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Azinphos-methyl (Guthion, Sniper) Re-entry Intervals and Buffer Zones

Author: Neil Carter - Tender Fruit and Grape IPM Specialist/OMAFRA
Creation Date: 22 November 2004
Last Reviewed: 22 November 2004


On March 29, 2004, the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) released Re-evaluation Decision Document RRD2004-05. According to that document, "all uses of azinphos-methyl are to be phased out". This decision is based in part on PMRA’s findings that the use of azinphos-methyl "entails an unacceptable risk of harm to agricultural workers" and that "environmental concerns have also been identified". During the phase out period, some changes to re-entry intervals and buffer zones are required. The information below comes directly from the re-evaluation decision document which can be viewed in its entirety at the Pest Management Regulatory Agency web site. According to that document these changes are to take place as of August 31, 2004 and that future use on certain crops (see below) is contingent on the product being sold with amended labels (Page 2, section B).

Do not enter or allow worker entry into treated areas during the re-entry interval (REI) listed in the chart below.

Crop

REI

Re-entry Precautions

apple, plum, prune, pear, apricot, peach

14 days

The following PPE is required for early entry to treated areas that involves contact with anything that has been treated, such as plants, soil or water.

  • Chemical-resistant coveralls over long-sleeved shirt and long pants
  • Chemical-resistant gloves
  • Chemical-resistant footwear plus socks
  • Protective eyewear
  • Chemical-resistant headgear for overhead exposure

Following the REI and throughout the remainder of the growing season, workers must wear clean, long-sleeved shirts and protective gloves each time they perform activities that involve foliar contact.

Notify workers of the pesticide application by warning them orally and by posting warning signs at entrances to treated areas. Wash stations must be available in the field for all re-entry workers.

Do not apply this product in a way that will come into contact with workers or other persons, either directly or through drift. Only protected handlers may be in the area during application.

raspberry, cranberry,
blackberry

7 days

cherry (sweet and tart)

15 days

grape

28 days

Persons other than agricultural workers, such as members of the general public involved in "Pick-your-own", "U-pick" or similar operations are not permitted to enter a treated area for 30 days after application. The PMRA has revised the buffer zones for azinphos-methyl:

Method of application

Buffer zone (metres) required for the protection of aquatic habitat with water depth of:

< 1 metre

1–3 metres

> 3 metres

Field sprayer*

50

40

30

Airblast (early season)

75

60

50

Airblast (late season)

65

50

40

* With the use of shrouds or cones on field sprayers (for reducing drift), buffer zones can be reduced by 70% (shrouds) or 30% (cones).

For apples, crab apples, apricots, blackberries, cherries, cranberries, grapes, pears, peaches, plums, prunes, raspberries:

  • Last date of sale by registrants: 31 August 2005
  • Last date of sale by retailers: 31 August 2006
  • Last date of use of product by users: 31 December 2006

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For more information:
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E-mail: ag.info.omafra@ontario.ca