How to Use Pesticides Correctly? Essential Tips for Health and Crop Protection

Safe use of pesticides

Krishi Dunia

• 28 Jan, 2025 01:29 PM IST ,
• Updated Tue, 28 Jan 2025 02:56 PM

In agriculture, pesticides are used to protect crops from harmful pests. However, improper or careless use can pose serious health risks to farmers and their families. In Chhatra district, farmers traditionally spray pesticides using methods like straw bundles, which is not an ideal technique. This leads to uneven distribution, wastage of the pesticide, and economic losses for farmers.
The issue can be addressed by using modern spraying equipment. Awareness campaigns run by organizations like ATMA Tara have helped some farmers realize the importance of using sprayers, ensuring the correct application of pesticides. In this article, we will discuss the precautions to take before and after using pesticides, along with first-aid guidelines.

Types of Pesticides and Their Correct Use:

Pesticides are primarily of four types, identifiable by the color codes on their bottles:

1. Red-Colored Pesticides:
   • These are highly effective.
   • Harvest should be done 25-30 days after application.
   • Do not use them during the flowering stage. If necessary, bury the affected fruits or flowers.
2. Yellow-Colored Pesticides:
   • Harvest should be done 15-20 days after application.
   • The harmful elements may accumulate in the fruit, which can be harmful to health.
3. Blue-Colored Pesticides:
   • Harvest the crop 7-8 days after application.
4. Green-Colored Pesticides:
   • Harvest the crop within 1-2 days after application and wash it with clean water.
   • These do not have harmful effects on health.

Precautions for Pesticide Use:

1. Precautions While Purchasing Pesticides:

• Only buy the required quantity of pesticide.
• Do not buy damaged containers, torn packets, or unmarked products.
• Always check the expiry date before purchasing.
• Choose pesticides from reputed brands and ensure you get a bill from the vendor.

2. Precautions During Storage:

• Keep pesticides out of reach of children and animals.
• Do not store them alongside food or fodder.
• Avoid storing them indoors or exposing them to sunlight or rain.

3. Precautions While Bringing Pesticides Home:

• Do not carry pesticides along with food.
• Avoid carrying them on the head, shoulder, or back.

4. Precautions While Mixing Pesticides:

• Wear a mask, gloves, and cap when preparing the mixture.
• Use the recommended quantity of pesticide.
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke while mixing.
• Avoid inhaling the mixture and prepare it cautiously.

5. Precautions During Spraying:

• Do not spray during intense sunlight or windy conditions.
• Use the correct nozzle and avoid using defective spraying equipment.
• Make sure your body is fully covered during spraying.

6. Precautions After Spraying:

• After spraying, wash the sprayer and other tools with soap and dry them.
• Place a red flag in the field to keep animals and workers away from the treated area.
• Do not dispose of the leftover mixture in ponds or water sources.
• Wash your body thoroughly with soap and take a bath.

Pesticides act as a protective shield for crops, but it is essential to follow the correct usage guidelines and precautions. By using pesticides with proper planning and equipment, farmers can increase crop productivity and reduce production costs. By adopting modern technologies and raising awareness, agriculture can be made more profitable and safer for everyone involved.