TDA REMINDS EMPLOYERS TO KEEP FARM WORKER & HANDLER

PESTICIDE SAFETY TRAINING CURRENT

AUSTIN - Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs reminds agricultural employers to be sure their workers and pesticide handlers are current on Worker Protection Standard training.

"WPS training requirements started in 1994. Workers and handlers must be trained every five years, unless they are licensed pesticide applicators. Many workers and handlers will pass that five-year point this year," Combs said.

"This type of training helps keep agricultural workers safe, and employers should always check to be sure workers are properly trained."

WPS training provides farm workers and other pesticide handlers the information they need to work safely around chemicals and treated areas as well as information on the federal Worker Protection Standard requirements.

After completing the WPS training course, participants receive U.S. Environmental Protection Agency cards that can be presented to employers. Training is offered in English and Spanish.

Licensed pesticide applicators may provide training to their employees by using EPA approved WPS training material. The Texas Department of Agriculture provides training sessions, and some county Texas Agricultural Extension Service offices have a copy of an English-language training video available for use.

For additional information, contact your regional Texas Department of Agriculture office or TDA in Austin at 1-800-TELL-TDA or (512) 463-7622.