Worker Protection Standards
The Worker Protection Standard (WPS) applies to farm, forest, nursery and greenhouse operations that produce agricultural plants. The WPS is designed to protect agricultural workers and agricultural pesticide handlers from pesticide exposure. Revisions to the WPS became fully effective in 2018. Below are some useful links to help you understand and implement the standard.
How to Comply Manual
Useful
Respirator Information Links
Video: Respirator Fit Testing, & Employee Training in Use & Care (Expires June 3, 2021)
WPS Respiratory Protection Guide
EPA WPS General Information Website
EPA Approved Downloadable Training Materials (Workers, Handlers, Trainers, Employers)
EPA Approved Purchasable Training Materials (Flipcharts, How to Comply Guides, Posters, etc.)
Central Location Poster (download or purchase)
FDACS WPS and Worker Safety Website
FDACS 2020 WPS Materials Order Form
Important Points About EPA Approved Training Presentations:
Trainers of workers/handlers must be qualified by one of the following:
Hold a pesticide applicator's license, or
Complete an EPA-approved Train-the-Trainer course under the new requirements, or
Be designated as a trainer by the FDACS or a Tribal pesticide enforcement agency
Each EPA approved video or PowerPoint must be entirely presented. No content can be removed, but additional slides, photos and information can be added to enhance the presentation.
Refer to the notes section of each slide for important information to convey to those being trained.
Trainers must provide the training as required by the rule (40 CFR 170.401(b)C and/or 40 CFR 170.501(b)C). Effective January 2, 2017, pesticide safety training must be presented either orally from written materials or audio-visually, at a location that is reasonably free from distraction and conducive to training. All training materials must be EPA-approved. The training must be presented in a manner that can be understood. The trainer must be present during the entire training program and must respond to questions from those being trained.
Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Program
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