Who must ensure compliance with the Worker Protection Standard on a job?

The employer or supervisor is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Worker Protection Standard (WPS) on a job. This standard is put in place to protect agricultural workers and pesticide handlers from the potential hazards associated with pesticides. The employer has a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment, which includes adequate training, access to necessary safety equipment, and adherence to labeling requirements and safety precautions outlined in the regulations. By ensuring compliance with WPS, the employer helps to mitigate risks of pesticide exposure and promotes the health and safety of their workers.

While other parties, such as pesticide distributors or state regulatory agencies, play roles in the distribution and monitoring of pesticides, the primary responsibility for worker safety and compliance with the WPS lies with the employer and supervisor on the job site. Employees also have a role in following safety protocols, but the ultimate responsibility for compliance rests with the employer/supervisor.