Innovations In Eye and Face Protection for Pesticide Applicators: The Selection and Use of Personal Protective Equipment

Abstract The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act provides enforcement of the required and recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) listed on pesticide labeling for eye and face protection. Eye protection must meet or exceed standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The differences between older pesticide label eye protection requirements and modern ANSI standards for eye and face protection are often different. Eye or face injuries may occur because pesticide applicators are wearing inappropriate equipment, if the equipment is being worn improperly, and/or when the equipment does not fit properly. It is not unusual to have different personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements on a pesticide label depending on the formulation toxicity, activity being performed, and/or handling/application equipment being used. It is important that pesticide handlers use the correct PPE. This paper focuses on the important aspects to consider when selecting and using eye and face protection for pesticide handling. Based on information collected from 1981 certified pesticide applicators over a three-year period it is very important that protective eyewear be comfortable so that it can be worn for extended periods of time. These applicators also indicated that one of the most important requirements for the wearing of eye protection is that the equipment be readily available and in good working condition.