Pesticide Chemical Label - Learn Label Language

The proper use of any pesticide starts with understanding the content of the label. Homeowners may want to consider an effective non-toxic alternative for pest control.

The reading and understanding of a pesticide chemical label can be challenging and boring. Reading a chemical label itself can be difficult, throw in the ultra small fine print and reading or a magnifying glass my be needed. Especially when you are faced with statements like – “attempt to penetrate dense foliage, but avoid overspraying to the point of excessive runoff.” What does that all mean?

In order for users to make sure they have all the information they need to safety apply a pesticide, the EPA – Environmental Protection Agency – in the United States reviews labeling of all pesticides.

The EPA makes sure the data submitted by the manufacturer is accurate and the chemical does not place humans or the environment at an unreasonable risk level.
The biggest problem on most pesticide labels comes from first reading the label – the language is not user-friendly at all! If you do not understand the label – get some help from the local garden center, chemical dealer or county extension agent.

Read the Pesticide Label Completely!

The pesticide label is full of information to protect you, the environment, your plants, and save some money! Even if you’ve been using a chemical for years it’s good to read and review the label again as pesticide chemical labels change frequently. Labels change as the EPA reviews residue tolerances and the use of chemicals in residential areas and landscapes. Labels may change to increase restrictions from potential widespread use and contact with people.

The responsibility of complying with the pesticide label rest on the applicator. I usually visit the chemical manufacturers website for the most current and up-to-date information and MSDS (material Safety Data Sheet). Beware some pesticides do carry geographical application restrictions.

Looking In All The Right Places

Every pesticide label must include basic information identifying the product and gives details on how to use, apply, store and dispose of the chemical.

Labels also carry information on:

• Brand name
• Ingredient statement
• EPA registration
• Name and address of the manufacturer
• Net contents
• Formulation
• A short statement detailing product type, like a greenhouse and nursery ornamental miticide/insecticide, specialty herbicide, or fungicide/bactericide.
• Signal words — caution, warning, and danger — telling users how toxic the product is to humans.
• Precautionary statements
• Minimum personal protective equipment that must be worn while using the pesticide.
• If the product is flammable, explosive, or corrosive

This information is very important and plays a major part in treatment or first aid if exposed to pesticide poisoning.

Additional sections on the label describe delayed effects of chemical exposure such as possible tumors or reproductive problems, and allergic effects. Potential environmental hazards are also covered in areas of potential contamination to surface or ground water. Other environmental hazards may include pesticide toxicity to non-target organisms, such as fish, birds, or beneficial insects like bees.

Storage and disposal instructions detail how to store the chemical, deal with any accidental spills, and dispose of empty containers and any excess pesticides. One key statement for storage and disposal instructions - “Store in original container only.”

Directions for Use

The “Directions for Use” section lists of pests controlled the chemical controls, where the chemical can be used and application rates. The label should be followed when applying any chemical.

However, the federal law does give some room to use pesticides in ways not specifically stated in the label.

Here are a few examples for Applicators:

• Use more PPE - personal protective equipment than required by the label.
• Apply a pesticide at any dosage, concentration, or frequency, which is less than the listed label rate.
• Apply a pesticide to a plant or site listed on the label which may control a pests not listed on the label.
• Mix fertilizer with a pesticide if the mixture is not specifically prohibited on the label.
• Mixing two or more pesticides together if each dosage is at or below the label rate.

Always keep the pesticide label and all of its content - It may be the most important piece of paper available when you need it.

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