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Using Pesticides in Ontario: Pesticide
Application Information
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| Author: | OMAFRA Staff |
|---|---|
| Creation Date: | 25 November 2002 |
| Last Reviewed: | 24 April 2009 |
| Using Pesticides in Ontario > Pesticide Application Information |
When you decide to use a pesticide, choose the most appropriate formulation
and application method for your situation. Use only a properly calibrated
sprayer. Choose less toxic alternatives when possible. Take all possible
precautions to prevent the exposure of people and non-target organisms
to the
pesticide. Read the most current pesticide label thoroughly before application.
The label provides important information, such as:
For more information on hazards, consult the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or contact the manufacturer.
The re-entry interval, also referred to as restricted entry interval (REI), is the period of time following a pesticide application during which workers must not enter the treatment area without wearing protective clothing and personal protective equipment. This allows any pesticide residue and vapours to dissipate from the treatment location (e.g., field), preventing the possibility of inadvertent pesticide exposure.
The PMRA reviews each pesticide to determine whether the label should include a specific re-entry interval. If the re-entry interval is not stated on the label, assume that the spray solution must be dry before re-entry can occur. Some pesticides have labels that carry a warning about working in treated crops. Follow the label recommendations.
These intervals state the minimum time that must pass between the last pesticide application and the harvesting of the crop, or the grazing or cutting of the crop for livestock feed. If you harvest a crop before the preharvest interval (PHI) has passed, there may be pesticide residues in excess of the maximum residue limits (MRLs) set by PMRA.
To avoid exceeding the maximum residue limits,
always follow the directions on the label.
Buffer zones are areas left untreated to protect an adjacent sensitive area, such as sensitive terrestrial and aquatic habitats, well heads, non-target crops and areas where children play.
Leave a suitable buffer zone between the treatment area and adjacent sensitive areas. Buffer zones may vary depending on the method of application (i.e., aerial, field boom, hand-held sprayer). Some pesticide labels specify buffer zone requirements. Check the pesticide label for the type of buffer zone required.
Sensitive terrestrial habitats include hedgerows, grasslands, shelterbelts, windbreaks, forested areas, woodlots, vegetative strips, etc.
Sensitive aquatic habitats include lakes, reservoirs, streams, creeks, ditches, marshes, wetlands, ponds, commercial fish ponds, etc.
Setback Distances for Water Bodies
It is an offence under the federal Fisheries Act to introduce into water any material that may be harmful to fish or fish habitat. To protect these waters, applicators must determine a suitable setback distance between the area to be protected and the area where pesticide treatments are planned (if one is not specified on the pesticide label). The protected area includes the water body as well as adjacent riparian (riverbank) areas that contribute to fish food and habitat.
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