-- revision 4 -- october 20, 2017 - cornell university · 2018-08-15 · best management practices...

-- Revision 4 --

October 20, 2017

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017 Page i

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................... ii

PESTICIDE STORAGE .................................................................................................................................................... 1-1

FERTILIZER STORAGE AND NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT................................................................................................. 2-1

PEST CONTROL ............................................................................................................................................................ 3-1

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR WEED CONTROL ................................................................................................................. 4-1

HOUSEKEEPING ........................................................................................................................................................... 5-1

COMPOSTING ............................................................................................................................................................... 6-1

USE OF TRANSGENIC PLANT MATERIALS IN GREENHOUSES ………………………………………………………... 7-1

GREENHOUSE EQUIPMENT USE AND SAFETY ………………………………………………………………………. 8-1

FACILITY MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................................................ 9-1

RENOVATION AND NEW CONSTRUCTION................................................................................................................... 10-1

DISCHARGE POINT SIGNAGE IN THE GREENHOUSES ……………………………………………………………….11-1

GLOSSARY................................................................................................................................................................. 12-1

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017 v. 10/18/17 Page ii

Introduction

The Best Management Practices (BMPs) outlined in this document

have been prepared to satisfy special conditions in State Pollution

Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) Permit # NY 023 1878; DEC

#7-5007-00030/000001 for Cornell University (Ithaca). The BMPs

were developed by a Cornell University Greenhouse BMP Task

Force in 1998 and have been subsequently revised (2000, 2005) by

the Cornell University Best Management Practices Implementation

Steering Committee (BMP ISC).

In 2008, the BMP (ISC) changed their name to include health and

safety in the greenhouses to their focus. The Safety Health and

Environmental Management (SHEM) Steering Committee (SC)

completed a review and revision of the BMP Plan in 2017.

The Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses

(Ithaca) assume that all federal, state and local regulations and

Cornell policies are the operational baseline. The BMPs state

management goals beyond these legal and institutional

requirements.

The BMPs are specific to the greenhouses operated by the University

in Ithaca. There are conditions present at Cornell’s greenhouses that

are not common in commercial operations that make it possible for

Cornell to implement this program. These same conditions may limit

Cornell’s ability to implement certain BMPs that could affect

research.

The greenhouses operated by Cornell University are diverse and

unique because of their fundamental mission, teaching, research and

extension. For example, many individual greenhouses will contain

hundreds of species of plants. Others will be used for the rearing of

insects to support research and others may be used to study various

growth conditions that dictate specific usage of water or nutrients.

Because of these unique issues, we believe the following statements

must be considered when reviewing and implementing the BMP

document:

1. The BMPs developed by Cornell University must take into

careful consideration the teaching, research, and extension

mission when evaluating preferred practices.

2. The BMPs were developed for an institution such as Cornell

with diverse operations. These BMPs are not intended for

the commercial greenhouse industry.

3. The categories – Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 – all constitute

Best Management Practices and outline the range of

alternatives available. Any of these categories are intended to

satisfy the BMP requirements and determinations will be

made on a case-by-case basis to select the most appropriate

practical practice achievable.

Implementation Plan for Ithaca Greenhouse Best

Management Practices

Training: Training to meet BMP objectives is a continuous process.

Supervisors will train newly hired greenhouse staff employees as

outlined in each section of the BMP document. Training needs of

current staff as well as the need for new or revised policies to meet

BMP objectives are assessed at bimonthly meetings of the SHEM

SC. Ongoing training and policy refinement is the responsibility of

this Committee. Records are retained by the training facilitator and

include what is taught, who teaches, and who is trained.

Implementation: Adherence to BMPs is the responsibility of each

individual greenhouse user, greenhouse, or maintenance staff person.

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017 v. 10/18/17 Page iii

The operations manager overseeing each greenhouse facility assumes

day-to-day responsibility. Facilitation of BMPs is coordinated and

monitored by the SHEM SC, consisting of operation managers,

University and College of Agriculture & Life Sciences administrative

representatives, and faculty members.

The SHEM SC oversees the plan, and is responsible for:

organizing bimonthly Greenhouse SHEM SC meetings;

monitoring progress at each facility;

communicating novel, improved BMP ideas throughout the

greenhouse management network; and

continuous improvement of the best practices.

All users of the greenhouses agree to follow these BMPs. Operation

managers are given authority to enforce adherence to BMPs.

Operation managers are required to report all instances of non-

compliance with BMPs (e.g., spills or intentional disregard for the

established practices) to the Chair of the Steering Committee.

Simultaneous to the introduction of BMPs into the CALS/Ithaca

greenhouses, the greenhouse management developed a web-based

greenhouse request instrument, which is completed by project

personnel (faculty members, technicians, and graduate students). The

request instrument identifies needs for space, equipment, and cultural

practices and provides an opportunity for greenhouse staff and

project managers to discuss management of plant material with

respect to the BMPs.

Non-Compliance and Internal Control: The BMP ISC has developed

an internal assessment procedure that the SHEM SC uses to audit the

BMP Plan and evaluate conformance with this Plan. The SHEM SC

modifies internal audit procedures as the BMP program evolves.

On an individual staff employee basis, Cornell encourages a

culture of teamwork, collegiality, and cooperation. Staff are

encouraged to meet group goals. Group achievement is nurtured

through regular meetings, progress reports, and performance

management intervention by the department or College, as

needed.

Considerations

The BMP Plan incorporates several major themes, as identified by

the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

(NYS DEC). These themes are outlined briefly here and are

interwoven into the development and implementation of the BMP

Plan.

Risk identification and assessment. The BMP Plan identifies

greenhouse operational aspects that present the potential to have

substantial consequences to the environment (e.g., pesticide use and

storage, nutrient handling) and systematically presents the best

practice options that minimize those risks.

Transgenic organisms. All uses of non-commercial transgenic

organisms and biohazards at Cornell are overseen by the

Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) and must have IBC

approval before commencing. The BMPs relating to use of

transgenic organisms in Cornell greenhouses are intended only to

supplement IBC policy and NIH Guidelines for use of transgenic

and biohazardous materials.

Staff training. Training is intrinsic to the culture of Cornell.

Managers are responsible for training new greenhouse staff in all

aspects of job performance, including the theory and implementation

of Best Management Practices (generally) and facility-specific

practices. Much peer-to-peer training also occurs with regard to

specific equipment and facility practices. Cornell greenhouse staff

are required to take a University provided Hazard Communication

training.

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017 v. 10/18/17 Page iv

All greenhouse staff are required to be NYS commercially

certified pesticide applicators, and applicators are required to

acquire continuing education credits. Finally, the College of

Agriculture and Life Sciences offers an annual greenhouse

“update” for all employees with greenhouse-related

responsibilities, as well as task and equipment-specific workshops

(e.g., spill clean-up, fertilizer injector maintenance and repair).

Inspections and records. The BMP program has developed several

standardized forms for pesticide and fertilizer inventory, sprayer

maintenance, fertilizer injector maintenance, etc. Record keeping is

sometimes voluntary (e.g., for sprayer maintenance) but sometimes

mandatory (e.g., for pesticide applications). Training sessions and

other communications remind greenhouse management and staff of

record keeping tools and objectives.

Inspections occur along a continuum. Quarterly reminders sent to all

greenhouse managers remind them to verify: integrity of all

pesticide containers and fertilizer reservoirs, all pesticides stored by

compatibility, ventilation functioning in all pesticide storage areas,

pesticide and fertilizer application equipment in proper operating

condition, concentrations of fertilizer solutions, and open fertilizer

containers stored in secondary containment. University and College

programs work with greenhouse managers to conduct more

comprehensive, periodic, internal inspections.

The SHEM SC has introduced annual reminders sent to greenhouse

managers that include: training, inventory, decontamination and

spill kit integrity and inventory, and log and inventory checks. The

managers maintain the completion records with their staff.

Preventive maintenance. Greenhouse managers work in close

cooperation with greenhouse facility staff to ensure mechanical,

electrical, plumbing, and structural systems are appropriately

maintained, and that issues with the potential to impact the

environment are given the highest priority for repairs. Greenhouse

staff report concerns to the greenhouse management in a timely

manner to ensure that issues are addressed as early as possible

before conditions worsen.

Good housekeeping. Good housekeeping to include; recycling, proper

composting, phytosanitation and sustainable disposal are fundamental

principles of effective greenhouse operations. Good housekeeping

prevents pest harborages, allows for easier and quicker problem

identification, and sets a tone of discipline. Proper composting allows

for better control of pests. Greenhouse staff and management put a

priority on well-maintained, neat, and orderly greenhouse facilities

that create the proper conditions for successful production of research

and teaching plant material.

Occupational safety and health. Cornell Greenhouse Managers and

staff collaborate with Cornell environmental health and safety

professionals to foster a safe and compliant greenhouse environment.

This collaboration includes work on programs specific to greenhouse

operations and best management practices that provide relevant and

safe work activities, while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017 v. 8/9/2017 Page 1 - 1

Best Management Practices for Pesticide Storage

Rationale

Greenhouse pesticide storage areas contain significant quantities of

concentrated chemicals. These chemicals must be stored and

managed properly to prevent the potential release of chemicals that

may cause harm to human health and the environment. Some

potential problems associated with pesticide storage areas include

risk of spills during storage, mixing or loading operations; loss of

security; accumulation of unwanted, old, or unregistered materials;

and the risk of fire, flooding or some other disastrous event. These

problems can be minimized through the proper use of building

security, temperature control, fire prevention and suppression

equipment, inventory control, proper containment, emergency

mitigation/planning, preventive maintenance, good housekeeping,

user education and product knowledge.

Environmental Principle: Greenhouse pesticide storage areas contain significant quantities of concentrated chemicals. These chemicals must

be stored and managed properly to prevent the possibility for release to and contamination of the environment.

Operational

Aspects

Environmental Assurance >>

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

Overview

Emergency

Preparedness all staff know to call 911 in the event

of an emergency; emergency contact

numbers are posted

emergency contact numbers are posted;

all staff trained to call emergency contact

numbers; staff have basic training in

cleaning up small pesticide spills

emergency contact numbers posted; all

staff trained to call emergency contact

numbers; staff have basic training in

cleaning up small pesticide spills;

emergency response plan located in

storage area and on file with emergency

contacts; staff trained to respond to

different emergency scenarios

Environmental

Awareness

staff are aware of hazards to the

environment associated with pesticide

spills and cross-contamination;

hazards corrected when a problem

occurs



spills and cross-contamination; hazards

are identified and corrected



spills and cross-contamination; hazards

are identified and corrected; hazards are

actively reduced

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Pesticide Storage; 8/9/17 Page 1 - 2

Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Training all staff have minimum training such

as Federal Worker Protection

Standard (WPS) and have completed

the basic checklist training; staff

without WPS Handler training or

NYS DEC Pesticide Certification are

not to enter the pesticide storage area

without a certified applicator or

specific training; information is

posted and staff are trained on how to

respond to and report pesticide spills

all staff have minimum training such as

Federal Worker Protection Standard

(WPS) and have completed the basic

checklist training; staff without WPS

Handler training or NYS DEC Pesticide

Certification are not to enter the pesticide

storage area without a certified applicator

or specific training; staff receive

instruction from experienced users

regarding proper pesticide storage

management activities; information is

posted and staff are trained on how to

respond to and report pesticide spills

all staff have minimum training such as

Federal Worker Protection Standard

(WPS) and have completed the basic

checklist training; staff without WPS

Handler training or NYS DEC Pesticide

Certification are not to enter the pesticide

storage area without a certified applicator

or specific training; all staff who are

actively handling pesticides and/or

application equipment in the pesticide

storage area are trained by supervisor,

qualified personnel and by attending

continuing educational training

opportunities as required by NYS DEC

pesticide certification and the Cornell

Health and Safety Policy 8.6; pesticide

storage policy reviewed with staff,

information is posted and staff are trained

on how to respond to and report pesticide

spills

Communication pesticide storage guidelines are

discussed during new staff training

sessions

pesticide storage guidelines are posted at

the pesticide storage facility and


sessions; any changes are communicated

with all staff

pesticide storage guidelines are posted at

the pesticide storage facility and


sessions; greenhouse staff gain knowledge

of pesticide storage best practices through

attendance at training programs, peer

discussions, staff meetings and work

experiences

Storage Area

Designated

Storage Area

designated storage area is labeled as

such

designated storage area is labeled as such;

locked and accessible to trained personnel

only

designated storage area is labeled as such;

locked and accessible to trained personnel

only


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Location of

Storage Area

area within building structurally

segregated from general work areas;

site factors are not considered in

selecting storage area

wing or corner on ground floor of a

building dedicated for other purposes;

some consideration given to location of

storage area away from extreme heat,

flooding, and environmentally sensitive

areas

building or area dedicated to chemical

storage: separated from offices,

workshops, laboratories, surface water;

flooding unlikely; downwind and

downhill from sensitive areas such as

houses & ponds; soil, geologic, and

hydrologic site characteristics will not

lead to contamination of any water

systems through runoff or percolation

Building

Materials

common construction materials; no

special properties; wooden shelves are

not permissible; floors must be

impervious to chemicals or secondary

containment is in place

construction materials are largely fire

resistant; no wooden shelves; floors must

be impervious to chemicals or secondary


almost all construction materials fire

resistant; intrinsically safe electrical

components; metal, water-resistant, or

chemical-resistant shelves; floors

impervious to chemicals

Containment no floor drain unless raised to provide

a reservoir with a berm or temporary

plug; secondary containment used for

unsealed containers

no floor drain unless raised to provide

reservoir with a berm or temporary plug;

all pesticides are stored in secondary

containment

no floor drain; floor provides containment

in the event of a spill; all pesticides are

stored in secondary containment

Lighting electrical lighting with few limited

areas of view; no exposed lamps (all

covered/caged)

electrical lighting allows view into all

areas and cabinets within storage area; no

exposed lamps (all covered/caged)

explosion-proof electrical lighting allows

clear view into all areas and cabinets

within storage area; no exposed lamps,

contains emergency lighting

Security and

Accessibility

separate entry with locked door;

windows prohibit access separate entry with locked door, windows

prohibit access; access restricted to

trained personnel

all entrances locked at all times; access

restricted to trained personnel; procedure

implemented to track keys to storage area

or facility; may be fenced

Vermin Control program is in place to control vermin pesticide storage is constructed to conceal

and prevent vermin access

pesticide storage is constructed to conceal

and prevent vermin access; proactive in

identifying vermin access and damage


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Temperature

Control

no mechanical temperature control no mechanical temperature control; area

insulated; no direct sources of heat (sunny

windows, steam pipes, etc.); space

temperature range regulated relative to

pesticide labels

active mechanical temperature control

operated to maintain appropriate

temperature; no indirect sources of heat

(sunny windows, steam pipes, furnaces,

etc.)

