Use of a Survey as an Educational Tool for Recordkeeping

Carol A. Ramsay, Carrie R. Foss

Abstract

Washington State University conducted training sessions emphasizing pesticide applicator recordkeeping at fourteen different locations in 2002. The purpose was to measure knowledge of recordkeeping requirements before and after the training programs. The training included a self-reporting survey on recordkeeping, a fact sheet, a short presentation, and a post-training survey six months later. The survey measured applicator demographics, specific records kept, and measurement methodology. The pre- and post-training survey data were compared to assess the success of the educational emphasis. The findings show that most applicators had prior knowledge of state recordkeeping requirements, which exceed those required by the United States Department of Agriculture for private applicators. The survey also indicated an overall increase in recordkeeping knowledge after training. On those facets of recordkeeping that were less well known (specifically, use of weather measurement instrumentation and in-field placement of these tools), applicators would benefit from further education. In-class responses and discussion indicated the survey was a useful tool and an enjoyable way to discuss this material.

Keywords: pesticide, safety, education, recordkeeping, survey, tools
Full Text: 12-44-1-PB.pdf

Program Description - pages 15 to 23

Instrumentation to Document Environmental Conditions during Pesticide Applications

Robert E. Wolf, Patricia A. Hipkins

Abstract

Proper and accurate assessment of weather conditions before and during an application is necessary to make sound decisions regarding application timing. In addition, good records document proper use in case of a complaint. Simple, relatively inexpensive instruments can be used to measure wind direction and speed as well as other environmental conditions (e.g., temperature and humidity). This article discusses how weather conditions can be measured at a pesticide application site.

Keywords: pesticide, application, timing, weather data, wind, records, drift

Full Text: 13-47-1-PB.pdf

Research Study - pages 24 to 33

Non-English Language Needs for Pesticide Safety Education

Jennifer Weber, Gerald Kinro, Suzanne Snedeker, Sabina F. Swift

Abstract

Changes in the demographics of the United States agricultural workforce, specifically occupations requiring employees to handle pesticides, or work in areas where pesticides have been applied, have led to increased needs for non-English language training materials. A study was performed to assess the linguistic needs of these agricultural employees. Results of this study indicate a need for development of pesticide safety materials in many of the over 50 non-English languages spoken or read by agricultural workers.

Keywords: pesticide, workers, non-English, language, safety, education, employees

Full Text: 14-52-1-PB.pdf