Virginia Pesticide Technician Exam

Define thresholds and their importance in developing a pest management strategy.

-Levels of pest populations that trigger action to prevent the pests in an area from causing unacceptable injury or harm. Thresholds are often assigned at a point where the cost of damages outweighs the cost of control. -Understanding thresholds allows one to prevent the pests in an area from causing unacceptable injury or harm.

Name and explain the meaning of the signal words and symbols you may see on a pesticide product.

1. DANGER-POISON with a skull and crossbones I symbol appears on all highly toxic pesticides. These products are very likely to cause acute illness, regardless of how they enter the body. Pesticides in this category can cause serious illness or death, even in a very low dose. 2. DANGER tells you that the pesticide is hazardous in some way or due to some method of exposure. For example, it may cause severe eye damage or skin irritation. 3. WARNING indicates that the product is moderately toxic by some route of entry or that it is likely to cause moderate skin or eye imitation. 4. CAUTION signifies that the product is slightly toxic and is less likely to cause acute illness. Products with CAUTION signal words may cause slight skin or eye irritation.

Name and describe the different steps of an effective IPM program.

1. Identifying the pest and understanding its biology. 2. Monitoring the pest. 3. Deciding if control is justified. 4. Determining a pest control goal. 5. Knowing what control tactics are available. 6. Evaluating the benefits and risks of each tactic. 7. Choosing the most effective strategies that will cause the least amount of harm. 8. Using each tactic correctly. 9. Observing all applicable regulations. 10. Recording and evaluating the results.

What problems might arise from choosing a pesticide by its brand or trade name alone?

1. If an active ingredient is no longer protected by a patent, it may be sold by several product registrants. Each may use a different trade or brand name. 2. Many companies use the same basic name with only minor variations to designate very different products. 3. Sometimes several companies sell the same pesticide product under different brand names. To learn what active ingredient(s) a product contains, read the ingredient statement.

Explain the difference between key pests, occasional pests, and secondary pests.

1. Key pests: Nearly always present and require regular control. 2. Occasional pests: migratory or cyclical and may require intermittent control. 3. Secondary pests: require control only under certain conditions, such as the elimination of a key pest or the absence of a natural host.

Define private applicator

A certified applicator who uses or supervises the use of any restricted-use pesticide (RUP) to produce an agricultural commodity. Applications must be made on property owned or rented by the user, or by his or her employer. A certified private applicator may also apply RUP to the property of another agricultural producer. However, he or she must receive no compensation except for trading personal services between them. Uncertified applicators employed by agricultural producers may use RUPs only when under the direct supervision of a certified private applicator.

Name and briefly describe four engineering controls or packaging methods discussed in this unit that reduce pesticide handler exposure.

1. Microencapsulated pesticides - Dry particles or liquid droplets surrounded by a coating. The encapsulation process can provide "timed" slow release of the active ingredient. microencapsulated products may have relatively long restricted-entry or pre-harvest intervals for this reason.) Microencapsulation is also a way to protect the handler or applicator when using highly toxic materials. 2. Water-soluble packaging - Products with a special plastic film enclosing a precise amount of wettable Powder, soluble powder, or gel containing the pesticide active ingredient(s). When added to water in a spray tank, the bag dissolves and releases the contents, which then are suspended or dissolved' Water-soluble packaging also simplifies measuring. This Packaging method reduces handler exposure risk. 3. Ready-to-use products - End-use products that contain the correct dose of active ingredient when You buy them. RTUs reduce handler exposure. Some are sold in an application device. Examples include premixed solutions, impregnates, baits, pre-packaged aerosols, and dry formulation dusts, granules, and pellets. 4. Animal systemics - Used to control fleas and other external blood feeding insects as weII as internal parasites. These pesticides are often applied externally or orally. They include premeasured pour-ons or spot-on products; food additives; and premeasured capsules, Pastes, or liquids.

List several factors that can cause a pesticide application to fail (7).

1. Misidentified the pest. 2. You applied the pesticide at the wrong stage of the pests life cycle. 3. The pest was not in the area of application and/or wasn't exposed. 4. You chose the wrong pesticide. 5. You applied the pesticide incorrectly. 6. The pest was resistant to the pesticide. 7. The pests are part of a new infestation that developed after the application.

Name at least two disadvantages of wettable powders.

