Ch 4 Iowa Core Manual

Chapter 4 Pesticide Labeling

Define Label

 The label includes all info printed on and attached to the pesticide container or referred to on the label or accompanying literature. The label contains information on handling, storage, use, and disposal of the pesticide.

Why is it important to understand and read the label

It is a legal document that you are required to read and follow. Failure to do so can lead to liability and fines.

Differentiate between the types of pesticide registration

·       Section 3- The most common and most comprehensive registration is granted under section 3 of FIFRA. This means that the EPA has reviewed and approved all information required to support all uses listed on the product label. There will be an EPA registration number on the label.

·       Section 24(c)- When pests cannot be managed with currently registered pesticides, you can request a special registration.  Section 24c of FIFRA allows for distribution and use within a specific state or locality if there is a SLN, “special local need” If using this, you must have a copy of the section 24(c) label and it may only be used in that area.

·       Section 18 Exemption- exemptions for specific public health needs and crisis, under which use must comply to the Section 18 label

·       Section 25(b) Exemption- certain pesticides are exempt from normal registration when they are deemed to pose minimum risk to humans and the environment. These products do not require EPA label approval, label, reg number, or PPE. Examples are Corn oil, cinnamon ect

Distinguish between active and inert ingredients

Active- the ingredients that actually control the pest

Inert- the ingredients that do not control the pest

Identify the meaning of restricted use classification and explain where to look for it on the label

Restricted Use pesticides need special attention as they could cause extraneous harm even if used as intended.  There is a restricted use label on the top front panel of the label.

Interpret the signal words and symbols on a pesticide label

·       Danger-poison - These words and skull &crossbones symbol must appear on all products that are highly toxic by any route of entry into the body. The words Poison must appear in red.

·       Danger – Products with this label can cause severe eye damage and skin irritation.

·       Warning- product is moderately toxic either orally, dermally, or through inhalation or causes moderate eye and skin irritation.

·        Caution- product is slightly toxic either orally, dermally, or through inhalation, or causes slight eye/skin irritation

Recognize how precautionary statements can assist the applicator to safeguard humans and the environment.

All pesticide labels contain precautionary statements. These statements indicate ways the pesticide may be particularly hazardous, in three different categories.

-            Hazards to humans and domestic animals- include a route of entry statement, specific action statements, PPE statements, common sense handling instructions

-            Environmental hazards- bee toxicity statement, statements about applying during weather due to drift, permeable soils application statements

-            Physical and chemical hazards

Interpret the statement “It is a violation of federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling”

This is a Misuse Statement. Each label will contain one. They tell you what not to do with the pesticide.

Explain the responsibility to follow directions and requirements for use contained in label-referenced documents

Due to space limitations on the label itself, pesticide users must also obey directions on documents/materials referenced on the label.

Specify who is responsible for developing a pesticides MSDS

Manufacturers are responsible for developing and providing upon request detailed info about the products composition, physical and chemical properties, hazards, ecological and toxicological information, and first aid procedures.