Most herbicides can cause eye irritation. Iowa State University Extension recommends protective eye covering be used whenever handling, mixing, or applying herbicides.
Protective clothing, such as boots, gloves, and a respirator, should be used. Though herbicides are safe when used in accordance with the label, these precautions should be taken to avoid exposure. Some herbicides are listed by the "Danger: Poison" signal words, while others are given the "Caution" designation.
It is important to use the same precautions for all herbicide products to ensure that mixers, loaders, and applicators are protected when handling toxic products. These common herbicides require eye protection.
"Danger: Corrosive or can cause irreversible eye damage," is on the following herbicide labels. The labels recommend goggles or face shields to prevent eye injury. "Danger: Poison" with a skull and crossbones symbol refers to oral, dermal, or inhalation toxicity.
Aquathol K Assure II Atrazine DF Balan E.C. Blazer Bronco Butyrac 200 Cobra Commence Devrinol Formula 40 2,4-D amines Galaxy Hoelon Hydrothol Laddok Landmaster Lasso 4E MCPA amines Passport Pramitol Ramrod + Ranger Scepter OT Squadron Storm Sutazine + Tackle Velpar L Weedar 64
"Warning: Can cause substantial, but temporary eye damage", is on the labels of these herbicides. Goggles or face shields are generally recommended, especially when handling concentrates.
Alanap-L Atrazine Bladex Command Cropstar Dual 8E Extrazine II Freedom Gemini Hyvar XL Karmex DF Krenite S Lariat Lasso II Lorox Plus Option Passport Poast Pondmaster Prowl Ramrod Ramrod + Reflex Roundup Scepter 70DG Select Sonalan Tornado Treflan E.C. Tri-Scept
Most of these labels specify under the statement of practical treatment: if in eyes, flush with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Get medical attention or call a physician.
As previously indicated, ISU Extension recommends the use of protective equipment, including eye covering, whenever handling, mixing, loading, or applying herbicides, regardless of the cautionary statements on the labels. It is important to refer to the herbicide label whenever using a product. Know what the proper handling and storage procedures are, and follow these instructions.