1. Not easy to measure; must be weighed. 2. Not easy to mix. 3. Inhalation hazard to applicator while measuring and mixing the concentrated powder 4. Suspended particles require constant, vigorous agitation (usually mechanical) in the spray tank and quickly settle out if agitation stops. 5. Abrasive to pumps and nozzles; cause equipment wear. 6. Difficult to mix in very hard or very alkaline water. 7. Often clog nozzles and screens. 8. Residues may be visible on treated surfaces.

Distinguish between prevention, suppression, and eradication.

1. Prevention: minimizing the chances that a pest will become a problem. 2. Suppression: Reducing pest numbers or damage to an acceptable level. 3. Eradication: Destroying an entire pest population.

Compare and contrast the different pest management options.

1. Prevention: minimizing the chances that a pest will become a problem. 2. Suppression: Reducing pest numbers or damage to an acceptable level. 3. Eradication: destroying an entire pest population.

What sort of training is required for registered technicians?

20 hours of instruction and self study of this manual, and 20 hours on on-the-job training in proper pesticide handling and application. Trainees must have direct onsite supervision from a commercial applicator.

State Virginia's requirements for holding a pesticide business license.

50$ annual fee, evidence of financial responsibility, and must be able to demonstrate his/her knowledge of pesticides.

Define registered technician

A certified applicator who renders services similar to those of a certified commercial applicator. Such a person has completed training and demonstrated competency as required for registered technicians but has not met the requirements for a commercial certification. Registered technicians may apply general-use pesticides on the job without supervision.

Define commercial applicator

A certified applicator who uses pesticides on the job.

Define pesticide business license

A document required of persons in the business of selling, storing, distributing, mixing, recommending the use of, or applying pesticides.

Define federal insecticide, fungicide, and rodenticide act (FIFRA).

A law that established the basis of U.S. pesticide regulation to protect applicators, consumers, and the environment.

What is the first aid statement (statement of practical treatment)? Why is it important

A section that lists recommended treatments for poisoning or accidental exposure to pesticides. This section tells pesticide handlers what effects might result from exposure to a pesticide product. It also has detailed instructions for medical professionals about how to treat people who were harmed by the pesticide.

What is the difference between a solution and a suspension? How can you tell one from another? Why would an applicator need to know this?

A solution is the result of dissolving a substance in a liquid. A true solution is a mixture, but it cannot be separated by mechanical means such as filtration. A true solution will not settle out and does not need to be agitated to keep the mixed components in solution. Solutions are transparent: they will allow light to pass through them. A suspension is also a mixture. However, a suspension is formed by dispersing fine (very small) solid particles in a liquid. These solid particles do not dissolve in the liquid carrier. Suspensions must be agitated to maintain even particle distribution. Most suspensions are cloudy or opaque: they will not allow light to pass through them. Label directions differ for solutions vs. suspensions. Applicators must understand the differences between solutions and suspensions in order to apply them correctly.

Name at least one advantage and one disadvantage of ready-to-use products.

A. Advantages: 1. Convenience - neither measuring nor mixing is required. '- 2. Some are packaged and sold in an application device. If this is the case, no loading is required. 3. Less personal exposure risk due to reduced toxicity and handling. Disadvantages: 1. Limited availability. 2. High cost per unit of active ingredient. The time saved and convenience of using RTU products may outweigh the increased cost.

What is the difference between active and inert (inactive) ingredients in a pesticide product?

Active ingredients are the chemicals that control pests. Inert (inactive) ingredients are the chemicals that are added to dilute the end-use product and/or to make it safer, more effective, and easier to handle.

Name at least one advantage and one disadvantage of granule (G) and pellet (P) formulations.

Advantages: 1. Ready-to-use - no mixing. 2. Drift hazard is low, and particles settle quickly. 3. Low applicator hazard- no spray, little dust. 4. Weight carries the formulation through foliage to soil or water target. 5. Applied with simple application equipment, such as seeders or fertilizer spreaders. 6. May break down more slowly than MIPs or ECs because of a slow-release coating. Disadvantages: 1. Application equipment needs frequent calibration. 2. Application equipment is not as convenient to calibrate as spray equipment. Released particles are measured by weight instead of by volume. 3. Uniform application may be difficult with some devices (ex. rotary spreaders). 4. Granules do not stick to foliage or other non-level or uneven surfaces. For this reason, contact products are rarely formulated this way. 5. May need to be incorporated into soil or planting medium. 6. May need moisture to release the active ingredient. 7. May not be effective in drought conditions. 8. May be hazardous to non-target species, especially waterfowl and other birds that mistakenly feed on the grain or seed-like granules. 9. Bulky; low percentage of active ingredient per unit volume.

