Principles of Closed Systems for Handling of Agricultural Pesticides

Abstract

Closed transfer of pesticide chemicals from the shipping container to a closed mixing tank and thence to the application machine is but one part of a long range program to protect and improve on the health and safety of workers who handle and apply pesticides. Admittedly the task of maximizing safety in the use of pesticides is far from accomplished, but no one can deny the necessity for moving as quickly and expeditiously as possible toward improvement in this troubled area of farm worker safety. The use of closed systems has reduced the number of illnesses of mixer/loader personnel. Environmental contamination is also discussed.

Power‐operated hydraulic sprayers

“…In addition to the use of a low-level hopper for filling the tank, in some situations it is possible to use a closed-transfer system to reduce direct contact with the chemical (Brazelton and Akesson, 1987). Such systems include the use of a suction probe to use the sprayer pump to draw chemical from its container.…”

Use of Engineering Controls and Personal Protective Equipment by Certified Pesticide Applicators

“…The California Code of Regulations (CDPR, 2009) requires employers to provide employees with closed transfer systems for transferring Toxicity Class One pesticides and rinse solutions. The number of pesticide-related illnesses among mixer/loader workers in California decreased by 50% after the introduction of closed transfer systems (Brazelton and Akesson, 1987).…”