Regulations for the use of agricultural pesticides: 7 prohibitions to protect humans and the environment
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance food safety and protect public health, the Agricultural Extension Department of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has emphasized the need to adhere to a set of strict controls when transporting and using agricultural pesticides. These guidelines are part of the Ministry's strategy to raise awareness among farmers about the importance of sound agricultural practices that ensure the safety of the final product and maintain ecological balance.
The importance of adhering to international standards
These guidelines are of paramount importance given the global trend towards sustainable agriculture and minimizing the chemical impact on crops. Experts emphasize that the improper application of pesticides not only threatens the health of farmers and consumers but also negatively affects soil and groundwater quality, potentially harming the export capacity of national agricultural products. Therefore, adhering to approved technical guidelines is a fundamental pillar for ensuring effective pest control without compromising food security.
Safe transport and storage controls
Agricultural extension clarified that the pesticide transport stage is one of the most dangerous stages that requires complete vigilance, emphasizing the following points:
- Inspecting the containers: Ensure the containers are intact and tightly sealed before loading to prevent any chemical leakage.
- Strict separation: It is strictly forbidden to transport pesticides with food, animal feed, or any consumer goods, to avoid accidental contamination that could lead to health disasters.
- Emergency procedures: In the event of a leak inside the vehicle, it must be washed immediately with soap and water to remove toxic traces before reuse.
Spraying and personal protection protocols
Regarding field application, the ministry has established several requirements to ensure worker safety, most notably the necessity of wearing protective clothing and masks to minimize direct exposure to chemicals. It also called for the selection of trained and qualified personnel to handle these hazardous materials and the use of spraying equipment appropriate for the type of crop to ensure even distribution.
Spraying timing and protection of natural pollination
The ministry emphasized the importance of choosing the appropriate time for spraying, recommending early morning or before sunset to avoid pesticide evaporation due to heat and to ensure plant absorption. In the context of preserving biodiversity, the ministry warned against:
- Spraying during flowering: because it has a devastating effect on bees and beneficial insects that carry out pollination, which may lead to a decrease in crop productivity.
- Spraying stressed plants: The use of pesticides on plants suffering from thirst is prohibited, as their pores are closed and their tolerance is weak, which may lead to the death of the plant instead of treating it.
The ministry concluded its warnings by prohibiting smoking or eating during spraying, to avoid the transfer of toxins to the body, stressing that adherence to these standards is the best way to achieve clean and safe agriculture.
