276 Pesticides are Poison
How to read and understand pesticide labels
An important part of pesticide education is helping people understand
pesticide labels. All workers have the right to know what chemicals they
are exposed to, what the risks are, and what protection they need. Pesticide
packages are supposed to have labels so that people know how to use them
safely and correctly. These labels tell what poison is being used, how to mix
and measure it, how to treat poisoning, how toxic the pesticide is, and how
long to wait after using it before entering fields.
Many pesticide labels are hard to read. They may use language that is hard
to understand. Or they may not be printed in your local language. Since most
field‑workers do not even know what pesticides they are using, labels often do
little to promote the safe use of pesticides.
Here is an example of a pesticide label.
Other labels may look different, but
they should have the same kinds of
information. Remember, even if you
follow the instructions perfectly,
pesticides can still harm you and your
environment.
Active ingredients are the chemicals
that kill the pests.
This shows how poisonous the pesticide is.
Words you may see here include:
Danger, Poison - these are the most
poisonous pesticides. This picture:
near the word Warning, Poison,
or Danger, means even a small
amount is deadly.
Warning - very poisonous.
Caution - these are the least poisonous
pesticides, but they can still cause serious
health problems!
This tells what kind of protection you
need when you use this pesticide.
This tells what to do in case of
poisoning. This is important
because it will say whether or not
to make the person vomit.
ANBOC CPheEmSCoTrp
INSECTICIDE
Reg. No. M7485
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
deltathion (1,2 phospho-(5)-4 chloromethane)
................................................................................... 50%
INERT INGREDIENTS ...................................... 50%
TOTAL..................................................................... 100%
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN
DANGER
POISON
PELIGRO
PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS
Wear long-sleeved clothing, full length trousers, eye
protection, and protective gloves when handling. Wash
hands and face before eating or using tobacco. Bathe
at the end of work day, washing entire body and hair
with soap and water. Change clothing daily. Wash
contaminated clothing thoroughly before reusing.
STATEMENT OF PRACTICAL TREATMENT
Hazards to Humans and Domestic Animals
If Swallowed: Do not induce vomiting. Contains
aromatic petroleum solvent. Call a physician or poison
control center immediately. If in Eyes: Flush with plenty
of water for at least 15 minutes. Get medical attention.
If on Skin: Wash with plenty of soap and water. Get
medical attention if irritation persists. If Inhaled:
Remove to fresh air immediately. Get medical attention.
A Community Guide to Environmental Health 2012