United States	Prevention, Pesticides, and
Environmental Protection	Toxic Substances
Agency	(7506C)	November 1993
j^EPA Protect Youvself from Pesticides:
Safety Training for Agricultural Workers
Raining Notebook

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This training notebook was prepared by the
Occupational Safety Branch (7506C)
Office of Pesticide Programs
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20460
(703) 305-7666

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For More Information
If you need more information about the Worker Protection Standard or have questions
or concerns about pesticides, contact the agency responsible for regulating pesticides in
your area or the EPA Regional Office nearest you.
Region 1 (MA, CT, RI, NH, VT, ME)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 1
Pesticides and Toxic Substances Branch (APT)
1 Congress St.
Boston, MA 02203
(617) 565-3273
Region 2 (NY, NJ, PR, VI)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 2
Pesticides and Toxic Substances Branch (MS-105)
2890 Woodbridge Ave., Building #10
Edison, NJ 08837-3679
(908) 321-6765
Region 3 (PA, MD, VA, WV, DE)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 3
Toxics and Pesticides Branch (3AT-30)
841 Chestnut Building
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 597-8598
Region 4 (GA, NC, SC, AL, MS, KY, FL, TN)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4
Pesticides & Toxic Substances Branch (4-APT-MD)
345 Courtland St., N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30365
(404) 347-5201
Region 5 (IL, MI, MN, IN, OH, WI)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5
Pesticides and Toxic Substances Branch (SP-14-J)
77 W. Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 886-6006
FOR MORE INFORMATION
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Region 6 (TX, OK, AR, LA, NM)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6
Pesticides and Toxics Branch (6T-P)
1445 Ross Ave.
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
(214) 655-7235
Region 7 (MO, KS, IA, NB)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7
Toxics and Pesticides Branch (TOPE)
726 Minnesota Ave.
Kansas City, KS 66101
(913) 551-7020
Region 8 (CO, MT, ND, SD, UT, WY)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8
Toxic Substances Branch (8ART-TS)
One Denver Place, Suite 500
999 18th St.
Denver, CO 80202-2405
(303) 293-1730
Region 9 (CA, NV, AZ, HI, GU)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9
Pesticides and Toxics Branch (A-4)
75 Hawthorne St.
San Francisco, CA 94105
(415) 744-1090
Region 10 (WA, OR, ID, AK)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10
Pesticides and Toxic Substances Branch (AT-083)
1200 Sixth Ave.
Seattle, WA 98191
(206) 553-1918
FOR MORE INFORMATION
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4 			~
Protect Yourself from Pesticides:
Safety Training for Agricultural Workers
Training Notebook
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 	 1
UNIT ONE WPS Requirements	 3
UNIT TWO WPS Safety Training for Agricultural Workers	 7
UNIT THREE	WPS Training Materials		12
UNIT FOUR	Recommendations for Effective Training			18
UNIT FIVE	Training Objectives and Review Questions		23
UNIT SIX	Training Verification		31
UNIT SEVEN	Quick Reference Guide to the WPS 		32
contents ~	iii

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CONTENTS

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Introduction
Few chemicals have had as much impact or been the subject of as much controversy in
recent decades as pesticides. Introduced on a massive scale following the Second World
War, pesticides have become an integral part of American agricultural production, making
possible the most plentiful and the safest food supply in human history.
Over time, however, public concerns have mounted about the toxic effects of chemical
pesticides. Pesticide residues in food, farmworker exposure to pesticides, and pesticide
contamination of ground water have all contributed to a growing unease over the
widespread use of pesticides.
Some of these concerns have had beneficial results. Consumers are using more caution in
handling pesticides and in limiting their exposures to pesticides in food. In the agricultural
community, many growers are using fewer chemical pesticides and adopting a more
integrated approach to managing pests. And new pesticides coming on the market tend to
be less toxic than the chemicals they replace. While all of these are encouraging signs,
pesticides nevertheless remain a fact of our daily lives. Managing pesticides to minimize
their risks and maximize their benefits is the task we face.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been charged by Congress with the
job of regulating the use of pesticides and balancing the risks and benefits associated with
pesticide use.
To carry out this task, EPA has developed a variety of regulatory and educational programs
to protect human health and the environment from the harmful effects of pesticides. These
programs include registering pesticides for specific uses, setting tolerances that limit the
amount of pesticide residues allowed on food, setting standards to protect workers who are
exposed to pesticides, certifying and training pesticide applicators, and educating consumers
about pesticide use and exposure.
Regulating Pesticides: EPA's Role
EPA regulates the use of pesticides in the United States under the authority of the Federal
Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). No pesticide may legally be sold or
used in the United States unless it bears an EPA registration number. It is a violation of the
law for any person to use a pesticide in a manner inconsistent with its label.
FIFRA gives EPA the authority and responsibility for registering pesticides for specified
uses, provided that such uses do not pose an unreasonable risk to human health or to the
environment.
INTRODUCTION
1

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FIFRA includes provisions for monitoring the distribution and use of pesticides and
imposing civil as well as criminal penalties for violations. For example, it is unlawful under
FIFRA to use a registered pesticide product in a manner inconsistent with its label.
State Enforcement
Since 1978, States and Tribes have been given primary enforcement responsibility for
pesticide use violations, subject to oversight by EPA. Through cooperative enforcement
agreements, all States (except Wyoming) and several Tribes have assumed primary
enforcement responsibility. (EPA sets FIFRA enforcement policy and conducts compliance
monitoring and enforcement programs in Wyoming.)
Cases of pesticide misuse or accidents should be reported to the State or Tribal agency with
responsibility for pesticides—generally the State Department of Agriculture. Such cases also
may be reported to an EPA Regional Office (see pages i and ii).
The Revised Worker Protection Standard
In August 1992, EPA issued revised regulations governing the protection of employees on
farms, forests, nurseries, and greenhouses from occupational exposures to agricultural
pesticides. The new Worker Protection Standard (WPS) covers both workers in areas
treated with pesticides and employees who handle (mix, load, apply, etc.) pesticides for use
in these areas.
EPA determined that its previous regulations were inadequate to protect agricultural
workers and pesticide handlers who are occupationally exposed to pesticides. The revised
regulations are intended to reduce the risk of pesticide poisonings and injuries among
agricultural workers and pesticide handlers through appropriate exposure reduction
measures.
The regulations expand the requirements for warnings about pesticide applications, use of
personal protective equipment, and restrictions on entry to treated areas. New
requirements are added for decontamination, emergency assistance, maintaining contact
with handlers of highly toxic pesticides, and pesticide safety training.
Pesticide registrants are required to add appropriate labeling statements referring to these
regulations and specifying application restrictions and other requirements.
The provisions in the revised Worker Protection Standard apply to the working conditions
of two types of employees:
~	agricultural workers—those who perform tasks related to the cultivation and
harvesting of plants on farms or in greenhouses, nurseries, or forests, and
~	pesticide handlers—those who handle agricultural pesticides (mix, load, apply, clean
or repair equipment, act as flaggers, etc.).
INTRODUCTION
2

