What is crucial to have on hand during pesticide application to prepare for spills?

Having a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) readily available during pesticide application is essential for effective spill management. The MSDS includes vital information about the chemical properties of the pesticide, such as its toxicity, potential hazards, first aid measures, and emergency procedures in case of exposure or spills. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring the safety of both the applicator and the environment.

In the event of a spill, the MSDS guides the response actions to minimize harm. For example, it may specify the appropriate personal protective equipment to wear during cleanup or outline specific containment and cleanup procedures tailored to the product involved.

While other options might seem relevant for overall safety—like having a first aid kit for emergencies or personal protective equipment for safety during application—they do not provide the specific guidance needed to respond effectively to a pesticide spill. Having pesticide residue analysis tools is helpful for testing and analysis but would not assist in immediate spill response, making the MSDS the most crucial item to have on hand during pesticide applications.