Ventilation no mechanical ventilation mechanical ventilation available,

working, and used

mechanical ventilation available,

working, and used; space is temperature

and humidity controlled; there is

continuous ventilation air exchange

Pesticide

Mixing Area (if

inside chemical

storage area)

eyewash and spill kit are easily

accessible pesticide mixing area with good

ventilation, easily accessible to storage

area, emergency shower, spill kit and

eyewash available in immediate vicinity

pesticide mixing area with dedicated

ventilation, to storage, emergency shower,

spill kit and eyewash available in

immediate vicinity

Management

Inspection of

Storage Area

inspection of pesticide storage area

performed when a problem arises,

problems are addressed

quarterly inspection of pesticide storage

area at least annually and emergency

equipment, i.e. eye washes tested,

problems addressed immediately; facility

ventilation, electric, and fire suppression

systems problems are reported and

corrected

inspection of pesticide storage, and

mixing/loading areas performed every

four to six weeks; emergency equipment

tested, problems noted and addressed;

facility ventilation, electric, and fire

suppression systems problems are

reported and corrected

Record Keeping inventory, pesticide labels, safety data

sheets and logs of emergency

equipment (i.e. eye washes and fire

extinguishers) are maintained

inventory, pesticide labels, safety data

sheets and logs of emergency equipment

(i.e. eye washes and fire extinguishers)

are maintained; training is documented

and maintained

inventory, pesticide labels, safety data

sheets and logs of emergency equipment

(i.e. eye washes and fire extinguishers)

are maintained; training is documented

and maintained

Health and

Safety

first aid kit, emergency shower and

eye wash are readily available outside

the storage area

first aid kit, emergency shower, and eye

wash are readily available outside the

storage area and are inspected

periodically with a record kept of checks



storage area and are inspected regularly

with a record kept of checks


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Contents storage area contains pesticides, other

greenhouse chemicals (but not

fertilizers) segregated by

compatibility, various application

equipment; the storage area NEVER

contains: food, drink, tobacco

products, personal protective

equipment, livestock feed, living

plants, and/or seeds

storage area contains pesticides, other

greenhouse chemicals (but not fertilizers)

segregated by compatibility various

application equipment; the storage area

NEVER contains: food, drink, tobacco

products, personal protective equipment,

livestock feed, living plants, and/or seeds

storage area contains pesticides, other

greenhouse chemicals (but not fertilizers)

segregated by compatibility various

application equipment; the storage area

NEVER contains: food, drink, tobacco

products, personal protective equipment,

livestock feed, living plants, and/or seeds

Fire Prevention

and Suppression

multi-media (ABC) fire extinguisher

immediately available outside the

pesticide storage area in the clean

room and on the loading dock and

inspected annually; no open flame or

element heat source



pesticide storage area in the clean room

and on the loading dock and inspected

annually; no open flame or element heat

source; staff are trained on proper use of

extinguishers; fire detection and alarm

system present

flammable materials stored separately;



pesticide storage area in the clean room

and on the loading dock and inspected

annually; sprinkler system may be

present; fire department notified annually

of current inventory; staff are trained on

proper use of extinguishers; no open

flame or element heat source; fire

detection and alarm system present

Inventory and

Disposal

basic inventory record kept; unused

or expired pesticide products

discarded in adherence with federal,

state regulations and Cornell policy; triple-rinsed empty pesticide

containers are discarded according to

current disposal/recycling regulations

inventory updated at least once per year;

unneeded registered pesticides are

transferred to other licensed Cornell

pesticide applicators to minimize need for

disposal; unregistered, expired, or

unwanted pesticide products discarded in

adherence with federal, state regulations

and Cornell policy; triple-rinsed empty

pesticide containers are discarded

according to current disposal/recycling

regulations

inventory actively maintained as

pesticides are added or removed from

storage; containers are dated when

purchased; sufficient planning is done to

eliminate the need for disposal of excess

pesticides; unneeded registered pesticides

are transferred to other licensed Cornell

pesticide applicators if necessary;

unregistered, expired, or unwanted

pesticide products discarded in adherence

with federal, state regulations and Cornell

policy; triple-rinsed empty pesticide

containers are discarded according to

current disposal/recycling regulations


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Signage warning sign(s) posted on entrances,

basic emergency contact information

is posted; door signage to include

Hazard Assessment Signage Program

(HASP) information

https://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/lab-

research-safety/research-safety/space-

registration-(hasp)/Pages/default.aspx

warning sign(s) posted in view of

entrances; emergency contact information

posted; door signage to include Hazard

Assessment Signage Program (HASP)

information https://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/lab-

research-safety/research-safety/space-

registration-(hasp)/Pages/default.aspx

weatherproof warning sign(s) posted in

view of entrances; emergency contact

information posted; signage posted to

indicate labels and SDSs is located at the

Federal WPS Central Posting; door

signage to include Hazard Assessment

Signage Program (HASP) information

https://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/lab-research-

safety/research-safety/space-registration-

(hasp)/Pages/default.aspx

Application

Equipment

Storage

all application equipment is stored in

the chemical storage area or in

another designated storage area

all application equipment is stored in the

chemical storage area or in another

designated storage area; all items used for

handling pesticides are labeled

“contaminated with pesticides” or

otherwise clearly labeled

all application equipment is stored in the

chemical storage area or in another

designated storage area; all items used for

handling pesticides are labeled

“contaminated with pesticides” or

otherwise clearly labeled

Spill

Preparedness

spill clean-up materials (e.g.,

vermiculite, Slik-Wik®, or other

commercial product) available within

the general area; some staff trained in

proper use of these materials

spill kits appropriate for pesticide spills

are available at the storage area; all staff

trained in proper use of kit and contents

spill kits appropriate for pesticide spills

are available at the storage area in a

designated/demarked area; all staff trained

in the proper use of these materials;

hydrated lime or high pH detergent also

available for neutralization; designated

shovel and/or buckets available for clean-

up; spill material management is reviewed

on an annual basis

Personal

Protective

Equipment

(PPE) - Worn in

Storage

gloves and eye protection are

available for staff to wear in storage

area

staff are required to wear gloves and eye

protection in storage area when handling

open containers or packages

staff wear gloves, appropriate footwear,

and protective eyewear in storage area

when handling open containers or

packages

https://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/lab-research-safety/research-safety/space-registration-(hasp)/Pages/default.aspx










Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Personal

Protective

Equipment

(PPE) Storage

PPE, including gloves, aprons, and

respirators, located in the general

vicinity of the storage area; all those

with access to storage know location

of PPE; all PPE stored away from

pesticides under appropriate

environmental conditions; new and

used PPE are segregated


respirators, located in the general vicinity

of the storage area; all PPE stored away

from pesticides under appropriate

environmental conditions; all those with

access to storage know location of PPE;

separate area for each person; new and



respirators, is located in the general

vicinity of the storage area; all PPE stored

away from pesticides under appropriate

environmental conditions ; all those with

access to storage know location of PPE

separate area for each person; new and


Containment Chemical

Compatibility

and Segregation

pesticides and fertilizers stored in

separate designated storage areas pesticides and fertilizers stored in separate

designated storage areas; pesticides stored

by hazard class (flammable, corrosive,

toxicity/poison and reactive) and

pesticidal function with incompatible

materials stored physically separated from

one another

pesticides and fertilizers stored in separate

designated storage areas; pesticides stored

by hazard class (flammable, corrosive,

toxicity/poison and reactive) and

pesticidal function with incompatible

materials stored physically separated from

one another; designated “disposal” area

for surplus pesticides and empty

containers being held for

disposal/recycling

Containers all pesticides stored in compatible

containers with complete and

accessible labels; labels are visible

and readable; caps are secure; food or

beverage containers are never used for

storage

all pesticides stored in their original

containers unless damaged; if original

container is damaged, pesticides are

stored in compatible containers with

complete and accessible labels; labels are

visible and readable; caps are secure; food

or beverage containers are never used for

storage

all pesticides stored in their original


container is damaged, pesticides are

stored in compatible containers with


visible and readable; caps are secure; food

or beverage containers are never used for

storage


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Container

Arrangement

labels in plain sight; all containers

stored up-right labels in plain sight; no containers on

floor; all containers stored up-right; aisles

wide enough to accommodate workers;

containers not crowded on shelves; any

corrosive chemicals are at eye level

labels in plain sight; no containers on

floor; all containers stored up-right; aisles

wide enough to accommodate workers;

containers not crowded on shelves;

pesticide inventory does not block vents

in storage cabinets; older containers in

front of newer containers; any corrosive

chemicals are at eye level; avoid storing

pesticides above eye level

Partially-used

Containers

unsealed containers resealed and

returned to storage

bags and boxes always opened neatly to

maintain integrity; unsealed containers

resealed and returned to storage;

containers dated on receipt

bags and boxes always opened neatly to

maintain integrity; unsealed containers

resealed and returned to storage in

secondary containment and labeled when

appropriate; all drips are removed from

rigid containers; all unsealed bags are

placed inside another larger container,

sealed and labeled; containers dated on

receipt; pesticide container integrity

inspected while maintaining inventory

Damaged

Containers

when damaged containers are noticed,

contents are repackaged and labeled

or placed in suitable secondary

containment that can be sealed and

fully labeled

pesticide container integrity inspected

while maintaining inventory; contents of

damaged containers are repackaged and

labeled or placed in suitable secondary

containment that can be sealed and fully

labeled; secondary label correct and

complete

pesticide container integrity inspected for

corrosion, leaks, loose caps, or bungs

while maintaining inventory; damaged

container contents are repackaged and

labeled or placed in suitable secondary

containment that can be sealed and fully

labeled; secondary label correct and

complete


Best Management Practices for Fertilizer Storage and Nutrient Management

Rationale

Fertilizers can cause harm if they reach surface or ground water. For

example, high nitrates in potable water cause heart damage in unborn and

newly born infants and excessively high phosphorus in wetlands and

estuaries causes eutrophication and loss of aquatic life. Potential problems

associated with fertilizers fall into four primary phases of use. 1. Storage –

greenhouse fertilizer storage areas contain relatively large quantities of

concentrated chemicals. Risks in storage areas include release through

broken, damaged, or leaking containers; loss of security leading to

irresponsible use; accumulation of outdated materials leading to excessive

quantity of fertilizer thus unnecessarily raising risk level; and combustion of

oxidizing compounds in fertilizer (e.g., nitrates) caused by fire or another

disaster event. 2. Handling – opening fertilizer product containers,

measuring amounts, and transferring fertilizer to the delivery system

involves some level of risk from spills. Since most products are granular,

ease of containment and clean-up is possible. 3. Delivery – containment

tanks used to store concentrated solutions of fertilizer can cause a

significant hazard. Broken, damaged or weak containers can lead to spills

that may contaminate surface or groundwater. The possibility of backflow

to, or cross connection with, potable water supplies is reduced. 4.

Management – luxuriant or untimely application of fertilizer leads to

excessive release from the production system to surface and/or ground

water. Potential problems can be minimized through adequate

environmental awareness, employee training, and emergency preparedness.

Environmental Principle: Fertilizer and concentrated and dilute nutrient solutions can have a significant impact on surface and groundwater

when accidents or misapplications occur. Care in storage, handling, delivery system management, and nutrient management are essential to

environmental stewardship. Application equipment must be maintained for proper use rate and to prevent backflow into wells and community

water supplies, as well as to avoid cross connection with potable water supplies within the facility such as drinking fountains.

Operational

Aspects



Overview

Emergency

Preparedness

all staff know to call 911 in the

event of an emergency;

emergency contact numbers are

posted

emergency contact numbers posted; all

staff know the locations of spill kits and

how to use them

emergency contact numbers posted;

emergency response plan on file; all staff

know the locations of spill kits and how to

use them

Environmental

Awareness

staff are made aware of hazard to

surface and groundwater by spills

from tipped, damaged, or weak

storage tanks of concentrated

solutions of fertilizer

staff receive training on environmental

hazards, and hazards are being reduced

staff receive training on environmental

hazards; hazards have been eliminated or

are reduced and closely monitored

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Fertilizer Storage & Nutrient Management; 8/9/17 Page 2 - 2

Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Training greenhouse manager assures all

staff receive basic training

all staff receive basic training and

updates, and are trained in the use and

maintenance of the equipment used for

fertilizer application and in the cleanup

of small spills

all staff receive basic training and updates

in: use and maintenance of equipment,

clean-up of small spills, response to

different emergency scenarios, proper

interpretation of nutrient analysis reports,

identification of nutrient deficiencies in

plant material, and the correct selection of

fertilizers and rates based on crop needs;

staff attend annual fertilizer update

trainings

Communication greenhouse manager provides

information to individual staff as

necessary

greenhouse manager and all staff

exchange information in a group setting

staff are encouraged to gain and exchange

knowledge with the entire work group;

meetings are held regularly

Management Application application of fertilizer is at the

discretion of the greenhouse staff

manage constant feed fertilization based

on crop requirements

monitored by pour-through analysis, pH

and EC readings or automated system with

sensors that continuously monitor EC and

irrigate at the proper rate based on

crop/substrate nutrient status (such as

substrate EC); EC sensors are calibrated

periodically

Crop Nutrient

Status

monitored as problems arise monitored periodically through the crop

cycle using pour-through analysis, pH

and EC readings on each major crop

monitored throughout the crop cycle using

pour-through analysis, pH and EC readings

with a frequency appropriate for the crops;

growing mix monitored before planting and

two months into production of each crop

Employee

Training

employees learn through on-the-

job training

employees receive instruction from

experienced users in monitoring crop

nutrient status, selection and use of

fertilizers, and selection and use of

fertilizer injectors

supervisor provides employee with

operating manuals plus instruction from

qualified personnel; employees trained in

identifying nutrient deficiencies,

monitoring crop nutrient status, selection

and use of fertilizers, and selection and use

of fertilizer injectors, pH and EC meters


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Health and

Safety

first aid kit, emergency shower,

and eye wash are readily available

outside the storage area



storage area and are inspected

periodically with a record kept of checks



storage area and are inspected regularly

with a record kept of checks

Leaching

Volume

little consideration for the amount

of water or fertilizer solution

applied beyond saturation of the

root zone; exceeds 10% leaching

conscious attempt to limit the amount of

leaching of fertigated water to 10% of

total volume applied, periodic leach with

greater volumes allowable to flush high

salts if high EC is indicated from pour-

through EC

conscious attempt to limit the amount of

leaching of nutrient solution to 10% of total

volume applied; ebb and flow benches or

other recirculating system used whenever

practical

Record Keeping

short term records are kept of

concentration and frequency of

fertilizer application for each crop

records are routinely kept of

concentration, frequency of fertilizer

application and other records such as pH,

EC, pour-through analysis for each crop

records are kept on quantities

(concentration, volume, frequency) of

fertilizer applied for each crop; records are

kept of nutritional status and monitoring

procedures for each crop

Storage Area

Building

Materials

common construction materials;

no special properties; wooden

shelves are not permissible; floors

must be impervious to chemicals

or secondary containment is in

place

construction materials are largely fire

resistant; no wooden shelves; floors must

be impervious to chemicals or secondary


almost all construction materials fire

resistant; metal, water-resistant, or

chemical-resistant shelves; floors

impervious to chemicals

Chemical

Compatibility

and Segregation

oxidizers are not stored on wood;

fertilizers and pesticides stored in

separate designated storage areas

oxidizers are not stored on wood;

fertilizers and pesticides stored in

separate designated storage areas

oxidizers are not stored on wood; fertilizers

and pesticides stored in separate designated

storage areas

Containers all chemicals stored in their

original containers unless

damaged; labels are visible and

readable; food or beverage

containers are never used for

storage

all chemicals stored in their original


container is damaged, fertilizers are

stored in compatible container with


visible and readable; food or beverage

containers are never used for storage;

partially used fertilizers will be stored in

closed plastic containers

all chemicals stored in their original

containers unless damaged; labels are

visible and readable; food or beverage

containers are never used for storage;

partially used fertilizers will be stored in

closed plastic containers with labels


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Container

Arrangement

labels in plain sight; some

containers in contact with floor;

