MDARD Michigan Core Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Under federal law, which is unlawful and subject to civil or criminal penalties?

1. Allowing a person under the direct supervision of a certified applicator to apply RUPs

2. Detaching, altering, defacing, or destroying any part of a container or labeling

3. Keeping inadequate records of employees who received training on the proper use of pesticides

4. Failing to document pesticide application times

The correct answer is: Detaching, altering, defacing, or destroying any part of a container or labeling

Detaching, altering, defacing, or destroying any part of a container or labeling is unlawful under federal law because it compromises the integrity and safety information provided by the manufacturer. Labels contain essential information about the proper use, handling, and potential hazards associated with the pesticide. Regulatory agencies depend on accurate labeling to ensure that users apply pesticides correctly and safely, to prevent misuse that could harm human health or the environment. Maintaining the integrity of pesticide containers and labels is critical for compliance with laws and regulations designed to protect applicators, bystanders, and the environment. Violating these regulations can lead to severe penalties because altered labels could mislead users, resulting in improper application and potential exposure risks. Thus, engaging in any actions that tamper with labeling is taken seriously under federal law.