Livestock owners use many types of pesticides; they vary in brand, potency and application. Most of these chemicals have adverse effects on humans including acute and chronic symptoms. Many safety measures can be followed to control exposure to pesticides on a farm. Always read the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals. SDS’s provide specific product information, such as handling and storage measures, exposure controls/personal protection, possible health effects, etc.
Below are safety precautions by application type:
Pour-on or Drenching:
• Always wear eye protection such as goggles to avoid splashing in eyes
• Wear chemical resistant gloves, sleeves, aprons, Tyvek aprons or coveralls
• Ensure applicators and adjacent employees wear sturdy non-absorbent work boots; never wear sandals or tennis
shoes
Pesticide Spray:
• Always wear safety eyewear, such as goggles or safety glasses with foam outline, to avoid exposure to the eyes
• Wear chemical resistant gloves, sleeves, aprons, Tyvek aprons or coveralls
• Ensure applicators and adjacent employees wear sturdy non-absorbent work boots; again, never wear sandals or
tennis shoes
• Ensure applicators and adjacent employees wear the appropriate mask or respirator to eliminate the respiratory
exposure to the fine mist when spraying
• Environmental considerations should always be taken into account when applying pesticide spray to livestock
including wind, proximity to other workers and proximity to sources of water
Injections:
• Employees should wear protective gloves such as medical latex or nitrile
• Always restrain animals as most needle sticks occur with unrestrained animals
• When giving cattle injections, be aware of proper needle handling; use auto-retracting needles
• Never reuse needles from animal to animal as this may spread disease
• Drop used needles directly into an approved disposal container; never leave needles unattended,
uncapped or attempt to recap them
