Pesticides
Pesticides can prevent, destroy, or reduce the spread of pests.
The term pesticide applies to:
- herbicides — which kill weeds
- insecticides — which kill insects
- bactericide — which kill bacteria
- fungicides — which kill fungi
Pesticides contain active ingredients that control pests.
The body functions that are changed may be similar in other species – including people and our pets.
Symptoms of pesticide poisoning can range from mild to severe. In severe cases, pesticide poisoning can be life threatening.
If you have been poisoned by pesticides, you should call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26. In an emergency call triple zero (000) for an ambulance.
Symptoms occur within 2 days of exposure to a pesticide.
Symptoms can include:
- headache
- irritated skin and eyes
- sore throat or cough
- diarrhoea
- nausea and vomiting
- extreme weakness
- unconsciousness
- seizure
If poisoning has been caused by exposure to low levels of pesticide over a long period of time, it may take longer for symptoms to appear. This is called chronic poisoning. Symptoms of chronic poisoning include:
- muscle weakness and fatigue
- difficulties with concentration and memory
- generally feeling unwell
Your doctor will examine you and will ask you some questions. They may ask you:
- what pesticide you were exposed to (you may need to refer to the bottle or packet)
- how much pesticide you were exposed to
- when and how you were exposed (mouth, airways, eye or skin contact)
- what symptoms you have
They may also arrange for you to have some blood tests.
Your doctor will need to work out how harmful the pesticide is and treat you accordingly.
You may also have treatment to relieve symptoms (such as pain relief).
It is important to only use pesticides when necessary, and according to the directions on the label.
Safety equipment when using pesticides
It’s important to use safety equipment and wear appropriate protection when using pesticides such as:
- gloves
- safety glasses
- protective clothing
- respirator
Other safety measures
Other safety measures include:
- keeping pesticides out of reach of children
- avoid using pesticides near children, pregnant women or older people
- throwing out unwanted pesticides at your nearest hazardous waste disposal service
Children absorb more chemicals through their skin than adults.
References
Queensland Government (Pesticides), Victoria – Department of Health (Pesticide classes and associated hazards), NSW Poisons Information Centre (Poisons Information hotline), Patient (Are pesticides harmful to humans?)
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