Preparing for a Pesticide Collection Event - PUB2888

This guidance document outlines some best management practices to help ensure safety of human health and the environment while preparing for a pesticide collection and traveling with the pesticide to an event. Remember to always read the product's label for specific instructions because the label is the law.

Gathering waste pesticide in preparation of the event

• Always wear eye protection and nitrile or chemical resistant gloves when handling pesticides.
• Always keep pesticide in original fully labeled containers when possible.
• If label is missing, label container with what is believed to be inside.
• If a container is leaking, overpack the container into a larger leak proof container containing an absorbent.
• Never mix/consolidate different types of pesticide due to the possibility of a reaction occurring causing harmful fumes to be released.
• Never open a container of pesticide to smell it.
• Do not smoke when gathering waste pesticide.
• Keep flammables out of direct sunlight and away from sources of heat, spark, flame or ignition.

Safety precautions when traveling with a pesticide

• Secure containers to prevent them from turning over.
• Check to make sure all container lids are secure.
• Transport pesticide in the back of a truck, a trailer or in a car trunk.
• Make sure there is adequate ventilation if pesticide is transported inside the cab of a vehicle.
• Avoid bringing children and pets to the collection.
• Do not smoke while transporting pesticide in the cab of a vehicle.
• Upon entering the collection site stay in your vehicle and the contractor will unload the waste.

Hopefully these best management practices will keep you and others safe while protecting the environment when preparing for and traveling to a collection event. For more information about the Department’s pesticide collection program please visit the website.

Additional Information\

Missouri Pesticide Collection Program