WHAT’S AT STAKE

Although handling of pesticides is not covered under WHMIS because it is covered by other legislation, employers are still responsible for making available material safety data sheets (MSDSs) — or an equivalent — for each pesticide used in the workplace.

WHAT’S THE DANGER

Exposure to pesticides can cause health problems ranging from skin irritation to long-term health problems or even death. Common hazards of pesticide exposure include:

• Absorption of the pesticide through the skin, eyes, lungs, or stomach
• Irritation of the skin or eyes
• Injury to eyes, lungs, skin, or body organs

Incident example

• A worker suffered mild pesticide poisoning while using […]

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