all unsealed containers stored up-

right; containers are stored

orderly and easily accessible

labels in plain sight; no containers in

contact with floor; all unsealed

containers stored up-right; aisles wide

enough to comfortably accommodate

workers; containers are stored orderly

and easily accessible

labels in plain sight; no containers in

contact with floor; all unsealed containers

stored up-right; aisles wide enough to

comfortably accommodate workers;

containers are stored orderly and easily

accessible in secondary containment

Containment of

Storage Facility

no floor drain unless raised to

provide a reservoir with a berm or

temporary plug; some secondary

containment used for open

containers

no floor drain unless raised to provide a


secondary containment routinely used for

open containers; bagged material on

pallets or otherwise elevated above floor;

spill kits are readily available for dry and

liquid spills; routine cleanup of area is

completed

no floor drain unless raised to provide a


floor provides containment in the event of a

spill; secondary containment routinely used

for most open containers; damaged or

leaking containers are repaired and/or

replaced as soon as possible; all spilled

material is cleaned up upon discovery; and

cleanup materials are discarded promptly

and properly; spill kits are readily available

for dry and liquid spills

Contents storage area may also contain

other greenhouse chemicals (no

pesticides), and general

greenhouse supplies; no food,

drink, tobacco products, or

livestock feed is present

storage area does not contain pesticides,

or other greenhouse chemicals; may

contain general greenhouse supplies with

clearly defined space for fertilizer; no

food, drink, tobacco products, or

livestock feed is present

storage area does not contain pesticides, or

other greenhouse chemicals; only fertilizers

will be stored in the storage area; no food,

drink, tobacco products, or livestock feed is

present

Fire Prevention

and Suppression

fire extinguisher available within

general area

fire detection and alarm system present,

oxidizers and flammable materials stored

separately fire extinguisher immediately

available

fire detection and alarm system present,

oxidizers and flammable materials stored

separately; fire extinguisher immediately

available; fire department notified at least

annually of current inventory


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Inventory and

Recordkeeping

some inventory monitoring;

materials no longer used are

occasionally removed

records kept on amount of fertilizer

purchased; materials no longer used are

removed on a regular basis and discarded

properly

inventory actively maintained as chemicals

added or removed from storage; containers

are dated when purchased; outdated

materials removed on a regular basis;

inventory is controlled to prevent the

accumulation of excess material that may

become difficult to use

Lighting minimal electrical lighting

provided

electrical lighting allows view into all

areas and cabinets within storage area

electrical lighting allows view into all areas

and cabinets within storage area

Location of

Storage Area

some consideration in selecting

storage area

fertilizer storage within building is

structurally segregated from general

work areas, with consideration given to

location of storage area, away from

environmentally sensitive areas; flooding

is unlikely

fertilizer storage is separated from offices,

workshops, laboratories, surface water,

neighboring dwellings and bodies of water;

flooding is unlikely; storage area is in close

proximity to where it will be mixed and

used; the area will be in a well ventilated,

lockable, with no drain

Management of

Humidity, Flood

Damage, and

Clutter

area is dry area is dry; shelving is provided to keep

materials off of the floor

area is dry, climate controlled, clean, and

inventory arrangement is orderly; the floor,

shelving and counters are kept free of

debris and miscellaneous items

Inspection of

Storage Area

occasional inspection of storage

for 1) signs of container corrosion

or other damage - leaking or

damaged containers are

repackaged as appropriate, 2)

faulty ventilation, electrical, and

fire suppression systems –

problems are reported and

addressed

quarterly inspection of storage for 1)

signs of container corrosion or other

damage - leaking or damaged containers

are repackaged as appropriate, 2) faulty

ventilation, electrical, and fire

suppression systems – problems are

reported and corrected

monthly inspection of storage for 1) signs

of container corrosion or other damage -

leaking or damaged containers are

repackaged as appropriate, 2) faulty

ventilation, electrical, and fire suppression

systems – problems are reported and

corrected

Security fertilizer is stored in a secure

locked facility

fertilizer is stored in a dedicated room

that is locked

storage room is locked, access is restricted

to trained personnel


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Signage none

signs present; emergency contact

information posted; necessary regulatory

signage is posted

signs posted; warning signs used as needed

(e.g., for oxidizers); emergency contact

information posted; necessary regulatory

signage is posted

Storage of Small

Quantities of

Chemicals

always stored on shelf or other

solid surface; never on floor

always stored on shelf or other solid

surface; never on floor; stored by

compatibility and all containers are

clearly labeled

always stored on shelf or other solid

surface; never on floor; stored by

compatibility and all containers are clearly

labeled with secondary containment

Temperature

Control

no mechanical temperature

control; area not insulated

no mechanical temperature control; area

insulated; no direct sources of heat

(sunny windows, steam pipes, furnaces,

etc.); area will not freeze

active mechanical temperature control; no

direct sources of heat (sunny windows,

steam pipes, furnaces, etc.)

Ventilation room not particularly cool and

dry; passive ventilation

mechanical ventilation available,

working and used

automated climate control working and

used

Handling Storage and

Record Keeping

fertilizer stock tanks are labeled

with fertilizer formulation and

concentration; no records are kept

of application information

fertilizer stock tanks are labeled with

fertilizer formulation and concentration;

records are kept of frequency and

location of fertilizer application

fertilizer stock tanks are labeled with

fertilizer formulation and concentration;

records are kept of fertilizer formulation,

concentration, date, and location of

application; records are kept of media

nutrient analyses

Containment of

Fertilizer Stock

Solution

concentrated stock solution stored

near injector in heavy-duty plastic

container; container integrity

checked and changed in 2 to 3

years

concentrated stock solution stored near

injector in high density polyethylene or

polypropylene containers with extra

heavy duty walls; container integrity

checked and changed in 3 to 5 years

concentrated stock solution stored near

injector in high density polyethylene or

polypropylene containers with extra heavy

duty walls; secondary containment

provided; container integrity checked and

changed in 3 to 5 years

Partially-used

Containers

unsealed containers resealed and

returned to storage

paper bags and boxes always opened

with a box cutter or scissors; unsealed

containers resealed and returned to

storage; all open paper bags and boxes

are sealed inside another, larger plastic

container, sealed and labeled

paper bags and boxes always opened with a

box cutter or scissors; unsealed containers

resealed in an airtight containers and

returned to storage; storage area is a

humidity controlled environment; all open

containers are sealed inside another, larger

plastic container, sealed and labeled


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Damaged

Containers

when damaged containers are

noticed, contents are repackaged

and labeled or placed in suitable

secondary containment which can

be sealed and labeled

when damaged containers are noticed,

contents are repackaged and labeled or

placed in suitable secondary containment

which can be sealed and labeled

containers checked often for damage; when

damaged containers are noticed, contents

are repackaged and labeled or placed in

suitable secondary containment which can

be sealed and labeled

Disposal unused fertilizer products and

concentrates are discarded using

methods approved by

environmental protection

authorities

uses of unused products and concentrates

are sought to minimize disposal

sufficient planning is made to eliminate the

need for disposal; empty fertilizer

containers are discarded based on latest

advice from environmental protection

authorities

Precipitate and

Residue

Disposal

fertilizer systems are cleaned and

rinse solution is flushed to

sanitary sewer

when fertilizer systems are cleaned,

solids are removed first and discarded

with solid waste before rinse solution is

flushed to sanitary sewer

fertilizer systems are cleaned and solids

and rinse solution are composted: when

possible have a low pest plant for rinseate

usage

Personal

Protective

Equipment

(PPE) - worn

while mixing

staff wear appropriate PPE

according to the label and

conditions (e.g., dust)

staff wear appropriate PPE according to

the label and conditions (e.g., dust);

basic and label specific PPE will be

provided by the employer

staff wear appropriate PPE according to the

label and conditions (e.g., dust); basic and

label specific PPE will be provided by the

employer

Spill Prevention

and

Preparedness

secondary containment around

fertilizer stock tanks is not used;

spill clean-up materials for liquids

(e.g., absorbent materials) and

solids (e.g., shovel, dust pan,

broom and empty and/or buckets)

available within the general area

secondary containment is sometimes

used for fertilizer stock tanks; spill clean-

up materials for liquids (e.g., absorbent

materials) and solids (e.g., shovel, dust

pan, broom and empty and/or buckets)

available within the general area; spill

kits are readily available

secondary containment used for fertilizer

stock tanks routinely; spill clean-up

materials for liquids (e.g., absorbent

materials) and solids (e.g., shovel, dust pan,

broom and empty and/or buckets) available

within the general area; spill kits are

readily available

Delivery System Backflow

Prevention

(Building

protection)

backflow prevention and

inspection meets minimum local

code requirements

backflow prevention and inspection

meets minimum local code requirements;

filters and check valves are installed on

fertilizer injectors

backflow prevention and inspection meets

minimum local code requirements;

redundant backflow prevention provided at

each fertilizer injector; filters and check

valves are installed on fertilizer injectors


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Cross-

connection

Avoidance

pipes and hoses carrying water for

plant care are not cross-connected

to pipes carrying potable water;

local code requirements are met;

signage instructs staff and visitors

not to drink from hoses

pipes and hoses carrying water for plant

care are not cross-connected to pipes

carrying potable water; local code

requirements are met; signage instructs

staff and visitors not to drink from hoses

pipes and hoses carrying water for plant

care are not cross-connected to pipes

carrying potable water; local code

requirements are met; signage instructs

staff and visitors not to drink from hoses

Equipment

Maintenance

and Stock Tank

Integrity

injector equipment maintained

and calibrated when problems

occur; stock tank is dated when

installed and inspected regularly

injector equipment maintained as

manufacturer recommends; stock tank is

dated when installed and inspected

quarterly, integrity verified and replaced

as needed

all fertilizer containment tanks, injector

pumps, backflow preventers, monitoring

equipment and fertilizer lines are inspected

regularly; stock tank is dated when

installed and inspected quarterly, integrity

verified and replaced as needed

Equipment

Selection

venturi-type (“hozon” style)

injectors used reluctantly and

with awareness of their

inaccuracy when pressure and

flow vary

positive displacement or metering device

injection used exclusively and calibrated

regularly

computer or automatically controlled

injection systems used and calibrated

regularly

Fertilizer

Injector and

Surrounding

Area

periodically - fertilizer injector is

repaired when impairment of

function is noticed; area

surrounding fertilizer injector and

concentrated solutions is cleaned

periodically

quarterly check of fertilizer injector

accuracy through calibration by EC or

volume method; clean surrounding area; inspect containment tanks, back flow

preventers and any equipment that holds

fertilizer in the dry or liquid form;

choose a safe dry location for fertilizer

injector

monthly check of fertigation equipment

accuracy; inspect containment tanks, back

flow preventers and any equipment that

holds fertilizer in the dry or liquid form;

manufacturer recommendations are

followed when calibrating or working on

fertilizer injector equipment; be sure

injectors are clean inside; stock solution

tanks and the areas surrounding fertilizer

injectors and concentrated solutions are

kept clean and free of debris; choose a safe

dry location for fertilizer injector


Best Management Practices for Pest Control

Rationale

Cornell Greenhouses encourage using an integrated pest management

(IPM) Program for pest management including biological, chemical and

cultural control methods. Pesticides have the potential to cause harm to

human health and the environment. Overuse, misuse, and careless

application of pesticides can result in the accumulation of toxic

substances on greenhouse structures and on plants, the possible

development of pest resistance to the products applied, and risks to the

health of those working in the greenhouses. The development of an IPM

program can reduce the need for pesticides. Greenhouse staff should be

trained to accurately identify insects, diseases, and weeds, and to monitor

all pest populations. Records should be maintained, and used in planning

future management strategies.

Environmental Principle: It is important to incorporate an effective integrated pest management program to decrease reliance on pesticide use and

increase the effectiveness of pesticides when needed. Decreased pesticide use will result in less potential harm to human health and the environment and

will help to prevent pesticide resistance in target organisms.

Operational

Aspects



Overview

Emergency

Preparedness

all staff know to call 911 in the event

of an emergency; staff know where to

find emergency contact numbers that

are posted; staff have basic training in

containing and following protocol for

pesticide spills

all staff know where to find emergency

contact numbers that are posted; staff have

basic training in containing and following

protocol for pesticide spills

staff know where to find emergency contact

numbers that are posted; staff have basic

training in containing and following

protocol for pesticide spills ; emergency

response plan is updated annually and is on

file; staff are know and understand the

emergency plan

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/em/emergency-

management/pages/default.aspx

Environmental

Awareness

staff are informed of the impact

pesticides can have on the

environment

staff are introduced to alternative pest control

measures and encouraged to implement them

when possible; staff is trained on impact of

pesticides

staff are expected to incorporate IPM

practices to maximize the benefits of

pesticide applications while reducing

environmental risks

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/em/emergency-management/pages/default.aspx

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/em/emergency-management/pages/default.aspx

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Pest Control; 6/9/15 Page 3 - 2

Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Training all staff and greenhouse users are

trained, minimally, as Federal Worker

Protection Standard Workers

http://www.epa.gov/agriculture/epa-

735-b-05-002.pdf; all staff and

greenhouse users responsible for

pesticide applications are in

compliance with Cornell, state and

federal regulations regarding

applicator training

http://greenhouse.cals.cornell.edu/pdf/

EquipmentUseandSafety/Environmen

tal%20training%2010-26-11.pdf

all staff and greenhouse users are trained,

minimally, as Federal Worker Protection

Standard Handlers; all staff and greenhouse

users responsible for pesticide applications are

in compliance with Cornell, state and federal

regulations regarding applicator training; staff

trained on impact of pesticides; all staff are

trained in basic IPM

all staff and greenhouse users are trained,

minimally, as Federal Worker Protection

Standard Handlers; all staff and greenhouse

users responsible for pesticide applications

are in compliance with Cornell, state and

federal regulations regarding applicator

training; all staff are trained in IPM

Communication pest management requests are

communicated orally and with fairly

short notice to those responsible for

implementation

pest management plans are communicated

well in advance to those responsible for

implementation

written pest management plans are

submitted before each project begins;

meeting is held with greenhouse staff to

discuss integrated pest management

strategies as appropriate to the project

Management Monitoring and

Recordkeeping

records are kept of significant insect

pests, disease and weed problems

records are kept of weekly scouting results,

monitoring methods used as appropriate for

insects, diseases and weeds

designated person to scout monitors and

maintains records weekly, and makes pest

control decisions

Biological

Control

appropriate beneficial insects or

microbials are introduced early in the

course of pest population growth;

appropriate beneficial insects or microbials

are introduced early in the course of pest

population growth; pesticides used offer least

toxicity to beneficials; pesticide applications

are minimized

appropriate beneficial insects or microbials

are introduced early in the course of pest

population growth; biological and microbial

control IPM program is in place; needs for

beneficial insects and microbials are

anticipated based on experience of past

seasons; minimal pesticide use as

appropriate to the research design

http://greenhouse.cals.cornell.edu/pdf/EquipmentUseandSafety/Environmental%20training%2010-26-11.pdf




Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Pest

Containment

greenhouses with infected or infested

plants are posted

all users are informed of infected or infested

greenhouses; all new plants are carefully

inspected before they enter greenhouse;

movement of people, equipment or plants

carrying pests is restricted; greenhouse staff

and users avoid contact with infected or

infested plants

all users are informed of infected or infested

greenhouses; all new plants are carefully

inspected; movement of people, equipment

or plants carrying pests is restricted;

greenhouse staff and users avoid contact

with infected or infested plants; infected or

infested plants are quarantined or destroyed

Pest Exclusion doors to head houses, greenhouses

and plant growth rooms are kept shut

if quarantine space is available, all new plants

remain in quarantine for an appropriate period

before they enter greenhouse; doors to head

houses, greenhouses and plant growth rooms

are kept shut; insect screens installed over

vents whenever possible, integrity of screens

is checked annually; plants are carefully

inspected

if quarantine space is available, all new

plants remain in quarantine for an

appropriate period before they enter

greenhouse; doors to head houses,

greenhouses and plant growth rooms are

kept shut; plants are carefully inspected;

appropriate for plants in the greenhouse

screens installed over vents whenever

possible, integrity checked regularly; door

seal checked regularly; cracks in structure

sealed to prevent movement of pests in or

out; foot bath or pad kept are present and

maintained to clean shoes before entering

where appropriate; gravel barriers around

outside perimeter to prevent movement of

pests

Chemical

Selection

after pest identification, an

appropriate recommended legal

product for the crop and pest is used,

applied according to the label; the

development of pest resistance to

products is mitigated through

consideration of alternate modes of

action

after pest identification, an appropriate

recommended legal product for the crop and

pest is used, applied according to the label;

the development of pest resistance to products

is mitigated through consideration of alternate

modes of action

after pest identification, an appropriate

recommended legal product for the crop and

pest is used, applied only as needed and

according to the label; development of pest

resistance to products is mitigated through

consideration of alternate modes of action;

reduced risk pesticides, such as insect

growth regulators, are selected whenever

possible; when possible select chemicals

appropriate/compatible with biological

control


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Plant Growth water and fertilizer applied for

optimal plant growth; pot size

appropriate for plant

water and fertilizer applied for optimal plant

growth; pot size appropriate for plant; plants

are repotted, pruned, spaced, staked and tied

as needed

water and fertilizer applied for optimal plant

growth; pot size appropriate for plant;

provide optimal airflow, lighting and

temperature conditions ; plants are

transplanted, staked, tied, pruned and

spaced, as needed

Sanitation bench tops, floors, pots & equipment

are cleaned and disinfected and

greenhouse is disease- and insect-free

at beginning of project

bench tops, floors, pots & equipment are

cleaned and disinfected and greenhouse is

disease- and insect-free at beginning of

project; debris and infected plant material

removed in a timely manner during project;

compost containers are covered in the

greenhouses and hallways; tools are routinely

appropriately disinfected during the project

bench tops, floors, pots & equipment are

cleaned disinfected and plants are disease-

and insect-free at beginning of project;

debris and infected plant material removed

immediately during project; compost

containers are covered in the greenhouses

and hallways; tools are routinely

appropriately disinfected during the project;

appropriately disinfect floors and available

surfaces during the project

Handling

Pesticide

Application

Safety

applications made by certified

pesticide applicator; standard Federal

Worker Protection Standard (WPS)

protocols are followed and label

requirements are met

applications made by certified pesticide

applicator; standard Federal Worker

Protection Standard (WPS) protocols are

followed and label requirements are met; for

safety, supervisors notified when application

is going to be made

applications made by certified pesticide

applicator; standard Federal Worker

Protection Standard (WPS) protocols are

followed and label requirements are met; for

safety, supervisors notified when

application is going to be made an

additional person is present during the

application with a scheduled check-in

Pesticide

Application

Technique

calendar-based applications are

avoided; spot applications used by

preference when appropriate

calendar-based applications are avoided; spot

applications used by preference when

appropriate; applications based on scouting

results

calendar-based applications are avoided;

spot applications used by preference when

appropriate; applications based on scouting

results and timed to the susceptible stage of

the pest or disease; application method

(hydraulic, Ultra Low Volume (ULV),

aerosol, etc.) is chosen to ensure good

coverage of the plant surface


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Pruning and

Rogueing

dead, infected or infested plants are

discarded into a covered compost

container and removed from the

greenhouse weekly;

infected or infested plant tissue is pruned and

discarded when transplanting; dead, infected

or infested plants are discarded into a covered

compost container and removed from the

greenhouse daily;

infected or infested plant tissue is pruned

and discarded weekly; dead, infected or

infested plants are discarded into a covered

compost container and removed from the

greenhouse daily; more severely infested or

infected plant material is disposed of under

specific requirements


Best Management Practices for Interior & Exterior Weed Control

Rationale

Weeds (unwanted plants) can harbor pests that have the potential to

spread to greenhouse crops. It is important to remove weeds within

and in the immediate exterior greenhouse environment. Appropriate

use of cultural, mechanical and physical controls will reduce the

need to apply chemical controls, thus minimizing potential runoff of

pesticides to surface and ground waters. New York State

commercially certified applicators apply herbicides as needed;

priority is placed on least toxic chemicals and appropriate application

timing to minimize environmental impact. Greenhouse staff applies

interior herbicide applications. Cornell Greenhouse staff (NYS3A

certified) apply exterior herbicide applications. Proper notifications,

record keeping and reporting are required.

Environmental Principle: Environmental impact is reduced when care is taken to prevent over-application and improper use of herbicides.

Operational

Aspects

Environmental Assurance


Overview

Emergency

Preparedness

Exterior & Interior: staff educated

and written protocols exist for

proper procedures to handle

emergencies: spills, drift and plant

material over-exposure

Exterior & Interior: staff educated and

written protocols exist for proper

procedures to handle emergencies: spills,

drift and plant material over-exposure

Exterior & Interior: staff educated and

written protocols exist for proper

procedures to handle emergencies: spills,

drift and plant material over-exposure

Environmental

Awareness

Exterior & Interior: staff are trained

and made aware of the hazard to

surface and groundwater from over

application and toxic herbicides

Exterior & Interior: staff are aware of

hazards, and hazards are being reduced

through physical and mechanical weed

controls, use of less toxic chemicals and

application timing, and use of barriers

Exterior & Interior: staff are aware of

hazards, and hazards are being eliminated

through physical and mechanical weed

controls, use of less toxic chemicals,

application timing and use of barriers

Training Exterior & Interior: herbicide

applicators are trained and are

required to be at least a NYS

pesticide apprentice under direct

supervision of a NYS commercially

certified applicator and have had

hazards training

Exterior & Interior: herbicide applicators

are trained and are required to be NYS

commercially certified applicator and

have had hazards training

Exterior & Interior: herbicide applicators

are trained and are required to be NYS

commercially certified applicator with

recertification coursework in IPM and

have had hazards training

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Weed Control; 8/26/14 Page 4 - 2

Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Communication Exterior & Interior: greenhouse staff

communicate application schedule

and equipment needs with other

greenhouse staff and/or greenhouse

users;

verbal notification in immediate

area

Exterior: date, location, time and

chemical to be applied communicated and

agreed upon amongst greenhouse staff

and greenhouse managers

Interior: greenhouse staff communicate

application schedule and equipment needs

with other greenhouse staff and/or

greenhouse users in the immediate area of

application and must comply with

required posting for pesticide application

Exterior: date, location, time and

chemical to be applied communicated and

agreed upon amongst greenhouse staff

and greenhouse managers

Interior: greenhouse staff and managers

communicate application schedule and

equipment needs with other greenhouse

staff and/or greenhouse users in

immediate area through postings/written

and verbal communications

Management Physical &

Mechanical

Controls

Exterior: mow and/or hand weed

Interior: gravel floor; benches free

of soil media; weeds hand pulled

Exterior: gravel around greenhouse

structures; mechanical trimming and hand

weeding

Interior: gravel floors use ground cover

under gravel; benches free of soil media;

weeds hand pulled and gravel raked

Exterior: ground cloth underlying gravel

around greenhouse structures; occasional

mechanical trimming and hand weeding

Interior: concrete flooring; welded wire

benches; drains & floor cracks free of soil

media; weeds-specific research material

grown in a greenhouse with concrete

floors

Chemical

Selection

Exterior & Interior: any NYS

registered herbicide product,

appropriate for the weed species

with low residual activity

Exterior & Interior: any NYS registered

herbicide product, appropriate for weed

species with low residual activity; product

chosen for effectiveness against particular

weed species

Exterior & Interior: NYS registered

herbicide products, appropriate for weed

species with low residual activity; product

chosen for efficacy against particular

weed species; product selected is the least

toxic (relatively high LD50) and least

environmentally persistent among options

Application

Timing of

Herbicides

Exterior & Interior: during normal

work hours avoiding conditions for

drift; following the label

requirements; closing vents and

turning fans off during application if

conditions are right until after leaves

are dry/spray dissipates

Exterior: early morning, late afternoon, or

early evening when greenhouse fans can

be shut down with no winds outside

Interior: late afternoons after final water

for the day is complete or sunny day

Exterior: early morning, late afternoon, or

early evening when greenhouse fans can

be shut down; applicator has knowledge

of interior locations of herbicide-sensitive

and research plants

Interior: when greenhouse is free of plant

material

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Weed Control; 8/26/14 Page 4 - 3

Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Application

Frequency

Exterior: routine for maintenance

Interior: as needed for maintenance

Exterior: periodically; consideration given

to plant material in the greenhouse

Interior: as needed for maintenance,

consideration given to plant material in

the greenhouse; scheduled break between

greenhouse use/crop cycles, if break not

possible during “down time”

Exterior: only as needed based on surveys

Interior: IPM Practices followed with

consideration given to plant material in

the greenhouses

Application

Equipment for

Herbicides

Exterior & Interior: hand-held or

backpack sprayer

Exterior & Interior: hand held pump

sprayer or backpack sprayer with a gauge

Exterior & Interior: backpack sprayer

with gauge; control application with

calibrated equipment

Application

Notification

Exterior & Interior: treated areas

posted with signs as required by

NYS DEC

Exterior: treated area posted with signs as

required by NYS DEC; application posted

inside building

Interior: applicators provide notification

by posting signs up to 24 hours in

advance

Exterior: treated area marked with signs

as required by NYS DEC; application

posted inside building and occupants

notified of application before it occurs

Interior: applicators provide notification

by posting signs up to 24 hours in

advance

Record Keeping

& Reporting

Exterior & Interior: complies with

NYS regulations

Exterior & Interior: complies with NYS

regulations; scouting occurs and some

records kept as needed

Exterior & Interior: complies with NYS

regulations; scouting occurs; records of

problems and solutions kept for multiple

years


Best Management Practices for Housekeeping

Rationale

Good housekeeping is a fundamental principle of effective

greenhouse operations. Good housekeeping prevents pest

harborages, allows for easier and quicker problem identification, and

sets a tone of order and discipline. Housekeeping has safety

implications; clean and orderly greenhouses reduce the risk of

tripping or slipping, and facilitate identification of other hazards.

Proper arrangement and spacing of plants facilitates good airflow,

efficient irrigation, and effective pesticide application, thereby

decreasing pest and disease incidence and reducing pesticide use.

Control of watering and fertilizer applications by properly trained

staff and greenhouse users can reduce overuse of water and fertilizer.

Excess watering causes puddling on floors and, combined with warm

temperatures and high light levels in greenhouses, provides excellent

conditions for algae growth. Reduced water and fertilizer application

lessens environmental impact, amount of algae, and potential

accidents from slippery walkways. Algae growth on greenhouse

glazing prevents adequate light transmission, and algae present on

bench tops and in pots inhibits plant growth and attracts insects.

Sanitation and environmental modifications are the preferred method

of algae growth prevention and control.

Environmental Principle: With proper watering techniques, good sanitation practices, and correct spacing of plants there will be less

environmental impact from unnecessary use of chemical and excess fertilizers, and a reduction of algae in the greenhouse setting.

Note: the following structures are covered under Housekeeping: interior walls, floors benches and screens. The evaporative cooling and shading

are covered under Maintenance (section 9-1 pages 2&3).

Operational

Aspects



Overview

Emergency

Preparedness greenhouse staff trained to

handle emergencies; spill kits

are accessible; more general

training; notification of

emergency response via verbal

as well as signage

greenhouse staff trained to handle

emergencies; spill kits are accessible; more

general training; notification of emergency

response via verbal as well as signage;

refresher training annually

greenhouse staff trained to handle

emergencies; spill kits are accessible; more

general training; notification of emergency

response via verbal as well as signage;

refresher training annually; perform regular

drills

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Housekeeping; 6/15/17 Page 5 - 2

Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Environmental

Awareness

staff are made aware of hazard

to surface and groundwater by

excess runoff and overuse of

sanitizers and disinfectants;

hazards are identified and

eliminated, or are reduced and

closely monitored

staff are made aware of hazard to surface

and groundwater by excess runoff and

overuse of sanitizers and disinfectants;

hazards are identified and eliminated, or

are reduced and closely monitored; staff

are encouraged to reduce hazards

staff are made aware of hazard to surface and

groundwater by excess runoff and overuse of

sanitizers and disinfectants; hazards are

identified and eliminated, or are reduced and

closely monitored; staff are encouraged to

reduce hazards

Training all staff are trained in the

practice of good housekeeping,

proper watering practices, and

sanitation

all staff are trained in the practice of good

housekeeping, proper watering practices,

and sanitation; staff are trained to operate

disinfectant application equipment and

records of training kept

all staff are trained in the practice of good

housekeeping, proper watering practices, and

sanitation; staff are trained to operate

disinfectant application equipment and

records of training kept; appropriate PPE

training and use coinciding with license for

job classification

Communication staff communicate (verbal and

signage) with greenhouse

users, managers and fellow

staff regarding housekeeping

and disinfectant application

where and when appropriate

staff communicate (verbal and signage)

with greenhouse users, managers and

fellow staff regarding housekeeping and

disinfectant application where and when

appropriate

staff communicate (verbal and signage) with

greenhouse users, managers and fellow staff

regarding housekeeping and disinfectant

application where and when appropriate

Management

Head House a separate potting and storage

area outside the greenhouses;

head house is not a growing

area; head house is kept clean

and sanitized

a separate potting and storage area outside

the greenhouses; head house is not a

growing area; head house is kept clean and

sanitized; head house is separate area for

pot storage; potting takes place separate

from the pot soil filling area; floors and

benches are constructed of non-porous

materials; head house surfaces are

sanitized before and after use; sanitation

supplies are easily available

a separate potting and storage area outside the

greenhouses; head house is not a growing

area; head house is kept clean and sanitized;

head house is separate area for pot storage;

potting takes place separate from the pot soil

filling area; floors and benches are

constructed of non-porous materials; head

house surfaces are sanitized before and after

use; sanitation supplies are easily available;

head house is away from greenhouse; there

are separate areas for different departments

use


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Plant Care plants are arranged to provide

good airflow and access for

effective watering and

pesticide application; plants are

watered only as needed

plants are arranged to provide good airflow

and access for effective watering and

pesticide application; plants are watered

only as needed; potting media surface is

allowed to dry out between watering; if

present, algae layer manually removed

from media surface to allow water and air

flow, and decrease susceptibility to shore

flies and fungus gnats

plants are arranged to provide good airflow

and access for effective watering and

pesticide application; plants are watered only

as needed; potting media surface is allowed to

dry out between watering; if present, algae

layer manually removed from media surface

to allow water and air flow; media is treated

for fungus gnats and shore flies if present;

scouting is done for overall plant health and

records kept

Pest

Management

scouting as plants come in and

while in the greenhouse scouting as plants come in and while in the

greenhouse; prevention and screening in

place; manage weeds to aid in insect and

disease management

weekly scouting as plants come in and while

in the greenhouse; prevention and screening

in place; interior and exterior weed

management to aid in insect and disease

management; isolation with a communication

with plant owners; find out condition of

plants as they enter the greenhouse

Refer to Pest Control section (3-1) of BMP Plan; Pest Exclusion, Sanitation & Pruning and Rouging

