Writer: Christi Boening, (979) 862-1556,workn1@neo.tamu.edu
Contact: Dr. Don Renchie, (979) 845-3849,d-renchie@tamu.edu
COLLEGE STATION – Recent national events have caused a heightened awareness of inspecting and evaluating pesticide security programs. Dr. Don Renchie, Texas Cooperative Extension agricultural and environmental safety specialist, said federal and state regulatory officials are asking agricultural pesticide users to review and update their security programs.
“Each of us is asked to conduct a thorough inspection of our pesticide and pesticide equipments’ storage facilities to locate and eliminate any weak areas,” Renchie said. “Any inspection should be aimed at removing the risk of unauthorized entry into pesticide storage facilities. In addition, and most important, is the prevention of pesticide removal by unauthorized persons.”
Renchie recommends a few tips, based on advice from federal and state experts.
Store pesticides in a separate location, preferably in a locked storage building dedicated for just that purpose. Separate pesticides by use (insecticides with insecticides, herbicides with herbicides, etc.), and, when practical, store application equipment separately, under lock and key.
Always lock pesticide storage cabinets, closets, rooms and buildings. Locks should be case hardened, tamper-resistant and in top working order. Use cable seal locks to secure individual storage containers.
Keep perimeter fences six to eight feet tall, with appropriate signs posted (Danger – Pesticides and No Smoking) and dusk to dawn security lighting supplied. Limit access to appropriate personnel, and tightly control access keys. Thoroughly scrutinize any unauthorized personnel.
Maintain thorough stock records and perform frequent inventories. Also, establish contact with local law enforcement and fire authorities.
“Security also involves being alert to unusual or suspicious actions,” he said. “Indications that something is amiss may include unusual behavior by a purchaser or individual.”
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