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“By their nature, many pesticides may pose some risk to humans, animals, or the environment because they are designed to kill or otherwise adversely affect living organisms. At the same time, pesticides are often useful because of their ability to control disease-causing organisms, insects, weeds, or other pests.” –Environmental Protection Agency

For the safety of yourself and the environment, UCPA asks that you keep up to date in understanding crop protection. We ask that you take the proper procedures for storage, disposal, PPE, application and beyond.

Application Tips

Careful application is essential to ensure pesticides end up where you want them to. Reducing drift, runoff and evaporation is important.

• CAREFULLY READ AND FOLLOW DIRECTIONS ON THE LABEL.
• Use the correct spray equipment and ensure it is cleaned properly and in good working order.
• Apply at smart times, such as when wind is low (under 5 mph) and it is unlikely to rain within the number of hours indicated on the product label.
• Using adjuvants can help you apply chemicals correctly.

Research the pesticide options that are best for your region and goals; you may find a chemical with lower toxicity can get the job done. Of course, regularly check the Registration of Chemicals to find whether a specific pesticide is approved for use in your state.

Safety Tips

• Read the label thoroughly before using the product. Follow the directions on the label carefully. Using pesticides for a purpose other than what is specifically directed on the label is a violation of federal law. Do not apply more than directed amount.
• As with any chemical or hazardous material, store and dispose of it properly.
• Keep pesticides in original containers with the label secured.
• Don’t drink, eat or smoke while mixing, loading or applying.
• Keep children and pets indoors while mixing, loading and applying.
• Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which may include long sleeves and pants, boots, gloves, face mask, etc.
• Read the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) carefully with each product.
• Certain chemicals should not be mixed with others. Consult the label and MSDS for more information.

For more information, visit the National Pesticide Information Center or the Environmental Protection Agency safety page.