PPE for Early-Entry Workers

Worker employers must provide their early-entry workers with the early-entry PPE that is required by the pesticide label, ensure that they wear the PPE, and ensure that they use the PPE correctly.

PPE must be provided in clean and operating condition to each early-entry worker. Employers are required to see that PPE is inspected before each day of use for leaks, tears, holes, or worn places; and any damaged equipment must be repaired or safely discarded. Employers must make sure that early-entry workers wear PPE correctly for its intended purpose and use it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Employers should also take any necessary steps to prevent heat illness while employees are wearing PPE.

Early-entry workers should be provided with clean places away from pesticide storage and pesticide use areas to store their personal clothing when it is not in use, put on PPE at the start of any exposure period, and take off PPE at the end of any exposure period. Early-entry workers should not be allowed to wear home or take home PPE that is contaminated with pesticides.

To learn more about Pesticide Worker Safety visit our Pesticide Worker Safety Online Training web page.