Sindiveg launches manual on safety in the application of pesticides

The National Union of the Plant Defense Products Industry (Sindiveg) has prepared an unprecedented and free safety manual for the application of agricultural pesticides. In addition to its relevance for rural producers, the material benefits everyone involved in the agricultural production chain, and is also a great ally for technicians and researchers.

The 56-page document was prepared in partnership with the Engineering and Automation Center (CEA) of the Agronomic Institute (IAC), linked to the Secretariat of Agriculture and Supply of the State of São Paulo.

"Agricultural pesticides are essential products for agriculture, but they need special care", highlights the president of Sindiveg, Júlio Borges Garcia. "Guiding on the correct and safe use of these resources is a constant concern of the union and associated companies. Actions like this are beneficial for both the plantations and the producer, the environment and society."

With the aim of addressing safety when working with agrochemicals and the correct selection and use of personal protective equipment (PPE), the manual presents all stages of the use cycle of these agricultural products – from purchase to final disposal of packaging and of leftovers. "With information, we can optimize applications, avoiding the waste of pesticides and the dispersion of waste", says Júlio.

Among the major topics covered by the manual are the risk and safety of pesticides; the toxicity of agrochemicals; personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as the ideal times to use them, ways to wear and clean them; personal hygiene after contact with these products; use and disposal; the interpretation of pictograms; and data on poisoning and first aid.

The development of risk perception combined with a set of updated information, including basic safety rules, are the most important tools to avoid exposure and ensure the success of individual measures to protect the farmer's health. Furthermore, with more protection and effective applications, crops will be protected from pests and diseases.

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The "Safety Manual in the Application of Agrochemicals" is available digitally and free of charge to all participants in the first module of Sindiveg's online training, which has as its theme "Safety in the Application of Agricultural Pesticides". Launched in August, the platform provides certificates at the end of each module. Training can be done on the website trainings.sindiveg.org.br.