Pesticide Applicator's Exam

List the types of information on product labels and SDSs that can help in responding to an exposure

- Symptoms of exposure - Basic action plan (response) - information for doctors

Explain what triggers extra regulations when transporting some materials

- DOT regulated materials (hazardous material by DOT or hazardous substance by EPA) require extra regulations - Amount being transported - Type of chemical (hazardous?)

Explain when to assume that a pesticide exposure has occurred

- Direct spills or other obvious pesticide exposures - Assume any symptoms that appear while, or soon after, working with a pesticide are caused by the pesticide

Outline the features of a suitable site for a pesticide storage facility.

- Downwind/downhill from sensitive areas (houses, parks) - Will not flood or allow wells/surface water to become contaminated if fire/spill - Storage area at ground level

List places you might find information about the hazardous class of a pesticide.

- Transport and Regulatory Information on SDS sheet

Explain how heat stress can effect you.

- cause ill feeling - impair work performance - damage health - impair judgement/alertness

Describe when foliar sprays are and are not advisable.

- control herbaceous plants/small trees - not recommended for lg brush - "spot" applications

Explain why mixing and loading pesticides pose a significant hazard to the environment and those who perform these tasks.

- high concentrations of active ingredients - high quantities of pesticides in one area - greatest potential for exposure risk and contamination risk

List some general precautions about transporting pesticides including what items should and should not be transported with pesticides.

- transport in back of truck - nobody should ride in back with pesticides - DO NOT transport food, PPE, seed, fertilizer with pesticides - keep PPE, soap/water, shovel, absorbent material, fire extinguisher in case of accidents

Describe some common symptoms of heat stress

- weakness, tiredness, fatigue - dizziness/fainting - clammy or hot, dry skin - less alertness, ability to use good judgement, and ability to work (altered behavior) - headache, nausea, chills - severe thirst/dry mouth - high body temperature/heart rate - heavy sweating or no sweating

Outline precautions when loading and unloading pesticides and explain the importance of pesticide security in relation to your vehicle.

- wear PPE - inspect all containers/labels - handle containers carefully - secure containers to vehicle - protect from moisture - secure against access by children, animals, the public - never leave unattended - clean vehicle after use and before reuse for other purpose Vehicle - must be in good condition - spills difficult to remove completely from vehicle interior, so avoid them in the first place - should be ventilated - safety barrier between passengers and cargo area - cargo area should securely hold and protect containers Owner and driver of vehicle responsible for any damage resulting from accidents and for responsing in an emergency

Outline the factors involved in timing a foliar spray.

-apply from time leaves fully expanded until they turn color in fall (fully developed foliage of actively growing plants) -during prolonged cool weather or under drought, require higher rate of application - between 60 and 85 F (below, less effective, above, higher chance of vapor drift) - high temp and humidity with bright sunlight, degrade faster

Identify the health concerns associated with different formulations

1) Absorption by skin - ECs (emulsifiable concentrates) 2) inhalation of powder - SP (soluble powders)

List the 4 ways you may legally deviate from label directions

1) Applying a pesticide at a lower concentration or frequency than specified 2) Applying a pesticide against any target pest not specified on the label if application is to the site specified on the label 3) Using any method of application not prohibited by the label 4) Mixing two or more pesticides, or mixing a pesticide with a fertilizer, when such mixture is not mentioned by the label you alone are liable for any problems caused by these uses

List the 5 times when you should read the relevant parts of a label.

1) Before you buy product 2) Before you store the product 3) Before you mix/use product 4) Before you clean pesticide application equipment 5) Before you dispose of product and/or its container

List the features of effective PPE

1) Chemical Resistant (keeps pesticides away from body) 2) Resistant to punctures or tears under normal conditions of use 3) Well sealed at seams 4) Comfortable enough that people will wear it

Describe the short-term storage of empty containers and of pesticides at an application site.

