Standards for Certification of Private Applicators

Every private applicator who uses or supervises the use of a restricted or state limited use pesticide for purposes of producing any agricultural commodity on property owned or rented by him or his employer or on the land of another without compensation other than trading of personal services between producers of agricultural commodities must be certified. As a minimum requirement for certification, a private applicator shall demonstrate a practical knowledge of pest problems and control practices associated with his agricultural operations, proper storage, use, handling and disposal of pesticides and containers, and an understanding of laws and regulations relating to his use of pesticides. Examinations for private applicators will emphasize the principle commodity area in which they are engaged. This knowledge should include the ability to: (1) Recognize common pests and their damage. (2) Read and understand labels and labeling information including the commonly used name of pesticides he has applied, pests controlled, timing and methods of application, safety precautions, and preharvest or re-entry restrictions, any specific disposal directions and any specific hazards to the environment. (3) Apply pesticides as directed in labeling, including preparation of the proper concentration, and taking into consideration such factors as area to be treated, speed at which equipment will be driven and quantity dispersed per unit of time. (4) Recognize local environmental situations to be considered to avoid contamination of adjacent crops, water or other features. (5) Recognize poisoning symptoms and to follow proper procedures in case of a pesticide accident. (6) Demonstrate a practical knowledge of Federal and State supervisory requirements including labeling regarding the application of restricted use pesticides by non-certified applicators. This requirement is limited to private applicators whose activities include a supervisory role.