Name at least one advantage and one disadvantage of emulsifiable concentrate (EC) products.

Advantages: 1. Relatively easy to handle, transport, and store; easy to pour and measure. 2. Little agitation required - will not settle out or separate when equipment is running. 3. Not abrasive. 4. Do not usually plug screens or nozzles. 5. Leave little visible residue on treated surfaces. Disadvantages: 1. High concentration of active ingredient makes it easy to overdose or underdose through mixing or calibration errors. 2. May damage treated plants or surfaces. 3. Easily absorbed through skin of humans and/or animals. 4. Spills and splashes may be difficult to clean up and/or decontaminate. 5. Many have a strong odor. 6. Solvents cause equipment wear and tear. For example, rubber or plastic hoses, gaskets, seals, pump parts, and other exposed surfaces may deteriorate. 7. May cause pitting or discoloration of painted finishes or other treated surfaces. 8. Flammable - should be used and stored away from heat or open flame. 9. May be corrosive.

Name at least one advantage and one disadvantage of concentrate solution (C, LC, or WSCÆVSL) products.

Advantages: 1. Relatively easy to handle, transport, and store; easy to pour and measure. 2. No agitation necessary. 3. Not abrasive. 4. Do not plug screens or nozzles. 5. Do not usually leave visible residues on treated surfaces. Disadvantages: 1. Limited availability, especially waterbased solutions. 2. Spills and splashes may be difficult to clean up and/or decontaminate. 3. Some are easily absorbed through skin of humans and/or animals

Name at least one advantage and one disadvantage of dust (D) formulations.

Advantages: 1. Usually ready-to-use - no mixing. 2. A good alternative where moisture from a spray might cause damage. 3. Require simple application equipment. 4. Effective in hard-to-reach indoor areas. Disadvantages: 1. Easily drift off target during application. 2. Residues do not adhere to treated surfaces, including foliage, as well as liquids do and may easily wash off or blow away. 3. May irritate eyes, nose, throat, and skin; pose a relatively high inhalation exposure risk to handlers. 4. Dampness may cause product to clump and equipment to clog. 5. Some kinds of application equipment and devices are hard to calibrate. 6. Difficult to get an even distribution of particles.

What is a federal registration? How do you know if you have bought a section 3 pesticide?

An EPA-registered product label reviewed and approved by that agency. Most pesticides are registered this way. Federally registered pesticides will have an official EPA registration number.

Describe the basic principals of integrated pest management (IPM).

An ecological approach to pest management. Based on the habitat and lifecycle of the pest. Combines chemical, and nonchemical methods into a single plan.

Define commercial applicator inactive

Any commercial applicator who is not currently employed in a pesticide-related job and is thus covered by the required insurance. Inactive applicators must still satisfy renewal and recertification requirements.

Define commercial applicator not for hire

Any commercial applicator who uses or supervises the use of any pesticide as part of his or her duties only on property owned by the applicator, or his or her employer.

Define commercial applicator for hire

Any commercial applicator who uses or supervises the use of any pesticide commercially, on the property of others. Commercial applicators for hire in the commonwealth must have a pesticide business license or work for someone who does.

Define certified applicator

Any commercial applicator, registered technician, and/or private applicator who has met the certification requirements in VA.

Define commercial applicator government employee

Any local, state, or federal government worker who uses or supervises the use of any pesticide for any purpose, regardless of the site, while performing his or her duties.

Define restricted-use pesticide (RUP)

Any pesticide classified for restricted use by the administrator of the EPA. The "restricted-use" classification restricts a product, or its uses, to use by a certified pesticide applicator (commercial or private) or under the direct supervision of a certified applicator.

Define Pesticide

Any substance used to control a pest, or to reduce the unwanted or harmful effects of a pest.

Define pesticide use

Application or supervision of an application of a pesticide. "Use" includes all the routine activities that are part of pesticide application, such as mixing, loading, cleanup, and disposal. Handling, transfer, or transport after the manufacturer's original seal is broken is considered use.

What is the general term for a pesticide active ingredient formulated with food or another attractive substance?