Vermin Control program is in place to control

vermin pesticide and fertilizer storage is

constructed to conceal and prevent vermin

access

pesticide and fertilizer storage is constructed

to conceal and prevent vermin access;

proactive in identifying vermin access and

damage


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Sanitation all surfaces are kept free of

plant debris, soil and weeds;

staff trained on spreading of

disease; little to no storage in

the greenhouses

all surfaces are kept free of plant debris,

soil and weeds; staff trained on spreading

of disease; little to no storage in the

greenhouses; no flats or pots to be stored in

the greenhouses; arrange for necessary

storage in a near-by location other than the

greenhouses; tools are disinfected when

possible; avoid unnecessary use of

chemicals and excess fertilizers

all surfaces are kept free of plant debris, soil

and weeds; prevent puddling of water on

floors; staff trained on spreading of disease;

little to no storage in the greenhouses; no flats

or pots to be stored in the greenhouses;

arrange for necessary storage in a near-by

location other than the greenhouses; benches,

floors, tools and plant containers are

disinfected between crops; avoid unnecessary

use of chemicals and excess fertilizers; where

feasible and for regulated equipment have a

building for separate storage; foot baths and

sanitation structures installed and maintained;

hose dipping stations are regularly maintained

Hoses hoses are kept free from

walkways; nozzles are kept off

the floor; hose integrity is

maintained

hoses are kept free from walkways;

nozzles are kept off the floor; hose

integrity is maintained; hoses are hung

properly as to not fall on the floor; water

pressure is turned off while not in use

hoses are kept free from walkways; nozzles

are kept off the floor; hose integrity is

maintained; hoses are hung properly as to not

fall on the floor; water pressure is turned off

while not in use

Floors keep soil off gravel and

concrete floors; reduce excess

water; if pooling, squeegee or

add more gravel if applicable

keep soil off gravel and concrete floors;

reduce excess water; if pooling, squeegee

or add more gravel if applicable; thru water

management keep excess off floor;

disinfect gravel and concrete floors

between crops or more frequently as

appropriate

keep soil off gravel and concrete floors;

reduce excess water; if pooling, squeegee or

add more gravel if applicable; thru water

management keep excess off floor; disinfect

gravel and concrete floors between crops or

more frequently as appropriate; gravel add

bio-controls; weed control; physical weed

mat barrier is in place over gravel or soil

floors to reduce weeds

Floor

Construction

well drained gravel floors concrete floors to reduce the amount of

excess moisture in the greenhouse

concrete floors to reduce the amount of

excess moisture in the greenhouse; floors

sloped to drain properly and prevent pooling;

design concrete surface textured to reduce

slipping


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Bench

Management

benches and area around plants

free of debris benches and area around plants free of

debris; benches cleaned and disinfected

between crops; no wooden benches

benches and area around plants free of debris;

benches cleaned and disinfected between

crops; no wooden benches; benches are non-

porous and are easy to clean and maintain

with no debris or water puddling; benches are

cleaned routinely; benches are pressure

washed/bio-foamed between crops

Ventilation passive or manual controlled

outdoor air inlets to manage

greenhouse humidity and

control temperature

actively controlled computer or thermostat

outdoor air inlets to manage greenhouse

humidity and control temperature; proper

ventilation from horizontal airflow fans;

clean insect screening as necessary

actively controlled computer or thermostat

outdoor air inlets to manage greenhouse

control temperature with an active system to

increase humidity during winter/dry months;

proper ventilation from horizontal airflow by

computer monitoring of RH with automated

ventilation systems; clean insect screening as

necessary

Light Reduction

for Algae

Control

completely opaque tubing is

used for irrigation lines to

exclude light; fertilizer tanks

are covered to exclude light

completely opaque tubing is used for

irrigation lines to exclude light; fertilizer

tanks are covered to exclude light; wrap

existing completely opaque tubing with

pipe wrapping foil used for irrigation lines;

fertilizer lines and system should be

checked for algae and cleaned regularly

use specialty tubing for irrigation lines to

completely exclude light; fertilizer tanks are

covered to exclude light; wrap existing

completely opaque tubing with pipe wrapping

foil used for irrigation lines; fertilizer lines

and system should be checked for algae and

cleaned regularly

Disinfectant Use in accordance with label;

surfaces and general use tools

should be clean and free of

debris before use

in accordance with label; surfaces and

general use tools should be clean and free

of debris before use; disinfectants used for

pre-crop clean up and regularly during

crop production for sanitation

in accordance with label; surfaces and general

use tools should be clean and free of debris

before use; disinfectants are part of a regular

schedule before, during and after plants are in

the greenhouse; applied to floors, walls,

benches, tools and plant containers for

sanitation


Operational

Aspects



Safety

Slipping Hazard

Communication

staff, users and visitors are

made aware of safety hazards

of wet floors through training

or signage

staff, users and visitors are made aware of

safety hazards of wet floors through

training and signage


safety hazards of wet floors through training

and signage

Footwear open-toed footwear is

discouraged; use of non-skid

footwear is encouraged

open-toed footwear is prohibited; use of

non-skid footwear is encouraged; non-skid

footwear is provided to staff

open-toed footwear is prohibited; staff are

required to use non-skid footwear and it is

provided


Best Management Practices for Composting

Rationale

The research, teaching and display greenhouses on the Ithaca campus

generate a large amount of waste plant material, media and other

organic waste. To reduce solid waste, organic waste is composted on

site or through Farm Services in the College of Agriculture and Life

Sciences. Specially designed compost bins are used to store the

waste and eliminate environmental impact from excess run-off due to

rain and snowmelt. Compost waste is removed upon request of

greenhouse staff and efforts are made to prevent bins from being

over-full, thus reducing environmental impact from odor and

compost theft. Signs on compost bins describe appropriate and

inappropriate compostable materials.

Environmental Principle: Environmental impact is reduced when organic waste is composted, compost is properly stored and promptly

removed.

Operational

Aspects



Overview

Emergency

Preparedness greenhouse staff educated on proper

composting procedures

greenhouse staff and users educated on

proper composting procedures

greenhouse staff & users educated on

proper composting procedures

Environmental

Awareness

staff are made aware of implications

to surface and groundwater from

excess runoff of compost material

and fertilizers

staff are made aware of implications to

surface and groundwater from excess

runoff of compost material and fertilizers


surface and groundwater from excess

runoff of compost material and fertilizers

Training all employees are trained in the

importance of proper composting

procedures

all employees are trained in the importance

of proper composting procedures and the

prompt removal of full bins or pest-

infested compostable material

[refer to Composting Procedures document

v. 10/19/06]

all employees are trained in the

importance of proper composting

procedures and the prompt removal of full

bins or pest-infested compostable material

[refer to Composting Procedures

document v. 10/19/06]

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Composting; 5/29/14 Page 6 - 2

Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Communication greenhouse staff communicate

proper composting procedures to

greenhouse users; managers and

staff communicate with CALS Farm

Services for full bin removal

greenhouse staff communicate proper

composting procedures to greenhouse

users; managers and staff communicate

with CALS Farm Services for full bin

removal

greenhouse staff communicate proper

composting procedures to greenhouse

users; managers and staff communicate

with CALS Farm Services for full bin

removal

Management

Compost Bin

Construction &

Design

steel; rust-resistant paint; elevated

from the ground steel; rust-resistant paint; elevated from the

ground; sturdy easy-to-lift lid or stored

under cover; periodic inspection and

maintenance of bin

steel; rust resistant paint; elevated from

the ground; sturdy easy-to-lift lid or stored

under cover; periodic inspection and

maintenance of bin

Signage bins are posted for no trash and

plastic; compost handling procedures

centrally posted; trash, recycling

cans and compost cans are labeled

bins are posted for no trash and plastic;

compost handling procedures posted in

several locations in the greenhouse and

around bins; trash cans, recycling cans and

compost cans are clearly labeled; bins are

posted to inform public that removing

material from compost bins for personal

use is prohibited

bins are posted for no trash and plastic;

compost handling procedures posted in

several locations in the greenhouse and

around bins; trash cans, recycling cans and

compost cans are clearly labeled; bins are

posted to inform public that removing

material from compost bins for personal

use is prohibited

Ventilation &

Pest Control

bins are located outside of

greenhouses and compost cans are

covered when transporting to be

emptied in compost bins

bins are located outside of greenhouses

away from conference room, break room

and classroom windows, and points of re-

entry to the greenhouses, such as vents;

compost cans are covered when

transporting to be emptied in compost bins

bins are located outside of greenhouses

away from conference room, break room

and classroom windows, and points of re-

entry to the greenhouses, such as vents;

compost cans are covered when

transporting to be emptied in compost bins

Handling

Procedures staff and greenhouse users are

educated in all aspects of composting

procedures

staff and greenhouse users are educated in

composting procedures; composting

posters are displayed; written compost

procedures are incorporated into the

Greenhouse Use Policy

staff and greenhouse users are educated in

composting procedures; composting

posters are displayed; written compost

procedures are incorporated into the

Greenhouse Use Policy

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Composting; 5/29/14 Page 6 - 3

Operational

Aspects



Safety

Prevention of

Biological &

Chemical

Exposures

staff, users and visitors are aware of

safety hazards of removing material

from compost bins for personal use

through training and signage

staff, users and visitors are aware of safety

hazards of removing material from

compost bins for personal use through


staff, users and visitors are aware of safety

hazards of removing material from

compost bins for personal use through


Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; New Section v. 6/15/17 Page 7 - 1

Best Management Practices for Use of Transgenic Plant Materials in Greenhouses

Rationale

Cornell Greenhouses may be used for research on transgenic plant

materials. Transgenic plant materials are defined as plants and plant-

associated organisms containing recombinant or synthetic nucleic

acid molecules r/sNA DNA (rDNA). These materials may require

special procedures to ensure that they are not released to the

environment. Licensed commercially available transgenic plant

materials are not included under this BMP and their use in Cornell

greenhouses is not restricted.

Other types of plant materials, for example select agents, may

require similar or more extensive management practices but are not

covered under this BMP.

The intent of this BMP is to provide the Cornell greenhouse

community with the general guidelines and practical methods

necessary to work with transgenic plant materials safely and in

accordance with university and national guidelines.

Environmental Principle: Environmental impact is reduced when transgenic organisms are handled properly to prevent them from entering

the environment.

Operational

Aspects



Overview

Emergency

Preparedness staff and facility users are educated

on proper procedures for working

with transgenic plant materials as

defined and approved by the Cornell

Institutional Biosafety Committee

(IBC) in accordance with the

National Institutes of Health

Guidelines for Research Involving

Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic

Acid Molecules (NIH Guidelines);

emergency contact information is

posted; greenhouse staff report

transgenic release to greenhouse

supervisor or manager immediately

staff and facility users educated on

proper transgenic procedures as defined

and approved by the Cornell IBC in

accordance with the NIH Guidelines;

emergency plan is in place and contact

information is posted; greenhouse staff

report transgenic release to greenhouse

supervisor or manager immediately

staff and facility users educated on proper

transgenic procedures as defined and

approved by the Cornell IBC in

accordance with the NIH Guidelines;

emergency plan is in place and contact

information is posted; greenhouse staff

report transgenic release to greenhouse

supervisor or manager immediately;

where practical staff will contain/stop

release

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Use of Transgenic Plant Materials in Greenhouses Page 7 - 2

Operational

Aspects



Awareness

staff are made aware of implications

to surface and groundwater from

release of transgenic materials into

the environment


surface and groundwater from release of

transgenic materials into the

environment


surface and groundwater from release of

transgenic materials into the environment

Training all employees are made aware that

there are special procedures for

transgenic materials in plant growth

facilities and not to enter a

greenhouse containing transgenic

materials without specific training

all employees are made aware that there

are special procedures for transgenic

materials in plant growth facilities and

not to enter a greenhouse containing

transgenic materials without specific

training; staff working with transgenic

plants are trained in the basic transgenic

procedures and practices and are

familiar with the greenhouse manual

portion of the MUA

all employees are made aware that there

are special procedures for transgenic

materials in plant growth facilities and not

to enter a greenhouse containing

transgenic materials without specific

training; all staff are trained in the basic

transgenic procedures and BL2P practices

and are familiar with the greenhouse

manual portion of the MUA

Communication project personnel provide

greenhouse supervisors with the

greenhouse manual from their

project Memorandum of

Understanding and Agreement

(MUA); the greenhouse manual is

available to greenhouse staff

project personnel provide greenhouse

supervisors with the greenhouse manual

from their project MUA The greenhouse

manual is provided to greenhouse staff

project personnel provide greenhouse

supervisors with the greenhouse manual

from their project MUA; greenhouse

supervisors ensure that appropriate staff

receive specific training; the greenhouse

manual is provided to greenhouse staff;

greenhouse supervisors have access to

project MUAs

Management

Signage

signs based on the IBC sign template

are posted on all doors to spaces

containing transgenic material

signs based on the IBC sign template

are posted on all doors to spaces

containing transgenic material;

greenhouse supervisors facilitate

posting of required signage

signs based on the IBC sign template are

posted on all doors to spaces containing

transgenic material; greenhouse

supervisors provide a copy of the IBC

template to facility users; greenhouse

supervisors facilitate posting of required

signage


Operational

Aspects



Handling

Mixed

populations of

transgenic and

non-transgenic

plants in a

greenhouse

facility users and greenhouse staff

follow IBC policy and NIH

Guidelines regarding comingling of

non-transgenic, BL1P and BL2P

plants

facility users and greenhouse staff

follow IBC policy and NIH Guidelines

regarding comingling of non-transgenic,

BL1P and BL2P plants

facility users and greenhouse staff follow

IBC policy and NIH Guidelines regarding

comingling of non-transgenic, BL1P and

BL2P plants

Safety

Prevention of

Biological &

Chemical

Exposures

staff, users and visitors are made

aware of any safety hazards through

appropriate communication and

necessary training associated with

greenhouse projects; information

meeting all Hazardous

Communication requirements is

provided

staff, users and visitors are made aware

of any safety hazards through

appropriate communication and

necessary training associated with

greenhouse projects; information

meeting all Hazardous Communication

requirements is provided


any safety hazards through appropriate

communication and necessary training

associated with greenhouse projects;

information meeting all Hazardous

Communication requirements is provided

Regulatory Protocols

Containment

meets requirements from MUA and

NIH guidelines meets basic requirements from MUA

and NIH guidelines

meets basic requirements from MUA and

NIH guidelines

Disposal meets requirements from MUA and


and NIH guidelines


NIH guidelines

Transportation meets requirements from MUA and


and NIH guidelines


NIH guidelines

Resources:

National Institutes of Health (NIH) Guidelines https://osp.od.nih.gov/biotechnology/nih-guidelines

Information Systems for Biotechnology (ISB) Practical Guide to Containment Plant Biosafety in Research Greenhouses

http://www.isb.vt.edu/Containment-guide.aspx (Virginia Tech)

Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station (CUAES) Restricted Experiment sign

https://osp.od.nih.gov/biotechnology/nih-guidelines

http://www.isb.vt.edu/Containment-guide.aspx


Institutional Biosafety Compliance (IBC) Service Plant Containment Resources

http://www.ibcservices.com/Pages/PlantResources.aspx

AgBioForum “US Regulation of Agricultural Biotechnology: An Overview

http://www.agbioforum.org/v3n4/v3n4a15-belson.htm

Cornell Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBS) http://www.ibc.cornell.edu

Cornell IBC Sample Greenhouse Manual http://www.ibc.cornell.edu Go to investigator resources / Guidance documents

Cornell IBC Sign Template http://www.ibc.cornell.edu Go to investigator resources / Forms and Signage

http://www.ibcservices.com/Pages/PlantResources.aspx

http://www.agbioforum.org/v3n4/v3n4a15-belson.htm

http://www.ibc.cornell.edu/



Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017 v. 9/7/16 update: 9/21/17 Page 8 - 1

Best Management Practices for Greenhouse Equipment Use and Safety

Rationale

A variety of types of equipment, including autoclaves and soil mixers, are

used in Cornell greenhouses. Training in safe operation and proper

maintenance of this equipment ensures its continued availability for use

and protects the safety of those using it.

