568 / 308-784-3366 
Fax: 308-784-4169 
Web site: www.huntcleaners.com 
Lab Safety Supply 
401 S Wright Rd. 
Janesville, WI 53546 
Phone: 800-356-0783 / 608-754-2345 
Fax: 800-543-9910 
Email: custsvc@labsafety.com 
Web site: www.labsafety.com 
Lesco, Inc. 
1876 N.W. 92nd Ct. 
Clive, IA 50325 
Phone: 800-454-4834 / 515-267-8474 
Fax: 515-267-8672 
Email: timgio@pionet.net 
Web site: www.lesco.com 
Mid-Continent Safety 
8910 H St. 
Omaha, NE 68127 
Phone: 800-835-7233 or 402-593-7974 
 
and  
 
2909 S Spruce 
Wichita, KS 67216-6689 
Phone: 800-835-7233 
Web site: www.midsafe.com 
Omark Safety Precision Industries, Inc. 
 File G758 under: PESTICIDES, GENERAL 
D-6, Safety 
Revised September 2002, 11,500 
  
Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation 
with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Elbert C. Dickey, Director of Cooperative Extension, 
University of Nebraska, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. 
University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension educational programs abide with the non-discrimination 
policies of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the United States Department of Agriculture.
3505 104th St. 
Des Moines, IA 50322 
Phone: 800-7233 / 515-278-5422 
Fax: 515-278-5702 
Email: safety@omarksafety.com 
Web site: www.omarksafety.com 
4611 S 96th St. 
P.O. Box 3377 
Omaha, NE 68127 
Phone: 800-373-7777 / 402-593-7000 
Fax: 402-593-7054 
Web site: www.precisionind.com 
Quad City Safety, Inc. 
5311 Tremont Ave. 
Davenport, IA 52807 
Phone: 800-383-6850 / 563-445-2170 
Fax: 563-445-2171 
Email: safety@quadcitysafety.com 
Web site: www.quadcitysafety.com 
Woodard Company 
Animal Health Premix Division 
1565 280th St. 
Webster City, IA 50595-0395 
Phone: 800-247-4896 / 515-832-3594 
Fax: 515-832-3768 
Email: woodard@ncn.net 
Web site: www.woodardco.com 


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G85-758 Protective Clothing and Equipment for Pesticide Appliactors (Revised September 2002)

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