Pesticide applicators can review information found in the
MSDS to learn even more that what is on the pesticide label.
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Pesticide applicators know that many questions can be answered by reading the pesticide label. Another important document that should not be overlooked is the material safety data sheet (MSDS).
In 1989, OSHA expanded the “Hazard Communication Standard” so all employees that transport, store, or use chemicals at work could find out about potential hazards by reading the MSDS. There are many chemicals used in agriculture, and all have an MSDS. Pesticide MSDSs have information that is different from pesticide labels. These documents are not designed for the occasional users of chemicals or pesticides. They are for those who deal with hazardous substances so that they can make sure of daily safety.
Chemical (and pesticide) manufacturers must provide MSDSs to customers. As the products move through the supply chain, a copy of the MSDS must tag along. Your workplace should have a file of MSDSs for each product that is used. Chemical manufacturers and many pesticide safety programs have websites where MSDSs can be viewed and printed. Web searches for a product will often turn up the MSDS.
While there is no set format for MSDSs, the American National Standards Institute suggests that they have 16 sections. For a detailed explanation on the whole document, visithttp://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/PI072. The following is a summary of what to look for in MSDSs.
Manufacturer Information
In emergencies, the MSDS refers users to the manufacturer and to the Chemical Transportation Emergency Center (CHEMTREC). CHEMTREC’s number, 800-424-9300, is very important in case of transportation emergencies.
Product Ingredients
Both the active and inert ingredients must be listed if they are known to be hazardous. All chemicals have a specific Chemical Abstracts number (CAS#). The percentage of active ingredients is listed on the MSDS, just as on a pesticide label. MSDSs also may identify other names for the active ingredients and the chemical’s group name. This is useful in managing pesticide-resistance issues.
Hazard Identification And First Aid
Any acute or chronic effects of exposure are listed, just as on the pesticide label. Product users should know where this information is found. In an emergency, the information is needed quickly. Intended for emergency response personnel, the specific instructions to the physician are listed, including antidotes, etc. Hazardous effects on wildlife also are indicated on the MSDS.
Firefighting And Accidental Release
Besides indicating the flammability of the product, MSDSs give instructions on how to extinguish a fire involving the chemical and the kinds of safety equipment needed. And in case of a spill, methods that prevent contamination and required personal protective equipment (PPE) are clearly outlined.
Handling And Storage Conditions
This section gives users specific guidelines on correct storage temperatures to prevent chemical separation or breakdown. It also lists ways to reduce risks in much more detail than can be found on a pesticide label.
Exposure Controls/Personal Protection
While applicators must follow the label instruction, the MSDS protective measures are directed to non-pesticide handlers. Anyone contacting the product needs to know how to reduce exposure and the kinds of PPE needed. For example, MSDSs may list specific types of gloves, respirators, or eye protection. Also, it gives the amount of chemical in the air that workers can tolerate, expressed as the threshold limit value (TLV) or permissible exposure limit (PEL).
Physical And Chemical Properties
Can you smell something, or do you notice corrosion due to the product? Detailed characteristics of chemicals are listed in the MSDS, and it tells why proper storage conditions are needed.
Toxicology And Ecology
Many tests have been made to tell exactly how much of the product will cause toxicity or irritation to various test animals. Check the MSDS to see specifically if the product is known to cause cancer or have reproductive effects. Information on the effects to indicator wildlife species such as fish, protozoans, insects, and birds also is included.
Disposal, Transport, And Other Regulations
If specific federal regulations effect how this product is to be disposed of, transported, or stored, a notation is made in the final sections of the MSDS. If you see that such regulations apply to a product, it might make a difference when choosing between several similar pesticide products.
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