What is the best action for cleaning up a pesticide spill?

Using sawdust or a sweeping compound is the best action for cleaning up a pesticide spill because these materials can effectively absorb the liquid, preventing it from spreading further and making it easier to collect and dispose of safely. Sawdust is particularly effective because it has high absorbent properties, allowing it to soak up the pesticide, while sweeping compounds can help to contain the spill and facilitate gathering the contaminated material without it dispersing into the environment.

Water, while it might seem like a quick solution, could actually exacerbate the problem by diluting the pesticide and allowing it to seep into the ground or nearby water sources. Leaving the spill for professionals is often a good choice for larger or more hazardous spills, but immediate action is generally required to minimize risks. Covering the spill with plastic would not effectively contain it or neutralize the hazard; it may serve to contain vapors temporarily, but it does nothing to absorb or remove the pesticide. Therefore, using sawdust or a sweeping compound is the most practical and effective method for dealing with a pesticide spill immediately.