ABSTRACT
The California pesticide safety program is discussed from the standpoint of a physician practicing in the agriculture-rich San Joaquin Valley.
Eight components of the program are presented: (1) mandatory reporting, (2) tracking of pesticide sales, transportation and use, (3) cholinesterase testing for applicators, (4) integrated pest management, (5) Pest Control Advisors, (6) safety and pest control operator programs, (7) physician education, and (8) pesticide regulation.
Key points of each component are discussed with recommendations for improvement.