Farmers Alert! Here's How to Dispose of Pesticide Containers – Dos & Don’ts

Pesticides are an important chemical for crop protection and sustaining production by managing the pests and diseases during the cultivation and post-harvest practices. These chemicals are used to protect the crops from pests and diseases. All pesticide users have the responsibility to properly dispose of pesticide wastes, such as unused chemicals and pesticide containers.

Improperly disposed of pesticide wastes can create serious hazards for humans, animals, and the environment. Reducing pesticide waste requires careful selection of the correct pesticide and correct quantity and careful calculation of the amount of pesticide needed for each application.

For safe disposal of pesticides and their containers following dos and don’ts should be taken care:

Dos

• Check the label before disposing of leftover pesticides and recycling pesticide containers. Follow the disposal directions on the label for more specific or special requirements.

• Left over Pesticides should be disposed of in a safer place viz. barren isolated area.

• The used or empty containers should be crushed with stone and buried deep in soil away from habitation.

• Wash hands and face with clean water and soap before eating or smoking.

• On observing poisoning symptoms give the first aid and show the patient to doctor. Also show the empty container to doctor.

• Spray pump should be washed and any residual insecticide should be flushed from the lance and nozzle.

• Decontaminate containers where possible. For glass, plastic or metal containers this can be achieved by triple rinsing, i.e. part-filling the empty container with water three times and emptying into a bucket or sprayer for the next application. Always wear protective gloves while rinsing the containers.

Steps for Triple-rinsing Empty Containers:

• Fill the pesticide container ¼ full of clean water, replace the cap, and shake the container for 30 seconds. Pour rinse water into the sprayer.

• Repeat two additional times, shaking the container in different directions.

• Carefully rinse the outside of the container and the cap over the sprayer (or bucket to catch rinse water).

• Dispose of the cap as regular household waste, and dispose of or recycle containers according to local regulations.

• Apply the diluted rinse material according to the label directions.

Don’ts

• Never pour leftover spray solution pesticides down the drain, on the ground, or in a storm sewer and near the ponds. It can lead to water and environmental pollution.

• Empty containers of pesticides should not be re-used for storing other articles.

• Never eat or smoke before washing clothes and taking bath.

• Unless directed by the pesticide label, do not bury or burn pesticides and/or pesticide containers.

• Do not take the risk by not showing the poisoning symptoms to the doctor as it may endanger the life of the patient.