Oregon Pesticide Practice Test

What is the purpose of the Application Exclusion Zone (AEZ)?

1. To restrict pesticide sales

2. To ensure pesticide training

3. To prevent pesticide exposures to workers and others

4. To monitor pesticide effectiveness

The correct answer is: To prevent pesticide exposures to workers and others

The Application Exclusion Zone (AEZ) is primarily designed to prevent pesticide exposures to workers and others within a defined area surrounding pesticide applications. The AEZ establishes a buffer zone where certain restrictions are enforced during and after pesticide application to minimize the risk of drift and direct contact with pesticide-treated areas. This is crucial for protecting human health, particularly for individuals who might be in the vicinity of the application site but are not directly involved in the application process. By implementing the AEZ, regulations help ensure that anyone who may be exposed—such as field workers, bystanders, or even vulnerable populations such as children—is kept at a safe distance. This proactive measure contributes significantly to workplace safety and environmental health, addressing potential hazards associated with pesticide use. The other options relate to different aspects of pesticide management, such as sales or training, which do not directly pertain to the protective measures implied by the AEZ. Monitoring pesticide effectiveness is also a separate concern that does not fall under the scope of the AEZ, which focuses specifically on exposure prevention.