JPSE v4 - Abstract - Pesticide Safety Education Centers: A Feasibility Study

Abstract

Journal of Pesticide Safety Education, 2002, Volume 4, Pages 10-21.

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Pesticide Safety Education Centers: A Feasibility Study

Barry M. Brennan , Extension Pesticide Coordinator, Plant and Environmental Protection Science Department, Gilmore Hall 310, 3050 Maile Way, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI 96822. barry@hpirs.stjohn.hawaii.edu

Pesticide education and safety training are critical to reducing personal and environmental exposure to pesticides. It is essential that pesticide safety instructors and state regulatory personnel be able to demonstrate an understanding of pesticide use, classification, regulation, toxicology, and environmental fate. Their credibility with applicators and the general public also requires that they develop effective communication and instructional skills. The feasibility of establishing Pesticide Safety Education Centers to train extension pesticide safety instructors and state and federal regulatory personnel was examined. Possible instructors and trainee groups were identified, mission and goals of a PSEC were defined, existing training models were examined, staff requirements were considered, sources of funding were explored, and a training evaluation system was suggested

Keywords: pesticide safety education, center, feasibility, study, training, model, demonstration, professional, development