Objective:

By the end of this training, technicians will be able to read and understand the key components of a pesticide label. This knowledge is essential for ensuring the safe, effective, and legal use of pest control products.

Overview:

Pesticide labels contain crucial information that guides the safe and effective use of products. It is legally required to follow the label instructions precisely, as they provide details about proper application, safety precautions, and regulatory compliance. This section will focus on how to interpret a pesticide label, covering important topics like classification, toxicity levels, safety measures, and application instructions.

To get started, watch the videos below to familiarize yourself with the various sections of a product label.

Precautionary Statements on the LABEL

Directions For Use on the LABEL

Emergency Number on the MSDS

First Aid and Fire Information on the MSDS

Identifying the Key Components of a Pesticide Label:

1. Product Name:

The product name is the commercial name given by the manufacturer. It is important to always confirm you are using the correct product as specified for the job.

2. Active Ingredient:

The Active Ingredient (AI) is the chemical component responsible for controlling the pest. This section lists the percentage of the active ingredient and its chemical name.
Example: For Taurus SC, the active ingredient is Fipronil, which targets termites and other pests.

3. EPA Registration Number:

Every pesticide must be registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA Registration Number ensures the product has been evaluated for safety and effectiveness.
This number is essential for tracking compliance with legal and environmental standards.

4. Pesticide Classification:

Pesticides are classified based on their potential risk:

a. General Use Pesticides:

Definition: These products are considered safe enough for general public use without special restrictions. They are typically available for purchase over-the-counter.
Example: Common household insecticides.

b. Restricted Use Pesticides (RUP):

Definition: These products are considered more hazardous and can only be applied by certified professionals or under the supervision of a certified applicator.
Example: Taurus SC, which is classified as restricted due to its potential environmental impact.

5. Signal Words:

The signal word indicates the level of toxicity of the pesticide and alerts the user to the degree of precaution required.

a. CAUTION:

Low Toxicity. The product poses a relatively low risk to humans and animals.

b. WARNING:

Moderate Toxicity. Requires extra precautions during application, but the product is still considered safe when handled correctly.

c. DANGER:

High Toxicity. This product poses a significant risk and may cause severe harm if not handled properly. It may be corrosive, highly flammable, or pose other serious hazards.

6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

The PPE section specifies what safety gear is required when handling the product. This can include gloves, respirators, goggles, or full-body protection.
Key Point: Always follow the PPE instructions to protect yourself from exposure to harmful chemicals.

7. First Aid Instructions:

This section details what to do in case of accidental exposure, including ingestion, inhalation, or skin/eye contact. It’s critical to familiarize yourself with these instructions before using the product.
Example: The first aid section may recommend rinsing skin or eyes with water, seeking medical attention, or contacting poison control.

8. Precautionary Statements:

Precautionary Statements describe how to minimize exposure and avoid risks to humans, pets, and the environment. They may include warnings about potential hazards and instructions for safe handling and storage.
Environmental Hazards: This part of the label may detail the product's impact on wildlife, beneficial insects like bees, or waterways.

9. Directions for Use:

The Directions for Use section provides explicit instructions on how to apply the pesticide, where it can be used, and which pests it controls. It includes details such as:

Application methods (spraying, baiting, etc.)
Target pests
Approved sites (indoors, outdoors, residential, commercial)
Application frequency and restrictions.

Key Point: Following these instructions is not optional. Misapplication can lead to legal violations, fines, or harm to the environment and non-target organisms.

10. Storage and Disposal Instructions:

This section explains how to properly store the product to avoid accidents and ensure its effectiveness. It also details how to dispose of unused product or empty containers safely.
Improper storage or disposal can lead to contamination or pose environmental risks.

Summary of Key Label Components:

Product Name and Active Ingredient: Understand what the product is and how it works.
EPA Registration Number: Confirms that the product is approved for use and complies with regulations.
Pesticide Classification: Know whether the product is General Use or Restricted Use, and whether certification is required for application.
Signal Words: Pay attention to the toxicity level to gauge the necessary precautions (CAUTION, WARNING, or DANGER).
PPE Requirements: Wear the specified protective gear to minimize risk of exposure.
First Aid Instructions: Be familiar with emergency procedures in case of accidental exposure.
Precautionary Statements: Follow instructions to protect yourself, others, and the environment.
Directions for Use: Always apply the product according to label instructions to ensure safe and effective use.
Storage and Disposal: Follow the instructions to prevent environmental harm and ensure legal compliance.