NEWS & VIEWS • SEPTEMBER 2025 29 Industry Guidance and Best Practice Beyond legal requirements, the forestry sector benefits from guidance provided by industry bodies like: • CropLife South Africa, which promotes responsible pesticide stewardship, including best practices for PPE use, product handling, and disposal. • The Timber Industry Pesticide Working Group (TIPWG), which supports sustainable pesticide management within the forestry sector. TIPWG’s website (www.tipwg.co.za) provides resources, safety updates, and practical advice on pesticide-related matters, including safe handling and environmental responsibility. Best Practices for PPE Use in Forestry • Inspect PPE Before Use: Ensure no damage or wear that could reduce effectiveness. • Ensure Proper Fit and Comfort: PPE must fit well to be effective, especially respirators and gloves. • Clean and Store PPE Correctly: Follow manufacturer guidelines and avoid crosscontamination. • Train and Supervise: Workers must be trained to understand the importance of PPE, how to use it correctly, and how to recognize signs of pesticide exposure. • Be Mindful of Heat Stress: Forestry work in PPE can increase the risk of heat exhaustion. Implement shaded rest areas and hydration breaks. Conclusion In the forestry industry, protecting forests and ecosystems must go hand in hand with protecting the people who care for them. PPE is a frontline defense that significantly reduces pesticide exposure and ensures compliance with legal and ethical standards. By prioritizing PPE use, guided by the pesticide label, national legislation, and resources from organisations like CropLife SA and TIPWG, we foster a safer, healthier workforce and a more responsible forestry sector. For more information on PPE and safe pesticide practices, visit: • CropLife SA • TIPWG • Department of Employment and Labour for OHS legislation and guidance.
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