Oregon Pesticide Practice Test

Which group of pesticides is exempt from registration because it poses little or no risk to humans and the environment?

1. Minimum risk

2. Restricted-use pesticides

3. General-use pesticides

4. Highly toxic pesticides

The correct answer is: Minimum risk

Minimum risk pesticides are categorized as such because they are considered to pose little or no risk to human health and the environment. This category typically includes substances that consist of naturally derived materials or those that have low toxicity. As a result, products classified as minimum risk can be exempt from the rigorous registration processes that other pesticides must undergo. This exemption is based on specific criteria set forth by regulatory agencies, which assess the ingredients and their potential effects. It ensures that these products can be easily accessible, particularly for gardeners and small-scale users, without compromising safety standards. In contrast, restricted-use pesticides require special training and certification for handling due to their potential risks, while general-use pesticides can be applied more broadly but still necessitate registration. Highly toxic pesticides are those recognized for their significant risks and therefore are heavily regulated to mitigate potential harm to health and the environment.