7 Precautions for Safe Pesticide Use | Saudi Ministry of Environment Guide

The Agricultural Guidance Center of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued a set of important guidelines and instructions aimed at regulating the transport and use of agricultural pesticides, stressing that compliance with these controls is a fundamental pillar to ensure the safety of humans and the environment, and to achieve maximum effectiveness in agricultural pest control operations.

General context and importance of regulating pesticide use

This emphasis comes within the framework of global and local efforts to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Historically, the Green Revolution of the mid-20th century led to increased reliance on chemical pesticides to boost food production, but over time, environmental and health challenges have emerged as a result of the irrational use of these substances. Hence, the need arose for strict legislation that balances the necessity of protecting crops from pests with the preservation of ecosystems and consumer health, which aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 in achieving sustainable food security.

Essential precautions when transporting and handling pesticides

The agricultural extension service explained that the pesticide transport stage requires extreme care as it is a critical phase. The guidelines included the following:

• Inspection of containers: Ensure that pesticide containers are safe and tightly sealed before loading them onto transport to prevent any leakage that could pollute the environment or endanger individuals.
• Strict separation: It is strictly forbidden to transport pesticides with any other materials, especially food or animal feed, to avoid the risk of accidental contamination which could have serious consequences for the food chain.
• Dealing with a leak: In the event of any leak within the vehicle, it must be stopped immediately and the leak area washed with soap and water to ensure the removal of any harmful chemical residues.

Preventive measures before and during the spraying process

To ensure a safe and effective spraying process, the ministry stressed seven prohibitions and basic procedures that farmers and workers must adhere to:

1. Reading the instructions: The instructions written on the pesticide container must be read carefully and strictly adhered to, as they are the primary reference for recommended doses, usage times, and safety periods.
2. Wearing protective clothing: It is essential to wear clothing, masks, and gloves specifically designed for spraying work, to avoid direct exposure to chemicals through the skin or inhalation.
3. Selecting trained personnel: The spraying task should be assigned to trained and qualified personnel who can handle pesticides, and appropriate spraying machines should be used and properly calibrated to ensure uniform distribution of the pesticide.
4. Eating and smoking are prohibited: Eating, drinking, or smoking is strictly prohibited during the spraying process to avoid the transfer of toxic substances into the body.
5. Choosing the right time: It is preferable to spray in the early morning or before sunset, when temperatures are low and winds are calm, which reduces the evaporation of the pesticide and increases its effectiveness.
6. Avoid spraying during flowering: Spraying plants during the flowering period is prohibited to protect beneficial insects such as bees, which play a vital role in pollination and the continuity of agricultural production.
7. Consider the condition of the plant: Spraying plants that are suffering from thirst or stress should be avoided, as this may increase their damage and negatively affect their health.

Local and international impact of adherence to standards

The application of these standards not only protects farmers and the local environment but also enhances the quality and safety of Saudi agricultural products. Internationally, global markets, particularly in Europe, have stringent standards regarding maximum residue limits (MRLs). Therefore, Saudi farmers' adherence to these guidelines contributes to increasing the competitiveness of national products and facilitating their access to global markets, thus supporting the national economy and enhancing the reputation of the agricultural sector in the Kingdom.