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Pesticides
are a unique class of chemical and biological
agents due to their intended purpose of killing
or injuring some form of life that is detrimental
to humans or the environment. Ideally pesticides
should be specific to the undersirable organisms,
however many of them are injurious to non-target
species as well. Since the indiscriminate use
of pesticides could affect the health of people
and the environment, their application must be
carefully controlled to minimize exposure of non-target
populations.
The
Rutgers University Pesticide Program establishes
guidelines for the safe use of pesticides on University
property. Among its provisions are:
-
Certification requirements for pesticide applicators.
- Safe
use, handling and storage guidelines.
- Medical
surveillance of pesticide applicators.
- Personal
protective equipment requirements.
- Inventory
and storage of pesticides.
- Recordkeeping
of pesticide applications.
REHS
provides training in pesticide use and disposal,
respiratory protection and fit testing, and inventory
control. Occupational health provides physical
exams and blood cholinesterase testing for pesticide
applicators.
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