What should be done first in the event of a pesticide spill?

In the event of a pesticide spill, putting on the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) before responding is essential for ensuring the safety of the individual handling the situation. PPE may include gloves, goggles, masks, and protective clothing that prevent skin contact, inhalation of toxic fumes, or other forms of exposure to the pesticide.

Prioritizing safety by donning the correct PPE protects the responder from potential health risks associated with pesticides, which can be harmful if they come into contact with skin or if their vapors are inhaled. Safety protocols typically dictate that one should never handle hazardous materials without proper protective gear in place.

Only after ensuring personal safety should one proceed to other important steps, such as containing the spill or notifying authorities, depending on the severity of the situation and company policy. This initial focus on personal safety is vital in managing any hazardous incident effectively.