Bait

Explain the meaning of the statement: "It is a violation of federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling."

Basically, it is illegal to use a pesticide in any way not permitted by the labeling. You must follow all directions for use, including safety, mixing, diluting, storage, and disposal. You may not use higher dosages, higher concentrations, or more frequent applications than those specified on the label. You must also wear any label-specified PPE.

Why must pesticides be compatible if they are tank mixed?

Because a mixture that is not compatible may be unusable, unsafe, or ineffective. Incompatibility occurs when one component within a tank mix reacts with or adversely affects another.

What is the term for a wettable powder formulation that has been compressed into granule-sized particles?

Dry flowable (DF) or water-dispersible granule (WDG).

Under what conditions may a pesticide be labeled "minimum risk" and thus be exempt from federal registration? How do labels of minimum-risk Section 25(b) products differ from those that are EPA registered (Section 3)?

EPA has produced a list of minimalrisk active and inert ingredients. To be exempt, all of the active and inert ingredients in a pesticide product must be on this list. Minimum-risk Section 25(b) product labels must list all ingredients. In addition, they cannot have any false or misleading claims. Minimum-risk product labels do not have an EPA registration number, EpA establishment number, or signal word. They also do not have PPE requirements.

What is the term used for a mixture made by suspending droplets of one liquid in another?

Emulsion. In an emulsion, as in a suspension, each ingredient retains its unique properties and identity. Emulsions have a milky appearance. An emulsifiable concentrate (E or EC) is an example of an emulsion.

What types of factors should you consider when choosing among formulations?

Examine the benefits and drawbacks of each available formulation. Ask yourself these questions: 1. Do I have the necessary application equipment? 2. Is the formulation safe to apply under the conditions in the application area? 3. Will the formulation reach the target and stay in place long enough to control the pest? 4. Is the formulation likely to harm the surface I will treat? 5. Which of the available formulations is most effective? 6. Which formulation option(s) is/are least hazardous to handle and apply - and, if necessary, to store?

True or false: ALL pesticide products must be registered with EPA. This agency reviews the labels of ALL pesticide products sold in the United States.

False. EPA exempts "minimum risk" pesticides from the federal registration process. These products are considered a Iow risk to humans and the environment. However, all pesticides used or sold in Virginia must be registered with VDACS, Office of Pesticide Services. Minimum risk pesticides are NOT exempt from Virginia registration requirements. In addition, people who use these products on the job may still need to be certified in the commonwealth.

What are aerosols? Name and describe the two types.

Formulations that contain one or more active ingredients and a solvent. Most aerosols contain a low percentage of active ingredient. The two types are ready-to-use and those designed for smoke or fog generators. Ready-to-use aerosols are often sold in pressurized sealed containers that serve as application devices. Aerosols designed for smoke or fog generators are used in machines that break the liquid formulation into a fine mist or fog. Using a rapidly whirling disk or heated surface, the machines produce and distribute very fine droplets.

When and why might a pesticide product be registered for a special local need (SLN)?

If a manufacturer wants to register a pesticide for use only on a regional crop or to manage a localized pest problem. SLN allows states to expand or limit federally registered pesticides within their jurisdiction.

Where would you look to find out whether a pesticide is classified as restricted use?

In a box on the front panel of a pesticide label.

Explain the importance of pest identification

It allows you to determine basic information about the pest, including its life cycle and when it is most susceptible to control measures.

State the responsibilities of a certified pesticide technician

May use general use general use pesticides without supervision and RUPs with supervision from a commercial applicator.

Based on exposure risk, in which situation would the handler likely need to use more personal protective equipment (PPE)? Explain Your choice. 1. Loading/filling granular application equipment. 2. Mixing/diluting liquid concentrate and filling a sprayer.

Mixing/diluting liquid concentrate and filling a sprayer. Concentrates are usually more toxic than dilute formulations of the same active ingredient. More handling is required to mix and load them. As a result, concentrates present a higher exposure risk to the handler. Granules, on the other hand, are ready-to-use. They contain a low percentage of active ingredient.

Are "minimum risk" products exempt from Virginia's state registration requirements?

No. All pesticides that are sold or used in the Commonwealth of Virginia must be registered with VDACS Office of Pesticide Services.

Does the pesticide label always contain the complete instructions and directions for use needed to use the product safely and legally?

