Hazards and Application Safety
Since antimicrobial pesticides are designed by nature to kill microorganisms, it is safe to say that most products included in this category are potentially harmful and even toxic to humans or animals. About a third of the pesticide illnesses reported annually in California are associated with antimicrobial use. Most illnesses are minor, such as an employee accidentally splashing bleach into their eyes, developing a rash on unprotected skin or suffering respiratory problems from inhaling vapors. However, serious illnesses can also occur, for example, mixing ammonia and bleach releases toxic hydrogen chloride gas. Never mix two cleaning products together unless the label clearly states it is acceptable. Additionally, repeated overexposure to some antimicrobial pesticides can cause chronic health problems for workers. Care should be taken when mixing and applying these products. Always wear proper personal protective equipment and if an exposure to skin or eyes occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes.
Toxic substances in these products can cause serious health problems if inhaled or ingested. People respond to toxic substances in different ways because what affects one person adversely may have little or no effect on another person. Seek medical attention or call the Poison Control Center if you or someone else accidentally inhales or ingests a toxic substance.
Worker health and safety requirements for antimicrobial pesticides closely parallel those for other hazardous materials administered by Cal/OSHA. Some of the worker health and safety requirements include:
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Following all directions and recommendations for product application on container labels
Training in hazard communication
Retaining employee exposure and training records
Employee use of personal protective equipment such as eye protection, face protection, gloves, and aprons
Keeping materials in the original, labeled container
labeling spray bottles with diluted or full strength chemicals properly
using products in a well ventilated area or providing additional ventilation