What is the purpose of a containment dike during loading or cleaning a pesticide sprayer?

• A. To contain spills, rinsates, and runoff water
• B. To channel water into nearby streams
• C. To support the sprayer
• D. To store PPE

Answer: (A)

Containment during loading or cleaning is essential to prevent environmental contamination from pesticide spills, rinsates, and runoff. A containment dike acts as secondary containment, creating a barrier around the loading or cleaning area so any spilled liquid is captured and kept from reaching soil, drains, or water bodies. It should be sized to hold the largest expected spill plus a safety margin and lined with material that resists the pesticide. After use, the collected liquids must be managed according to label directions and local regulations; disposal should not be released to the environment or storm drains. This is not for channeling water to streams, nor for supporting the sprayer, nor for storing PPE.