It is common knowledge that pesticides contain very harmful chemicals. This is why all pesticides are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency, and manufacturers are required by law to inform the agency and the public about the exact components of the pesticides that they’re producing. In addition to that, they have to give details regarding the harmful effects of these pesticides to people, especially in case of direct or over inhalation, direct skin contact, and also ingestion. The main objective of these actions is to protect the health and safety of the public. The EPA also aims to protect the environment too. Therefore, all pesticides are continuously under observation. In case people report any bad accidents regarding a certain product, this is then meticulously reevaluated. For instance, when a pesticide accident occurs, such as when a child experiences a serious allergic reaction to a chemical insect repellent, this must be reported to the proper agencies to avoid other similar situations.
Pesticide Incidents
There are several types of accidents that occur due to the use or misuse of pesticides. Incidents usually include human and pet exposure. The appearance of skin rashes, nausea and headache are common effects to humans, while animals typically experience itchiness, vomiting, as well as bleeding. Other reports have to do with the environmental effects of certain kinds of pesticides. For instance, people can become very concerned when they notice dead fish or birds in an agricultural area where a specific form of pesticide is regularly used. There are also some incident reports concerning the label or packaging of a product. The pesticide could, for example, be leaking or misfiring, or the product could be mislabeled.
Reporting an Incident
1. Human Exposure Incident Report
If you want to report a pesticide incident involving a human, get in touch with Poison Control Center as soon as possible. In case you don’t have that number, dial 9-1-1, especially if the victim requires emergency care. An example of an urgent situation is when a child ingests an insecticide. If the issue is about a certain brand of pesticide which is suspected to cause illness upon exposure, call the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC), the EPA or its local office, and the manufacturer. Why inform the manufacturer? Well, manufacturers are required by law to report any untoward incident regarding their product to the EPA.
2. Animal or Pet Exposure Incident Report
In case your pet needs emergency care after its exposure to pesticides, call the National Animal Poison Control Center (NAPCC). Call the NPIC, EPA and the manufacturer too. Be sure to get in touch with your pet’s vet as well.
3. Environmental or Wildlife Issues Incident Report
Aside from informing the NPIC, EPA and the manufacturer about the suspected detrimental effects of a certain pesticide to the environment, you also need to notify the State Environmental Agency too. You can also go online to submit an Ecological Pesticide Incident Report. You should be involved because if you don’t act, you’re also contributing to environmental degradation. Don’t wait for pesticides to negatively affect your entire community before taking action.
4. Packaging Problems
As regards packaging problems, the NPIC and the EPA or its local office must be notified. The manufacturer should also know if there are problems with the labeling or packaging of its products. Remember that many accidents can be avoided if products are properly labeled and packaged.
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About the author: Claire Brent is a full-time freelance writer who specializes in pest-related issues. Her articles aim to spread information about preventing and controlling infestations and you can learn how here.
