What is the first step you should take to obtain information about a pesticide?

Reading the pesticide label is essential because it is the primary source of information regarding the product’s safe and effective use. The label provides critical details including the active ingredients, hazard warnings, application instructions, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, and information on storage and disposal. It is regulated by authorities to ensure that users have access to accurate and necessary information, enabling them to use the pesticide responsibly and in compliance with legal standards.

While the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) contains helpful information about the physical and chemical properties of the pesticide and emergency protocols, the label serves as the most direct and specific guide for application and safety practices. It is often the first document consulted because it contains concise and relevant information that directly pertains to how to handle the pesticide in real-world scenarios. Consulting a supervisor or searching online resources can also provide valuable insights, but starting with the label is the most effective way to establish a foundational understanding of the pesticide in question.