Every pesticide, whether organic or synthetic, sold in the United States comes with a pesticide label. That label is a legal document detailing the expectations for the safe, proper and legal use of the pesticide by the applicator.
The purchaser and/or applicator is assuming certain responsibilities when deciding to use a pesticide. Using such a product in a way inconsistent with its label is a violation of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act of 1996 (FIFRA).
The pesticide label is the best guide to using a it safely and effectively. The directions on the label are there primarily to help control of the targeted pest with minimum risk.
Both goals depend on following label directions for correct use of the pesticide. Make sure to read the label before even buying one. Using pesticides in any way that does not comply with the label’s directions and precautions is illegal.
Pesticide manufacturers are required by law to provide certain information on the label. Each label will show the brand name or trade name of the product. The brand name is designed so the product is easily recognized and remembered.
Active ingredients on the label are the chemicals in the pesticide that control the target pest. Products with the same active ingredient may have completely different brand names, therefore the label also must show the active ingredient.
The percentage or amount of active ingredient by weight must be stated. Inert (non-active) ingredients are not required to be listed individually or identified by name.
All pesticide products must be registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and each is given a unique registration number. This number indicates the EPA has reviewed the product and determined it can be used with minimal risk when directions are followed.
The name, address and contact information of the manufacturer or formulator of the product must be on the label.
The Precautionary Statements contains information about potential hazards related to the product’s use, including risks to people, domestic animals, other non-target organisms, wildlife, and the environment. It also may spell out any physical or chemical hazards like fire or explosion risks the particular product may pose.
The type of personal protective equipment (PPE) that must be used with a particular pesticide can be found in this section. Shirts with long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toed shoes should be worn when applying any pesticides, even if the label doesn’t contain a protective clothing statement. Other protective equipment may include, but is not limited to goggles, gloves, and respirators.
If the chemical is to be applied to an edible crop for humans or animals, the label will specify the pre-harvest interval. This is the least amount of time that must elapse between the last application and the harvest of the crop.
A section on first aid may also be included in this part of the label. This statement gives the procedures that must be taken following an accidental exposure (oral, dermal, inhalation or eye) to the product. This information should be read and understood before use of the product and should be relayed to medical personnel responding to an emergency.
Proper storage and disposal instructions for the pesticide and its container are specified on the label. Chemicals can lose their effectiveness over time. It is very important that chemicals should be stored in the original labeled container in which it was purchased.
Any remaining unused chemical should not be stored in the applicator’s container. Only the amount of chemical necessary for a specific job should be prepared at any one time.
Directions for Use on the label provides instructions on how to properly use the product. Mixing instructions, compatibility with other products, timing, frequency of application, and proper application methods and equipment are all spelled out in this portion of the label.
Finally, read the label directions before purchasing a pesticide. Let the label guide your purchase decision.
Reading and following label directions is part of good pesticide use. It is the law and most importantly this practice protects human health, pollinators, wildlife, and the environment.
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