MSU Pesticide Safety Education Program releases educational videos to support pesticide training
Print
EmailThe Michigan State University Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program has a new series of educational videos to support pesticide safety training efforts across Michigan.
Effective pesticide education relies on clear explanations, visual demonstrations and consistent safety messaging. To support these efforts, the Michigan State University (MSU) Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) has developed a new series of educational videos for Extension educators, crop advisers, industry trainers and other agricultural professionals. These tools are intended to enhance training quality, reinforce key safety principles and strengthen pesticide stewardship across Michigan.
Created through a train-the-trainer initiative in partnership with Michigan State University Extension and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), these ready-to-use videos provide practical instructional support for certification preparation and can be incorporated into programs offering restricted use pesticide (RUP) recertification credits.
Practical demonstrations for real-world application
The current video series highlights three essential areas of pesticide safety and application:
Pesticide spill kit demonstration
This video walks viewers through the proper use of a pesticide spill kit, including how to contain, control and clean up accidental pesticide spills. The demonstration emphasizes preparation, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper disposal procedures and steps to minimize environmental contamination. This resource helps reinforce emergency response readiness and regulatory compliance.
Field crops and backpack sprayer demonstration
Accurate application is critical for both efficacy and environmental stewardship. This video demonstrates the operation and calibration principles for field crop sprayers and backpack sprayers. Viewers learn key concepts related to spray output and uniform coverage. The demonstration supports applicators in improving precision and reducing the risk of misapplication.
Pesticide formulation demonstration
Understanding pesticide formulations is fundamental to safe handling and proper mixing. This video explains common formulation types and visually demonstrates how they behave when mixed. It helps applicators understand how formulation affects mixing procedures, equipment selection, safety considerations and overall performance.
Supporting trainers and strengthening education
These videos were developed to strengthen the consistency and quality of pesticide safety messaging delivered across the state. By providing clear demonstrations, the series enhances the trainer’s ability to explain technical concepts in an engaging and practical format.
The videos can be used in:
- In-person workshops and field demonstrations
- Virtual or hybrid educational programs
- Study sessions for certification exam preparation
- Approved programs offering RUP recertification credits
Access the full collection of PSEP educational videos
Extension educators and other training partners are encouraged to explore these resources and incorporate them into upcoming pesticide education programs to enhance applicator knowledge, safety and compliance throughout Michigan.
We welcome your feedback on the new PSEP educational videos. A short survey is available at the bottom of each video on the PSEP Educational Videos webpage. Your input will help us understand how the videos are being used in trainings, what is most helpful and what additional resources could be developed in the future
For certification and recertification frequently asked questions, visit the MSU PSEP FAQs or the MDARD FAQs. To see your current credit status, click Applicator credit report.
