OMB Control Number 2070-0060; EPA ICR Number 0277.15 

ICR ATTACHMENT E 

40 CFR part 156: Labeling Requirements for Pesticides and Devices
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Title 40: Protection of Environment

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PART 156—LABELING REQUIREMENTS FOR PESTICIDES AND DEVICES 

Section Contents

Subpart A—General Provisions

§ 156.10 Labeling requirements.

Subparts B–C [Reserved]

Subpart D—Human Hazard and Precautionary Statements

§ 156.60 General.

§ 156.62 Toxicity Category.

§ 156.64 Signal word.

§ 156.66 Child hazard warning.

§ 156.68 First aid statement.

§ 156.70 Precautionary statements for human hazards.

§ 156.78 Precautionary statements for physical or chemical hazards.

Subpart E—Environmental Hazard and Precautionary Statements

§ 156.80 General.

§ 156.85 Non-target organisms.

Subparts F–G [Reserved]

Subpart H—Container Labeling

§ 156.140 Identification of container types.

§ 156.144 Residue removal instructions—general.

§ 156.146 Residue removal instructions for nonrefillable containers—rigid containers with 

dilutable pesticides.

§ 156.156 Residue removal instructions for refillable containers.

§ 156.159 Compliance date.

Subparts I–J [Reserved]

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Subpart K—Worker Protection Statements

§ 156.200 Scope and applicability.

§ 156.203 Definitions.

§ 156.204 Modification and waiver of requirements.

§ 156.206 General statements.

§ 156.208 Restricted-entry statements.

§ 156.210 Notification-to-workers statements.

§ 156.212 Personal protective equipment statements.

Authority: 7 U.S.C. 136–136y. 

Subpart A—General Provisions 

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§ 156.10 Labeling requirements. 

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(a) General —(1) Contents of the label. Every pesticide product shall bear a label containing the 

information specified by the Act and the regulations in this part. The contents of a label must show 

clearly and prominently the following: 

(i) The name, brand, or trademark under which the product is sold as prescribed in paragraph (b) of this 

section; 

(ii) The name and address of the producer, registrant, or person for whom produced as prescribed in 

paragraph (c) of this section; 

(iii) The net contents as prescribed in paragraph (d) of this section; 

(iv) The product registration number as prescribed in paragraph (e) of this section; 

(v) The producing establishment number as prescribed in paragraph (f) of this section; 

(vi) An ingredient statement as prescribed in paragraph (g) of this section; 

(vii) Hazard and precautionary statements as prescribed in subpart D of this part for human and 

domestic animal hazards and subpart E of this part for environmental hazards. 

(viii) The directions for use as prescribed in paragraph (i) of this section; and 

(ix) The use classification(s) as prescribed in paragraph (j) of this section. 

(2) Prominence and legibility. (i) All words, statements, graphic representations, designs or other 

information required on the labeling by the Act or the regulations in this part must be clearly legible to a 

person with normal vision, and must be placed with such conspicuousness (as compared with other 

words, statements, designs, or graphic matter on the labeling) and expressed in such terms as to render 

it likely to be read and understood by the ordinary individual under customary conditions of purchase 

and use. 

(ii) All required label text must: 

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(A) Be set in 6-point or larger type; 

(B) Appear on a clear contrasting background; and 

(C) Not be obscured or crowded. 

(3) Language to be used. All required label or labeling text shall appear in the English language. 

However, the Agency may require or the applicant may propose additional text in other languages as is 

considered necessary to protect the public. When additional text in another language is necessary, all 

labeling requirements will be applied equally to both the English and other-language versions of the 

labeling. 

(4) Placement of Label —(i) General. The label shall appear on or be securely attached to the immediate 

container of the pesticide product. For purposes of this section, and the misbranding provisions of the 

Act, “securely attached” shall mean that a label can reasonably be expected to remain affixed during the 

foreseeable conditions and period of use. If the immediate container is enclosed within a wrapper or 

outside container through which the label cannot be clearly read, the label must also be securely 

attached to such outside wrapper or container, if it is a part of the package as customarily distributed or 

sold. 

(ii) Tank cars and other bulk containers —(A) Transportation. While a pesticide product is in transit, the 

appropriate provisions of 49 CFR parts 170–189, concerning the transportation of hazardous materials, 

and specifically those provisions concerning the labeling, marking and placarding of hazardous materials 

and the vehicles carrying them, define the basic Federal requirements. In addition, when any registered 

pesticide product is transported in a tank car, tank truck or other mobile or portable bulk container, a 

copy of the accepted label must be attached to the shipping papers, and left with the consignee at the 

time of delivery. 

(B) Storage. When pesticide products are stored in bulk containers, whether mobile or stationary, which 

remain in the custody of the user, a copy of the label of labeling, including all appropriate directions for 

use, shall be securely attached to the container in the immediate vicinity of the discharge control valve. 

(5) False or misleading statements. Pursuant to section 2(q)(1)(A) of the Act, a pesticide or a device 

declared subject to the Act pursuant to §152.500, is misbranded if its labeling is false or misleading in 

any particular including both pesticidal and non-pesticidal claims. Examples of statements or 

representations in the labeling which constitute misbranding include: 

(i) A false or misleading statement concerning the composition of the product; 

(ii) A false or misleading statement concerning the effectiveness of the product as a pesticide or device; 

(iii) A false or misleading statement about the value of the product for purposes other than as a pesticide 

or device; 

(iv) A false or misleading comparison with other pesticides or devices; 

(v) Any statement directly or indirectly implying that the pesticide or device is recommended or endorsed 

by any agency of the Federal Government; 

(vi) The name of a pesticide which contains two or more principal active ingredients if the name 

suggests one or more but not all such principal active ingredients even though the names of the other 

ingredients are stated elsewhere in the labeling; 

(vii) A true statement used in such a way as to give a false or misleading impression to the purchaser; 

(viii) Label disclaimers which negate or detract from labeling statements required under the Act and 

these regulations; 

(ix) Claims as to the safety of the pesticide or its ingredients, including statements such as “safe,” 

“nonpoisonous,” “noninjurious,” “harmless” or “nontoxic to humans and pets” with or without such a 

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qualifying phrase as “when used as directed”; and 

(x) Non-numerical and/or comparative statements on the safety of the product, including but not limited 

to: 

(A) “Contains all natural ingredients”; 

(B) “Among the least toxic chemicals known” 

(C) “Pollution approved” 

(6) Final printed labeling. (i) Except as provided in paragraph (a)(6)(ii) of this section, final printed 

labeling must be submitted and accepted prior to registration. However, final printed labeling need not 

be submitted until draft label texts have been provisionally accepted by the Agency. 

