CPA Pesticide Handling and Storage 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the recommended method for disposing of empty, triple-rinsed pesticide containers?
- Return to the original supplier for reuse
- Puncture and dispose of in a landfill approved for pesticide containers (Correct answer)
- Burn in an open field away from populated areas
- Bury at least 18 inches deep on the property
Correct answer: Puncture and dispose of in a landfill approved for pesticide containers
Triple-rinsed containers should be punctured or crushed to prevent reuse and disposed of at a landfill approved to accept pesticide containers, per EPA guidelines.
Question 2: Which temperature range is generally ideal for pesticide storage to maintain product stability?
- Below 32°F (0°C)
- Between 40°F and 95°F (4°C–35°C) (Correct answer)
- Above 100°F (38°C) to prevent freezing
- Temperature does not affect pesticide storage
Correct answer: Between 40°F and 95°F (4°C–35°C)
Most pesticides remain stable when stored between approximately 40°F and 95°F; extreme cold can cause separation or crystallization, while extreme heat accelerates degradation.
Question 3: A worker accidentally splashes a pesticide concentrate into their eyes. What is the FIRST action to take?
- Call Poison Control before doing anything else
- Immediately flush eyes with clean water for 15–20 minutes (Correct answer)
- Apply eye drops to neutralize the chemical
- Cover the eye with a bandage and seek medical help
Correct answer: Immediately flush eyes with clean water for 15–20 minutes
The first and most critical step for eye exposure is immediately flushing with clean water for at least 15–20 minutes before seeking further medical attention.
Question 4: What does a restricted-entry interval (REI) specify for a pesticide?
- How long after mixing the pesticide must be applied
- The time workers must wait before re-entering a treated area (Correct answer)
- The minimum days between repeat applications
- The expiration date after the container is opened
Correct answer: The time workers must wait before re-entering a treated area
The REI is the period after pesticide application during which entry into the treated area is restricted to protect workers from exposure to residues.
Question 5: Which of the following is the BEST location for a pesticide storage facility?
- Inside the main farm building to minimize travel distance
- In a locked, ventilated structure away from living areas and water (Correct answer)
- Underground to maintain consistent temperature
- Near a water source for easy cleanup access
Correct answer: In a locked, ventilated structure away from living areas and water
Pesticide storage should be in a separate, locked, well-ventilated building away from living quarters, food, feed, and water sources to minimize risks.
Question 6: When should pesticide applicators read the product label before using a new pesticide?
- Only if they are unfamiliar with the active ingredient
- After the first application to verify correct use
- Before purchasing, mixing, and applying the product (Correct answer)
- Once per season regardless of how many times it is applied
Correct answer: Before purchasing, mixing, and applying the product
Applicators must read the label before purchasing, mixing, and applying a pesticide because the label is the law and contains all legally required use information.
Question 7: What is the purpose of a containment pad or secondary containment system in a pesticide storage area?
- To provide a clean surface for label reading
- To capture spills and prevent them from reaching soil or water (Correct answer)
- To organize containers by pesticide class
- To reduce odors from stored products
Correct answer: To capture spills and prevent them from reaching soil or water
Secondary containment systems (e.g., concrete pads with berms) capture leaks and spills to prevent pesticides from contaminating soil, groundwater, or surface water.
CPA Pesticide Handling and Storage 3
What is the recommended method for disposing of empty, triple-rinsed pesticide containers?