Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

What is the first action to take when a pesticide spill happens?

1. Notify authorities

2. Evacuate the area

3. Contain the spill

4. Clean up immediately

The correct answer is: Contain the spill

When a pesticide spill occurs, the priority is to contain the spill to prevent further dispersion of the harmful material. This action helps to limit the potential impact on the environment, human health, and nearby non-target areas. By containing the spill, you can minimize the exposure risk to people, plants, and animals, as well as reduce the area that will need to be cleaned up later. Containment may involve using absorbent materials, creating barriers, or employing specialized equipment to stop the spread of the pesticide. This step is critical because it buys time for further actions, such as notifying authorities or evacuating the area if necessary, while ensuring that the situation does not worsen. Once the spill is contained, it would then be appropriate to assess the need for evacuation, notify relevant authorities, and proceed with appropriate clean-up measures following safety protocols and regulations.