No. For some pesticide products, more instructions and directions are in other labeling that accompanies the product (such as supplemental labeling for SLN use). In other cases, the label may reference separate documents with specialized instructions and directions. Worker Protection Standard requirements and Endangered Species Protection Program restrictions are examples. This is also called "label by reference."

What concentration of active ingredient would you expect to find in the following products? Explain. -Alpha 40 WP. -Beta 80 DF. -Gamma 5G.

Numbers used in product trade names often indicate the amount of active ingredient. In these examples, you can assume that: ' Alpha 40 WP = 40% active ingredient. ' Beta 80 DF = 80% active ingredient. ' Gamma 5G = 50% active ingredient.

Which product would you expect to contain 4 pounds of active ingredient per gallon: XXX 4F or YYY 3A?

Numbers used in product trade names often indicate the amount of active ingredient. You can assume that XXX 4F = 4 pounds of active ingredient per gallon.

Which dry formulation consists of particles that are more or less uniform in size, shape, and weight?

Pellet (P)

What are fumigants? Why are they so dangerous to pesticide applicators?

Pesticides that form poisonous gases when applied. They are toxic to a wide range of pests and can be used at many different sites. However, fumigants are highly toxic to humans and all other organisms. They pose a high inhalation exposure risk. Most require the use of respirators and specialized application equipment.

Explain the problem of pesticide resistance and how to prevent it.

Pests continually exposed to a pesticide can develop a resistance to it. This can be avoided by rotating or combining pesticides, using pesticides that target multiple sites in a pest, using new pesticides, treating alternate generations of pests, and using nonchemical methods.

What is the difference between physical and chemical incompatibility? \{[hat are the signs and consequences of incompatibility?

Physical incompatibility is due to the physical properties of the tank-mix ingredients. For example, one material may not form a solution or remain in suspension when another is present. Physical changes are changes in size, shape, and state. Layering or separation is a common result of physical incompatibility. Physically incompatible mixtures may be difficult or impossible to apply. They may clog equipment tanks, hoses, pumps, and nozzles. Chemical incompatibility may result if the ingredients of the mixture react chemically to form new, unlabeled, or unknown substances. Chemical changes produce new products. Signs that a tank mix is chemically incompatible include heat, a color change, formation of a gas or a precipitate, appearance of surface scum or foam, and formation of gel or sludge. Chemical incompatibility can reduce effectiveness against target pests, increase toxicity to handlers, increase residues, and injure treated surfaces, plants, or animals.

What types of Hazard, statements should you look for in the pesticide labeling?

Precautions about hazards to humans and domestic animals, environmental risks, and physical or chemical hazards.

What is the difference between a private and commercial applicator?

Private applicators are farmers who use RUPs while producing an agricultural commodity on private land. Commercial applicators control pests on the job for consumers, their employers, and/or the public.

Briefly describe how to determine if two pesticides may be tank mixed safely.

Read the product labels. Some labels list pesticides (and other chemicals) known to be compatible with that specific product. Many have very helpful tank-mixing instructions. If you cannot find tank-mixing instructions on the labels, do a jar test. Test a small amount of the mixture before you mix a large quantity.

What is the general term for a formulation that is sold as an enduse dilution (diluted by a liquid or a solid carrier)?

Ready to use (RTU)

Describe monitoring as an element of a pest management strategy.

Regular checking or scouting for pests in a designated area, or monitoring, can be used to inform a technician what pests are present, how many are in the area, and how much damage they are causing.

What are emergency (Section 1g) exemptions? List the four types.

Responses to pest problems for which no pesticides are registered. Section 18 exemptions allow the sale and use of a certain pesticide for a specific nonregistered purpose for a specified period. The four types of emergency exemptions are: specific, quarantine, public health, and crisis.

What do the words "restricted-use pesticide" tell you about a pesticide product?

Restricted-use pesticides (RUps) require special care and handling. The restricted-use designation limits the use of a pesticide product. RUPs are for sale only to properly certified applicators. Only trained persons, or people under their direct supervision, may handle and apply restricted-use pesticides. EPA classifies pesticides as restricted use for different reasons. Some are highly toxic to humans. Others may cause long-term health effects. Still others are restricted because of environmental effects, such as groundwater pollution risks.

How does a registered technician differ from a certified commercial applicator?

Same work but a registered technician may only use general use pesticides unless directly supervised by a commercial applicator.