1) Cover/secure/guard to prevent unauthorized access or water contamination 2) Put empty containers in storage area until proper disposal or recycling 3) have a designated area for rinsed containers

List the four routes by which pesticides can enter your body

1) Dermal Exposure (skin) 2) Oral Exposure (swallowed) 3) Inhalation Exposure (breathe in vapors or dusts) 4) Eye Exposure

Summarize the conditions for registering an employee as a temporary commercial applicator trainee

1) Employer assumes responsibility for trainee's use of pesticides during registration period 2) Registration valid for 30 days 3) Trainee may not use a restricted-use pesticide 4) Trainee may not direct the use of any pesticide 5) Application of pesticides by trainee must be under direct, on-site supervision by an appropriately certified/licensed commercial applicator 6) Trainee must have copy of registration on hand when using pesticide 7) Cannot register trainee to use any pesticide in category in which person has failed to renew a prior certification

Describe the proper actions to take when a victim needs medical attention

1) Help victim get out of exposure situation 2) Call medical help immediately 3) Begin first aid 4) Remain calm and respond 5) Don't let victim go alone to doctor 6) Bring pesticide label with victim, but don't transport container in passenger section of vehicle

Provide design details of a storage facility that: 1) Protects pesticides and their containers. 2) Reduces risk of, or damage resulting from, fires. 3) Reduces risk of, or damage resulting from, spills 4) Protects workers who enter the facility.

1) Insulate building (keep temp between 40F and 100F), ensure flood/moisture resistance 2) install electrically shielded ventilating fan, do not store pesticides near heat source, install smoke alarms, keep fire extinguisher near entrance, put up "no smoking" signs at each entrance and inside facility, notify local fire departments of storage area location/contents. 3) Well lit building (read labels, detect leaks), sealed cement floor, drainage system that collects runoff, plastic/metal shelves (easier to clean), keep shovel and absorbent material to contain spills 4) Good ventilation, provide clean water for washing skin and flushing eyes, post emergency numbers at each entrance

List the two main goals of weed management.

1) Minimize competition with desirable plants 2) Limit weed reproduction so the weed population is manageable in future years

List precautions you should take in addition to wearing PPE to reduce your exposure to pesticides

1) Never eat, drink, or smoke while handling pesticides. 2) Wash hands after handling pesticides 3) Take shower at end of each work day, paying attention to hair and fingernails. Put on complete change of clothing 4) Use common sense

Describe the guidelines for inducing vomiting after an oral exposure

1) Never induce vomiting if victim unconscious, label or medical help advises against it 2) Read instructions on label 3) Victim should lie face down or kneel forward 4) Collect some vomit for doctor 5) Get victim to a hospital (rather than spending a lot of time inducing vomiting)

Name, and briefly describe, the different requirements triggered when carrying a hazardous material in your vehicle.

1) Receive hazardous material training (must be completed within 90 days of employment, retraining every 3 years) 2) Carry emergency response information (24-hr emergency response phone number, response info for each hazardous material) 3) Carry shipping papers (passenger compartment. provide info about material) 4) Placard vehicle 5) Obtain commercial driver's license

Describe some differences between a pesticide label and an SDS sheet

1) SDS contains more detailed and technical info about chemical/physical properties, toxicological/ecological info, first-aid procedures, emergency response 2) FIFRA label designed specifically for applicators, SDS is designed for use by multiple professions 3) Some info such as PPE different on SDS 4) SDS should never be used in place of actual label, only in conjunction

Describe how you would arrange pesticides in storage to protect the products and containers.

1) arrange older and open products at front of shelves 2) put containers on pallets or shelves (prevent water damage and corrosion) 3) store dry materials above liquids 4) separate pesticides by type 5) isolate volatile pesticides 6) seal opened or damaged dry formulation bags in sealable plastic (LABELED) containers

List the precautions you should take before putting a pesticide into storage

1) read storage statements on label 2) check that container is undamaged and tightly sealed 3) if container damaged or leaking, put in another container or transfer contents to another container that held same product 4) Mark each container with date of purchase 5) buy only as much as needed for a treatment season 6) keep an on-site inventory

List steps you can take to prevent unauthorized access to stored pesticides

1) separate secure storage bldng 2) Post signs indicating pesticide storage 3) Secure building and surrounding area

Compare the difference between acute, delayed, and allergic effects

ACUTE: - adverse effects of substance resulting from single exposure or multiple exposures over a SHORT period of time DELAYED: - illnesses/injuries that do not appear soon after first exposure - may be delayed for weeks, months, years - depends on pesticide, extent/route of exposure, frequency of exposure - caused by acute exposure with delayed effects or chronic exposure over long time - typically very serious and long-term illnesses - hard to identify cause - lifestyle choices/genetics can cause or influence onset ALLERGIC: - harmful effects that some people develop when exposed to a pesticide, but not others. - usually takes more than one exposure (sensitization) - symptoms occur every time sensitized person is exposed to the substance - mostly irritating symptoms but can be more serious - no way to predict who will be allergic - not properties of pesticides, rather the users themselves