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WPS Requirements
UNIT
Concern Over Pesticides
In recent years, concerns over the toxic effects of chemical pesticides have mounted.
The toxic effects of pesticides are of particular concern for growers, pesticide han-
dlers, and farmworkers who are exposed to pesticides in their daily work. Where
chemical pesticides are in use, growers, handlers, and agricultural workers must
work together to reduce their exposure to the chemicals.
The Health Risks of Pesticides
The term pesticide refers to any chemical substance used to kill or control pests such
as insects, weeds, and other organisms. Pesticides can also hurt—even kill—people.
WPS is aimed at protecting workers from pesticide poisoning.
The dangers of pesticide poisoning are real. Short-term exposures to pesticide
residues or sprays can result in acute illnesses ranging from headaches, eye irritation,
and upper respiratory complaints to depression and fatigue. Exposures to high levels
of some pesticides over a long period of time can inhibit an enzyme called
cholinesterase, causing symptoms such as nausea, weakness, dizziness, excessive
sweating, salivation, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, blurred vision, slurred
speech, and rapid heart rate.
The effects of chronic exposure to low levels of pesticides can be as serious or more
serious. The medical literature links pesticides to a variety of chronic diseases
including cancer (particularly leukemia), birth defects, blood disorders, sterility,
abnormalities in liver and kidney function, genetic damage, and neurological,
psychological, and behavioral effects.
How Many People Are Affected?
Millions of people are exposed to pesticide products or residues through their work.
Farmers and agricultural workers and their families are potentially at risk from
direct, indirect, or accidental exposure to pesticides. This includes breathing pesticide
fumes, having skin contact with pesticide residues or pesticide spills, and swallowing
or absorbing pesticides from contaminated water.
UNIT ONE ~ WPS REQUIREMENTS
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Some 10,000-20,000 acute pesticide poisoning incidents are diagnosed annually by
physicians. However, this is probably only a fraction of the true number of cases.
All available evidence indicates that pesticide-related illnesses frequently go
unrecognized and, even when recognized, often go unreported. Even so, data
collected by the U.S. Department of Labor suggest that agricultural workers suffer the
highest rate of chemical-related illnesses of any occupational group—about five times
greater than that of other industries.
According to one physician who has treated pesticide poisoning, "Workers are
exposed to unknown chemicals about which they have the unfortunate combination
of no information and great fear."
The Revised WPS
EPA revised the WPS for agricultural pesticides in August 1992. The revised WPS
supplants the previous rule issued in 1974, which was widely acknowledged to offer
inadequate protection for agricultural workers and pesticide handlers. The revised
WPS will reduce the risk of pesticide poisonings and injuries among agricultural
workers and pesticide handlers through reducing their exposure to pesticides.
The revised WPS covers 3.9 million workers employed on farms, forests, nurseries,
and greenhouses. It is the product of extensive consultations with workers, growers,
States, industry, and other Federal agencies. Evidence shows that pesticide illnesses
in agricultural workers result when safety precautions are not taken.
The revised WPS expands requirements for warnings about pesticide applications,
use of personal protective equipment, and restrictions on entry to treated areas. New
requirements are added for decontamination, emergency assistance, maintaining
contact with handlers of highly toxic pesticides, and pesticide safety training.
Pesticide registrants are required to modify their product labels to adhere to the
revised regulations. These modified labels will begin to appear in the marketplace in
late 1993 and early 1994.
The new standard offers the opportunity for growers, workers, and handlers to help
protect themselves and one another from pesticides. Compliance with the new rule
is expected to avert 80 percent of the adverse health effects of pesticides. Associated
benefits to employers include reduction of lost work time, reduced medical expenses,
and increased productivity.
UNIT ONE ~ WPS REQUIREMENTS
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How will the WPS protect agricultural workers?
The WPS will—
~	reduce exposure to pesticides,
~	mitigate exposures that do occur, and
~	inform employees about the hazards of pesticides.
How does the WPS reduce pesticide exposure?
The WPS reduces pesticide exposure to agricultural workers through these
requirements:
~	Restricted-Entry Intervals (REIs)
REIs are established for all pesticides used in the production of agricultural
plants. The REI for each pesticide is based on the product toxicity. REIs range
from 12 to 72 hours.
Agricultural workers are excluded from areas under an REI, with only narrow
exceptions.
~	Notification about Pesticide Applications
Workers must be notified about treated areas so they can avoid inadvertent
exposures. In most cases, employers can notify workers either orally or by
posting a warning sign at entrances to the pesticide-treated area. However,
some product labels will require both oral and posted notification.
How will WPS requirements mitigate pesticide exposure?
The WPS includes two key provisions to mitigate pesticide exposure:
~	Decontamination Supplies
Workers must be provided with water, soap, and towels for routine washing.
The decontamination supplies must be within Vi mile of the workers unless the
worksite cannot be reached by vehicles (i.e., cars, trucks, tractors).
~	Emergency Assistance
Employers must make transportation available to a medical care facility if an
agricultural worker may have been poisoned or injured by a pesticide.
Employers must also provide information about the pesticide(s) to which the
worker may have been exposed.
UNIT ONE ~ WPS REQUIREMENTS
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What are the WPS provisions for informing agricultural workers about the hazards
of pesticides?
The WPS provides information about pesticide hazards through these requirements:
~	Pesticide Safety Training
All agricultural workers must receive pesticide safety training. The pesticide
safety training requirements are described in Unit Two of this notebook.
~	Pesticide Safety Poster
EPA has prepared an English/Spanish pesticide safety poster. This poster, or
its equivalent, must be displayed at a central location on every agricultural
establishment where pesticides are used.
~	Specific Information About Pesticide Applications
At the central location on the agricultural establishment, information about
recent pesticide applications must be displayed. This information includes the
location and description of the area treated, time and date of scheduled
application, and the product name, EPA registration number, and active
ingredient(s) for each pesticide used. The information also must include the
restricted-entry interval (REI) for the pesticide. (The REI is the time after a
pesticide application when entry into the treated area is strictly limited.)
UNIT ONE ~ WPS REQUIREMENTS
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WPS Safety Training for Agricultural Workers	UNIT
Who needs pesticide safety training?
The revised WPS requires pesticide safety training for all agricultural workers and
pesticide handlers. Workers, in general, perform hand labor tasks, such as weeding,
planting, cultivating, and harvesting, or other tasks involved in the production of
agricultural plants. Pesticide handlers, in general, mix, load, or apply pesticides, or
do other tasks that bring them into direct contact with pesticides.
Separate WPS training programs are required for agricultural workers and for
pesticide handlers. EPA has developed training materials for both programs.
What is the purpose of this notebook?
This training notebook was prepared for those who will conduct pesticide safety
training programs for agricultural workers. It provides valuable information that—
~	Describes the WPS protections for agricultural workers.
~	Explains the WPS safety training requirements for agricultural workers.
~	Provides helpful advice for training delivery.
~	Explains the EPA training verification program.
EPA is producing separate materials for use by trainers of pesticide handlers.
When must workers be trained?
After April 15, 1994, workers must be trained about general pesticide safety before
they accumulate more than 15 separate days of entry into treated areas. These 15
days need not be consecutive and may occur over several periods of employment or
over several seasons or years.
Important: Beginning October 20, 1997, workers must be trained
before they accumulate more than 5 separate days of entry into
treated areas.
Workers must be trained at least once every 5 years.
UNIT TWO ~ WPS SAFETY TRAINING FOR AGRICULTURAL WORKERS
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For more information about the new WPS, see The Worker Protection Standard for
Agricultural Pesticides—How To Comply: What Employers Need To Know. Information
about how to obtain the How To Comply manual and other WPS materials is found in
a separate section of this notebook. You may also contact the Agency responsible for
pesticide regulation in your area.
What materials must be used in the training program?
The WPS lists 11 concepts that must be covered in worker safety training (see details
