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Occupational Safety & Health Unit
Pesticide Safety
Pests can be found in many locations where workers are performing tasks. They can infest an existing structure or building, or they can be residents on a construction site. Wildlife in agricultural or forested areas may also pose a hazard to workers in those areas. In populated areas, Pest Control usually involves the use of chemicals to either eradicate an intruder or dissuade an animal from access. Pest Management may include the use of other systems such as traps, but may also involve chemicals.
The use of pesticides in California is regulated by the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR). Cal-OSHA, nevertheless, still has responsibility for worker safety. As with any program regulated by OSHA, employees must be trained in the proper use of the tools they are using. Pesticides are chemicals, so their management falls under Hazard Communication requirements. It is important for workers to be aware of the chemicals they are being exposed to. The application of pesticides requires the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and may require respiratory protection.
There may also be precautions that need to be taken to protect others before or after a pesticide has been applied. Anyone involved in Pest Control or Management also needs to be trained to identify the appropriate control measures and should have an awareness of how the chemicals used can affect others and the environment. This may require communication and notification to affected persons, or restricted access to areas that have been treated.
To get more information on the applicability of a pesticide safety program for a specific County operation please contact the corresponding departmental Safety Coordinator.
For further information on specific regulatory guidelines please refer to the link(s) below:
Respiratory Protection Program
Pesticide Regulations (Cal-DPR)
Department of Pesticide Regulations (Home Page)
Worker Health and Safety Programs (DPR)
Pesticide Safety (EPA)