What is a key practice to prevent leaks or spills during pesticide handling?

• A. Ignore minor spills and continue
• B. Store in heat with no ventilation
• C. Use secondary containment and inspect for leaks
• D. Mix pesticides with water on the ground

Answer: (C)

Preventing leaks and spills during pesticide handling relies on keeping pesticides contained and checking for problems before and during use. Secondary containment provides an extra layer around each container—a tray, basin, or berm—that catches any drips, leaks, or spills so they don’t reach floors or soil. Regular inspections of all equipment and containers are essential; look for cracks, worn caps, loose hoses, or pooling around fittings, and repair or replace parts before continuing. This approach minimizes worker exposure, prevents environmental contamination, and reduces waste and cleanup costs.

Ignore small spills, store pesticides in hot, unventilated areas, or mix pesticides with water on the ground all pose clear risks. Ignoring spills lets problems grow and spread; heat and poor ventilation can release harmful vapors and create fire hazards; mixing on the ground increases runoff and wide-area contamination rather than containing it.