What steps should be taken in case of a pesticide spill?

• A. Only document the spill.
• B. Prevent human exposure, control, contain, and clean up spills to prevent further contamination.
• C. Wait for a supervisor's instruction.
• D. Ignore the spill.

Answer: (B)

Protecting people and the environment is the priority when a pesticide spill occurs. The best approach is to prevent human exposure, then control, contain, and clean up the spill to stop further contamination. If it’s safe to do so, shut off the source and isolate the area to keep others out. Put on the appropriate personal protective equipment before handling any spilled material. Prevent the spill from spreading by blocking drains or waterways and using absorbent materials or a containment berm as needed. Use the spill kit to absorb and collect the liquid, and place the waste in labeled, sealed containers for proper disposal according to the product label and local regulations. After cleanup, decontaminate affected surfaces and equipment and wash exposed skin. Notify your supervisor and follow your organization’s spill-reporting procedures, including documenting what happened. If there’s any chance the pesticide could reach a water body or if exposure is a concern, contact emergency services or poison control for guidance. Delaying or ignoring the spill increases risk, so act promptly within the spill response plan.