by Richard Fagerlund
Scripps Howard News Service
Q: I read your column regularly and I love your low-toxicity slant. I am a landscape architect, and I frequently encounter pesticides in my work; for example, one of my clients' property was recently sprayed with bifenthrin, and I am trying to discover if this was either necessary or dangerous. Could you give a little discourse on how to interpret manufacturers' literature, reports, MSDS sheets and labels, so the layman can figure out how toxic and persistent pesticides really are? I would also appreciate any tips to websites that provide of environmentally-interested analysis of agricultural and horticultural pest control.
A: All toxic products must carry signal words alerting consumers to their danger. The degree of danger is signified in the Warning Signal. The most dangerous signal word is "Danger-Poison" imprinted over a skull and crossbones. This material is deadly as it can kill quickly and violently. Ingesting anything from a pinch to a teaspoon full can be lethal to an adult human. Pesticides with such labels should never be used unless absolutely necessary.
The second most severe signal word is "Warning". This material is moderately toxic. Ingesting anywhere from a teaspoon to a couple of tablespoons will kill a normal person. The label may also say, "Harmful or fatal if swallowed." These pesticides should be used with extreme care.
The next category is "Caution". These pesticides are less dangerous, but still toxic. From one ounce to one pint can be fatal. Use this pesticide very carefully.
The least poisonous will simply say, "Keep out of the Reach of Children." It would take about a quart of this material to kill the average adult.
Before using any pesticide, read the label carefully. If it suggests you wear goggles, protective clothing and a respirator, then follow those suggestions to the letter. Read the precautions carefully so you don't endanger other humans, pets, wildlife, livestock, beneficial insects or ground water. Never buy more pesticides than you will absolutely need. This will prevent stored pesticides from deteriorating and developing leaks.
I would also suggest you look at the Web site of Beyond Pesticides, the National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides. (See "Resources," below.)
(Send questions for Richard Fagerlund to University of New Mexico Environmental Services, Physical Plant Department, 1818 Camino del Servicio N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87131-3500 or e-mail fagerlun@unm.edu.)
Resources Beyond Pesticides/NCAMP
Beyond Pesticides/NCAMP provides the public with useful information on pesticides and alternatives to their use.
National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides (NCAMP)
701 E Street SE, #200
Washington, DC 20003
Phone: 202-543-5450
Fax: 202-543-4791
Email:
info@beyondpesticides.org
URL:
www.beyondpesticides.org
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