(ii) Clearly legible reproductions or photo reductions will be accepted for unusual labels such as those 

silk-screened directly onto glass or metal containers or large bag or drum labels. Such reproductions 

must be of microfilm reproduction quality. 

(b) Name, brand, or trademark. (1) The name, brand, or trademark under which the pesticide product is 

sold shall appear on the front panel of the label. 

(2) No name, brand, or trademark may appear on the label which: 

(i) Is false or misleading, or 

(ii) Has not been approved by the Administrator through registration or supplemental registration as an 

additional name pursuant to §152.132. 

(c) Name and address of producer, registrant, or person for whom produced. An unqualified name and 

address given on the label shall be considered as the name and address of the producer. If the 

registrant's name appears on the label and the registrant is not the producer, or if the name of the 

person for whom the pesticide was produced appears on the label, it must be qualified by appropriate 

wording such as “Packed for * * *,” “Distributed by * * *,” or “Sold by * * *” to show that the name is 

not that of the producer. 

(d) Net weight or measure of contents. (1) The net weight or measure of content shall be exclusive of 

wrappers or other materials and shall be the average content unless explicitly stated as a minimum 

quantity. 

(2) If the pesticide is a liquid, the net content statement shall be in terms of liquid measure at 68 °F (20 °

C) and shall be expressed in conventional American units of fluid ounces, pints, quarts, and gallons. 

(3) If the pesticide is solid or semisolid, viscous or pressurized, or is a mixture of liquid and solid, the net 

content statement shall be in terms of weight expressed as avoirdupois pounds and ounces. 

(4) In all cases, net content shall be stated in terms of the largest suitable units, i.e. , “1 pound 10 

ounces” rather than “26 ounces.” 

(5) In addition to the required units specified, net content may be expressed in metric units. 

(6) Variation above minimum content or around an average is permissible only to the extent that it 

represents deviation unavoidable in good manufacturing practice. Variation below a stated minimum is 

not permitted. In no case shall the average content of the packages in a shipment fall below the stated 

average content. 

(7) For a pesticide product packaged in a refillable container, an appropriately sized area on the label 

may be left blank to allow the net weight or measure of content to be marked in by the refiller according 

to 40 CFR 165.65(h) or 165.70(i) prior to distribution or sale of the pesticide. As required in paragraph 

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(a)(1)(iii) of this section, the net contents must be shown clearly and prominently on the label. 

(e) Product registration number. The registration number assigned to the pesticide product at the time of 

registration shall appear on the label, preceded by the phrase “EPA Registration No.,” or the phrase 

“EPA Reg. No.” The registration number shall be set in type of a size and style similar to other print on 

that part of the label on which it appears and shall run parallel to it. The registration number and the 

required identifying phrase shall not appear in such a manner as to suggest or imply recommendation or 

endorsement of the product by the Agency. 

(f) Producing establishment's registration number . The producing establishment registration number 

preceded by the phrase “EPA Est.”, of the final establishment at which the product was produced may 

appear in any suitable location on the label or immediate container. It must appear on the wrapper or 

outside container of the package if the EPA establishment registration number on the immediate 

container cannot be clearly read through such wrapper or container. For a pesticide product packaged in 

a refillable container, an appropriately sized area on the label may be left blank after the phrase “EPA 

Est.” to allow the EPA establishment registration number to be marked in by the refiller according to 40 

CFR 165.65(h) or 165.70(i) prior to distribution or sale of the pesticide. 

(g) Ingredient statement —(1) General. The label of each pesticide product must bear a statement which 

contains the name and percentage by weight of each active ingredient, the total percentage by weight of 

all inert ingredients; and if the pesticide contains arsenic in any form, a statement of the percentages of 

total and water-soluble arsenic calculated as elemental arsenic. The active ingredients must be 

designated by the term “active ingredients” and the inert ingredients by the term “inert ingredients,” or 

the singular forms of these terms when appropriate. Both terms shall be in the same type size, be 

aligned to the same margin and be equally prominent. The statement “Inert Ingredients, none” is not 

required for pesticides which contain 100 percent active ingredients. Unless the ingredient statement is a 

complete analysis of the pesticide, the term “analysis” shall not be used as a heading for the ingredient 

statement. 

(2) Position of ingredient statement. (i) The ingredient statement is normally required on the front panel 

of the label. If there is an outside container or wrapper through which the ingredient statement cannot be 

clearly read, the ingredient statement must also appear on such outside container or wrapper. If the size 

or form of the package makes it impracticable to place the ingredient statement on the front panel of the 

label, permission may be granted for the ingredient statement to appear elsewhere. 

(ii) The text of the ingredient statement must run parallel with other text on the panel on which it appears, 

and must be clearly distinguishable from and must not be placed in the body of other text. 

(3) Names to be used in ingredient statement. The name used for each ingredient shall be the accepted 

common name, if there is one, followed by the chemical name. The common name may be used alone 

only if it is well known. If no common name has been established, the chemical name alone shall be 

used. In no case will the use of a trademark or proprietary name be permitted unless such name has 

been accepted as a common name by the Administrator under the authority of section 25(c)(6). 