Describe the types of gloves to wear when handling pesticides and how to wear them

ALWAYS: Unlined, chemical resistant - in or out of sleeves depending on work - wash hands before putting on/after taking off gloves - use gloves at least 14 mils thick - Several lengths of gloves acceptable depending on task - Do not use cotton, leather, or canvas gloves. - Do not use baby powder/talc

Explain the difference between the different types of pesticide names

Active Ingredient: - Component of product with pesticide activity - One product may have multiple Chemical Names: - Complies with accepted chemist guidelines - Long, hard to pronounce Common Names: - Refers to active ingredient - appear on label, just before chemical name - Same name regardless of manufacturer/formulator Trade Names: - Name given to each commercial formulation of an active ingredient - Appears in large letters at top of label - May be same as common name

Describe the function of inert ingredients.

Active in raw state not usually suitable for pest control Inert ingredients improve: 1) pesticide effectiveness/uptake 2) safety 3) handling/transport 4) storage 5) ability to dissolve in water 6) chemical stability

Explain who is covered by the Hazard Communications Standard

All employers with one or more employees (exception of farms) Protects employees who handle or use hazardous chemicals in the workplace

Describe the life cycles and propagation of annual, biennial, and perennial plants.

Annual - live <12 months - great # seeds single growing season (many germinate following year) - most troublesome in early successional areas - easiest to control but abundant and costly - summer annuals: overwinter as seed, germinate in spring, flower in summer, die in late summer/fall - winter annuals: germinate in fall, overwinter as low-growing plants, flower/reproduce/die in spring Biennial - live for 2 growing seasons - germinate in spring/summer, produce a rosette of leaves, overwinter in rosette stage, flower/seed/die the next year - reproduce by seed - most serious in lawns, neglected areas Perennial - live at least 2 years - reproduce by seed, or spread by stolons, rhizomes, spreading roots, tubers, bulbs. - don't flower first year - survival depends on storing food in underground veg. structures - most persistent and difficult to control

Outline what is needed to kill annual, biennial, and perennial weeds and when it is easiest to do so.

Annuals/Biennials (*) - tillage - herbicides - kill whole shoot (cut off from roots or killed by herbicide) *pull/mow flowering biennials Perennials - destroy new topgrowth repeatedly until plant exhausts underground food reserves - destroy topgrowth of seedling (no reserves) -*Destroy underground vegetative structures (repeatedly till the soil or use herbicide that translocates)

Describe the regulations that pertain to pesticide use around waters of the state.

Any body of water applies 1) Must comply with WDNR regulations [NR 107, Wis. Adm. Code] and ATCP 29 2) Permit required from DNR to apply pesticides to water 3) Must meet certification/licensing requirements for commercial pest control category 5.0 (Aquatic and Mosquito) 4) Must turn off spray before crossing water if not certified 5) Leave an untreated buffer between treated area and water

Describe how to time herbicide applications with respect to a plant's life cycle and why such timing is most effective.

BEST: apply herbicide during true seedling stage because less energy required to kill - veg. stage application works too WORST: application during flowering stage not effective (plants approaching death/maturity) BIENNIAL: fall or spring treatments w/ broadleaf herbicide (this timing hits seedling or veg stages) PERENNIAL: Kill underground portions by applying in true seedling stage or in bud/early flower stage (greatest drain on underground food reserves) - OR treating regrowth in fall after mowing/clipping in summer - apply multiple treatments. WOODY PLANTS: treat seedlings if found. Late spring/early summer treatments of mature plants (leaves fully expanded but penetrable and plant growing, so transports herbicide better) - Krenite just needs leaves

Explain how products with similar brand names or ingredients may have different uses.

Brand Names: - Companies often use same basic name with slight variations for different products/uses - Different companies may sell products that only SEEM similar Ingredients: - listing inert ingredients not required, so just because same active ingredient doesn't mean same product - same active ingredient may have many uses depending on formulation/concentration

Distinguish between items that you can and cannot store with pesticides.

