Frequently Asked Questions

• Call 9-1-1 if you are feeling sick and need immediate medical assistance.
• Contact your health care provider or the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222 if you are concerned about exposure and health effects.
• For more information on reporting work-related pesticides exposures, contact the Environmental Surveillance and Toxicology Branch at 512-776-7269 or epitox@dshs.texas.gov.

The clinical symptoms of acute occupational pesticide poisoning vary depending on the type of pesticide, the route of exposure, and the duration of exposure. It is important to determine exposure history and/or other occupational information. Examples of common symptoms include:

Upset stomach                            Drooling                                                  Dizziness

Watery Eyes                                Excessive Sweating                                 Skin irritation/Rash

Runny Nose                                Tingling/Numbness                                 Difficulty breathing

• Pesticides are poisons! Follow the label instructions on each product.
• Keep products in their original containers.
• Never mix cleaning products, especially ones that contain bleach!
• Use pesticides in well-ventilated areas.
• Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs when you work with pesticides.
• Wear respirators, chemical-resistant gloves, and other protective gear, as indicated on the product label or safety data sheet.
• Wash your hands with soap and water after working around pesticides or plants treated with pesticides.
• Avoid storing liquid chemicals on upper shelves. Store them on the lowest shelves to keep leaks from mixing with other chemicals.
• Ask your employer about possible toxic effects of the chemicals you use at work.
• Employers must provide you with the information, training and equipment needed to keep you safe.

• Take off your boots, hat, gloves, and work clothes before entering your home or car.
• Wash your work clothes with soap and hot water after every wear. Wash your work clothes separate from the family’s laundry.
• Keep chemicals and cleaners in your home or garage locked up in a low shelf to protect children from exposure. 
• Keep chemicals and cleaners in their original containers. Leave original labels on all products and read the labels before using. Do not transfer chemicals into different containers.