Next Board Meeting: January 16, 2019

The 78th Agricultural Trades Show is almost here!

Jan 15-17, 2019 at the Augusta Civic Center.

Sessions offering re-certification credits updated January 14.
Respirator Fit Testing by Cumberland County Extension and Maine Labor Group on Health

Tuesday, January 15 and Wednesday, January 16, 2019, at the Ag Trades Show.

Pre-registration is required. Record of a medical evaluation, and the respirator to be used must be present. Registration costs $15.

Under the revised Worker Protection Standards, anyone applying pesticides that require the use of a respirator, must complete (and maintain a record of) a respirator fit test. Respirator fit tests must be completed with the same make, model, size, and style of respirator that will be used in the field. Prior to respirator fit testing, each applicator must pass (and maintain a record of) a medical evaluation demonstrating they are physically fit enough to wear a respirator.

For more information, and to register, go here.

WHAT'S NEW

BPC Online Portal

The BPC Online Portal provides access to all Pesticide Applicator information, such as license expiration dates, exam scores, credits earned. The site can also be used to apply for exams and licenses and to renew licenses.Go here to get started.

LOGIN to BPC Online Portal

List of Licensed Companies Offering Control of Invasive Terrestrial Plants (GotPests site)

Worker Protection Training videos for Greenhouse Workers and Handlers created by Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health at Penn State

Browntail Moth—The caterpillars of the browntail moth release tiny hairs that cause itchy rashes and sometimes respiratory distress. In July and August the moths can be seen on structures. They have a wingspread of about 1 1/2 inches and are strongly attracted to light. Wings and midsection are pure white while the abdomen (rear part of the body) is brown with a conspicuous tuft of brown hairs at the tip. Fall is a good time to plan for next year—learn about removing nests during the winter.