CAN: - only pesticides/pesticide equipment CANNOT: -food, seed, plant propagation material, fertilizers, PPE, mixtures

Distinguish between the different types of delayed effects

CHRONIC EFFECTS: - appear a long time after repeated exposure. - Typically serious/life threatening DEVELOPMENTAL EFFECTS: - injury or illness that occurs to a fetus in the womb of a woman who has been exposed to a pesticide - could occur immediately after exposure but not noticed right away REPRODUCTIVE EFFECTS: - injury to a person's reproductive system - infertility/sterility/impotence SYSTEMIC EFFECTS: - delayed illness/injury to bodily system (blood, nervous system, kidneys) - some result from acute exp.

Outline the uses and characteristics of contact and systemic herbicides

CONTACT: Uses - most effective when applied to actively growing seedlings Characteristics - do not move within the plant - only kill parts of plant touched - do not provide residual control (long-term, multi-season) - generally nonselective SYSTEMIC: Uses - controlling/killing perennial weeds - Product must be concentrated enough to be effective but not too high that tissue is destroyed at point of contact, or it will not be distributed. Characteristics - absorbed through leaves/roots and translocate within plant - move along with water/sugars to growing points and roots - work more slowly than contact, but kill entire plant

List the certification and licensing requirements for commercial applicators.

Certification: - must be at least 16 yrs old - must pass exam showing knowledge of proper, safe, legal use of pesticides in each category and subcategory for which certification is desired - need to recertify every 5 years License: - needed to legally apply pesticides in WI - expires annually (Dec 31) - license renewal form sent every year to certified applicators (fee for license)

Explain how chemical resistance can affect worker acceptance of PPE.

Comfort decreases as chemical resistance of a PPE barrier increases (thicker material, less penetrable by air). As comfort decreases, so does worker acceptance of PPE.

Give examples of work habits that lead to pesticide exposure via these four routes.

DERMAL: 1) Not wearing gloves/PPE 2) Not washing hands after handling pesticides, containers, or application equipment 3) Not washing hands before using bathroom 4) Splashing/spilling pesticide on skin 5) Exposure to spray/dust drift 6) Applying pesticides in windy weather or above head 7) Touching treated areas EYE: 1) Rubbing eyes w/ contaminated gloves/hands 2) Splashing pesticide in eyes 3) Handling dry formulations when not wearing eye protection 4) applying pesticides in windy weather ORAL: 1) Not washing hands before eating, smoking, chewing, drinking 2) Splashing pesticide in mouth INHALATION: 1) Handling pesticides in confined/poorly ventilated areas 2) Handling dusts/powders 3) Using inadequate/poorly fitting respirator 4) Being exposed to spray/ dust drift.

Describe the function of, and precautions regarding, the use of adjuvants

Def: additive. Chemical added to pesticide/spray tank to 1) modify product's physical properties (solubility, coating efficiency, adherence to leaves, penetrating ability), 2) enhance pesticide performance Mostly for foliar applications Precautions: 1) do not use indiscriminately (misuse may lead to injury of desirable plants, compatibility issues, reduced pest control).

Define the word pesticide and explain how the word differs from specific types of pesticides.

Def: any substance used to directly control pest populations or to prevent or reduce pest damage Not all pesticides kill the target pest (what it does varies depending on pesticide used) Doesn't only mean insecticide. Covers many substances. If you want to say a specific type of pesticide, change the prefix (e.g. herbicide, insecticide)

Determine whether you must comply with the pesticide bulk storage rule

Def: liquid pesticides in containers larger than 55 gallons or solid pesticides in undivided quantities greater than 100 lbs Must comply when: 1) commercially distributing or selling bulk pesticides

Describe the effects and typical use of plant growth regulators

Effects - do not kill plants - mimic natural plant hormones Use - Increase, decrease, or change the normal growth/reproduction of a plant - retard plant growth - help reduce need for other management methods

Describe how to wash, and when to discard, PPE.