below). Protect Yourself from Pesticides is a safety program developed by EPA to cover
these 11 concepts. The program is designed to help agricultural workers learn how
to work safely where pesticides are used. To conduct worker safety training, trainers
must (1) use written and/or audiovisual materials and (2) present the training orally
or audiovisually.
EPA has prepared a training handbook to use in the pesticide safety training for
agricultural workers. The handbook is entitled Protect Yourself from Pesticides: Guide
for Agricultural Workers. EPA recommends distributing the worker safety handbook
to workers whenever safety training is conducted. EPA also has produced a training
flipchart that uses the handbook text and drawings and includes valuable
background information for the trainer. The flipchart or the handbook may be used
by trainers to deliver pesticide safety training according to the WPS requirements.
Other organizations are developing training materials that meet the WPS training
requirements. EPA will be compiling and updating a listing of these materials. The
list will be available from EPA Headquarters and the EPA Regional Office for your
State.
Are there training requirements in addition to the WPS requirements?
Some States and Tribes have additional requirements for pesticide safety training for
agricultural workers. Contact the agency responsible for pesticide enforcement in
your area to obtain information needed to comply with all State or Tribal
requirements.
Who can conduct WPS training?
To conduct WPS worker safety training, you must meet at least one of the following
criteria:
1.	Currently be a certified applicator of restricted-use pesticides. OR
2.	Currently be designated as a trainer of certified pesticide applicators or
pesticide handlers by a State, Federal, or Tribal agency having jurisdiction. OR
UNIT TWO ~ WPS SAFETY TRAINING FOR AGRICULTURAL WORKERS
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3.	Have completed a pesticide-safety train-the-trainer program approved by a
State, Federal, or Tribal agency having jurisdiction. OR
4.	Currently be trained (as specified in EPA's certification and training
regulations) as a handler who works under the supervision of a certified
pesticide applicator. OR
5.	Currently be trained as a WPS pesticide handler. Because pesticide handlers
do jobs that may bring them into direct contact with pesticides, WPS handler
training is more detailed and technical than worker training.
Also, be sure you meet the trainer criteria established by the State or Tribe with
jurisdiction over the area where you do your training.
If you do not meet one of the WPS criteria, you may not deliver training that meets
WPS requirements.
What are the requirements for delivering WPS worker safety training?
The specific criteria for delivering WPS worker safety training are listed below. Some
States and Tribes have additional requirements for pesticide safety training for
agricultural workers. Contact the Agency responsible for pesticide enforcement in
your area to obtain information needed to comply with all State or Tribal
requirements.
What has to be covered in WPS worker safety training?
The WPS lists 11 concepts that must be covered in worker safety training (see below).
The EPA flipchart and handbook present each of the required concepts. If the
flipchart or the handbook is used to deliver training, and if you meet the criteria for
trainers and for how to conduct training, your training will comply with the WPS.
Remember, if you want your training to comply with the WPS requirements, you
must cover every concept in the flipchart or the handbook. If you leave information
out, your training will not meet the WPS requirements. Be sure your training also
complies with the State or Tribal requirements where you do your training.
WPS pesticide safety training must convey all of the following information:
1.	Descriptions of where and in what form pesticides may be encountered during
work activities.
2.	Hazards of pesticides resulting from toxicity and exposure, including acute
and chronic effects, delayed effects, and sensitization.
3.	Routes through which pesticides can enter the body.
UNIT TWO ~ WPS SAFETY TRAINING FOR AGRICULTURAL WORKERS
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4.	Signs and symptoms of common types of pesticide poisoning.
5.	Emergency first aid for pesticide injuries or poisonings.
6.	Instructions on how to obtain emergency medical care.
7.	Routine and emergency decontamination procedures, including emergency
eyeflushing techniques.
8.	Hazards from chemigation and drift.
9.	Hazards from pesticide residues on clothing.
10.	Warnings about taking pesticides or pesticide containers home.
11.	Requirements of the WPS designed to reduce the risks of illness or injury
resulting from workers' occupational exposure to pesticides, including
application and entry restrictions, the design of the warning sign, posting of
warning signs, oral warnings, the availability of specific information about
applications, and protection against retaliatory acts.
How do trainers conduct WPS training?
To conduct WPS worker safety training, trainers must—
1.	Use written and/or audiovisual materials.
2.	Present the training orally or audiovisually.
3.	Present the training in a manner the trainees can understand, using a
translator if necessary.
4.	Use nontechnical terms the workers can understand.
5.	Respond to trainees' questions.
If there are additional State or Tribal requirements, be sure to observe them as well.
What are the additional training requirements for early-entry workers?
In general, workers may not enter a treated area during a Restricted-Entry Interval
(REI). Early entry that will result in contact with surfaces treated with pesticides is
permitted in only three work situations:
~	short-term tasks that last less than one hour and do not involve hand labor,
~	emergency tasks that take place because of an agricultural emergency, and
~	specific tasks approved by EPA through a formal exception process.
UNIT TWO ~ WPS SAFETY TRAINING FOR AGRICULTURAL WORKERS
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Early-entry workers must receive pesticide safety training for workers before entering
a treated area on the agricultural establishment during an REI. The 5-day (or 15-day)
grace period for training that applies to other agricultural workers does not apply to
early-entry workers.
In addition to the basic pesticide safety training, early-entry workers must receive
specific information and instructions before beginning an early-entry task:
~	how to put on, use, and take off the early-entry personal protective equipment
(PPE) that is specified on the product label for early-entry tasks,
~	the importance of washing thoroughly after removing PPE, and
~	how to prevent, recognize, and give correct first aid for heat illness (too much
heat stress).
Early-entry workers must also be informed, in a manner they can understand, about
the safety information and instructions on the pesticide label(s) to which the REI
applies, including
~	human hazard statements and precautions,
~	first aid,
~	signs and symptoms of poisoning,
~	PPE required for early entry, and
~	any other precautions or instructions related to safe use or early entry.
Option: Workers who will do early-entry tasks may read the labeling themselves, if
they are able to read and understand it.
UNIT TWO ~ WPS SAFETY TRAINING FOR AGRICULTURAL WORKERS
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WPS Training Materials
UNIT
Worker Handbook
Training agricultural workers? Looking for a guide with all the information
that workers need to know about basic pesticide safety? You need . . .
The English/Spanish WPS Safety Handbook Protect Yourself from Pesticides: Guide for
Agricultural Workers is available from a number of sources including the Government
Printing Office (GPO). To order a copy from GPO, call (202) 783-3238. The reference
number is 055-000-00443-9. The handbook may also be available from your local
Cooperative Extension Service office, your State Pesticide Regulatory office, or the
EPA Regional Office for your State. EPA plans to translate the handbook into other
languages and will announce the availability of each translated version.
trBft Protect Yourself from Pesticides
Guide for Agricultural Workers
Prot6jase de los Pesticidas-
Gu(a para los Trabajadores Agrfcolas
UNIT THREE ~ WPS TRAINING MATERIALS
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Flipchart
Training agricultural workers outdoors? You need the easy-to-use, portable
training tool with all the information that workers need to know about basic
pesticide safety . . .
oooooooooooooooooooo
Protect Yourself fram Psstlelitos:
Safety Training for Agricultural Workers
Prottjaso da los Pestlcidas:
Un Programa de Seguridad
para Trabajadores Agrfcolas
Production and distribution of the training flipchart is now being determined by
EPA. For information about obtaining the flipchart, contact the EPA Regional Office
for your State.
UNIT THREE ~ WPS TRAINING MATERIALS
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How To Comply Manual
Are you asked questions about WPS during your training sessions? Are you looking
for one guide that clearly states the WPS requirements and details the restrictions,
exceptions, exemptions, and options? You need . . .
The WPS How To Comply manual is available from a number of sources including the
Government Printing Office (GPO). To order a copy from GPO, call (202) 783-3238.
The reference number is 055-000-00442-1. The manual may also be available from
your local Cooperative Extension Service office, your State Pesticide Regulatory office,
or the EPA Regional Office for your State.
THREE ~ WPS TRAINING MATERIALS