(4) Statements of percentages. The percentages of ingredients shall be stated in terms of weight-toweight. The sum of percentages of the active and the inert ingredients shall be 100. Percentages shall 

not be expressed by a range of values such as “22–25%.” If the uses of the pesticide product are 

expressed as weight of active ingredient per unit area, a statement of the weight of active ingredient per 

unit volume of the pesticide formulation shall also appear in the ingredient statement. 

(5) Accuracy of stated percentages. The percentages given shall be as precise as possible reflecting 

good manufacturing practice. If there may be unavoidable variation between manufacturing batches, the 

value stated for each active ingredient shall be the lowest percentage which may be present. 

(6) Deterioration. Pesticides which change in chemical composition significantly must meet the following 

labeling requirements: 

(i) In cases where it is determined that a pesticide formulation changes chemical composition 

significantly, the product must bear the following statement in a prominent position on the label: “Not for 

sale or use after [date].” 

(ii) The product must meet all label claims up to the expiration time indicated on the label. 

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(7) Inert ingredients. The Administrator may require the name of any inert ingredient(s) to be listed in the 

ingredient statement if he determines that such ingredient(s) may pose a hazard to man or the 

environment. 

(h) [Reserved] 

(i) Directions for Use —(1) General requirements —(i) Adequacy and clarity of directions. Directions for 

use must be stated in terms which can be easily read and understood by the average person likely to 

use or to supervise the use of the pesticide. When followed, directions must be adequate to protect the 

public from fraud and from personal injury and to prevent unreasonable adverse effects on the 

environment. 

(ii) Placement of directions for use. Directions may appear on any portion of the label provided that they 

are conspicuous enough to be easily read by the user of the pesticide product. Directions for use may 

appear on printed or graphic matter which accompanies the pesticide provided that: 

(A) If required by the Agency, such printed or graphic matter is securely attached to each package of the 

pesticide, or placed within the outside wrapper or bag; 

(B) The label bears a reference to the directions for use in accompanying leaflets or circulars, such as 

“See directions in the enclosed circular:” and 

(C) The Administrator determines that it is not necessary for such directions to appear on the label. 

(iii) Exceptions to requirement for direction for use. (A) Detailed directions for use may be omitted from 

labeling of pesticides which are intended for use only by manufacturers of products other than pesticide 

products in their regular manufacturing processes, provided that: 

( 1 ) The label clearly shows that the product is intended for use only in manufacturing processes and 

specifies the type(s) of products involved. 

( 2 ) Adequate information such as technical data sheets or bulletins, is available to the trade specifying 

the type of product involved and its proper use in manufacturing processes; 

( 3 ) The product will not come into the hands of the general public except after incorporation into 

finished products; and 

( 4 ) The Administrator determines that such directions are not necessary to prevent unreasonable 

adverse effects on man or the environment. 

(B) Detailed directions for use may be omitted from the labeling of pesticide products for which sale is 

limited to physicians, veterinarians, or druggists, provided that: 

( 1 ) The label clearly states that the product is for use only by physicians or veterinarians; 

( 2 ) The Administrator determines that such directions are not necessary to prevent unreasonable 

adverse effects on man or the environment; and 

( 3 ) The product is also a drug and regulated under the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug and 

Cosmetic Act. 

(C) Detailed directions for use may be omitted from the labeling of pesticide products which are intended 

for use only by formulators in preparing pesticides for sale to the public, provided that: 

( 1 ) There is information readily available to the formulators on the composition, toxicity, methods of 

use, applicable restrictions or limitations, and effectiveness of the product for pesticide purposes; 

( 2 ) The label clearly states that the product is intended for use only in manufacturing, formulating, 

mixing, or repacking for use as a pesticide and specifies the type(s) of pesticide products involved; 

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( 3 ) The product as finally manufactured, formulated, mixed, or repackaged is registered; and 

( 4 ) The Administrator determines that such directions are not necessary to prevent unreasonable 

adverse effects on man or the environment. 

(2) Contents of Directions for Use. The directions for use shall include the following, under the headings 

“Directions for Use”: 

(i) The statement of use classification as prescribed in paragraph (j) of this section immediately under 

the heading “Directions for Use.” 

(ii) Immediately below the statement of use classification, the statement “It is a violation of Federal law to 

use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.” 

(iii) The site(s) of application, as for example the crops, animals, areas, or objects to be treated. 

(iv) The target pest(s) associated with each site. 

(v) The dosage rate associated with each site and pest. 

(vi) The method of application, including instructions for dilution, if required, and type(s) of application 

apparatus or equipment required. 

(vii) The frequency and timing of applications necessary to obtain effective results without causing 

unreasonable adverse effects on the environment. 

(viii) Worker protection statements meeting the requirements of subpart K of this part. 

(ix) Specific directions concerning the storage, residue removal and disposal of the pesticide and its 

container, in accordance with subpart H of this part and part 165 of this chapter. These instructions must 

be grouped and appear under the heading, “Storage and Disposal.” This heading must be set in type of 

the same minimum sizes as required for the child hazard warning. (See table in §156.60(b)) 

(x) Any limitations or restrictions on use required to prevent unreasonable adverse effects, such as: 

(A) Required intervals between application and harvest of food or feed crops. 

(B) Rotational crop restrictions. 

(C) Warnings as required against use on certain crops, animals, objects, or in or adjacent to certain 

areas. 

(D) For total release foggers as defined in paragraph (h)(2)(iii)(B) of this section, the following 

statements must be included in the “Directions for Use”: 

DO NOT use more than one fogger per room. DO NOT use in small, enclosed spaces such 

as closets, cabinets, or under counters or tables. Do not use in a room 5 ft.×5 ft. or smaller; 

instead, allow fog to enter from other rooms. Turn off ALL ignition sources such as pilot lights 

(shut off gas valves), other open flames, or running electrical appliances that cycle off and on 

( i.e. , refrigerators, thermostats, etc.). Call your gas utility or management company if you 

need assistance with your pilot lights.” 