FABRIC CLOTHING: - discard if saturated w/ pesticide concentrate Washing 1) shake pesticide dust from clothing 2) presoak clothing in container or use prewash cycle of washer 3) wash clothing alone & only a few at a time 4) Wash clothes in hot water on highest setting with heavy-duty detergent 5) no water saving feature 6) check wet clothes for staining/odor, wash again if present. If second wash doesn't remove it, discard clothing. 7) Line dry to avoid contamination in dryer RESPIRATORS: - follow instructions for cleaning, maintaining, storing respirator - look for damage, missing parts - disassemble, wash in warm detergent water, store properly - if shared, clean every use OTHER PPE: - wash outside of gloves/footwear with detergent and water before removal - after removal, wash inside and out with detergent and water, rinse thoroughly - test gloves for leaks by filling with water & squeezing Replace even reusable PPE on regular basis

Describe the features of suitable protective footwear, headgear, and eyewear

FOOTWEAR: - depends on pesticide label - regular work shoes or boots may be OK for some uses - should wear unlined, chemical-resistant shoes, boots, or shoe covers if exposure likely HEADGEAR: - If downward drift or spraying overhead, wear wide-brimmed hat or hooded spray suit to protect head, neck, ears - front-billed caps do not protect from chemical exposure (even cause chronic exposure) - Chemical-resistant hoods best EYEWEAR: - tight-fitting, non-fogging - when 1) using pressurized equipment/liquid concentrates, 2) there is chance for mist, dust, splashes, 3) label instructs it - safety glasses, face shields, goggles (chemical resistant) - avoid wearing contact lenses - goggles fit over glasses - brow & side shields at least - face shield over goggles for high exposure - indirect venting goggles - tight seal

Identify the most prominent federal pesticide law and which agency oversees it.

Federal Insicticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) Overseen by the EPA (federal)

Compare/contrast foliar, cut-surface, and basal bark applications

Foliar applies pesticide to aerial portions of plant Basal-bark directed at lower 18 inches of small woody plants (control trees up to 5 in diameter) - more labor intensive than foliar - selective removal from stands of desirable plants - reduced chance of vapor drift Cut-surface treatments made to freshly cut surfaces (stumps, etc) - trunks >5 in diameter, thick bark - applications effective any season except during heavy sap flow (spring)

For formulations that are applied as LIQUIDS, know which ones: -Form suspensions or solutions when diluted. -Require agitation in the spray tank after mixing. -Tend to clog nozzles, are abrasive, or may cause sprayer parts to deteriorate. -Are especially likely to cause phytotoxicity.

Form suspensions/solutions when diluted: - Emulsifiable Concentrates (EC) (suspension) - Water-Soluble Concentrates (WS) (solution) - Soluble Powders (SP) (solution) - Dry Flowables (DF) (suspen.) - Flowables (F) (suspension) Require agitation in spray tank after mixing: - Emulsifiable Concentrates (EC) - Soluble Powders (SP) - Dry Flowables (DF) - Flowables (F) Tend to clog nozzles, abrasive, may cause deterioration of sprayer parts: - Dry Flowables (DF) Likely to cause phytotoxicity: - Emulsifiable Concentrates (EC) - Soluble Powders (SP)

Explain how a pesticide's formulation, or body part exposed, affects how much pesticide is absorbed through the skin

Formulation: - oil-based pesticides absorbed most easily - water-based formulations/dilutions less likely - Dry materials least likely Body Part Exposed: - Different areas of body absorb pesticides at different rates - Genital area most absorptive - Scalp, ear canal, forehead also easily absorb - Cuts/scrapes more absorptive -Hot/sweaty skin absorbs more easily

Outline first aid procedures used in cases of dermal, inhalation, and eye exposure

GENERAL: 1) Decontaminate victim 2) Dilute pesticide 3) Remove victim from affected area 4) Mouth to mouth respiration if breathing has stopped/is labored DERMAL: 1) Remove contam. clothing 2) Drench skin w/ water 3) Wash skin/hair/nails thoroughly with soap/water 4) Rinse thoroughly & rewash 5) Dry/wrap victim in blanket 6) Cover chemical burns loosely w/ clean, soft cloth. 7) Do not apply any medication INHALATION: 1) Carry victim to fresh air 2) Don't attempt to rescue someone until you are protected 3) Loosen tight clothing 4) Give artificial respiration if breathing is irregular 5) Encourage victim to be quiet 6) Prevent chilling 7) If convulsing, watch for breathing irregularities and protect victim's head. Keep their chin up to free air passage EYE EXPOSURE: 1) Immediately hold eyelids open and wash eyes with gentle stream of clean running water for at least 15 minutes

Distinguish grasses from broadleaf plants and herbaceous from woody plants.

