Can farm workers under the age of 18 who are not immediate family handle pesticides?

Farm workers under the age of 18 who are not immediate family members cannot handle pesticides due to strict regulations and safety protocols designed to protect young workers from the risks associated with pesticide exposure. These regulations are in place because children and adolescents may be more vulnerable to the harmful effects of chemicals, which can impact their health and development.

In many jurisdictions, laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act clearly specify the age restrictions around hazardous work, including handling pesticides, reinforcing the need for a safe working environment. By prohibiting this activity, the regulations aim to minimize potential health risks for young individuals while recognizing the responsibility of farm employers to protect all employees, especially those who are still developing. This commitment to safety underlines the importance of proper training and supervision in agricultural settings, but for those under 18 and not part of an immediate family, handling pesticides is considered too dangerous.