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Quick Reference Guide Poster
Do you, or agricultural employers you know, want a brief, handy guide to the
Worker Protection Standard requirements? You need . . .
Quick Reference
Guide
to the 1992
Worker
Protection
Standard (WPS)
Dutii.-b for All Employer.,


totm AiVftkiM


Additional Dtiln.'S for Woikur.Employers


PBV
AcJiJitiofUil Duties for Handler Employers



¦&EPA
The Quick Reference Guide is included in this notebook and in the How To Comply
manual. The poster version of the Quick Reference Guide is available from the
Government Printing Office (GPO). To order a copy from GPO, call (202) 783-3238.
The reference number is 055-000-00445-5.
UNIT THREE ~ WPS TRAINING MATERIALS
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Other WPS Materials
~	Training Video for Agricultural Workers
An English/Spanish video covering the WPS safety training requirements for
workers is scheduled to be available in early 1994. EPA will announce the
availability of the video.
~	WPS Pesticide Safety Poster
The safety poster that must be displayed on agricultural establishments at a
central location is available from a number of sources including the Government
Printing Office (GPO). The colorful poster presents the required messages simply
using drawings and English/Spanish text. To order a copy from GPO, call
(202) 783-3238. The reference number is 055-000-00444-7.
The safety poster may also be available from your local Cooperative Extension
Service office, your State Pesticide Regulatory office, or the EPA Regional Office
for your State.
~	Pesticide Safety Training for Pesticide Handlers
EPA, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperative
Extension Service, will complete the safety training handbook for pesticide
handlers in late December 1993. A training video for pesticide handlers will be
available in Spring 1994. These materials will cover the training required by the
WPS. EPA will announce the availability of the handbook and the video.
~	WPS Field Warning Sign
The WPS field warning sign that is used to notify employees of pesticide
applications is complete and available from agricultural supply houses and other
printing sources.
~	WPS Leaflets
A series of leaflets is being produced to aid in the outreach plan for the Worker
Protection Standard. These leaflets are designed so that they can be placed in
pockets of a WPS informational poster that EPA is producing. The leaflets cover
such issues as WPS key elements, accelerated provisions, instructions for crop
advisors, the How To Comply Quick Reference Guide, field posting requirements,
and other issues. EPA will announce the availability of the leaflets.
UNIT THREE ~ WPS TRAINING MATERIALS
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~	Guide to Heat Stress in Agriculture
The Guide to Heat Stress in Agriculture is a joint EPA and Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) publication. The Guide offers practical, step-by-
step guidance to nontechnical managers on how to set up and operate a heat
stress control program and how to tailor a program to particular conditions of
agriculture and agricultural pesticide handling. The target audiences are private
and commercial pesticide applicators and agricultural employers. The Guide has
received final EPA clearance and is awaiting final clearance from OSHA. Separate
summary charts in English and Spanish are being prepared. EPA will announce
the availability of the Guide.
~	How To Comply Slide Set for Agricultural Employers
EPA, in conjunction with the Cooperative Extension Service (CES) at the
University of Florida, produced a half-hour slide program on compliance with the
WPS. The program has been distributed to State and County CES offices, to the
State Pesticide Regulatory offices, and to many other organizations. The program
is packaged with the slides, the script and tape (English and Spanish), the How To
Comply manual, the WPS field warning sign, a bulletin on WPS compliance dates,
and the WPS Quick Reference Guide.
~	How To Comply (HTC) Video
The HTC slides have been compiled onto a videotape. This tape was distributed
to Cooperative Extension Service offices, State Pesticide Regulatory offices, and
other organizations.
~	Materials Developed by Other Organizations
Other organizations are developing training materials that meet the WPS training
requirements. EPA will be compiling and updating a listing of these materials.
The list will be available from EPA Headquarters and the EPA Regional Office for
your State.
UNIT THREE ~ WPS TRAINING MATERIALS
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Recommendations for Effective Training
UNIT
Trainers' Goals
~	To help agricultural workers stay safe and healthy when they work around
pesticides.
~	To familiarize agricultural workers with pesticide safety information.
~	To meet the, training requirements of the Worker Protection Standard and any
local training requirements.
Trainees' Goals
As a result of this safety training program, workers should be able to protect
themselves from pesticides because they know—
~	How to prevent exposure to pesticides.
~	What to do if they are exposed to a pesticide.
~	Where to get information about pesticides.
~	What employers must do to help protect workers from pesticides used at work.
Materials Needed
To ensure coverage of the 11 concepts required by WPS, trainers are encouraged to
use at least one of the training publications developed by EPA:
Handbook Protect Yourself from Pesticides: Guide for Agricultural Workers
Flipchart Protect Yourself from Pesticides: Safety Training for Agricultural Workers
Special Note: Trainers should use EPA-developed or EPA-
approved materials for WPS training. EPA-approved
materials must be equivalent to EPA-developed materials
and include the 11 concepts listed on pages 10 and 11 in
Unit Two of this Training Notebook.
UNIT FOUR ~ RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EFFECTIVE TRAINING