Grasses (-) vs. Broadleaf (*) - monocots (one cotyledon) - first leaves seen are true leaves - narrow leaves, parallel veins - fibrous root system - produce tillers (secondary stems) from buds at base of primary stem *dicots (two cotyledons) *cotyledons always opposite each other on stem *broad leaves with net-like veins *tap root or spreading roots Herbaceous (-) vs. woody (*) - no hard woody material * thickened layer of dense tissue on outside of stem (bark)

Specify how heat stress is different from heat illness

HEAT STRESS: - buildup in body of heat generated by muscles during work and by warm/hot work env. HEAT ILLNESS: - Number of disorders that occur when body subjected to more heat than it can cope with

Describe how and when to apply soil herbicides.

HOW: place pesticide directly on or in the soil, where it will move through soil to root zone - sprays, pellets, concentrated liquids with hand-held applicators to base of plant WHEN: site needs residual nonselective control (bare ground needed) - sometimes used with foliar to give initial knockdown - soil isn't frozen

Explain the difference between hazard and toxicity

Hazard = toxicity x exposure Hazard: potential for injury - reflects toxicity and exposure Toxicity: measure of pesticide's capacity to cause injury -property of chemical itself, its concentration, and its formulation

Explain what to do if state laws are more strict than label directions

Know the state laws and apply the stricter regulations even if they are not as strict on the label

Describe the difference between the terms "labels" and "labeling."

LABEL: - information printed on or attached to pesticide container or wrapper LABELING: - Both the actual label and all additional product information (e.g. brochures, handouts)

Describe the relationship between a pesticide's toxicity and its LD50 and/or LC50.

LD50 = amount of chemical required to kill 50% of test population (Lethal Dose to 50%) - measure of acute toxicity - administered orally or on skin LC50 = amount of chemical required to kill 50% of test populations (Lethal Concentration to 50%) - measure of toxicity of chemicals in air - material mixed w/ air in various concentrations greater toxicities have lower values Only indicate death, not other effects

Outline the kinds of information you can find on a label.

MANDATORY STATEMENTS: - required by law ADVISORY STATEMENTS: - additional information added by manufacturer IDENTIFYING INFORMATION - basic info identifying product 1) Restricted-use statement: identifies product as an RUP 2) Trade Name: used in ads, etc 3) Type of Pesticide: short statement indicating pesticide type, what pests it controls, and sites for which product is registered 4) Formulation: sometimes stated explicitly 5) Ingredient Statement: what is in the product and amount of each active ingredient (active first identified by common name). Manufacturers don't have to identify inert ingredients. 6) Net Contents: how much product is in the container 7) Name/Address: of manufacturer or distributor 8) EPA Registration and Establishment Numbers: list in records SAFETY INFORMATION - precautionary statements concerning health hazards (relative toxicity and how to respond if exposed) 1) Signal Words/Symbols: identify toxicity category to which product is assigned [there are four in decreasing order of toxicity: I (DANGER-POISON + skull/crossbones), II (DANGER), III (WARNING), IV (CAUTION)] 2) Statement of Practical Treatment: how to respond to exposure by exposure type 3) Acute Effects Statements: state which routes of exposure may lead to toxic acute effects & describe effects/precautions 4) Delayed Effects Statements: states if pesticide causes chronic or other delayed effects 5) Allergic Effects Statements: (e.g. skin irritation, asthma) 6) Personal Protective Equipment Statements: minimum PPE required to handle product for different uses 7) Physical/Chemical Hazards: (e.g. flammable, corrosive, etc) ENVIRONMENTAL INFO: - precautions for protecting nontarget organisms/environ. USE INFORMATION: - longest section. - Sites product registered for - Pests it will control - Product/spray rates - application methods 1) Misuse Statement: illegal to use product contrary to label 2) Agricultural Use Requirements: posting and restricted-entry interval (REI) information (applies only to applications for production of agricultural plants) 3) Reentry and Posting Statements: specifies REI for specific conditions (e.g. nobody allowed in treatment area without precautions) and warning sign requirements 4) Storage/Disposal Statements: also how to respond if product is spilled

Outline the first aid procedures used in cases of heat stress, and describe when medical attention is necessary.

Medical attention necessary if a person appears ill (be cautious) First Aid: - Move victim to cooler area - Remove PPE and other clothing that may be overheating victim - Cool victim as rapidly as possible (sponge/splash skin, immerse victim in cool water) - Have victim drink cool water - Keep victim calm and quiet

List the kinds of applications for which you must keep records, and know how long you must keep such records.

