Oklahoma Department of Transportation sprayer equipment assessment & calibration workshops (FHWA-OK-09-08)

Abstract

Oklahoma State University (OSU) Roadside Vegetation Management (RVM) Program personnel assessed and inventoried 82 ODOT herbicide spray units. At these workshops, 259 ODOT herbicide applicators were trained in sprayer system parts identification, system assessment and proper calibration. A report card highlighting a 16 point check list of sprayer system components was used in the system assessment process on each unit. The 16 point check list included assessment of the spray tank and lid condition; tank shut-off valve; in-line filter screens; drift control injector (if present); water pump; pump power source engine or motor; system hoses and plumbing fixtures; tank agitation system; all pressure gauges; pressure regulators; nozzle type and condition; spray head control arm; nozzle shut-off solenoids or other; in-cab control switches; auxillary handgun applicator and hoses; as well as the computerized sprayer monitoring device and its interface parts. A single OSU RVM staff member was assigned to each spray unit. That staff member spent approximately 1 hour per crew in assessment for most units. Units with more extensive problems required over 1.5 hours of staff time in assessment. This does not include the time needed if parts needed replacement. ODOT Employees observed and closely participated with OSU RVM personnel as the systematic assessment and calibration was conducted. Many simple problems could be corrected during the course of the assessment/calibration workshop whereas more fundamental and major problems required the unit be worked on by ODOT Division mechanics at a later date. Herbicide sprayer report cards were completed for each spray unit and were provided to county unit supervisors and to each ODOT field division headquarters. Final recommendations and inventory data were developed and reported to each division headquarters. Additional specific recommendations are provided in this report.