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Training Time
Allow at least 40 minutes to present the required information. Trainers must also
allow time for questions and answers.
Recommended Preparation
Before the training session
~	Identify where and when the training will take place.
~	Determine the size of your audience.
~	Obtain the appropriate number of copies of the materials that you need.
~	Obtain the necessary equipment. For example: a slide projector, a screen, a small
table to hold the flipchart, a VCR if you plan to use a videotape.
~	Become familiar with the training materials that you will be using. Read the
objectives for each section. Study the information and the review questions and
answers for each section. Consider the optional opening questions and the
additional training tips that are described in this notebook. See if you feel
comfortable trying some of the suggestions.
~	Find out about the trainees' backgrounds: Who are they? Where are they from?
What kind of agricultural work have they done in the past? What kind of work
are they doing now? Have they ever been trained about pesticides or pesticide
safety before? How much do they already know about pesticides? This
information will help you make the training appropriate for each specific group of
trainees.
~	If you speak only English and the trainees do not, you must arrange for a
translator.
~	Remember, some workers do not read, either in English or in their native
language. If you plan to use materials or activities that require the trainees to
read, be sure to consider those in the group who do not read. Try to make the
activity meaningful in a way that will not embarrass anyone in the group. For
example, combine reading (by those who can read) with demonstrating (by those
who cannot read).
~	Arrive at least 15 minutes before the training session is scheduled to start.
~	Take a deep breath and relax. The materials are well done and easy to use. The
trainees will appreciate the value of the information as soon as you begin. We all
want to stay healthy!
UNIT FOUR ~ RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EFFECTIVE TRAINING

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During the Training Session
~	If you were unable to find out about the trainees' background in advance, spend a
few minutes at the start of the training session getting to know them.
~	Trainees remember what they see and hear better than what they only hear.
Make sure everyone you are training can see the illustrations and hear you. If
you are using only the handbook for training, make sure there are enough copies
so that everyone can easily see the illustrations.
~	You will present the safety information in this training program to the workers
mainly by reading the text to them.
~	However, the trainees shouldn't remain silent or passive during the entire training
session. At a minimum, you should ask review questions at the end of each
section. WPS requires you to allow time for the workers to ask questions about
the information provided in the training course.
~	When you ask questions, give the trainees enough time to think about their
answers. Allow a few moments of silence. Try not to answer your own
questions. Be a good listener.
~	Adults bring a wide range of experience to a training session, and they learn from
each other by sharing their experiences. Whenever possible, involve your
audience. Ask questions to lead them, based on their own work experiences, to
suggest ways to protect themselves. Ask them to give specific examples of how
to practice the safety steps described in your training. Encourage them to talk
about how the new regulations affect them at their worksites.
~	Encourage everyone to say something. Rephrase the question(s) if they don't
seem to understand.
~	Whenever possible, demonstrate a point for the trainees. Better yet, ask the
trainees themselves to demonstrate points from the training program. If they can
see real examples that apply to where they work, they will remember the concepts
better than if they just look at the illustration.
Additional Training Tips
~	Time permitting, it is very useful to begin each section with an opening question.
A carefully chosen, open-ended question stimulates the trainees to think about
one or more of the issues that are going to come up in the section. Their answers
or comments provide a perfect lead-in to your presentation of the information in
the section. Optional opening questions have been added to some sections in Unit
Five of this notebook.
UNIT FOUR ~ RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EFFECTIVE TRAINING
20

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~ Try using some of the illustrations as a starting point for a short discussion. For
example, point to the illustration of workers running from pesticide drift, or the
worker looking at the posted warning sign, or the worker coming out of the
greenhouse, or the boss warning workers not to enter a field and ask—
~	Does this resemble your worksite?
~	Do you work in these conditions?
~	Do you do this at work?
~	Does your boss act like this?
Step-by-Step Guidelines
Using the flipchart
The flipchart includes an introduction, a written script—in English and Spanish—and
illustrations for WPS worker safety training. It is designed to be portable and brief
so that training may be done in a variety of settings. When training, hold the
flipchart so everyone in the group can see the picture. For each picture, the
information that you will read is on the page facing you. An arrow —> indicates what
you should read aloud; the information in the box is background information for
you, the trainer.
The introduction and background information on training requirements for the
Worker Protection Standard appear first, in English and then in Spanish, in front of
the script. These introductory pages are cut at the corners to allow the trainer quick
access to the script.
The flipchart is divided into eight sections. At the beginning of each section,
background information and learning objectives for the section are presented in a
box. You may find it helpful to go over the objectives with the trainees at the start of
each section.
At the end of each section are some review questions in a box. Asking trainees these
questions at the end of the section helps reinforce the information you have just
given them. It also lets you know if there are things the trainees don't understand.
If the trainees have trouble answering the questions at the end of a section, try going
over the key points again. The review questions may also help start a group
discussion if time permits.
UNIT FOUR ~ RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EFFECTIVE TRAINING
21

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~
~
Using the handbook
The handbook for WPS worker safety training is divided into eight sections and
includes illustrations and text in English and Spanish. The handbook does not
include objectives and review questions for each section. See Unit Five in this
notebook for the section objectives and the review questions to ask the trainees.
You may find it helpful to go over the objectives with the trainees at the start of a
new section. Asking trainees questions at the end of the section helps reinforce the
information you have just given them. It also lets you know if there are things the
trainees don't understand. If they have trouble answering the questions at the end of
a section, try going over the key points again. The review questions may also help
start a group discussion if time permits.
UNIT FOUR ~ RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EFFECTIVE TRAINING
22

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Training Objectives and Review Questions
UNIT
Introduction
This unit provides you with the training objectives, opening questions and review
questions for sections in the EPA flipchart and the EPA worker handbook. Much of
this material is included in the flipchart but it is not included in the worker
handbook.
The statement of training objectives is information for both you and the trainees.
Going over the objectives of each section before you begin the section should focus
the trainees' attention on the purpose of the information that you provide to them.
The opening questions are for you to use to give the trainees a personal focus for the
section as well as to encourage their active verbal participation.
The suggested review questions are for your use to reinforce the material that you
presented. Getting correct answers from the trainees indicates that you have
achieved the objectives of the section.
SECTION 1
Objectives
After this section, workers should be able to—
1.	Say why learning about pesticide safety is important.
2.	Tell what to do if they do not understand something in this training.
Opening Questions
~	Why do growers use pesticides?
~	Do you and your co-workers ever talk about pesticides at work?
~	Have you ever thought about pesticides and their possible effects on your health?
~	Have you ever talked about pesticides with your boss? If so, when? Why?
Review Questions
1. Q". How many of you have had training on how to protect yourselves from
pesticides?
UNIT FIVE ~ TRAINING OBJECTIVES AND REVIEW QUESTIONS

