Under the Worker Protection Standard, is training required for employees who only clean, repair, or adjust pesticide application equipment?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not specified
• D. Depends

Answer: (A)

Training is required because the Worker Protection Standard protects all workers who may be exposed to pesticides, not just those who mix or apply them. Even if someone’s job is only to clean, repair, or adjust pesticide application equipment, there can still be pesticide residues on that gear or in the equipment. Handling, cleaning, or maintaining a sprayer or other application device can bring residues into contact with skin, or release dust or aerosols that could be inhaled. The training teaches how pesticides pose risks, what PPE to wear, how to decontaminate, and the steps to take if exposure occurs, along with understanding label directions and any restricted-entry intervals. Because exposure is possible during maintenance work, this training is necessary.