What is the best way for a pilot to ensure an area to be sprayed is clear of workers?

Conducting an aerial survey immediately before the application is the most effective method for ensuring that the area to be sprayed is clear of workers. This approach allows the pilot to visually assess the area from the air just prior to the application, ensuring a real-time understanding of the situation on the ground. By implementing this step, a pilot can verify that no individuals are present in the targeted area, ultimately increasing safety and reducing the risk of accidental exposure during aerial application.

Other methods, while they may provide some level of precaution, are not as reliable. A verbal warning might not reach everyone who may be in the vicinity and relies on the assumption that workers are attentive and will comply. A written safety check is beneficial for documentation but does not provide immediate assurance of the current conditions. Assuming the area is clear could lead to dangerous situations if there are workers present, as this does not involve verifying the status on-site. Therefore, the aerial survey provides the most conclusive measure for ensuring the safety of both workers and the application process.