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

The initial action to take when handling a pesticide spill is to protect yourself and others from exposure. This is crucial because the immediate safety of all individuals in the vicinity must be prioritized to prevent any harmful health effects. Exposure to pesticides can lead to serious health risks, so ensuring that everyone is safe, possibly by evacuating the area or using protective gear, is essential before any other measures are taken.

Once safety has been established, the next steps can include containing and controlling the spill, reporting it to the relevant authorities, and eventually cleaning it up. However, those actions follow the critical first step of ensuring the safety of all personnel and bystanders involved. This approach minimizes the risk of exposure and establishes a foundation for effectively managing the situation.