What is the term used to describe a mixture formed by dispersing solid particles in a liquid?

Suspension. Suspensions contain fine (very small) solid particles, which do not dissolve in the liquid carrier. Suspensions must be agitated to maintain even particle distribution. Most suspensions are opaque: they will not allow light to pass through them.

Can you use the signal word and/or symbol on a pesticide label to judge the likelihood of suffering delayed, or allergic effects after exposure to the product? Explain.

Signal words and symbols indicate the likelihood of experiencing acute harmful effects from pesticide exposure. However, signal words do not tell you anything about the risks of delayed or allergic effects.

Where should you look to find a pesticide product's EPA registration number and establishment number? When and why would a professional pesticide handler need to know or use these numbers?

The EPA registration number must appear on the front panel of the product label. This number is the single most important piece of information to identify a specific pesticide product. This number indicates that the product is registered with EPA and that the agency approved the label. The registration number is one of the data elements required for pesticide recordkeeping. The EPA establishment number is usually placed next to the EPA registration number on the label's front panel. This number identifies the manufacturer of the pesticide product. The establishment number is important if questions or concerns arise about the product. In addition to recordkeeping, these identification numbers are crucial in case of an exposure or poisoning, regarding claims of misuse, and/or in settling liability claims.

What is FIFRA? What is its basic purpose?

The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, passed by Congress in 1947 and amended several times. FIFRA regulates the registration, manufacture, sale, transportation, and use of pesticides. It specifies how pesticides must be registered and used, the required training and certification of applicators, and the classification of restricted-use pesticides, among other things.

Which state agency is responsible for ensuring the safe use of pesticides in VA?

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

What state law sets the rules for pesticide use in VA?

The Virginia Pesticide Control Act

Define direct supervision

The act or process by which a competent person, acting under the instructions and control of a certified applicator who is responsible for the actions of that person, applies a pesticide. The certified applicator must be either near or in close telephone or radio contact with the person applying the pesticide.

Define direct onsite supervision

The act or process by which a competent person, acting under the instructions and control of a certified applicator who is responsible for the actions of that person, applies a pesticide. The certified applicator must be present at the application site and be able to see the person applying the pesticide at all times.

Explain the differences between chemical name, common name, and brand name. Which of these terms should you use to most accurately identify the active ingredient in a pesticide product?

The chemical name is a complex term that identifies the chemical components and structure of the pesticide. A common name is a shorter name that EPA recognizes as a substitute for the product's chemical name. A brand name is the name - usually a trademark - used by a chemical company to identify a pesticide product. The common name is usually the best way to identify the active ingredient in a pesticide product.

Define recertification

The demonstration of continued competency to apply pesticides safely by participation in appropriate, approved education courses or by reexamination.

If you could choose between a wettable powder (WP) and a granular (G) formulation for a certain pest control task, which would be better if: 1. Drift is a major concern. 2. You need to treat foliage and want a pesticide residue to remain on (or be absorbed by) the treated leaf surfaces.

The granular formulation would be better in the first situation. Granules have a much lower drifthazard than wettable powders (which are mixed with water and applied as a spray). However, the wettable powder formulation would be better in the second scenario. Granules do not stick to foliage (or other nonlevel surfaces).

Explain the differences between the terms label and labeling.

The label is the information printed on or attached to the pesticide container. Labelling includes the label itself, plus all other information you receive from a manufacturer about the product when you buy it.

What is a tolerance? Why is it important?

The maximum amount of a pesticide residue that may remain of food or feed at harvest or slaughter. Tolerance levels are set by the EPA. Observing tolerances is crucial in ensuring food safety.

What is a pesticide formulation?

The mixture of active and inert (inactive) ingredients that form an end-use pesticide product. A formulated pesticide will contain both an active ingredient to control the target pest and a carrier or diluent. Many also contain adjuvants and other ingredients, such as stabilizers or dyes.

What is reregistration of a pesticide? What is its goal?

The ongoing review of a registered pesticide to assess the risks and benefits associated with its labeled uses. The goal of registration is to identify and reduce risks, based on current scientific knowledge.

When document has authority in specifying PPE requirements: a product label or its SDS? Why?

The product label. If a label and its SDS differ in PPE requirements, the pesticide end user must follow the product label instructions. The label is the law.

