When must pesticide safety training be given to fieldworkers?

Pesticide safety training is crucial for fieldworkers to ensure they are aware of the hazards associated with pesticide exposure and know how to protect themselves effectively. The requirement for this training to be conducted before fieldworkers are allowed to work in a treated field is rooted in the need to provide them with essential knowledge and skills to manage risks associated with pesticide applications safely. This proactive approach is designed to minimize the potential for accidents and ensure that workers can recognize and respond to potential dangers as soon as they enter an area where pesticides have been used.

Providing training before exposure is a fundamental principle of occupational safety and health, ensuring that workers are adequately informed about safe practices, emergency procedures, and proper use of personal protective equipment. By offering the training prior to employment in treated areas, employers fulfill their responsibility to safeguard the health of their employees from the outset of their work.