Worker Protection Standard Reminder
As spring application activity continues across Illinois, Worker Protection Standard (WPS) compliance remains an important issue for IFCA members involved in pesticide handling, application, mixing, loading, and equipment maintenance activities.
Under current federal requirements, employees performing pesticide handling tasks must receive annual WPS handler training before conducting those activities unless exempt under EPA regulations. This requirement applies not only to applicators, but also to employees involved in mixing, loading, transferring pesticides, and repairing or maintaining equipment containing pesticide residues.
Licensed commercial applicators are exempt from WPS handler training requirements under federal law. Licensed operators are not exempt and must receive annual handler training before performing pesticide handling activities.
In addition to training requirements, Illinois members should continue reviewing:
- Application Exclusion Zone (AEZ) requirements
- PPE availability and inspection procedures
- Decontamination supply requirements
- Training documentation and record retention
- Label-specific safety requirements
- Emergency assistance procedures
As EPA continues expanding Endangered Species Act (ESA) mitigation requirements onto pesticide labels, members may also see increasing emphasis on application documentation, mitigation practices, and stewardship responsibilities during inspections and audits.
Spring application season is traditionally one of the busiest periods for pesticide compliance inspections and enforcement activity, making it important for facilities to review training records and compliance procedures before peak seasonal activity.
Additional WPS Resources:
EPA Worker Protection Standard Information
https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety
https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety
EPA Agricultural Worker Protection Standard Handbook
https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/agricultural-worker-protection-standard-wps
https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/agricultural-worker-protection-standard-wps