The primary source of information about pesticide laws and regulations is the label. Pesticide labels are legal documents that provide crucial details regarding the proper use of the product, including directions for application, safety precautions, restrictions on use, and environmental hazards. They are regulated by agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and compliance with label instructions is mandated by law.
Labels are designed to convey vital information to users, ensuring that pesticides are applied safely and effectively while protecting human health and the environment. They summarize both state and federal regulations relevant to the specific product, making them an essential resource for anyone applying pesticides.
While manufacturers provide valuable information about their products, and pesticide applicator schools and local cooperative extension offices can offer guidance and education on pesticide use, these sources often derive their information from or supplement the regulations outlined on the label. Therefore, the label is considered the most authoritative and direct source regarding pesticide regulations.