Worker Protection Standard Training and
Plant Growth Facility Orientation
Washington State University
Agricultural Research Center's
Plant Growth Facility

We offer combined WPS training and PGF orientation classes near the beginning of new semesters and at any time there is a request for training. All people with paid positions who spend time working in the greenhouses must receive training; this includes time-slip, classified staff, administrative/professional, graduate student, and faculty employees of WSU. The oral presentation is supplemented by an EPA approved video on greenhouse safety. The purpose of WPS training is to minimize the risk of pesticide-related illness or injury. Topics include general safety, rights of employees to information about safety, responsibilities of management to protect the safety of those who work in the greenhouse, and first aid. Upon completion of the training, each person receives a card that is valid for five years and is accepted throughout the United States.

The training session also includes a plant growth facilities orientation to acquaint users with our system. Topics include an introduction to the PGF staff, information on materials such as pots, media and other supplies provided to users, procedures for disposing of used potting media, the importance of sanitation, our notification and posting procedures for pesticide applications, and locations of safety information and equipment such as Material Safety Data Sheets, eyewashes, fire extinguishers, first aid kits and telephones. Discussion and questions are encouraged. The combined WPS training and orientation session usually lasts less than one hour.

If you wish to sign up for WPS training or PGF orientation click here.