4.12 Commonsense Precautions

Always work in pairs when handling highly toxic chemicals. Watch coworkers carefully for unusual behavior or actions. Remind them (and yourself) to wash face and hands before eating, drinking, or smoking. Never use the toilet before washing your hands. Avoid getting toxic pesticides on any area of the body. At the end of the day, remove contaminated clothing carefully and put it well away from the family laundry. Shower and clean thoroughly from head to toe. Pay particular attention to fingernails and hair where pesticides could remain.

4.12.1 Cholinesterase Tests

If you are using cateogyr I or II carbamate or organophosphate pesticides, consider having your blood tested to find your normal or base level of a chemical called cholinesterase. This chemical is necessary for the nervous system to operate properly. Both carbamate and organophosphate pesticides attack this chemical in your blood and make it useless. Once your base level of cholinesterase has been determined, a simple blood test will show if you still have the normal amount. If you do not, you have been overexposed to either an organophosphate or carbamate pesticide. You should avoid further contact with these pesticides until your cholinesterase level has returned to normal. In severe cases, antidotes must be given. Follow your doctor’s directions. All applicators working with highly toxic chemicals should have their cholinesterase levels tested at regular intervals.