Part 2, Section 1: Pest Management

Table of Contents

Pest Management

Using Pesticides Safely

Specific first aid instructions

If the victim is not breathing:

If the victim is breathing:

If the pesticide has been spilled on the skin or clothing, remove any contaminated clothing immediately and thoroughly wash the skin with soap and water. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as this enhances pesticide absorption. Rinse the affected area and wrap it in a loose cloth or blanket, if necessary. If chemical burns of the skin have occurred, cover the area loosely with a clean cloth. Avoid the use of ointments, greases, powders, and other medications unless instructed by medical personnel.

Heavily contaminated clothing should be disposed of properly. If clothing is not heavily soiled, wash all contaminated clothing seperately from any other laundry in hot water, at a high water level, and with a heavy-duty liquid detergent. Run the washer through a complete cycle with detergent and no clothes to remove pesticide residue before another wash. Store washed protective clothing seperately from other clothes. (Do not store protective clothing and equipment in pesticide storage areas.)

If the pesticide has entered into the eyes, hold the eyelid open and immediately begin gently the eye with clean running water. Do not use chemicals or drugs in the eye wash water. Continue washing for 15 minutes. If only one eye is involved, avoid contaminating the other one. Flush under the eyelids with water to remove debris. Cover the eye with a clean piece of cloth and seek medical attention immediately. If contact lenses are worn, remove and discard the contacts, then wash the eyes as described above.

If the pesticide has been inhaled, get the victim to fresh air immediately. However, do not attempt to rescue someone who is in an enclosed area unless you are wearing appropriate protective equipment. Have the victim lie down and loosen their clothing. Keep the victim warm and quiet. If the victim is convulsing, watch their breathing and protect their head. Keep the chin up to keep air passages free for breathing. If breathing stops, administer artificial respiration and call 911. Call the National Poison Center after the victim is stabilized for further advice.

If the pesticide has been swallowed, contact the National Poison Center (1-800-222-1222) and provide them with the name and approximate amount of material that was ingested. Call 911 immediately if the victim has symptoms from the exposure. If the pesticide has entered the mouth but has not been swallowed, rinse the mouth with large amounts of water. Inducing vomiting is rarely advised for any poisoning, including pesticide poisonings.

If a petroleum product (kerosene, gasoline, oil, lighter fluid, EC pesticides) has been swallowed, call the National Poison Center (1-800-222-1222) and 911 immediately for further instruction.

If a corrosive poison (a strong acid or alkali) has been swallowed, dilute with water or milk immediately. Consult the National Poison Center (1-800-222-1222) and 911 immediately. The victim may experience severe pain and have extensive mouth and throat burns. Fortunately, most commonly used pesticides are not corrosive, but some household disinfectants and germicides fall into this category.