Pesticides – safe use

Pest control operators (PCOs) are most at risk of pesticide exposure, since they work with pesticides all the time. Therefore PCOs must ensure they follow best practice to protect themselves from any potential adverse health effects.

PCOs also have a legislative responsibility and duty of care to use pesticides safely to reduce the risk to the public, animals and the environment from the harmful effects of pesticides.

The department has produced information to help PCOs comply with relevant legislation and strive for industry best practice.

Pesticide health risk assessments

The department recommends that pest control operators conduct a pesticide health risk assessment for every pesticide they use.

Pesticide use and personal protective equipment

The correct personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used for the type of pesticide, and it must be fitted and maintained properly.

Safety data sheets (SDS)

If you are a pest control operator in Victoria, you must have a Material safety data sheet for every pesticide you use.

Falls prevention for pest control operators

In Victoria, workplace health and safety legislation is designed to prevent workplace falls.

Pesticide classes and associated hazards

Pesticides belong to different chemical classes, or chemical families or groups. Always try to use the pesticide class with the lowest toxicity.

Pesticide use, transport and storage

Pesticide use, transport and storage is regulated in Victoria by several pieces of legislation. Always read and follow the pesticide label.

Beaufort wind scale for pesticide spraying

Pest control operators need to be aware of wind conditions and the Beaufort scale, as some conditions are not ideal for spraying pesticides.

Pesticides - managing spills and disposals

Follow the Material safety data sheet and label to manage a small pesticide spill. Large spills must be reported to the EPA Victoria.

Fumigated shipping containers

WorkSafe Victoria has developed two health and safety solutions for fumigators and unpackers who work with fumigated shipping containers.

Pesticides in non-agricultural workplaces

People working in pest management can refer to guidelines to help them understand and comply with pest control legislation in Victoria.

Glue traps for pest control

In Victoria, glue traps can only be sold to and used by pest commercial pest control operators. They are not available for the general public to buy and use.

Reviewed 11 December 2024

Health.vic

Contact details

Pesticide Safety Program

pesticidesafety@health.vic.gov.au