If you could choose between a wettable powder 04rP) and an emulsifiable concentrate (EC) to make a spray mixture for a certain pest control task, which would be better if you are: 1. Concerned about harming the treated surface. 2. Preparing or diluting your spray mixture with very hard or alkaline water.

The wettable powder would be better in the first situation. Emulsifiable concentrates may be corrosive. Many of them cause pitting, discoloration, or other damage to treated surfaces. They may also harm desirable plants. The EC formulation, however, would be better in the second scenario. WPs are difficult to mix (suspend) in very hard or alkaline water.

What is the main difference between the four classes of registered technicians?

Their employer: -RT for Hire= pesticide business -RT not for Hire= uses pesticides as one of several job duties. -Government employee= local, state, or federal gov. -Inactive Technician= Does not use pesticides at their job but have the license.

Explain how to maintain state certification.

They must be renewed every 2 years with a $30 renewal fee and the enrollment in an approved recertification course.

What are invert emulsions? How are they typically used?

Thick mixtures that contain a water-soluble pesticide dispersed in an oil carrier. These products require a special kind of emulsifier that allows the pesticide to be mixed with a large volume of petroleum-based carrier, usually fuel oil. They are most often used for weed control on rights-of-way.

When and why might you use a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for a pesticide product?

To get technical information about the environmental and human health effects of a pesticide product. You could also consult an SDS to find out how to respond to an accident or incident.

Why are pesticide active ingredients formulated into end-use products before sale?

To make them safer or more convenient to use. Many pesticide active ingredients, in "pure" (technical grade) form, are not suitable for end use. Some of these pesticides are extremely toxic. Many do not mix well with water. Some are unstable and, in concentrated form, are not easy (or safe) to handle, transport, or store. As a result, manufacturers of pesticide products add inert ingredients to improve efficacy and/or safety.

What is the main purpose of the VA Core Manual?

To support general safety training for all pesticide users.

What formulation is a concentrate that may approach 100% active ingredient?

Ultra-low volume (ULV). These concentrates are designed to be used as is or diluted with only small quantities of specified solvents.

Name the five most common types of pests.

Weeds, Parasites and diseases, mollusks, arthropods (insects and relatives), and vertebrates.

Wettable powders are widely used pesticide formulations. Why do you think this might be true?

Wettable powders have many advantages. They: 1. Are effective for most pest problems and in most types of spray equipment where agitation is possible. 2. Have excellent residual activity. 3. Are easy to store, transport, and handle. 4. Are less likely than ECs and other petroleum-based formulations to harm treated plants, animals, and surfaces. 5. Are not usually phytotoxic. 6. Pose less risk of skin and eye absorption than ECs and other liquid formulations.

When and why would you need to do a jar test?

When you need to combine several products (pesticides and/or fertilizers) and apply them at the same time, but the product labels do not provide information about compatibility.

If you transfer a pesticide (concentrate or diluted) into another container, do you have to label the secondary container?

Yes, to temporarily store or transport pesticide concentrates or end-use dilutions. These service containers must have abbreviated labeling to identify the contents. Otherwise, leave pesticides in their original labeled containers.

Comply with state regulations governing certified applicators in the commonwealth (6).

You may not... 1. Sell or use unregistered or unlabeled pesticides. 2. Act as a pesticide business without first becoming licensed 3. Apply pesticides commercially without becoming a technician 4. Failing to keep required records or making false records. 5. Failing to properly maintain pesticide application equipment 6. Providing an RUP to a person not certified to use it.

Define and describe cultural control.

changing the habitat where pests flourish. ex: Pruning, thinning, fertilizing, rotating plants, tillage mulching, planting trap crops.

What are the 5 IPM elements?

host resistance, biological control, cultural control, mechanical and physical control, and chemical control.

What sort of credentials do you need to take a commercial applicator exam in VA?

one of the following... 1. A valid VA registered technician certificate 2. Proof of formal; education, training, and/or experience in pesticide use comparable to a years experience as a registered technician to qualify for testing.

How long must a Worker Protection Standard (WPS) application records be posted?

posted before the application occurs and remain in place for 30 days after the expiration.

Identify the required state certification for the type of pesticide use you intend to perform.

registered technician

Properly report a pesticide accident or spill.

report spills and accidents that pose a threat within 48 hours to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, office of pesticide services (VDACS-OPS). Then submit a written report detailing the incident to the OPS within 10 days.