Environmental Principle: The safe and effective operation of equipment reduces the potential for injury to workers and environmental impacts.

Greenhouse Equipment

Standard stand-alone greenhouse equipment used by greenhouse staff that does not have specific regulatory requirements for use, such as specific OSHA

standards or Cornell Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) operative procedures, but does have risk associated with its use.

Note: The levels indicated in the table are as follows:

Level 1- minimum level of activities for greenhouse equipment use and safety. Activities at this level fulfill all University requirements, etc.

Level 2- acceptable level of activities for greenhouse equipment use and safety

Level 3- optimum level of activities for greenhouse equipment use and safety

Greenhouse managers should strive to reach at least Level 2 for all parts of the BMP’s

Operational

Aspects



Overview

Emergency

Preparedness

proper safety equipment that meets

requirements is available, and

maintained, for the job; staff can

recognize equipment malfunction and

are verbally instructed to notify

supervisor in such an event


requirements is available, and maintained, for

the job; staff can recognize equipment

malfunctions and have been verbally

instructed to notify supervisor in such an

event


requirements is available, and maintained,

for the job; staff receive documented

training in limited operational response

(e.g., shutting off valves) when they

recognize equipment malfunction or hear

equipment alarms; staff then notify

supervisor or appropriate repair personnel

for further response and correction;

emergency preparedness plan is in place

Resource: Cornell Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) Emergency Management

https://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/em/Pages/default.aspx

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Greenhouse Equipment Use and Safety; 9/7/16 Page 8 - 2

Operational

Aspects



Awareness

staff are verbally instructed in

appropriate actions to avoid

environmental impacts through poorly

maintained or broken equipment

staff receive documented training in

appropriate actions to avoid environmental

impacts, and training on the environmental

impacts of their actions

staff receive documented training in

appropriate actions to avoid environmental

impacts, and training on the environmental

impacts of their actions; staff receive

documented training on the appropriate

personal action in proper usage of the

equipment and responding to equipment

maintenance needs

Resources: SHEM Greenhouse Environmental Awareness Training; SHEM Greenhouse Manager Equipment Use Training Notebook

Training staff are verbally trained to use

equipment properly

staff receive documented training in proper

use of equipment


use of equipment and in the appropriate

response to equipment malfunctions and

follow up protocols

Communication staff trained to use the equipment and

report concerns to a supervisor as

they occur

staff trained to use the equipment and report

concerns to a supervisor as they occur;

greenhouse staff and maintenance personnel

discuss safe use of equipment and repairs

where appropriate, maximizing effectiveness

over machine life

staff trained to use the equipment and report

concerns to a supervisor as they occur;


discuss safe use of equipment and repairs

where appropriate, maximizing

effectiveness over machine life; greenhouse

staff and maintenance personnel meet

regularly to discuss use, preventive

maintenance, and foreseeable maintenance

issues affecting greenhouse equipment

Resource: Cornell EH&S Hazard Communication

Management Operating

Documentation

in addition to training, written

operating instructions are available

for all staff that use equipment

in addition to training, written operating

instructions are provided to all staff that use

the equipment; standard operating procedures

(SOPs) are available for each piece of

equipment

in addition to training, written operating

instructions are provided for all staff that

use equipment; standard operating

procedures (SOPs) are available for each

piece of equipment

Resource: Cornell EH&S: Writing a Standard Operating Procedure

Management

Training

staff are verbally trained to use

equipment properly; a list of those

trained is maintained by the

supervisor


use of equipment and review of SOPs; annual,

signed documentation of training is

maintained by the supervisor


use of equipment and review of SOPs;

essential safety practices in written form are

provided to each user

Resources: Toolbox talks from Cornell EH&S or SHEM Greenhouse Manager Equipment Use Training Notebook. See links below.

https://oeh.cals.cornell.edu/sites/oeh.cals.cornell.edu/files/shared/documents/greenhouses/Environmental%20training%20%2010-26-11.pdf

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-health/hardard-communications/Pages/default.aspx

https://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/lab-research-safety/laboratory-safety-manual/documents/writingansop.pdf


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 PPE and Safety

Equipment

necessary Personal Protective

Equipment (PPE) available; use of

PPE included in documented training

PPE appropriate for all users available; use of

PPE included in documented training

each user has own PPE; use of PPE

included in documented training and

exhibited during use with all equipment

Resources: Cornell EH&S PPE toolbox talk; Cornell EH&S PPE Assessment Form (under Forms)

Preventative

Maintenance

equipment repaired when broken occasional scheduled servicing in addition to

essential repairs, where appropriate;

maintenance record available

annual scheduled service including testing

of efficiency/effectiveness; maintenance

record available; foreseeable future repairs

noted, and precautions taken to minimize

repair interference with usage

Routine

Maintenance

equipment repaired when broken good housekeeping practices instituted as part

of routine maintenance; scheduled service

based on frequency of use; maintenance

record available

good housekeeping practices instituted as

part of routine maintenance; necessary

maintenance before and after every use;

maintenance record available

Resource: Greenhouse Equipment Scheduled Maintenance

Greenhouse

Equipment

Guarding

staff are verbally trained on guarding;

equipment and guards are inspected

before using


guarding; equipment and guards are inspected

routinely and before using


guarding and in the appropriate response to

guarding malfunctions and follow up

protocols; equipment and guards are

visually inspected daily, inspected routinely

and before using

Note: Cornell EH&S should be contacted with guarding questions and concerns (Phone: 607-255-8200)

Resources for Signage: See links below

Safety information on safe use of equipment

provided during training

information on safe use of equipment

provided during documented training

information on safe use of equipment

provided during training; equipment

evaluated for safety issues during operation

annually and improvements made as soon as

possible

Resources: OSHA Basics of Machine Safeguarding ; EHS on-line training machinery guarding and health and safety basics

Safety of Non-

users

signage discussing equipment hazards

posted on equipment

signage discussing equipment hazards posted

on equipment; access to equipment by non-

users limited

signage discussing equipment hazards

posted on equipment; access to equipment

by non-users prevented

Resource for Signage: CALS OEH web page greenhouses/maintenance-equipment-use

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-safety/personal-protective-equipment/Documents/PPE_toolbox_talk.pdf

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-safety/personal-protective-equipment/Pages/default.aspx

https://oeh.cals.cornell.edu/sites/oeh.cals.cornell.edu/files/shared/documents/greenhouses/SHEM%20GH%20Equipment%20Maintenance%20Check%20List%20140409.pdf

https://www.osha.gov/Publications/Mach_SafeGuard/chapt1.html

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/training/Pages/default.aspx

https://oeh.cals.cornell.edu/greenhouses/maintenance-equipment-use


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Risk

Assessment

supervisors evaluate potential safety

risks and take action as necessary

supervisors and users evaluate potential safety

risks and take action as necessary; assessed

risks and actions documented by supervisor

supervisors train users to evaluate potential

safety risks during annual training; assessed

risks and actions documented by supervisor;

action taken is based on discussion of risks

by supervisors and users

Ergonomics staff are verbally trained on

ergonomics; resources are made

available to staff by supervisors

staff receive documented training on

ergonomics by supervisor; ergonomics

information from Cornell MIPP posted;

Cornell MIPP consultants do job analysis at

work site and update job analysis if equipment

or jobs change; existing equipment adapted to

improve ergonomics, based on job analysis as

practical

staff receive documented training on

ergonomics Cornell MIPP staff; ergonomics

information from Cornell MIPP posted;

Cornell MIPP update job analysis and

training materials approximately every three

years; appropriate equipment installed to

improve ergonomics of required activities,

based on job analysis

Resources: Cornell EH&S Ergonomics; Cornell Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention Program (MIPP)

Record Keeping

documentation of all training and

repairs

documentation of all training, repairs and

maintenance

documentation of training, maintenance,

repairs and concerns suggested by users;

equipment-based record keeping where

available (e.g., data recorders)

Helpful Links Collage of Agriculture & Life Sciences (CALS)

Occupational & Environmental Health (OEH)

http://oeh.cals.cornell.edu

Cornell EH&S: Occupational Safety and Health http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/pages/default.aspx

EH&S New York State Agricultural Experiment

Station (NYSAES)

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/geneva-ehs/Pages/default.aspx

EH&S Training Course Listing: CULearn http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/training/Pages/default.aspx

Hazard Communication https://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-health/hardard-communications/Pages/default.aspx

OSHA Compliance Link http://www.osha.gov/

Cornell EH&S: Lock/Tag/Verify http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-safety/lock-tag-verify/Pages/default.aspx

Cornell EH&S: Ergonomics Toolbox Safety Talk http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-health/ergonomics/Pages/default.aspx

Cornell Musculoskeletal Injury Protection

Program (MIPP)

https://hr.cornell.edu/benefits-pay/leaves-disability/musculoskeletal-injury-prevention-

program-mipp

SafetySign.Com “Machine Guarding Labels” http://www.safetysign.com/machine-guarding-labels

My Safety Signs “Machine Guarding Signs” http://www.mysafetysign.com/machine-guarding-signs

https://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-health/ergonomics/Pages/default.aspx

https://oeh.cals.cornell.edu/sites/oeh.cals.cornell.edu/files/shared/documents/greenhouses/CU%20Greenhouse%20Toolbox%20Training_Material%20Handling%2011-2011.pdf

http://oeh.cals.cornell.edu/

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/pages/default.aspx

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/geneva-ehs/Pages/default.aspx

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/training/Pages/default.aspx

https://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-health/hardard-communications/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.osha.gov/

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-safety/lock-tag-verify/Pages/default.aspx

http://sp.ehs.cornell.edu/osh/occupational-health/ergonomics/Pages/default.aspx

https://hr.cornell.edu/benefits-pay/leaves-disability/musculoskeletal-injury-prevention-program-mipp

https://hr.cornell.edu/benefits-pay/leaves-disability/musculoskeletal-injury-prevention-program-mipp

http://www.safetysign.com/machine-guarding-labels

http://www.mysafetysign.com/machine-guarding-signs


Best Management Practices for Facility Maintenance

Rationale

Threats to the integrity of a facility and its systems include: frost heaving, poor drainage, poor electrical service, concrete deterioration, peeling or

flaking paint, corrosions of steel equipment and reinforcing, puncturing of clay or synthetic liners, plumbing rupture, loss of backflow prevention,

and loss of secondary containment systems. Preventive maintenance minimizes factors that cause deterioration. Timely repair of small problems

prevents them from becoming larger issues, and minimizes algae growth and other pest problems.

Environmental Principle: Deterioration of the greenhouse jeopardizes the safety of workers and the environment by facilitating the

introduction of greenhouse chemicals into the soil and water.

Operational

Aspects



Overview

Emergency

Preparedness

staff can recognize equipment

malfunctioning, greenhouse

utilities problems and are

trained to notify supervisor in

such an event

staff can recognize equipment

malfunctioning, greenhouse utilities

problems and alarms and are trained to

notify appropriate response team in such

events; staff then notify supervisor for

further response and correction

staff are trained in limited operational

response (e.g., shutting off valves) when they

recognize equipment malfunctioning,

greenhouse utilities problems or observe

equipment alarms; staff then notify

supervisor for further response and correction

Environmental

Awareness

staff are trained in behaviors,

but not impacts (e.g., poorly

maintained or broken

equipment is not good) and

must be addressed

staff receive orientation to impacts (e.g.,

poorly maintained or broken equipment

can lead to environmental impacts);

poorly maintained equipment can lead to

basic environmental impacts,

understanding and awareness of what the

impacts are

staff understand that poorly maintained or

broken equipment can have environmental

consequences and legal liabilities, and

understand the necessity of personal action in

responding to equipment maintenance needs

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Facility Maintenance; 11/6/15 Page 9 - 2

Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Training staff are trained to recognize

equipment and facility

malfunctions and understand

what the environmental impacts

are

staff are trained to recognize and react to

equipment and facility malfunctions and

understand what the environmental

impacts are; staff are made aware of

contacts and standard operating

procedures for being around asbestos and

lead paint; staff receive specific hazard

training (i.e. asbestos and lead paint

staff are trained to recognize and react to

equipment and facility malfunctions and

understand what the environmental impacts

are; staff are made aware of contacts and

standard operating procedures for being

around asbestos and lead paint; staff receive

periodic specific hazard training (i.e. asbestos

and lead paint)

Communication individuals in the greenhouse

community report maintenance

concerns as they occur

individuals in the greenhouse community

report maintenance concerns as they

occur; greenhouse staff and maintenance

personnel discuss repairs where

appropriate to maximize long-term

effectiveness of repairs

individuals in the greenhouse community

report maintenance concerns as they occur;


discuss repairs where appropriate to

maximize long-term effectiveness of repairs;


meet regularly to discuss preventive

maintenance and foreseeable maintenance

issues affecting greenhouse structural change

to facility integrity and plant care

Management Preventive

Maintenance

no preventive maintenance

schedules (greenhouse and

maintenance staff)

equipment list; work orders generated by

calendar or season; subjective

scheduling; no or informal record

keeping; no tracking

work orders generated by electronic

maintenance system; facility reports or

receipts tracked by maintenance system;

equipment-specific or by location

Corrective

Maintenance

greenhouse staff note problems

as they occur; report problems

to greenhouse management

greenhouse staff note problems as they

occur; report problems to greenhouse

management; maintenance staff note

problems as they occur; repair as needed

greenhouse and maintenance staff work

together to identify problems as they occur;

repairs are prioritized and promptly

implemented; periodic review of pending

maintenance issues

Evaporative

Cooling

evaporative cooling system

leakage and bleed off are not

monitored; cooling system is

operated seasonally, regardless

of actual ambient temperature

cooling system is periodically inspected

and excessive leakage or bleed off is

corrected; cooling system is operated

only during hot weather

dissolved solids content of cooling system

water is periodically monitored and water

bleed off is adjusted appropriately; leaks are

repaired promptly; cooling system operation

is linked to environmental controls


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Shading

Compound -

Application

shading material is applied on

schedule on a yearly or more

frequent basis; proactive

measures are taken to prevent

accidental release

shading material is applied as needed,

but only when weather will remain clear

until material is well-dried

automatic manual shade curtains are utilized

in the greenhouse

Shading

Compound -

Removal

easily removed shading

formulations are used where

appropriate; shading material is

allowed to be removed by

snowfall or on schedule with

water and scrubbing; least

toxic with appropriate

application chemicals are used

for removal of shading

compound

easily removed shading formulations are

always used; shading material is allowed

to be removed by snowfall or on

schedule with water and scrubbing; no

chemical removal of shading compound

no removal of external shading compound is

required; automatic shading is provided by

movable curtains in the greenhouse

Spill Cleanup

(maintenance-

related

chemicals)