(E) For restricted use pesticides, a statement that the pesticide may be applied under the direct 

supervision of a certified applicator who is not physically present at the site of application but 

nonetheless available to the person applying the pesticide, unless the Agency has determined that the 

pesticide may only be applied under the direct supervision of a certified applicator who is physically 

present. 

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(F) Other pertinent information which the Administrator determines to be necessary for the protection of 

man and the environment. 

(j) Statement of Use Classification. By October 22, 1976, all pesticide products must bear on their labels 

a statement of use classification as described in paragraphs (j) (1) and (2) of this section. Any pesticide 

product for which some uses are classified for general use and others for restricted use shall be 

separately labeled according to the labeling standards set forth in this subsection, and shall be marketed 

as separate products with different registration numbers, one bearing directions only for general use(s) 

and the other bearing directions for restricted use(s) except that, if a product has both restricted use(s) 

and general use(s), both of these uses may appear on a product labeled for restricted use. Such 

products shall be subject to the provisions of paragraph (j)(2) of this section. 

(1) General Use Classification. Pesticide products bearing directions for use(s) classified general shall 

be labeled with the exact words “General Classification” immediately below the heading “Directions for 

Use.” And reference to the general classification that suggests or implies that the general utility of the 

pesticide extends beyond those purposes and uses contained in the Directions for Use will be 

considered a false or misleading statement under the statutory definitions of misbranding. 

(2) Restricted Use Classification. Pesticide products bearing direction for use(s) classified restricted shall 

bear statements of restricted use classification on the front panel as described below: 

(i) Front panel statement of restricted use classification. (A) At the top of the front panel of the label, set 

in type of the same minimum sizes as required for human hazard signal words (see table in paragraph 

(h)(1)(iv) of this section), and appearing with sufficient prominence relative to other text and graphic 

material on the front panel to make it unlikely to be overlooked under customary conditions of purchase 

and use, the statement “Restricted Use Pesticide” shall appear. 

(B) Directly below this statement on the front panel, a summary statement of the terms of restriction 

imposed as a precondition to registration shall appear. If use is restricted to certified applicators, the 

following statement is required: “For retail sale to and use only by Certified Applicators or persons under 

their direct supervision and only for those uses covered by the Certified Applicator's certification.” If, 

however, other regulatory restrictions are imposed, the Administrator will define the appropriate wording 

for the terms of restriction by regulation. 

[40 FR 28268, July 3, 1975; 40 FR 32329, Aug. 1, 1975; 40 FR 36571, Aug. 21, 1975, as amended at 

43 FR 5786, Feb. 9, 1978. Redesignated and amended at 53 FR 15991, 15999, May 4, 1988; 57 FR 

38146, Aug. 21, 1992; 60 FR 32096, June 19, 1995; 63 FR 9082, Feb. 23, 1998; 66 FR 64764, Dec. 14, 

2001; 71 FR 47420, Aug. 16, 2006] 

Subparts B–C [Reserved] 

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Subpart D—Human Hazard and Precautionary Statements 

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Source: 66 FR 64764, Dec. 14, 2001, unless otherwise noted. 

§ 156.60 General. 

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Each product label is required to bear hazard and precautionary statements for humans and domestic 

animals (if applicable) as prescribed in this subpart. Hazard statements describe the type of hazard that 

may occur, while precautionary statements will either direct or inform the user of actions to take to avoid 

the hazard or mitigate its effects. 

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(a) Location of statements —(1) Front panel statements. The signal word, child hazard warning, and, in 

certain cases, the first aid statement are required to appear on the front panel of the label, and also in 

any supplemental labeling intended to accompany the product in distribution or sale. 

(2) Statements elsewhere on label. Hazard and precautionary statements not required on the front panel 

may appear on other panels of the label, and may be required also in supplemental labeling. These 

include, but are not limited to, the human hazard and precautionary statements, domestic animal 

statements if applicable, a Note to Physician, and physical or chemical hazard statements. 

(b) Placement and prominence —(1) Front panel statements. All required front panel warning statements 

shall be grouped together on the label, and shall appear with sufficient prominence relative to other front 

panel text and graphic material to make them unlikely to be overlooked under customary conditions of 

purchase and use. The table below shows the minimum type size requirements for the front panel 

warning statements for various front panel sizes. 

Type Sizes for Front Panel Warning Statements 

(2) Other required statements. All other hazard and precautionary statements must be at least 6 point 

type. 

§ 156.62 Toxicity Category. 

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This section establishes four Toxicity Categories for acute hazards of pesticide products, Category I 

being the highest toxicity category. Most human hazard, precautionary statements, and human personal 

protective equipment statements are based upon the Toxicity Category of the pesticide product as sold 

or distributed. In addition, toxicity categories may be used for regulatory purposes other than labeling, 

such as classification for restricted use and requirements for child-resistant packaging. In certain cases, 

statements based upon the Toxicity Category of the product as diluted for use are also permitted. A 

Toxicity Category is assigned for each of five types of acute exposure, as specified in the table in this 

paragraph. 

Acute Toxicity Categories for Pesticide Products 

Size of Label Front Panel 

(Square Inches)

Point Size

Signal Word (All Capital 

Letters)

Child Hazard 

Warning

5 and under 6 6

Over 5 to 10 10 6

Over 10 to 15 12 8

Over 15 to 30 14 10

Over 30 18 12

Hazard 

Indicators I II III IV

Oral LD50 Up to and 

including 50 

mg/kg

>50 thru 500 

mg/kg

>500 thru 5,000 

mg/kg

>5,000 

mg/kg

Dermal 

LD50

Up to and 

including 200 

mg/kg

>200 thru 2000 

mg/kg

>2000 thru 

20,000 mg/kg

>20,000 

mg/kg

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§ 156.64 Signal word. 

