FACTS

Primary hazards and types of injuries associated with hazardous plants.

1. Dermatitis and Skin Irritations

• • Giant Hogweed: This plant’s sap contains photosensitizing compounds that cause severe skin burns and blisters when exposed to sunlight.
  • Wild Parsnip: Similar to giant hogweed, wild parsnip can cause phytophotodermatitis.

2. Respiratory Issues

• • Pollen Allergies: Landscapers suffer from respiratory problems due to exposure to pollen from various plants.
  • Toxic Plant Dust: Handling or cutting certain plants can release dust or fine particles that irritate the respiratory tract.

3. Eye Injuries

• • Sap Exposure: Sap from certain plants like giant hogweed can cause severe irritation and even temporary or permanent blindness.

4. Gastrointestinal Issues

• • Accidental Ingestion: Accidental ingestion of toxic plant material can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

5. Neurological Effects

• • Toxic Alkaloids: Some plants contain alkaloids that can affect the nervous system

STATS

• Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac contain an oily resin called urushiol, which can affect 85% of the population.
• Poisonous plants like poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are common causes of dermatitis, affecting thousands of workers annually. These plants can cause severe allergic reactions and skin rashes.
• The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 10-50 million Americans are affected by poison ivy annually, a significant portion of whom are landscapers.
• The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) highlights the risks associated with exposure to toxic plants, including skin irritation and respiratory issues.
• Poison ivy, giant hogweed, and wild parsnip are common hazardous plants in Canada, posing risks to landscapers who come into contact with them.