What should be done with written instructions from a supervisor after a pesticide application is completed?

Maintaining written instructions from a supervisor as part of pesticide records is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. Many jurisdictions mandate that detailed records of pesticide applications, including instructions and operational guidelines, be kept for a specified duration. This is crucial in the event of an audit or investigation into pesticide use practices.

Additionally, keeping these records helps to provide accountability and traceability of pesticide applications. In the case of an incident or adverse effect related to pesticide use, having a comprehensive record allows for a thorough evaluation of the circumstances surrounding the application, including adherence to the provided instructions.

Moreover, these records can serve as a valuable reference for future applications, helping to maintain consistency in procedures and safety practices. They act as an educational tool for employees, reinforcing the procedures that need to be followed to ensure safe and effective pesticide use.

On the contrary, destroying the written instructions would eliminate crucial information that could be necessary for regulatory compliance and operational safety. Filing them with contractor agreements does not meet the requirement for pesticide-specific documentation. Sharing with relevant authorities might be warranted under certain circumstances, but it's important that such sharing is done in compliance with data privacy and procedural guidelines, rather than as a standard practice after every application.