What should be done with materials used to absorb a pesticide spill?

The appropriate action for materials used to absorb a pesticide spill is to seal them in a drum for hazardous waste. This is crucial because pesticide spills can contain chemicals that are harmful to human health and the environment. By sealing these materials in a designated hazardous waste drum, you ensure that they are handled in compliance with safety regulations and are disposed of in a manner that minimizes the risk of exposure or contamination.

Using regular trash for disposal does not consider the potential hazards associated with the absorbed pesticides, and washing and reusing the materials might not effectively eliminate the toxic residues, posing a risk for future use. Composting is not a viable option as pesticides, even if labeled as non-toxic, can still have adverse effects on soil and water quality. Therefore, sealing the absorbed materials in a hazardous waste drum is the most responsible and safe method of disposal.