What should you do if a pesticide label indicates a method of application that is not allowed?

Using a pesticide according to the label directions is essential for several reasons. Pesticide labels are legal documents that provide critical information about how to safely and effectively apply the product. They include guidelines for application methods, allowed uses, safety precautions, and handling instructions. If a label indicates a specific method of application, it is based on research and legal compliance designed to minimize risks to human health, the environment, and efficacy against the target pest.

Following the label directions ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, which is crucial both for legal use and for the safety of workers and the public. Ignoring the label can lead to ineffective pest control, potential harm to non-target organisms, and possible legal repercussions.

In contrast, while consulting the manufacturer or following state guidelines may have merit in certain contexts, it is vital first to adhere to label instructions when they are specific. Labels provide the primary framework for safe pesticide use and should always take precedence over alternative methods that are not explicitly sanctioned by the product’s label.