Irish Water want pesticide users to follow the guidelines.
An exceedance of the pesticide glyphosate has been detected in the public drinking water supply in Newport, Mayo.
However, Irish Water has said the levels at present do not represent a threat to public health.
Glyphosate is a broad spectrum herbicide used mainly for the control of annual broadleaf weeds and grasses and is found in a number of weed killer formulations used by gardeners and growers.
Farmers, groundsmen and other people who use pesticides are being urged to carefully follow the guidelines when applying them to their lands.
Irish Water warned that a single drop of pesticide can breach the drinking water limit in a small stream for up to 30 kilometres.
Dr Pat O’Sullivan, Regional Drinking Water Compliance Specialist for Irish Water, said: “In Co Mayo, the exceedance of the drinking water regulations for Glyphosate was noted in the Newport supply in May.
“While the HSE has advised that the levels seen do not represent a threat to public health, it is however undesirable and it is therefore imperative that users of pesticides are mindful of best practice when spraying their lands.
“Irish Water is continuing its extensive investment programme to improve water and wastewater services in Ireland. Providing safe, clean drinking water for all is our first priority.”
The basic steps in reducing pesticide risks are:
- Choose the right pesticide product
- Read and follow the product label
- Determine the right amount to purchase and use
- Don’t spray if rain or strong wind is forecast in the next 48 hours
- Make sure you are aware of the location of all nearby water courses
- Comply with any buffer zone specified on the product label to protect the aquatic environment. Mark out the specified buffer zone from the edge of the river or lake or other water course
- Never fill a sprayer directly from a water course or carry out mixing, loading or other handling operations beside a water course
- Avoid spills, stay well back from open drains and rinse empty containers three times into the sprayer
- Store and dispose of pesticides and their containers properly
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