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(a) Requirement. Except as provided in paragraph (a)(4), each pesticide product must bear on the front 

panel a signal word, reflecting the highest Toxicity Category (Category I is the highest toxicity category) 

to which the product is assigned by any of the five routes of exposure in §156.62. The signal word must 

also appear together with the heading for the human precautionary statement section of the labeling 

(see §156.70). 

(1) Toxicity Category I. Any pesticide product meeting the criteria of Toxicity Category I for any route of 

exposure must bear on the front panel the signal word “DANGER.” In addition, if the product is assigned 

to Toxicity Category I on the basis of its oral, inhalation or dermal toxicity (as distinct from skin and eye 

irritation), the word “Poison” must appear in red on a background of distinctly contrasting color, and the 

skull and crossbones symbol must appear in immediate proximity to the word “Poison.” 

(2) Toxicity Category II. Any pesticide product meeting the criteria of Toxicity Category II as the highest 

category by any route of exposure must bear on the front panel the signal word “WARNING.” 

(3) Toxicity Category III. Any pesticide product meeting the criteria of Toxicity Category III as the highest 

category by any route of exposure must bear on the front panel the signal word “CAUTION.” 

(4) Toxicity Category IV. A pesticide product meeting the criteria of Toxicity Category IV by all routes of 

exposure is not required to bear a signal word. If a signal word is used, it must be “CAUTION.” 

(b) Use of signal words. In no case may a product: 

(1) Bear a signal word reflecting a higher Toxicity Category than indicated by the route of exposure of 

highest toxicity, unless the Agency determines that such labeling is necessary to prevent unreasonable 

adverse effects on man or the environment; 

(2) Bear a signal word reflecting a lesser Toxicity Category associated with a diluted product. Although 

precautionary statements for use dilutions may be included on label, the signal word must reflect the 

toxicity of the product as distributed or sold; or 

(3) Bear different signal words on different parts of the label. 

§ 156.66 Child hazard warning. 

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Inhalation 

LC50

Up to and 

including 0.2 

mg/liter

>0.2 thru 2 

mg/liter

>2 thru 20 

mg/liter

>20 mg/liter

Eye 

irritation

Corrosive; 

corneal opacity 

not reversible 

within 7 days

Corneal opacity 

reversible within 7 

days; irritation 

persisting for 7 

days

No corneal 

opacity; 

irritation 

reversible 

within 7 days

No irritation

Skin 

irritation

Corrosive Severe irritation at 

72 hours

Moderate 

irritation at 72 

hours

Mild or 

slight 

irritation at 

72 hours

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(a) Each pesticide product must bear on the front panel of the label the statement “Keep Out of Reach of 

Children.” That statement, or any alternative statement approved by EPA, must appear on a separate 

line in close proximity to the signal word, if required. The statement is required on Toxicity Category IV 

products that do not otherwise require a signal word. 

(b) In its discretion, EPA may waive the requirement, or require or permit an alternative child hazard 

warning, if: 

(1) The applicant can demonstrate that the likelihood of exposure of children to the pesticide during 

distribution, marketing, storage or use is remote (for example, an industrial use product); or 

(2) The pesticide is approved for use on children (for example, an insect repellent). 

(c) EPA may approve an alternative child hazard warning that more appropriately reflects the nature of 

the pesticide product to which children may be exposed (for example, an impregnated pet collar). In this 

case, EPA may also approve placement on other than the front panel. 

§ 156.68 First aid statement. 

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(a) Product as sold and distributed. Each product must bear a first aid statement if the product has 

systemic effects in Category I, II, or III, or skin or eye irritation effects in Category I or II. 

(b) Product as diluted for use. If the product labeling bears directions for dilution with water prior to use, 

the label may also include a statement describing how the first aid measures may be modified for the 

diluted product. Such a statement must reflect the Toxicity Category(ies) of the diluted product, based 

upon data for the route of exposure (or calculations if appropriate). If the labeling provides for a range of 

use dilutions, only that use dilution representing the highest concentration allowed by labeling may be 

used as the basis for a statement pertaining to the diluted product. The statement for a diluted product 

may not substitute for the statement for the concentrate, but augments the information provided for the 

concentrate. 

(c) Heading. The heading of the statement may be “First Aid” or “Statement of Practical Treatment.” 

(d) Location of first aid statement. The first aid statement must appear on the front panel of the label of 

all products assigned to Toxicity Category I by any route of exposure. Upon review, the Agency may 

permit reasonable variations in the placement of the first aid statement if a reference such as “See first 

aid statement on back panel” appears on the front panel. The first aid statement for products assigned to 

Toxicity Categories II or III may appear on any panel of the label. 

§ 156.70 Precautionary statements for human hazards. 

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(a) Requirement. Human hazard and precautionary statements as required must appear together on the 

label or labeling under the general heading “Precautionary Statements” and under appropriate 

subheadings similar to “Humans and Domestic Animals,” “Environmental Hazards” (see subpart E of this 

part) and “Physical or Chemical Hazards.” The phrase “and Domestic Animals” may be omitted from the 

heading if domestic animals will not be exposed to the product. 

(b) Content of statements. When data or other information show that an acute hazard may exist to 

humans or domestic animals, the label must bear precautionary statements describing the particular 

hazard, the route(s) of exposure and the precautions to be taken to avoid accident, injury or toxic effect 

or to mitigate the effect. The precautionary paragraph must be immediately preceded by the appropriate 

signal word. 

(c) Typical precautionary statements. The table below presents typical hazard and precautionary 

statements. Specific statements pertaining to the hazards of the product and its uses must be approved 

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by the Agency. With Agency approval, statements may be augmented to reflect the hazards and 

precautions associated with the product as diluted for use. Refer to §156.68(b) for requirements for use 

dilution statements. 

Typical Human Hazard and Precautionary Statements 

§ 156.78 Precautionary statements for physical or chemical hazards. 

