Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) in Kentucky
The Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) in Kentucky is a collaborative effort between the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Department of Entomology) and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA), Division of Environmental Services. Together, they provide pesticide applicators with the training and resources necessary to prepare for certification testing and meet the licensing requirements for pesticide application.
Licensing Focus Areas
There are two primary categories for pesticide applicator certification:
- Commercial/Non-commercial Applicators: These are individuals who apply pesticides for hire or as employees of a governmental entity, research organization, or for public health purposes. This category also includes businesses involved in pesticide application.
- Private Applicators: These are farmers who apply pesticides, including restricted-use pesticides, to land they own, rent, lease, or work for as part of agricultural production practices. Private applicators are certified through local county Extension offices after completing a three-hour training course on core pesticide usage principles.
For any questions or additional information, contact the Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) at the University of Kentucky's Department of Entomology.
Winter Preparations for Pesticide Applicators
During the winter months, it's an ideal time for applicators to inspect their equipment, make repairs, and prepare for the upcoming season. Proper maintenance is critical to ensure safe and efficient pesticide application in the spring.
- Inspect Equipment: Check grease fittings, hoses, tires, and flexible points on your equipment. Address any worn or damaged parts before the busy spray season begins.
- Clean Equipment: Thoroughly clean and triple-rinse sprayers to remove any pesticide residues. This ensures that your equipment is ready for the next application season.
- Sprayer Calibration: Review your sprayer calibration procedures now and plan for calibration after winter. Inspect hand sprayers for issues such as loose fittings, proper pressurization, and tank integrity. Ensure that all mobile parts are functioning according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Store Equipment: If storing equipment outside, cover hoses and moving parts to protect them from winter weather. Alternatively, remove hoses and store them indoors to prevent weather-related wear and tear.
Taking these preventive steps now will reduce the likelihood of equipment failures when the season begins.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE is essential for ensuring the safety of pesticide applicators. The specific PPE required is listed on the pesticide label and varies depending on the product. Applicators are legally obligated to follow the exact PPE requirements for the pesticides they are using.
- High-Risk Exposure: The highest risk of pesticide exposure occurs during mixing and handling. PPE requirements may differ between these activities, so always consult the label for the appropriate protective gear for each phase of application.
- Inventory PPE: Take stock of your PPE and ensure that all items are in good condition. Over time, some PPE may degrade, reducing its effectiveness. Replace any worn or expired equipment to ensure maximum protection.
- Restock Supplies: Order new PPE and decontamination kit supplies to prepare for the spring season.
Pesticide Storage and Record Review
Winter is also a good time to conduct a thorough review of your pesticide storage area and records.
- Inspect Pesticide Containers: Check the integrity of all pesticide containers and ensure that labels are still affixed and legible.
- Inventory SDS Sheets: Make sure that Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are available and up to date for all products on hand.
- Review Spill Kits: Check your spill kits for any missing or expired items and replenish supplies as needed.
- Review Records: Go over pesticide application records to ensure they are complete, legible, and up to date.
Proper record-keeping and storage management will ensure that you are ready for the new season and help reduce stress in case of any unexpected delays.
Preparing for Spring
By taking the time now to inspect equipment, update PPE, and review pesticide storage and records, you can be well-prepared for the upcoming pesticide application season. Preparing early can also help mitigate any challenges that may arise, such as adverse weather conditions or equipment issues.
For more information on pesticide safety and training, visit the University of Kentucky’s Pesticide Safety Education Program website: https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/uk-pesticide-safety-education-program-psep