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~
~
2.	Q: Why should you learn about pesticide safety?
A: Because pesticides can hurt or even kill people.
3.	Q: What should you do if you don't understand something in this pesticide
safety training?
A: Ask questions.
SECTION 2
Objectives
After this section, workers should be able to—
1.	Name at least 5 ways to keep pesticides out of their bodies.
2.	Recognize the EPA posted warning sign and say what it means.
3.	Identify; taking pesticides or pesticide containers home from work as
hazardous.
4.	Demonstrate routine decontamination practices.
5.	Describe how to avoid hazards from pesticide residues on clothing.
6.	Describe what to do if pesticides drift into the area where they are working.
Opening Questions
~	Do you wear clothes like the ones in the illustration to work every day? (If yes)
How long have you been wearing such clothes?
~	Why do you wear these kinds of clothes?
Review Questions
1.	Q: What are some ways to keep pesticides out of your body and off your skin?
A: Wear work clothes that cover the skin. Wash before eating, drinking,
smoking, or chewing gum or tobacco at work. Wash your hands before using
the toilet. Stay out of areas where pesticides are drifting, or where the
warning sign is posted. Do not take pesticides or pesticide containers home.
Wash your whole body after work each day. Keep dirty work clothes
separate from family laundry.
2.	Q: How can you tell if an area at work is safe to enter?
A:	If it has no warning sign posted and the boss says it is safe to enter.
3.	Q:	Are pesticides used at work good to use around your home, too?
A:	No.
4.	Q:	Describe what you should do before you eat or drink at work.
A:	Wash your hands and face.
UNIT FIVE ~ TRAINING OBJECTIVES AND REVIEW QUESTIONS
24

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5.	Q: What should you do when you get home from work?
A:	Wash your whole body, including your hair, with soap and water. Then put
on clean clothes.
6.	Q:	If pesticides drift into the area where you're working, what should you do?
A:	Get out right away.
7.	Q:	What should you do with dirty work clothes?
A:	Store and wash them separately from the family laundry.
8.	Q:	Why is it important to wear clothes like those in the illustration?
A:	To protect your skin from pesticides.
9.	Q:	How close is your worksite to where you eat lunch or get a drink?
10.	Q:	Why is it important to wash your face and hands before eating or drinking?
A:	To rempve any pesticides that might be on them from doing your work.
11.	Q: Do you take cigarette breaks? Why should you wash your hands and face
before smoking?
A: To remove any pesticides that might be on your hands so the pesticides don't
enter your mouth, nose, or eyes.
12.	Q: Why do people want to take empty pesticide containers home? Have you
ever done this? Why is it a bad idea?
SECTION 3
Objectives
After this section, workers should be able to—
1.	List at least 5 places pesticides are commonly found at work.
2.	Identify 3 forms of pesticides.
Opening Questions
(When the first illustration is shown) Which of the three types of spraying devices
are used where you work? Are any other types used?
Review Questions
1.	Q: Where can you find pesticides at work?
A: On plants and in the soil, in irrigation water and on irrigation equipment, in
storage areas, and where pesticides are mixed and loaded.
2.	Q: Pesticides come in different forms. Name 3 or 4.
A: Liquids and sprays, powders and granules, and gases.
3.	Q: Can you always see pesticides when they have been applied?
UNIT FIVE ~ TRAINING OBJECTIVES AND REVIEW QUESTIONS
25

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~
~
A: No.
4.	Q: Do you know where pesticides are stored at work?
5.	Q: Are pesticides stored in one place or in many different places?
SECTION 4
Objectives
After this section, workers should be able to—
1.	List the 4 ways pesticides can get into their bodies.
2.	Recognize at least 5 common signs and symptoms of pesticide poisoning.
3.	Name 3 possible delayed effects of pesticide exposure.
4.	Recognize that pesticides do not always affect workers the same way.
Review Questions
1.	Q: How many of you know the names of the pesticides that are used where you
work?
2.	Q: Let's list the names of the pesticides that you know are used where you work.
If we cannot name them all, you can find out and add to the list later.
3.	Q: How can pesticides get into your body?
A: Through the skin and eyes, by breathing them in, and by swallowing them.
4.	Q: Describe the common signs and symptoms of pesticide poisoning.
A: Throwing up, headaches, sweating a lot, muscle pains and cramps, dizziness,
sleepiness, skin rashes, drooling and runny nose, trouble breathing, and very
small pupils of the eyes.
5.	Q: Have you ever had any of these common signs or problems? Did you think
that they might have been caused by pesticides? Did you tell your boss? Did
you see a doctor? Have you known anyone at work with these problems?
What did they do?
6.	Q: What are some possible delayed effects from getting pesticides in you?
A: Cancer, harm to kidneys, liver, or nervous system, and birth defects.
7.	Q: Do pesticides affect everyone the same way?
A: No.
SECTION 5
Objectives
After this section, workers should be able to—
UNIT FIVE ~ TRAINING OBJECTIVES AND REVIEW QUESTIONS
26

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~
~
1.	Describe how to get emergency medical care if they get sick because of
pesticides at work.
2.	Recognize that their boss will provide transportation to medical help if they
think they've been poisoned at work by pesticides.
Review Questions
1.
Q:
Where can you find the address and phone number of the nearest emergency
medical facility where you work?

A:
On or near the pesticide safety poster at work.
2.
Q:
What should you do if you get sick at work and you think it's because of
pesticides?

A:
Tell your boss right away and get medical help.
3.
Q:
How can you get to a clinic if you become sick at work?

A:
Your boss must make sure you get to medical help if you've been poisoned at
work by pesticides.
4.
Q:
Where can you get information about the pesticide that might have made you
sick?

A:
Your boss must provide you or the person treating you with information
about the pesticide that might have made you sick.
5.
Q:
Where is the pesticide safety poster located at work?
6.
Q:
Where is the nearest phone?
7.
Q:
Who knows where the nearest clinic or doctor is? Has anyone already been
there?
8.
Q:
Has anyone ever felt sick while working in the fields? (like the illustration) (If
yes) What happened? Who helped you? Where did you go?
SECTION 6
Objectives
After this section, workers should be able to describe the correct steps to take if—
1.	Pesticides get on their skin.
2.	Someone swallows a pesticide.
3.	Someone breathes in a pesticide.
4.	Pesticides get in their eyes.
UNIT FIVE ~ TRAINING OBJECTIVES AND REVIEW QUESTIONS
27

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~
~
Review Questions
1.	Q: What should you do if you get pesticides on your skin?
A: (1) Take off clothes with pesticides on them, (2) rinse skin with nearest clean
water, (3) wash with soap and water as soon as possible, (4) get medical help
if you start to feel sick or have poisoning symptoms.
2.	Q: What should you do if someone swallows a pesticide?
A: (1) Call a doctor or poison control center, or go to the doctor if it's faster, and
give the name of the pesticide and the first aid directions from the label, (2) if
you can't call for help, or while you wait for help, follow the first aid steps on
the label of the pesticide, (3) then get to a doctor as fast as possible—be sure
to have the name of the pesticide with you.
3.	Q: Describe what to do if someone breathes in a pesticide.
A: (1) Get them to fresh air right away, (2) loosen their clothing, (3) then, if they
are not breathing, give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, (4) call for help.
4.	Q: Describe the correct steps to take if pesticides get in your eyes.
A: (1) Hold your eyes open and rinse with a gentle stream of cool water, (2) rinse
for 15 minutes if possible, (3) then get medical help.
5.	Q: What must your boss do if you get sick from pesticides while you are
working?
A: Your boss must make sure you are taken to a clinic or doctor.
6.	Q: If pesticides get on your clothes and you take them off to wash, should you
put them back on?
A: No, put on clean clothes.
7.	Q: What should you do if you are working in an enclosed area (a greenhouse or
other building where pesticides have been used) and begin to feel sick?
A: Get out into the fresh air.
8.	Q: Do you know any co-worker who has swallowed a pesticide? (How could
that accidentally happen?) What did you do for him or her? What
happened?
SECTION 7
Objectives
After this section, workers should be able to—
1.	Identify at least 3 ways their boss must help protect them from pesticides
used at work.
2.	Name 3 work activities for which they need extra training.
UNIT FIVE ~ TRAINING OBJECTIVES AND REVIEW QUESTIONS
28