staff know where spill clean-up

materials are kept; spills are

cleaned up fairly promptly

staff know where spill clean-up materials

are kept; spills are cleaned up as soon as

possible

staff know where spill clean-up materials are

kept; spills are cleaned up as soon as

possible; secondary containment or spill

absorption material is used where appropriate

and is disposed of and promptly removed

Disposal of

Plastic

Coverings

sanitary landfill sanitary landfill or reused recycled or reused

Paint

Maintenance

staff are aware that flaking

paint may contain lead; if old

paint is maintained that may be

flaking, pealing or powdery

safety precautions are taken;

staff and food crops are

protected

staff are aware that flaking paint may

contain lead; if old paint is maintained

that may be flaking, pealing or powdery

safety precautions are taken; staff and

food crops are protected; paint is tested

and checked for lead

staff are aware that flaking paint may contain

lead; if old paint is maintained that may be

flaking, pealing or powdery safety

precautions are taken; staff and food crops

are protected; paint is tested and checked for

lead; lead paint is removed or encapsulated

Energy Usage traditional growing practices

without consideration or energy

optimization

staff are aware of current use practices

with attempts made to conserve energy

without negatively impacting crop and/or

project goals

utilize advanced energy conservation systems

to optimize energy use to optimize crop and

project goals


Operational

Aspects



Water Control External &

Internal

Drainage

drainage problems are

identified and prioritized for

repair

drainage problems are identified and

prioritized for repair; drainage issues are

systematically resolved ; where

appropriate drainage system is on a

preventative maintenance program

drainage problems are identified and

prioritized for repair; drainage issues are

systematically resolved; where appropriate

drainage system is on a preventative

maintenance program to include re-routing

where appropriate drainage in and around

structure is visually inspected as weather

conditions determine; proper grading in and

around structures prevents ponding;

landscape plantings kept away from drainage

system; pests prevented from tunneling in,

under or around structure

Irrigation &

Mist Systems

irrigation leaks are identified;

large leaks eliminated and

repaired

irrigation systems are inspected; leaks

are identified and prioritized for repair;

large leaks eliminated and repaired

hose couplings and other connections are

kept tight and leak free; irrigation leaks are

repaired immediately upon discovery;

periodic inspections are conducted; algae

accumulation on greenhouse floors is used as

an indicator of system failure

Structural Leaks greenhouse structural leaks are

identified and prioritized for

repair

structural leaks are repaired

systematically; glazing is inspected

routinely

structural leaks are promptly repaired

systematically; glazing is inspected routinely

and repairs are made promptly

Back Flow

Preventers

back flow preventers and air-

gap as required and are installed

and maintained to meet code

requirements

back flow preventers and air-gap as

required and are installed and maintained

to meet code requirements; secondary

back flow preventers are installed at each

fertilizer injector

back flow preventers and air-gap as required

and are installed and maintained to meet code

requirements; secondary back flow

preventers are installed at each fertilizer

injector


Best Management Practices for Renovation and New Construction

Rationale

Planning for major renovations or new construction must take into consideration all

aspects of the Best Management Practices. Greenhouses must be adequately

designed and constructed to facilitate sustainable operation and support the

intended purpose (research, teaching and/or extension in the case of Cornell).

Emphasis should be placed on good stewardship of resources, energy efficiency,

material recycling and environmental protection. Due to the quantity of chemicals,

both pesticides and fertilizers, used in the greenhouse, construction and renovation

must be undertaken with regard to safe storage, containment and use. Steps should

be taken to inhibit electrical fire, flooding and exposure of employees to hazards.

Spills and leachate must not enter the ground or nearby water sources.

Environmental Principle: Renovation and new construction projects that are well planned and executed will allow greenhouse managers to more easily

manage their environmental risks. Durable, energy efficient structures maximize long-term, sustainable operation with minimal disruption to research.

Operational

Aspects



Overview

Emergency

Preparedness

emergency devices meet code

requirements; emergency plans are in

place, implemented and updated annually


requirements and alarm systems are in

place; portable emergency backup

equipment is available; emergency plans

are in place, implemented and updated

annually and portions updated more

frequently as needed


requirements and facility monitoring and

alarm systems are centralized; emergency

equipment is integrated wherever

possible, and backup systems are installed

to mitigate failures; emergency plans are

in place, implemented and updated to

exceed minimum requirements in

planning and practice

Environmental

Awareness

a person on the project team is assigned

the responsibility for integrating BMP

principles into design

a person on the project team is assigned

the responsibility for integrating BMP

principles into design; entire project team

made aware of BMP principles

the entire project team is well versed on

BMP principles; the project team includes

a BMP lead advisor

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Renovation & New Construction; 5/15/14 Page 10 - 2

Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Training BMP principles are circulated to the

project team as design criteria

BMP principles are circulated to the

project team as design criteria; BMP

principles are discussed during design

meetings

BMP principles are circulated to the

project team as design criteria; the design

team can thoughtfully discuss BMP

principles as the basis for design

Communication environmental issues are addressed ad hoc

during design

environmental issues are systematically

considered; no specific consultation and

guidance by qualified personnel

qualified and experienced environmental

professionals are integral to the design

process; reviewed by environmental

professionals when warranted i.e.

construction/renovation project triggers

environmental regulatory response

Management Floor Construction solid floor; drain to sanitary sewer solid floor; drain to sanitary sewer; floors

sloped and grooved to drain properly and

prevent ponding; floors are textured for

non-slip surface

solid floor; drain to sanitary sewer; floors

sloped and grooved to drain properly and

prevent ponding; floors are textured for

non-slip surface

Building Controls automatic temperature control stand-alone digital temperature and

ventilation control

networked advanced digital controls for

environmental systems

High Intensity

Discharge (HID)

Lighting Safety

where Metal Halide HID lighting is required for safety protective lamp lenses should be specified and maintained to protect from

possible shattering glass and UV light rays

Disposal Systems (all

waste systems:

trash, compost,

universal waste)

waste disposal complies with applicable

regulations

waste disposal area provided for

segregated materials and complies with

applicable regulations; waste integrated

into design of the facility

waste disposal area integrated into design

of the facility with segregation of

materials and complies with applicable

applications that is under cover and

protected from the weather; advanced

recycling and composting with most

materials recycled


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Water Supply

(Backflow and

water quality for

plants, equipment

maintenance and

emergency water

systems)

non-potable water is clearly marked that it

is not potable water; backflow prevention

is installed to meet codes and regulations;

tempered water is supplied to all eye wash

systems; main water supply is cold water

non-potable water is clearly marked that it

is not potable water; backflow prevention

is installed to meet codes and regulations

with each injection device having an

additional separate backflow device

meeting codes and regulations; tempered

water is supplied to all eye wash systems

water supply is tempered and cold supply

is potable water; non-potable water is

clearly marked that it is not potable water;

plumbing is equipped with labeled valves

for each with backflow prevention

installed to meet codes and regulations

with each injection device having an

additional separate backflow device

meeting codes and regulations; tempered

water is supplied to all eye wash systems;

water will be tested regularly; water is

softened for specialized equipment

Secondary

Containment Systems

– Chemical Storage

portable systems provided where needed;

no fixtures


some fixtures


some permanent secondary containment

built-in, e.g., for fertilizer injection

systems; secondary containment decisions

are based on fertilizer storage, pesticide

storage, and mixing/loading activities;

frost heaving, tank seats and tank anchors

are considered in designing secondary

containment systems

Chemical Storage

Area

separate designated area with an area for

pesticides and another area for fertilizer

storage

separate designated area with an area for

pesticide and another area for fertilizer

storage

storage area designed for the specific

purpose of segregated storage with special

features to suit facility use

Support Facilities Laundry Facilities no special provisions are made for

cleaning PPE or contaminated clothing;

handlers generally wear disposable PPE

when mixing, handling or applying

pesticides

no special provisions made for cleaning

PPE or contaminated clothing; handlers

generally wear disposable PPE when

mixing, handling or applying pesticides

handlers generally wear disposable PPE

when mixing, handling or applying

pesticides; washing machine and dryer are

provided


Operational

Aspects


Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Restroom & Shower

Facilities (in support

of greenhouse

activities)

building code requirements met; a

separated clean room with lockers is

available for storing and donning clean

clothing & PPE

building code requirements met; ; a



clothing & PPE; at least one shower

available to workers

building code requirements met; a



clothing & PPE; shower facilities with

adequate locker space are provided for

each sex

Safety

Worker Safety most but not all of the following are

provided, but not in an organized way:

eyewash, deluge shower, first aid kit, spill

response kit, fire extinguishers,

telephones or other 2-way communication

system for emergency notification,

emergency phone numbers, safety data

sheets

all of the following are provided, but not

in an organized way: eyewash, deluge

shower, first aid kit, spill response kit, fire

extinguishers, telephones, emergency

phone numbers, safety data sheets

all of the following are provided in an

organized way, and all staff are trained in

the proper location and use: eyewash,

deluge shower, first aid kit, spill response

kit, fire extinguishers, telephones,

emergency phone numbers, safety data

sheets

Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; New Section v. 2/22/18 Page 11-1

Best Management Practices for Discharge Point Signage in the Greenhouses Rationale Signage for discharge points in the greenhouses is necessary to prevent unwanted discharges that would impact waterways. Drains in the

greenhouses are defined as discharge points for wastewater from trench/floor drains or fixtures.

Environmental Principle: Signage is posted to prevent unwanted discharges to ground water and surface water affecting potable water.

Operational

Aspects



Overview

Emergency

Preparedness

staff are trained in the necessity

for signage

staff are trained in the necessity for signage staff are trained in the necessity for signage

Environmental

Awareness

staff understand that unwanted

releases through drains could

reach ground water and surface

water affecting potable water

staff understand that unwanted releases

through drains could reach ground water

and surface water affecting potable water

staff understand that unwanted releases

through drains could reach ground water and

surface water affecting potable water

Training staff have read and understood

Best Management Practices for

Discharge Point Signage in

Greenhouse; greenhouse

managers complete Greenhouse

Wastewater Discharge Point

Signage Training Checklist

with all new greenhouse staff

staff have read and understood Best

Management Practices for Discharge Point

Signage in Greenhouse; greenhouse

managers complete Greenhouse Wastewater

Discharge Point Signage Training Checklist


staff have read and understood Best

Management Practices for Discharge Point

Signage in Greenhouse; greenhouse

managers complete Greenhouse Wastewater

Discharge Point Signage Training Checklist


Communication

Signs are posted in appropriate

locations, greenhouse managers

fill out annual reminder for

Greenhouse Wastewater

Discharge Point Signage

Signs are posted in appropriate locations,

greenhouse managers fill out annual

reminder for Greenhouse Wastewater


Signs are posted in appropriate locations,

greenhouse managers fill out annual

reminder for Greenhouse Wastewater


Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Discharge Point Signage; 2/22/18 Page 11 - 2

Operational

Aspects



Management Laws of

Discharge,

SPDES Permits

and Local

Ordinances

Laws of discharge, State

Pollutant Discharge Elimination

System (SPDES) Permits and

local ordinances will be

available to the greenhouse

managers

(see resources below)

Laws of discharge, SPDES Permits and

local ordinances will be available to the

greenhouse managers; all documents have

been reviewed by greenhouse managers (see

resources below)

Laws of discharge, SPDES Permits and local

ordinances will be available to the

greenhouse managers; all documents have

been reviewed by greenhouse managers (see

resources below)

Signage and

Drains

Locations and signage are

verified annually, refer to the

Greenhouse Wastewater


Annual Reminder (see

references below)

Locations and signage are verified annually,

refer to the Greenhouse Wastewater

Discharge Point Signage Annual Reminder

(see references below)

Locations and signage are verified annually,

refer to the Greenhouse Wastewater

Discharge Point Signage Annual Reminder

(see references below)

Resources:

City of Ithaca, NY Regulation of Wastewater Discharges Chapter 264-265 Sewer Use http://ecode360.com/8392178

For other municipalities, refer to your own local ordinances.

State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6054.html

Greenhouse Discharge Point Signage https://oeh.cals.cornell.edu/greenhouses

SHEM Greenhouse Wastewater Discharge Point Signage Annual Reminder https://oeh.cals.cornell.edu/greenhouses

SHEM Greenhouse Wastewater Discharge Point Signage Training Checklist https://oeh.cals.cornell.edu/greenhouses

http://ecode360.com/8392178

http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6054.html

https://oeh.cals.cornell.edu/greenhouses



Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; v. 7/26/2017 Page 12 - 1

Glossary

Algae: A group of aquatic, photosynthetic, eukaryotic organisms ranging

from unicellular to multicellular forms, and generally possess chlorophyll

but lack true toots, stems and leaves characteristic of terrestrial plants.

Algaecide: An algaecide is a pesticide used for killing and preventing the

growth of algae.

Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS): The part of USDA

responsible for protecting American agriculture and natural resources from

imported or invasive organisms.

Antimicrobial: Destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and

especially pathogenic microorganisms.

Autoclave: An apparatus in which special conditions (as high or low

pressure or temperature) can be established for a variety of applications;

especially: an apparatus (as for sterilizing) using superheated steam under

high pressure.

Backflow: The flow of a liquid by siphon pressure or gravity back to its

source.

Backflow Prevention Device: A mechanical device that prevents the return

flow of water and any dissolved chemicals back into the water supply.

Bactericide: A pesticide used to control bacteria which cause disease.

Beneficial organisms: Organisms used to manage a pest population. These

include:

Competitors: Individuals that need to utilize the same limiting

resource. Competition generally has negative effects on one or both

competitors.

Parasites: Small organisms that live and feed in or on a larger host

organism.

Parasitoids: Parasitic insects that live in or on, and eventually kill, a

larger host insect.

Pathogens: Microorganisms that live and feed (parasitically) on or in

a larger host organism, and thereby cause injury to the host.

Predators: Animals that feed upon other animals.

Biological Control: The use of beneficial organisms to manage pest

populations.

Biosafety Levels: More information to determine biosafety levels can be

found in the following locations: National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Guidelines https://osp.od.nih.gov/biotechnology/nih-guidelines/ Cornell

University Institutional Biosafety Committee http://www.ibc.cornell.edu/ ;

A Practical Guide to Containment by Patricia L. Traynor, Dan Adair, Ruth

Irwin

http://conacyt.gob.mx/cibiogem/images/cibiogem/comunicacion/Eventos/C

IBIOGEM/Taller-Bioseguridad-Cofinamiento/Practical-guide-

containment.pdf

Biosafety Level 1-Plant (BL1P) and Biosafety Level 2-Plant: See

Biosafety Levels definition for more information to determine biosafety

levels.

Calibration: Determining accuracy of equipment and methods; using

standards to maintain accuracy in equipment capacity and volumes

delivered.

Clean Room (Cleanroom): is an enclosed space in which airborne

particulates, contaminates and pollutants are kept within limits.

https://osp.od.nih.gov/biotechnology/nih-guidelines/


http://conacyt.gob.mx/cibiogem/images/cibiogem/comunicacion/Eventos/CIBIOGEM/Taller-Bioseguridad-Cofinamiento/Practical-guide-containment.pdf



Best Management Practices for Cornell Greenhouses; Revision 4; October 20, 2017; Glossary; 7/26/17 Page 12 - 2

Composting: Managed aerobic decay of organic matter to produce a

humus-like product that can be used as a plant growth medium or soil

amendment.