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(a) Requirement. Warning statements on the flammability or explosive characteristics of the pesticide 

product are required if a product meets the criteria in this section. Warning statements pertaining to 

Toxicity 

Category

Systemic effects 

(oral, dermal, 

inhalation toxicity)

Irritation effects (skin 

and eye)

Sensitizer (There 

are no categories 

of sensitization.)

I Fatal (poisonous) if 

swallowed [inhaled or 

absorbed through 

skin]. Do not breathe 

vapor [dust or spray 

mist]. Do not get in 

eyes, on skin, or on 

clothing. [Front panel 

first aid statement 

required.]

Corrosive, causes eye 

and skin damage [or 

skin irritation]. Do not 

get in eyes on skin, or 

on clothing. Wear 

goggles or face shield 

and rubber gloves 

when handling. Harmful 

or fatal if swallowed. 

[Front panel first aid 

statement required.]

If product is a 

sensitizer: 

Prolonged or 

frequently repeated 

skin contact may 

cause allergic 

reactions in some 

individuals.

II May be fatal if 

swallowed, [inhaled 

or absorbed through 

the skin]. Do not 

breathe vapors [dust 

or spray mist]. Do not 

get in eyes, on skin, 

or on clothing. 

[Appropriate first aid 

statement required.]

Causes eye [and skin] 

irritation. Do not get in 

eyes, on skin, or on 

clothing. Harmful if 

swallowed. 

[Appropriate first aid 

statement required.]

III Harmful if swallowed 

[inhaled or absorbed 

through the skin]. 

Avoid breathing 

vapors [dust or spray 

mist]. Avoid contact 

with skin [eyes or 

clothing]. 

[Appropriate first aid 

statement required.]

Avoid contact with skin, 

eyes or clothing.

IV No precautionary 

statements required

No precautionary 

statements required.

 

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other physical/chemical hazards (e.g., oxidizing potential, conductivity, chemical reactions leading to 

production of toxic substances) may be required on a case-by-case basis. 

(b) Pressurized products. The table below sets out the required flammability label statements for 

pressurized products. 

Flammability Statements for Pressurized Products 

(c) Non-pressurized products. The table below sets out the required flammability label statements for 

non-pressurized products. 

Flammability Statements for Non-Pressurized Products 

(d) Total release fogger products. (1) A total release fogger is defined as a pesticide product in a 

pressurized container designed to automatically release the total contents in one operation, for the 

purpose of creating a permeating fog within a confined space to deliver the pesticide throughout the 

space. 

Flash point/flame 

extension of product Required labeling statement

—Flash point at or below 

20 °F

Extremely flammable. Contents under pressure. 

Keep away from fire, sparks, and heated surfaces. 

Do not puncture or incinerate container. Exposure 

to temperatures above 130 °F may cause bursting.

 OR

—Flashback at any 

valve opening

—Flash point >20 °F to 

80 °F

Flammable. Contents under pressure. Keep away 

from heat, sparks and open flame. Do not puncture 

or incinerate container. Exposure to temperatures 

above 130 °F may cause bursting.

 OR

—Flame extension more 

than 18 in. long at a 

distance of 6 in from the 

flame

All other pressurized 

products

Contents under pressure. Do not use or store near 

heat or open flame. Do not puncture or incinerate 

container. Exposure to temperatures above 130 °F 

may cause bursting.

Flash point Required labeling statement

At or below 20 °F Extremely flammable. Keep away from fire, sparks 

and heated surfaces.

Greater than 20 °F to 

80 °F

Flammable. Keep away from heat and open flame.

Greater than 80 °F to 

150 °F

Combustible. Do not use or store near heat or open 

flame.

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(2) If a pesticide product is a total release fogger containing a propellant with a flash point at or below 20 

°F, then the following special instructions must be added to the “Physical and Chemical Hazards” 

warning statement, in addition to any flammability statement required by paragraph (b) of this section: 

This product contains a highly flammable ingredient. It may cause a fire or explosion if not used properly. 

Follow the Directions for Use on this label very carefully. 

(3) A graphic symbol depicting fire, such as illustrated in this paragraph, or an equivalent symbol, must 

be displayed along with the required language adjoining the “Physical and Chemical Hazards” warning 

statement. The graphic symbol must be no smaller than twice the size of the first character of the human 

hazard signal word. 

View or download PDF 

Highly Flammable Ingredient 

Ingrediente Altamente Inflamable 

Subpart E—Environmental Hazard and Precautionary Statements 

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Source: 66 FR 64767, Dec. 14, 2001, unless otherwise noted. 

§ 156.80 General. 

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(a) Requirement. Each product is required to bear hazard and precautionary statements for 

environmental hazards, including hazards to non-target organisms, as prescribed in this subpart. Hazard 

statements describe the type of hazard that may be present, while precautionary statements direct or 

inform the user of actions to take to avoid the hazard or mitigate its effects. 

(b) Location of statements. Environmental hazard and precautionary statements may appear on any 

panel of the label and may be required also in supplemental labeling. The environmental hazard 

statements must appear together under the heading “Environmental Hazards.” Typically the statements 

are grouped as a sub-category within the “Precautionary Statements” section of the labeling. 

(c) Type size. All environmental hazard and precautionary statements must be at least 6 point type. 

§ 156.85 Non-target organisms. 

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(a) Requirement. Where a hazard exists to non-target organisms, EPA may require precautionary 

statements of the nature of the hazard and the appropriate precautions to avoid potential accident, 

injury, or damage. 

(b) Examples. The statements in this paragraph illustrate the types of hazard statements that EPA may 

require and the circumstances under which they are typically required. These statements are not 

comprehensive; other statements may be required if more appropriate to the formulation or use. 

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(1) If a pesticide intended for outdoor use contains an active ingredient with a mammalian acute oral 

LD50of 100 mg/kg or less, the statement, “This pesticide is toxic to wildlife” is required. 