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3. Recognize that their boss must not punish them for trying to follow pesticide
safety rules.
Review Questions
1.	Q: How many of you have been poisoned by pesticides or know workers who
have been poisoned? What were you/they doing? What pesticides were
being used? What symptoms did you/they have?
2.	Q: What are some things your boss must do to help protect you from pesticides
at work?
A: Tell you about pesticides used at work, give you information about pesticides
applied in or near areas where you work, warn you about areas where
pesticides are to be applied and areas you may not enter, and keep workers
out of areas where pesticides are being applied or where pesticides may drift
onto them.
3.	Q: What are some examples of jobs for which you need extra pesticide safety
training?
A: Mixing, loading, applying, or handling pesticides, working as a flagger, or
working in an area where entry is restricted.
4.	Q: Is it okay for your boss to punish you for trying to follow pesticide safety
rules?
A: No.
5.	Q: Do you know where the signs about pesticide applications are posted at
work?
6.	Q: When was the last time your boss warned you to stay out of a field or work
area? What was the reason for the warning?
7.	Q: Why do loaders, handlers, mixers, and flaggers need special training and
special equipment?
SECTION 8
Objectives
After this section, workers should be able to describe 4 important ways they can help
protect themselves from pesticides.
Review Questions
1.	Q: What kinds of clothes should you wear to work each day?
A: Clean clothes that cover the skin, like long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes
and socks.
2.	Q: How can you tell if a work area is safe to enter?
A: If it has no warning sign posted and the boss says it is safe to enter.
UNIT FIVE ~ TRAINING OBJECTIVES AND REVIEW QUESTIONS

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~
~
3.	Q: What should you do if pesticides drift into the area where you are working?
A: Leave the area right away.
4.	Q: After work, when should you wash if you've been working where pesticides
may have been used?
A: Right away.
5.	Q: Name 5 things your boss must do to protect you from pesticides.
A: ~ Give you information about pesticides applied in or near areas where you
work.
~	Be sure you are trained in pesticide safety.
~	Provide you with soap, water, and towels.
~	Make sure you get to medical help if you think you've been poisoned at
work by pesticides.
~	Provide you with extra training if you work in areas where entry is
restricted, work as a flagger, or mix, load, apply, or handle pesticides.
General Review Question
Q: Name all the things you can do to protect yourself from pesticides.
A: ~ Learn how to protect yourself—make sure you are trained in pesticide safety.
~	Ask for help when you don't understand something about pesticide safety.
~	Wear clean clothes that cover your skin: long pants, a long-sleeved shirt,
shoes and socks.
~	Wash your hands and face before you eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum or
tobacco.
~	Wash your hands before using the toilet.
~	Stay out of areas where pesticides are being applied.
~	If pesticides drift to where you are working, get out.
~	If you see the "Danger—Keep Out" sign, stay out of that area.
~	Stz.y out of areas your boss tells you not to enter.
~	Never take pesticides or pesticide containers home from work.
~	After work each day, wash your whole body, including your hair.
~	Keep dirty work clothes away from other clothes and from the family
laundry.
~	At work, make sure you know where to find the pesticide safety poster and
the nearest telephone.
UNIT FIVE ~ TRAINING OBJECTIVES AND REVIEW QUESTIONS
30

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Training Verification
UNIT
About the Training Verification Program
The Training Verification Program is a voluntary program to document that
agricultural workers (and pesticide handlers) have completed pesticide safety training
that satisifes WPS requirements. This program benefits employers, trainers, and
workers alike. It minimizes the need for retraining and maximizes the effective use
of training resources.
The Trainer's Role in the Training Verification Program
If your State or Tribe chooses to join this program, you may participate by taking
these steps:
~	Enter into an agreement either with the State or Tribal agency responsible for
WPS training in your area or with a training organization that is approved to
offer WPS training by the State or Tribal agency.
~	Use only EPA-developed or EPA-approved materials to conduct training.
~	Issue EPA training verification cards to workers who have been properly
trained.
~	Obtain the information listed on the cards issued.
~	Keep a roster of those trained, including the unique number of the card issued
to each worker, until the training verification card expires.
~	Promptly respond to any request from EPA, State, or Tribal agencies or
agricultural employers for information concerning training verification cards
you have issued.
Remember that participation in the Training Verification Program is voluntary. You
are required to issue cards and maintain records only if you choose to participate.
UNIT SIX ~ TRAINING VERIFICATION

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Quick Reference Guide to the WPS	UNIT
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revised its Worker Protection
Standard (WPS) for Agricultural Pesticides in 1992. The WPS is a Federal regulation
designed to protect agricultural workers (people involved in the production of
agricultural plants) and pesticide handlers (people mixing, loading, or applying
pesticides or doing other tasks involving direct contact with pesticides).
This summary presents the maximum WPS requirements. It does not include
exceptions that may permit agricultural employers to do less or options that may
involve different requirements. Agricultural employers will be in compliance with
the Federal WPS if they make sure that the requirements listed here are met. There
are some exemptions for owners of agricultural establishments and members of their
immediate families.
Some States and Tribes having jurisdiction over the enforcement of pesticide use may
have additional worker protection requirements.
UNIT SEVEN ~ QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE TO THE WPS
32

