Strawberries and Worker Safety – Part Two

Audio Report on Jun 14, 2010 by KQED QUEST staff from QUEST Northern California
Topics: Environment, Health, Radio

The Schwarzenegger Administration plans to approve a new chemical called methyl iodide, which is used by strawberry farmers. Although methyl iodide can cause cancer and miscarriages, regulators say that protective measures like respirators and buffer zones will keep farm workers safe. Scientists consulting for the state say these measures often fail, and methyl iodide is too toxic to take chances. Amy Standen reports.

Additional Links

• Reporter's Notes: Strawberries and Worker Safety - Part Two
• Pesticide Action Network
• EPA Pesticide Fact Sheet: Methyl Iodide