(2) If a pesticide intended for outdoor use contains an active ingredient with a fish acute LC50of 1 ppm or 

less, the statement, “This pesticide is toxic to fish” is required. 

(3) If a pesticide intended for outdoor use contains an active ingredient with an avian acute oral LD50of 

100 mg/kg or less, or a subacute dietary LC50of 500 ppm or less, the statement, “This pesticide is toxic 

to wildlife” is required. 

(4) If either accident history or field studies demonstrate that the use of the pesticide may result in fatality 

to birds, fish or mammals, the statement, “This pesticide is extremely toxic to wildlife (fish)” is required. 

(5) If a product is intended for or involves foliar application to agricultural crops, forests or shade trees, 

or mosquito abatement treatments, and contains a pesticide toxic to pollinating insects, the label must 

bear appropriate label cautions. 

(6) If a product is intended for outdoor use other than aquatic applications, the label must bear the 

caution, “Keep out of lakes, ponds or streams. Do not contaminate water by cleaning of equipment or 

disposal of wastes.” 

Subparts F–G [Reserved] 

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Subpart H—Container Labeling 

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Source: 71 FR 47420, Aug. 16, 2006, unless otherwise noted. 

§ 156.140 Identification of container types. 

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For products other than plant-incorporated protectants, the following statements, as applicable, must be 

placed on the label or container. The information may be located on any part of the container except the 

closure. If the statements are placed on the container, they must be durably marked on the container. 

Durable marking includes, but is not limited to etching, embossing, ink jetting, stamping, heat stamping, 

mechanically attaching a plate, molding, or marking with durable ink. 

(a) Nonrefillable container . For nonrefillable containers, the statements in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)

(4) of this section are required. If placed on the label, the statements in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) 

of this section must be under an appropriate heading under the heading “Storage and Disposal.” If any 

of the statements in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) of this section are placed on the container, an 

appropriate referral statement such as “See container for recycling [or other descriptive word] 

information.” must be placed on the label under the heading “Storage and Disposal.” 

(1) Statement identifying a nonrefillable container . The following phrase is required: “Nonrefillable 

container.” 

(2) Reuse statement . One of the following statements is required. Products with labels that allow 

household/residential use must use the statement in paragraph (a)(2)(i) or (a)(2)(iii) of this section. All 

other products must use the statement in paragraph (a)(2)(i), (a)(2)(ii), or (a)(2)(iii) of this section. 

(i) “Do not reuse or refill this container.” 

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(ii) “Do not reuse this container to hold materials other than pesticides or dilute pesticides (rinsate). After 

emptying and cleaning, it may be allowable to temporarily hold rinsate or other pesticide-related 

materials in the container. Contact your state regulatory agency to determine allowable practices in your 

state.” 

(iii) The following statement may be used if a product is “ready-to-use” and its directions for use allow a 

different product (that is a similar, but concentrated formulation) to be poured into the container and 

diluted by the end user: “Do not reuse or refill this container unless the directions for use allow a different 

(concentrated) product to be diluted in the container.” 

(3) Recycling or reconditioning statement . One of the following statements is required: 

(i) “Offer for recycling if available.” 

(ii) “Once cleaned, some agricultural plastic pesticide containers can be taken to a container collection 

site or picked up for recycling. To find the nearest site, contact your chemical dealer or manufacturer or 

contact [a pesticide container recycling organization] at [phone number] or [web site]. For example, this 

statement could be “Once cleaned, some agricultural plastic pesticide containers can be taken to a 

container collection site or picked up for recycling. To find the nearest site, contact your chemical dealer 

or manufacturer or contact the Ag Container Recycling Council (ACRC) at 1–877–952–2272 (toll-free) or 

www.acrecycle.org. ” 

(iii) A recycling statement approved by EPA and published in an EPA document, such as a Pesticide 

Registration Notice. 

(iv) An alternative recycling statement that has been reviewed and approved by EPA. 

(v) “Offer for reconditioning if appropriate.” 

(4) Batch code . A lot number, or other code used by the registrant or producer to identify the batch of 

the pesticide product which is distributed and sold is required. 

(b) Refillable container . For refillable containers, one of the following statements is required. If placed on 

the label, it must be under the heading “Storage and Disposal.” If the statement is placed on the 

container, an appropriate referral statement, such as “Refilling limitations are on the container.” must be 

placed under the heading “Storage and Disposal.” 

(1) “Refillable Container. Refill this container with pesticide only. Do not reuse this container for any 

other purpose.” 

(2) “Refillable Container. Refill this container with [ common chemical name ] only. Do not reuse this 

container for any other purpose.” 

§ 156.144 Residue removal instructions—general. 

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(a) General . Except as provided by paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, the label of each pesticide 

product must include the applicable instructions for removing pesticide residues from the container prior 

to container disposal that are specified in §§156.146 and 156.156. The residue removal instructions are 

required for both nonrefillable and refillable containers. 

(b) Placement of residue removal statements . All residue removal instructions must be placed under the 

heading “Storage and Disposal.” 

(c) Exemption for residential/household use products . Residential/household use pesticide products are 

exempt from the residue removal instruction requirements in this section through §156.156. 

(d) Modification . EPA may, on its own initiative or based on data submitted by any person, modify or 

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waive the requirements of this section through §156.156, or permit or require alternative labeling 

statements. 

§ 156.146 Residue removal instructions for nonrefillable containers—rigid containers 

with dilutable pesticides. 

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The label of each dilutable (liquid or solid) pesticide product packaged in a rigid nonrefillable container 

must include the following residue removal instructions as appropriate. 

(a) Timing of the residue removal procedure . One of the following statements must immediately precede 

the instructions required in paragraph (b) of this section and must be consistent with the instructions in 

paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section: 

(1) “Clean container promptly after emptying.” 

(2) “Triple rinse or pressure rinse container (or equivalent) promptly after emptying.” 

(3) “Triple rinse container (or equivalent) promptly after emptying.” 