Cornell Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC): The Cornell IBC is

the institutional body responsible for oversight of activities involving

biohazardous materials as required by the National Institutes of Health

Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid

Molecules (NIH Guidelines) and the Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention (CDC) Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical

Laboratories (BMBL). http://www.ibc.cornell.edu/glossary/

Cross-connection: Interconnection between a potable water supply and a

water supply intended for plant care which may contain fertilizer or other

agricultural chemicals.

Cultural Control: Manipulation of growing conditions such as sanitation,

the environment, or production timing to achieve disease, insect, or weed

management.

Curbed Concrete Pad: A containment method using concrete flooring

constructed to restrict the movement of spilled materials within raised

edges.

Debris: The scattered remains of media and/or plant material.

Decontamination/Clean Area: Designated area to don or store clean PPE,

and perform personal decontamination (i.e., shower or sink).

Deluge Shower: is activated by a rigid pull and provides a unique impeller

set action, gives a complete and dense coverage with a thorough and rapid

decontamination action. Heads distribute floods of water without voids in

the shower pattern that assures complete body coverage for faster

decontamination.

Disinfectant: An antimicrobial intended to destroy or irreversibly

inactivate infectious or other undesirable bacteria, pathogenic fungi, or

viruses on surfaces or inanimate objects.

Documented Maintenance: Written list of type and date of maintenance

performed.

Documented Training: Attendees sign in (or out) of training and

manager/supervisor maintains sign in sheet.

Electrical Conductivity (EC): As used in measuring fertility, it is the

ability of the solution (nutrient or soil) to conduct electricity based on the

concentration of dissolved ions..

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): The Federal organization

charged with protecting human health and the environment of the United

States.

Environmentally Persistent: A chemical compound that does not rapidly

break down but remains in the environment for a prolonged period.

Equipment Malfunctions: Greenhouse equipment fails to operate

properly.

Ergonomics: An applied science concerned with designing and arranging

things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and

safely.

Eutrophication: the process by which a body of water becomes enriched

in dissolved nutrients (as phosphates) that stimulate the growth of aquatic

plant life usually resulting in depletion of dissolved oxygen.

Evaporative Cooling: Evaporation of water by an air stream to reduce the

air temperature.

http://www.ibc.cornell.edu/glossary/


Eyewash: A piece of safety equipment that provides for quick flushing of

the eyes; provided within a work area where the eyes of any person may be

exposed to corrosive materials (such as some pesticides); installed and

maintained according to regulations; for immediate emergency use.

Fertigation: Irrigation of plants with water containing fertilizer.

Fertilizer: a substance (such as manure or a special chemical) that is added

to media for plant growth.

Fertilizer Formulation: identifies specific fertilizers in the product i.e.

Potassium sulfate.

Fire Suppression System: A system designed to respond to smoke, heat,

or spark with water or a chemical fire retardant.

Fumigants: A pesticide in the form of a poisonous gas that will kill

destructive microorganisms, animals, or plants when absorbed or inhaled.

Fungicide: A pesticide used to control fungi which cause molds, rots, and

other plant diseases.

Glazing: Light-transmitting materials used to cover a greenhouse.

Greenhouse Equipment: Autoclaves, soil mixers, or other equipment,

excluding vehicles, which is used by greenhouse personnel who have been

trained in its use.

Growing Media: A material formulated to provide structural support, and a

substrate to hold water, nutrients and air for growing plants; a soil

substitute.

Growth Regulator: Synthetic or naturally occurring plant substances that

are effective in minute amounts to regulate or modify plant growth.

Hazard Class: A classification system designating the toxicity level of

pesticides to humans, including: Danger/Poison, Danger, Warning, and

Caution – Slightly Toxic, Caution – Relatively Non-toxic. The

classification is directly related to the suggested precautions for handling

and use.

Herbicide: A pesticide formulated to inhibit growth of or kill plants. Non-

selective herbicides work on many different types of plants, while selective

herbicides are specific to a selected group of plant species.

High Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps: HID lamps are a type of

electrical gas-discharge lamp which produces light by means of an

electronic arc between electrodes housed inside a transparent arc tube filled

with gas and metal salts.

Fertilizer Injector: Device that injects fertilizer stock solution into the

irrigation line at a known dilution ratio. (see also proportioner)

Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs): Hormones or hormone-like substances

that affect the ability of insects to grow and mature normally.

Insecticide: A pesticide that is used to control or prevent damage caused

by insects.

Institution: any public or private entity (including federal, state and local

government agencies).

Integrated Pest Management (IPM): A pest control strategy based on

knowledge of the crop and its pests using multiple management techniques,

including cultural, biological, and chemical control.

Inventory Control: Detailed monitoring and recording of product

identifications and quantities to ensure proper planning, use, distribution

and disposal.


Impermeable Flooring: Flooring designed to limit or eliminate the

movement of water into the flooring system.

Label: The printed material attached to or part of pesticide container.

LC50: “Lethal Concentration” of a substance suspended in the air or

dispersed in water.

LD50: “Lethal Dose” of a substance that will kill 50% of a population of

organisms; this is generally expressed as milligrams of toxin per kilogram

of body weight.

Leaching: Applying excess water or nutrient solution to wash chemicals

and excess nutrients out of the root zone.

Least Toxic: having a minimally or no toxic effect upon non-target

organisms

Media: (See also Growing Media) Substance that plants grow in such as

soil, vermiculite, or peat moss.

Mode of Action: The mechanism by which a pesticide kills or controls the

target organism (i.e., systemic, contact, etc.).

MUA (Memorandum of Understanding and Agreements): Applications

for the NIH and Institutional Biosafety Committee for research involving

recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules (r/sNA) as defined by the

NIH Guidelines.

National Institutes of Health Guidelines for Research Involving

Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules (NIH Guidelines): The NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic

Nucleic Acid Molecules (NIH Guidelines) set forth the principles for NIH

and institutional oversight of recombinant and synthetic nucleic acid

molecule research, including human gene transfer trials. The NIH

Guidelines were first published in 1976 as an outcome of a public process

by which scientists developed standards to address the risks associated with

recombinant DNA research.

Natural Enemies: see Beneficial Organisms

Non-compost: Material not subject to aerobic decay, or excluded from

composting for phytosanitary reasons, including: plastic coated paper;

plastic stakes, labels, pots, bag, twist ties, gloves or any plastic material;

large woody material; rock wool or manufactured soil media substitutes;

transgenic, diseased or insect infested material unless it has been

adequately autoclaved; wooden labels or stakes.

Nutrient: A mineral used by plants for growth or development.

Nutrient Analysis: Testing of growing mixes, water or plant material to

determine actual nutrient content, pH, and/or electrical conductivity

(saltiness).

Nutrient Deficiency: The lack of one or more mineral nutrients, which

prevents optimum growth.

NY State Certified Pesticide Applicator: A commercial or private

pesticide applicator who is certified by the NYS DEC to use, supervise the

use of, or train another individual in the use of any pesticide in any

category of use covered by the individual’s certification. Applicators at

Cornell must have commercial certification.

NY State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC): Department of Environmental Conservation; the Pesticide Management

Program within NYS DEC is the lead New York agency responsible for

regulation of pesticides, compliance assistance and public outreach

activities to ensure enforcement of State pesticide laws.

NY State Registered Pesticide Product: A DEC approved substance or

mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or

mitigating any insects, rodents, fungi, weeds, or other forms of plant or


animal life or viruses (except viruses on or in living humans / or other

animals); and any substance or mixture of substances intended as a plant

regulator, defoliant (causes plants to drop leaves) or desiccant (promotes

death of plants by drying).

Operating Manual: An instruction handbook prepared by the

manufacturer on the use of the equipment.

Organic Waste: any biodegradable waste that originates from animal or

plant sources.

Oxidizer: A substance that oxidizes another substance, especially one that

supports the combustion of fuel; an oxidizing agent.

Passive Temperature Control: Using non-motorized shutters, vents,

shading and other systems to moderate indoor temperature without benefit

of mechanical coolers or heaters; indoor temperature patterns tend to follow

outdoor temperature trends.

Passive Ventilation: Non-automated ventilation such as opened windows

and shutters that allow airflow in and out of the greenhouse without relying

on motorized fans and vents.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Clothing and accessories such as

goggles, rubber boots and gloves worn for protection from exposure to or

injury from chemicals during handling activities or from using greenhouse

equipment.

Personal Protective Equipment Area: An area designated for storage and

donning of personal protective equipment.

Pest: Any organism causing an undesired effect on the health, growth or

development of a desirable organism or interfering with production

methods, including weeds, mammals, birds, insects, mites and pathogens.

Pest Exclusion: The use of exclusion methods, such as caulking crevices or

screening air vents, to limit or prevent pest access.

Pest Reservoir: An area or host population where pests remain after using

pest management techniques.

Pesticide: Any substance or mixture of substances intended to prevent,

destroy, repel, or mitigate any pest, or intended for use as a plant regulator,

defoliant, or desiccant.

Pesticide Formulation: A classification of the physical form of pesticide

products, including but not limited to: EC = emulsifiable concentrate, F =

flowable microencapsulated, FP = flowable powder, G = granular, L =

liquid, ME = microencapsulated, SP = soluble powder, W = wettable

powder.

pH: The measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution.

Phytosanitation: concerning the health of plants; especially the freedom

from pests requiring quarantine.

Principal Investigator (PI): This title identifies the individual responsible

for the conduct of the project. This responsibility includes the intellectual

conduct of the project, fiscal accountability, administrative aspects, and the

project's adherence to relevant policies and regulations.

Potable Water: water that is safe for drinking, tap water may be potable

Precipitate: Solids that have separated out of solution.

Proportioner: A device that injects fertilizer stock solution into the

irrigation line at a known dilution ratio. (see also fertilizer injector)

Recombinant DNA and Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules:

(i) molecules that a) are constructed by joining nucleic acid molecules and

b) that can replicate in a living cell, i.e., recombinant nucleic acids;


(ii) nucleic acid molecules that are chemically or by other means

synthesized or amplified, including those that are chemically or otherwise

modified but can base pair with naturally occurring nucleic acid molecules,

i.e., synthetic nucleic acids, or

(iii) molecules that result from the replication of those described in (i) or

(ii) above.

http://osp.od.nih.gov/office-biotechnology-activities/biosafety/nih-

guidelines

Recycling: to treat or process used or waste materials so as to make them

suitable for reuse.

Renovate: to restore to good condition; make new or as if new again;

repair.

Residual: Leaving a residue that remains effective for an extended period.

Right to Know: EPA Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-

Know Act (EPCRA) Hazardous Chemical Inventory Reporting

https://www.epa.gov/epcra/epcra-sections-311-312

Rogueing: The prompt removal of infested or infected plants by bagging

and carrying out of the greenhouse.

Safety Data Sheet (SDS): an OSHA mandated collection of information

provided by the manufacturer for the proper storage and use of a chemical,

including toxicity and safety information.

Sanitary Sewer: a sewer to dispose of sewage (the waste matter that passes

through sewers) but not water from ground surface or storm.

Sanitation: Cleaning, disinfecting and/or remove elements that endanger

plant health or interfere with plant production such as debris, or

infected/infested plants.

Sanitizer: An antimicrobial intended to reduce the number of living

bacteria or viable virus particles on inanimate surfaces, in water, or in air.

Scouting: The systematic checking of plants for insect and disease

problems. Scouting records are kept and used in making predictions and

decisions concerning pest and disease control.

Secondary Containment: A container or structural barrier placed under or

around a vessel to contain the contents of the vessel in the event of an

accidental spill or leak. The secondary containment should have at least

110% of the primary vessel’s capacity.

Selectivity: Refers to the range of organisms or life stages of organisms

affected by a pesticide; a selective pesticide is toxic to a narrow range of

pests species or life stages.

Shading: The use of fabric or coatings applied to glazing to reduce the

indoor light level or solar heat gain in a greenhouse.

Shading Compound: liquid applied to glazing to form a coating to reduce

light.

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): A set of instructions covering

those features of operations that lend themselves to a definite or

standardized procedure without loss of effectiveness.

Spill Kits: a compilation of absorbent materials, cleaners and chemicals

neutralizers used to contain accidental spills.

Sticky Traps/Cards: glue based traps typically used to catch and monitor

pests.

Stock Solution: concentrated liquid fertilizer for proportioning via

fertilizer injector or proportioner.

Sustainable: conserving an ecological balance by avoiding depletion of

natural resources.

http://osp.od.nih.gov/office-biotechnology-activities/biosafety/nih-guidelines

http://osp.od.nih.gov/office-biotechnology-activities/biosafety/nih-guidelines

https://www.epa.gov/epcra/epcra-sections-311-312


Training: The skill, knowledge or experience acquired by one that trains.

The trainer will teach operative concepts, proper personal protective

equipment (PPE) requirements, safety, and information outlined in a

training manual. If assistance is needed by the trainer OSHA and Cornell

EH&S can be referenced.

Transgenic or Genetically Modified: A genetically modified plant is a

plant whose genotypic and perhaps phenotypic characteristics have been

altered with recombinant DNA techniques (e.g., transformation techniques

that use electroporation, gene gun, viral vector, Agrobacterium) (these

techniques are different than those used with traditional breeding

techniques- random mixing of genes thru sexual crosses and backcrosses,

wild crosses, pollination, grafting). Transgenic plants include a subset of

genetically modified plants where the plant expresses new genes. These

genes may be derived from the same species, different plant species, or

even different organisms (e.g., Bt cotton). Knockout plants are a subset of

genetically modified plants where a particular gene or subset of genes have

been inactivated/deleted. Both types of plants would utilize similar rDNA

techniques (with natural or synthetic nucleic acids) and would be subject to

the NIH Guidelines.

Ventilation: The air exchange between the inside and outside of the

greenhouse to remove heat or affect relative humidity of the air.

Worker Protection Standard (WPS): A federal regulation administered

by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) intended to reduce the

risk of pesticide poisonings and injuries among agricultural workers who

are exposed to pesticide residues on plants. The WPS requires greenhouse

owners to assure that workers receive basic pesticide safety information

before they work with treated plants.

WPS Worker: A worker is anyone who: (1) is employed (including self-

employed) for any type of compensation and (2) is doing tasks, such as

harvesting, weeding, or watering, related to the production of agricultural

plants on a farm, forest, nursery, or greenhouse. This term does not include

persons who are employed by a commercial establishment to perform tasks

such as crop advisors.

WPS Handler: A pesticide handler is anyone who: (1) is employed

(including self-employed) for any type of compensation by an agricultural

establishment or a commercial pesticide handling establishment that uses

pesticides in the production of agricultural plants on a farm, forest, nursery,

or greenhouse, and (2) is doing any of the following tasks:

Mixing, loading, transferring or applying pesticides

Handling opened containers of pesticides

Acting as a flagger

Cleaning, handing, adjusting or repairing the parts of mixing and

loading or application equipment that may contain pesticide

residues

Assisting with the application of pesticides, including incorporating

the pesticides into the soil after the application has occurred

Entering a greenhouse or other enclosed area after application and

before inhalation exposure level listed on the product labeling has

been reached or one of the WPS ventilation criteria have been met

to: operate ventilation equipment, adjust or remove coverings, such

as tarps, used in fumigation or check air concentration levels

Entering a treated area outdoors after application of any soil

fumigant to adjust or remove soil coverings, such as tarpaulins

Perform tasks as a crop advisor: during any pesticide application

before any inhalation exposure level or ventilation criteria listed on

the labeling has been reached or one of the WPS ventilation criteria

has been met, during any restricted-entry interval

Disposing of pesticides or pesticide containers