Must keep records for applications requiring both certification and licensing How long? - complete record on day of application and file it for at least 2 years after application date.

Contrast the difference between organic and inorganic.

ORGANIC: - compound contains carbon - often effective, some specific - main focus of health/env concerns - most commonly associated with problems of pesticide use/misuse INORGANIC: - derived from minerals occurring in nature - several have been banned because of health/env concerns - usually toxic to wide range of taxa - less effective than many organic compounds

Contrast the difference between a private applicator, a commercial applicator for hire, or a commercial applicator not for hire

PRIVATE APPLICATOR: -Meet criteria 1) use/direct use of pesticides for producing an agricultural commodity and 2) Applications occur on land owned/rented by you or your employer COMMERCIAL APP (for hire): - use pesticides on contract basis (get paid for services by third party) COMMERCIAL APP (not for hire) - Use pesticides only on sites that you/your employer controls - Do not contract out your pesticide application services

Explain when placarding, or a commercial driver's license, might be required

Placarding = signs showing hazard class of cargo Placarding necessary when: 1) transporting pesticides bearing DOT poison label in containers larger than 119 gallons or in quantities >1,000 pounds Commercial Driver's License: -operating commercial motor vehicles that meet criteria: 1) Gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 lbs or more 2) Designed or used to transport 16 or more persons 3) Transports hazardous materials in amounts that require placarding

Describe what is meant by prohibited pesticide, limited-use pesticide, pesticide governed by a special rule.

Prohibited Pesticide: - exceptionally hazardous - environmental persistence - use prohibited by state statute, DATCP, or FIFRA Limited-Use Pesticide: - Purchase/sale/use limited to specifically defined purposes - Specified in ATCP 30 Pesticide Governed by Special Rule: - Potential adverse effect on environment or human health - regulated through special rules - some uses may be prohibited - may specify maximum product rates, timing and frequency of use within a growing season, or prohibit certain application methods or any application in certain areas of state

Explain how to recognize and respond to shock

RECOGNIZE: - pale, moist, cold, clammy skin - eyes vacant/lackluster with dilated pupils - breathing shallow/irregular - pulse weak, rapid, irregular - unconsciousness RESPOND: - Keep victim flat on back and elevate legs 1-1.5 feet above head (unless vomiting) - Keep victim warm enough to prevent shivering but don't overheat -Keep victim quiet/give reassurance - don't give anything by mouth

Describe what is involved in pesticide registration and reregistration and the practical importance of each.

REGISTRATION: 1) Product itself and its use must be registered by EPA before sold/used in US - test data must show that intended use of product will not create risks that exceed benefits - Must submit label w/ specific info on proper use of pesticide - EPA mandates label changes if necessary - Importance = make sure product is safe, effective, and accurately labeled REREGISTRATION: 1) Older products registered before above process added to FIFRA must be reregistered to comply w/ current regulations - Complete database of pesticide product required - costs of updating database/paying fees high for manufacturer - Importance = make sure product is safe, effective, and accurately labeled (standardize ALL pesticides)

Compare selective and nonselective herbicides.

SELECTIVE: - only harm certain plants while leaving others unharmed - can damage desirable plants under weather stress or misapplication NONSELECTIVE: - toxic to most or all plants

Describe some of the general symptoms of pesticide exposure

SEVERE: 1) Fever 2) Intense thirst 3) Unconsciousness 4) Pinpoint Pupils/constriction 5) Uncontrollable muscle twitching/convulsions 6) Inability to breathe 7) Secretions from nose/mouth 8) Coma/Death Moderate 1) Excessive saliva/perspiration 2) Stomach cramps 3) Inability to walk 4) Trembling 5) Extreme weakness 6) Mental confusion 7) Chest discomfort 8) Blurred vision 9) Difficulty Breathing 10) Rapid Pulse 11) Flushed/yellow skin 12) Weeping Mild 1) Fatigue, headache, weakness, dizziness, restlessness, nervousness, blurred vision 2) Moodiness 3) Skin, eye, nose, throat irritation 4) Perspiration, nausea/vomiting, stomach cramps/diarrhea

Describe how pesticides are assigned to toxicity categories and given signal words.

Signal words assigned on basis of highest measured toxicity (degree of most damaging effect, regardless of route) of the FORMULATION, also called relative toxicity

Explain the effects of soil texture and organic matter content on applications of soil herbicides.