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QUICK REFERENCE
GUIDE TO THE
1992 WORKER
PROTECTION
STANDARD (WPS)
The Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) revised its Worker Protection
Standard (WPS) for Agricultural
Pesticides in 1992. The WPS is a
Federal regulation designed to protect
agricultural workers (people involved
in the production of agricultural
plants) and pesticide handlers
(people mixing, loading, or
applying pesticides or doing
other tasks involving direct
contact with pesticides).
This poster presents the maximum
WPS requirements. It does not
include exceptions that may
permit agricultural employers to
do less or options that may involve
different requirements. Agricultural
employers will be in compliance
with the Federal WPS if they make
sure that the requirements listed here
are met. There are some exemptions
for owners of agricultural
establishments and members of
their immediate families.
Some States and Tribes having
jurisdiction over the enforcement of
pesticide use may have additional
worker protection requirements.
Duties for AM Employers
Anti-Retaliation
Do not retaliate against a worker or handler who attempts to
comply with the WPS.
Information at a Central Location
1.	In an easily seen central location on each agricultural
establishment, display close together:
~	EPA WPS safety poster,
~	name, address, and telephone number of the nearest
emergency medical facility,
~	these facts about each pesticide application [from before
each application begins until 30 days after the restncted-
enlry interval (REI)]:
~	product name, EPA registration number, and
acuve ingredient(s),
~	location and descripuon of treated area,
~	time and date of applicauon, and REI.
2.	Tell workers and handlers where the information is posted,
and allow them access.
3.	Tell them if emergency facility information changes and
update the posted information.
4.	Keep the posted informauon legible.
Pesticide Safety Training
Unless they possess a valid EPA-approved training card, train
handlers and workers before they begin work and at least once
each 5 years:
~	use written and/or audiovisual materials,
~	use EPA WPS handler training materials for training
handlers,
~	use EPA WPS worker training materials for training
workers,
~	have a certified applicator conduct the training orally and/
or audiovisually in a manner the employees can
understand, using easily understood terms, and respond
to questions.
Decontamination Sites
1.	Establish a decontamination site within 1/4 mile of all workers
and handlers. Supply:
~	enough water for routine and emergency whole-body
washing and for eyeflushing,
~	plenty of soap and single-use towels,
~	a clean coverall.
2.	Provide water that is safe and cool enough for washing, for
eyeflushing, and for drinking. Do not use tank-stored water
that is also used for mixing pesticides.
3.	Provide handlers the same supplies where personal protective
equipment (PPE) is removed at the end of a task.
4.	Provide the same supplies at each mixing and loading site.
5.	Make at least 1 pint eyeflush water immediately accessible to
each handler.
6.	Do not put worker decontamination sites in areas being
treated or under an REI.
-7- In areas being treated, put decontaminauon supplies for
handlers in enclosed containers.
Employer Information Exchange
1.	Before any application, commercial handler employers must
make sure the operator of the agricultural establishment
where a pesticide will be applied is aware of:
~	location and description of area to be treated,
~	time and date of application,
~	product name, EPA registration number, active
ingredient(s), and REI,
~	whether the product label requires both oral warnings and
treated area posting,
~	all other safety requirements on labeling for workers or
other people.
2.	Operators of agricultural establishments must make sure any
commercial pesticide establishment operator they hire is
aware of:
~	specific location and description of all areas on the
agricultural establishment where pesticides will be applied
or where an REI will be in effect while the commercial
handler is on the establishment,
~	restrictions on entering those areas.
Emergency Assistance
When any handler or worker may have been poisoned or injured
by pesticides:
1.	Promptly make transportation available to an appropriate
medical facility.
2.	Promptly provide to the victim and to medical personnel:
~	product name, EPA registration number, and active
ingredient(s),
~	all first aid and medical information from label,
~	description of how the pesticide was used,
~	information about victim's exposure.

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Additional Duties for Worker
Employers
Restrictions During Applications
1.	In areas being treated with pesticides, allow
entry only to appropriately trained and
equipped handlers.
2.	Keep nursery workers at least 100 feet away
from nursery areas being treated.
3.	Allow only handlers to be in a greenhouse:
~	during a pesticide application,
~	unul labeling-listed air concentration level
is met or, if no such level, until after 2
hours of ventilation with fans
Restricted-Entry Intervals (REJ's)
During any REI, do not allow workers to enter a
treated area and contact anything treated with the
pesticide to which the REI applies.
Notice About Applications
1.	Orally wam workers and post treated areas if
the pesucide labeling requires.
2.	Otherwise, either orally warn workers or post
entrances to treated areas. Tell workers
which method is in effect.
3.	Post all greenhouse applications.
Posted Warning Signs:
1.	Post legible 14" X 16" WPS-design signs just
before application; keep posted during REI;
remove before workers enter and within 3 days
after the end of the REI.
2.	Post signs so they can be seen at all entrances
to treated areas, including entrances from
labor camps.
Oral Warnings:
1.	Before each application, tell workers who are
on the establishment (in a manner they can
understand);
~	location and description of treated area,
~	REI, and not to enter during REI.
2.	Workers who enter the establishment after
application starts must receive the same
warning at the start of their work period.
Additional Duties for Handler Employers
Application Restrictions and Monitoring
1.	Do not allow handlers to apply a pesticide so that it contacts,
directly or through drift, anyone other than trained and PPE-
equipped handlers.
2.	Make sight or voice contact at least every 2 hours with anyone
handling pesticides labeled with a skull and crossbones.
3.	Make sure a trained handler equipped with labeling-specified
PPE maintains constant voice or visual contact with any handler
in a greenhouse who is doing fumigant-related tasks, such as
application or air-level monitoring.
Specific Instructions for Handlers
1.	Before handlers do any handling task, inform them, in a
manner they can understand, of all pesticide labeling
instructions for safe use.
2.	Keep pesticide labeling accessible to each handler during
entire handling task.
3.	Before handlers use any assigned handling equipment, tell
them how to use it safely.
4.	When commercial handlers will be on an agricultural
establishment, inform them beforehand of;
~	areas on the establishment where pesticides will be applied
or where an REI will be in efTect,
~	restrictions on entering those areas.
(The agricultural establishment operator must give you these facts.)
Equipment Safety
1.	Inspect pesticide handling equipment before each use, and
repair or replace as needed.
2.	Allow only appropriately trained and equipped handlers to
repair, clean, or adjust pesticide equipment that contains
pesucides or residues.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Duties Related to PPE:
1.	Provide handlers with the PPE the pesticide labeling requires
for the task, and be sure it is:
~	(Jean and in operating condition,
~	worn and used correctly,
~	inspected before each day of use,
~	repaired or replaced as needed.
2.	Be sure respirators fit correctly.
3.	Take steps to avoid heat illness.
4.	Provide handlers a pesticide-free area for:
~	storing personal clothing not in use,
~	putung on PPE at start of task,
~	taking off PPE at end of task.
5.	Do not allow used PPE to be worn home or taken home.
Care of PPE:
1.	Store and wash used PPE separately from other clothing
and laundry.
2.	If PPE will be reused, clean it before each day of reuse,
according to the instructions from the PPE manufacturer
unless the pesticide labeling specifies other requirements.
If there are no other instructions, wash in detergent and
hot water.
3.	Dry the clean PPE before storing, or hang to dry.
4.	Store dean PPE away from other clothing and away from
pesticide areas.
Replacing Respirator Purifying Elements:
1.	Replace dust/mist filters;
~	when breathing becomes difficult,
~	when filter is damaged or torn,
~	when respirator label or pesucide label requires
(whichever is shorter), OR
~	at the end of day's work period, in the absence of any
other instructions or indications.
2.	Replace vapor-removing cartridges/canisters;
~	when odor/taste/irritation is noticed,
~	when respirator label or pesticide label requires
(whichever is shorter), OR
~	at the end of day's work period, in the absence of any
other instructions or indications.
Disposal of PPE:
1.	Discard coveralls and other absorbent materials that are
heavily contaminated with undiluted pesticide having a
DANGER or WARNING signal word.
2.	Follow Federal, State, and local laws when disposing of PPE
that cannot be cleaned correctly.
Instructions for People Who Clean PPE:
Inform people who clean or launder PPE:
~	that PPE may be contaminated with pesticides,
~	of the potentially harmful effects of exposure
to pesucides,
~	how to protect themselves when handling PPE,
~	how to clean PPE correctly.

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library Region IV
US Eswamawsial Protection Agency
345 C&siii&ad Street
AUan&a, Georgia 30365

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