Pesticides

Pesticides are chemicals that are formulated to kill or prevent reproduction in a variety of pests such as insects, rodents, weeds, and microbes. All pesticides are required to be registered by the EPA. In New York State, in 1995, the Attorney General surveyed hospitals in the state and found all but three of them used pesticides. The science regarding health effects and pesticide exposures is creating mounting evidence that we must proceed with much caution when trying to control pests.
From 'Environmental Health in the Healthcare Setting,' by Barbara Sattler, DrPH, RN

Human Health Effects Associated With Pesticides
Acute Effects

• Irritation of eyes, nose, throat and skin
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Coughing, wheezing, and asthma events
• Headaches, dizziness, and loss of consciousness

Chronic Effects

• Cancer
• Reproductive and developmental dysfunction
• Endocrine disruption
• Immunological and neurological dysfunction
• Respiratory disease
• Behavioral impairment
• Skin conditions

Physicians for Social Responsibility, 2000

 

On the Web

Agency for Toxic Substance Disease Registry (ATSDR)
For fact sheets and information on pesticides

• Web site: www.atsdr.cdc.gov/
•  Information Center toll-free at 1-888-422-8737 or email
•  Emergency Response Hotline: 404-639-4270

From the EPA

• www.epa.gov/pesticides
• Integrated Pest Management - www.epa.gov/pesticides/ipm/#fact

National Pesticide Information Center
npic.orst.edu/

Physicians for Social Responsibility
www.psrla.org/env_pesticides.htm

Beyond Pesticides
www.beyondpesticides.org/

Nursing Practice

The Workplace, The Environment, and You

Environmental Hazards

• Dioxins
• Incineration
• Medical Pollution
• Mercury
• Pesticides
• PVC & DEHP

Workplace Hazards

• Back Injuries
• Latex Allergy
• Needlestick Injury
• Toxic Chemicals
• Workload Issues
• Workplace Violence

Chemical Policy Reform

• Environmental Health Competency
• Louisville Charter
• Pharmaceutical Waste Management
• Precautionary Principle

News & Events

Links

• Environmental Organizations
• Government Agencies
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Health & Safety Committee

• Purpose & Goals