Soil Texture: some particles absorb herbicides, preventing absorption into weeds. Fine-textured soils require higher herbicide rates OM Content: High OM content, higher herbicide rates. some products prohibit use on certain soils

Explain the significance when state and federal laws differ.

State laws cannot be more lenient than federal laws, but can be more strict.

Outline whether a site is suitable for mixing and loading or cleaning application equipment with respect to nearby wells or surface water

Suitable Sites: 1) not adjacent to surface water/wells where pesticides could enter water, or where rising water could reach contaminated area

True or False: no material is resistant to all chemicals, and some are not resistant to any.

True

Explain what determines whether a given plant is a weed

Unwanted plant (diminishes safety, utility, attractiveness, or effectiveness of a managed area)

Outline the different levels of protection afforded by work clothes, coveralls, spray suits, and aprons

WORK CLOTHES: - firmly woven long sleeve shirt, long pants, shoes, socks - not chemically resistant - serve to keep small amounts of contaminants away from skin COVERALLS: - cover entire body except feet, hands, head -disposable or reusable - fabric coveralls not chemically resistant (only keep contaminants away from skin) SPRAY SUITS: - chemical resistant - can cover everything coveralls cover (hooded best) - come in many styles/materials - protection depends on material, but good if used right - breathable, so less risk of heat stress APRONS: - chemical-resistant - provides another layer of protection. - only protects front of body

Outline when medical attention is warranted

When someone: 1) Exhibits illness while, or soon after, working with pesticides or in a treated area 2) Has swallowed a pesticide 3) Got a pesticide in their eyes 4) Exhibits symptoms of poisoning or injury following dermal or inhalation exposure Use common sense

Explain which directions you should follow when using a product whose label has changed since you bought it.

When to follow "Old Label" - use product according to label that came with it - impractical to determine whether or not label has been changed When not to follow "old Label" - When a product or one of its uses is canceled/prohibited by state or federal agency - specified phaseout date Heed new label when.. - you know label has changed and new requirements stricter

Explain why there are different kinds of formulations and what items you need to consider when selecting one.

Why 1) chemistry of active ingredient may prevent some formulations (different active ingredients, different formulations) 2) Different formulations offer different advantages (e.g. may be safer, etc) What consider? - Intended use (some formulations better than others) - Effectiveness (some formulations less effective) - Risks (to you, site, env.) - Liquid formulations (easier to measure) vs. dry formulations (don't need to dilute but difficult to apply uniformly) - Formulation Characteristics (ability to remain in solution, damage to sprayer, etc) - Ease of clean-up (dry easier) - Temperature fluctuation/chemical stability (how easy is it to store?)

Explain why products are classified restricted-use and who may purchase and apply such products.

Why? -Benefits outweigh risks ONLY when trained persons use pesticide - Alternative to more strict controls/cancellations of these pesticides Who may purchase/apply? - Certified applicator (broad knowledge of pesticide use) - must take Pesticide Applicator Training program (PAT) through UW-Extension

Do you need to use a pesticide according to label directions?

YES. Label is a legally-binding document.

Describe how to use adjuvants effectively.

add one to herbicide to improve its activity use when foliage is waxy or hairy Do not use in all situations (esp when you could injure desirable plants) follow label guidelines

Explain how to keep soil herbicides from moving off target

do not apply where they may leach into groundwater or run off into water sources/cropping areas Apply herbicides in as minimal an area as possible (and where desired tree/shrub roots extend) Do not apply to frozen soils

Define what a signal word is and how it relates to the relative toxicity of a product

identifies toxicity category to which product is assigned (degree of toxicity, level of risk to humans). Each signal word is assigned a level of toxicity, more harsh signal words often more toxic.

Explain how PPE reduces the hazard associated with pesticide use

it reduces a person's exposure to pesticides Greatly reduces dermal, inhalation, and eye exposure

Describe the purpose of a mixing and loading pad and when such a pad is required

surface that contains spills and prevents water/liquids from flowing onto it - required when mixing or loading >1,500 lbs of active ingredients at any one site in a year, or in 2 or more sites within .5 miles of each other - required when mixing or loading pesticides within 100 feet of a well or surface water

List the signal words that you may find on a pesticide label.

there are four in decreasing order of toxicity: 1) I (DANGER-POISON + skull/crossbones) 2) II (DANGER) 3) III (WARNING) 4) IV (CAUTION)