(b) Triple rinse instructions . The label of each dilutable pesticide product packaged in rigid nonrefillable 

containers must include one of the following sets of instructions. 

(1) For liquid dilutable pesticide products in containers small enough to shake, use the following 

instructions: “Triple rinse as follows: Empty the remaining contents into application equipment or a mix 

tank and drain for 10 seconds after the flow begins to drip. Fill the container 1/4 full with water and 

recap. Shake for 10 seconds. Pour rinsate into application equipment or a mix tank or store rinsate for 

later use or disposal. Drain for 10 seconds after the flow begins to drip. Repeat this procedure two more 

times.” 

(2) For solid dilutable pesticide products in containers small enough to shake, use the following 

instructions: “Triple rinse as follows: Empty the remaining contents into application equipment or a mix 

tank. Fill the container 1/4 full with water and recap. Shake for 10 seconds. Pour rinsate into application 

equipment or a mix tank or store rinsate for later use or disposal. Drain for 10 seconds after the flow 

begins to drip. Repeat this procedure two more times.” 

(3) For containers that are too large to shake, use the following instructions: “Triple rinse as follows: 

Empty remaining contents into application equipment or a mix tank. Fill the container 1/4 full with water. 

Replace and tighten closures. Tip container on its side and roll it back and forth, ensuring at least one 

complete revolution, for 30 seconds. Stand the container on its end and tip it back and forth several 

times. Turn the container over onto its other end and tip it back and forth several times. Empty the 

rinsate into application equipment or a mix tank or store rinsate for later use or disposal. Repeat this 

procedure two more times.” 

(c) Pressure rinse instructions . The label of each dilutable pesticide product packaged in rigid 

nonrefillable containers may include one of the following sets of instructions, and one of them must be 

used if the statement in paragraph (a)(2) of this section is used. If one of these statements is included on 

the label, it must immediately follow the triple rinse instructions specified in paragraph (b) of this section. 

(1) For liquid dilutable pesticide products, use the following label instruction: “Pressure rinse as follows: 

Empty the remaining contents into application equipment or a mix tank and continue to drain for 10 

seconds after the flow begins to drip. Hold container upside down over application equipment or mix 

tank or collect rinsate for later use or disposal. Insert pressure rinsing nozzle in the side of the container, 

and rinse at about 40 PSI for at least 30 seconds. Drain for 10 seconds after the flow begins to drip.” 

(2) For solid dilutable pesticide products, use the following label instruction: “Pressure rinse as follows: 

Empty the remaining contents into application equipment or a mix tank. Hold container upside down over 

application equipment or mix tank or collect rinsate for later use or disposal. Insert pressure rinsing 

nozzle in the side of the container, and rinse at about 40 PSI for at least 30 seconds. Drain for 10 

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seconds after the flow begins to drip.” 

(d) Non-water diluent . (1) A registrant who wishes to require users to clean a container with a diluent 

other than water (e.g., solvents) must submit to EPA a written request to modify the residue removal 

instructions of this section. The registrant may not distribute or sell the pesticide with the modified 

residue removal instructions until EPA approves the request in writing. 

(2) The registrant must indicate why a non-water diluent is necessary for efficient residue removal, and 

must propose residue removal instructions and disposal instructions that are appropriate for the 

characteristics and formulation of the pesticide product and non-water diluent. The proposed residue 

removal instructions must identify the diluent. If the Directions for Use permit the application of a mixture 

of the pesticide and the non-water diluent, the instructions may allow the rinsate to be added to the 

application equipment or mix tank. If the Directions for Use do not identify the non-water diluent as an 

allowable addition to the pesticide, the instructions must require collection and storage of the rinsate in a 

rinsate collection system. 

(3) EPA may approve the request if EPA finds that the proposed instructions are necessary and 

appropriate. 

§ 156.156 Residue removal instructions for refillable containers. 

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The label of each pesticide product packaged in a refillable container must include the residue removal 

instructions in this section. Instructions must be given for all pesticide products that are distributed or 

sold in refillable containers, including those that do not require dilution prior to application. 

(a) Timing of the residue removal procedure . One of the following statements must immediately precede 

the instructions required in paragraph (b) of this section and must be consistent with the instructions in 

paragraph (b) of this section: 

(1) “Cleaning the container before final disposal is the responsibility of the person disposing of the 

container. Cleaning before refilling is the responsibility of the refiller.” 

(2) “Pressure rinsing the container before final disposal is the responsibility of the person disposing of 

the container. Cleaning before refilling is the responsibility of the refiller.” 

(b) Residue removal instructions prior to container disposal . (1) Instructions for cleaning each refillable 

container prior to disposal are required. The residue removal instructions must be appropriate for the 

characteristics and formulation of the pesticide product and must be adequate to protect human health 

and the environment. 

(2) Subject to meeting the standard in paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the statement on residue removal 

instructions could include any one of the following: 

(i) The refilling residue removal procedure developed by the registrant for the pesticide product. 

(ii) Standard industry practices for cleaning refillable containers. 

(iii) For pesticides that require dilution prior to application, the following statement: “To clean the 

container before final disposal, empty the remaining contents from this container into application 

equipment or a mix tank. Fill the container about 10 percent full with water. Agitate vigorously or 

recirculate water with the pump for 2 minutes. Pour or pump rinsate into application equipment or rinsate 

collection system. Repeat this rinsing procedure two more times.” 

(iv) Any other statement the registrant considers appropriate. 

§ 156.159 Compliance date. 

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As of August 17, 2009, all pesticide products distributed or sold by a registrant must have labels that 

comply with §§156.10(d)(7), 156.10(f), 156.10(i)(2)(ix), 156.140, 156.144, 156.146, and 156.156. 

Subparts I–J [Reserved] 

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Subpart K—Worker Protection Statements 

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Source: 57 FR 38146, Aug. 21, 1992, unless otherwise noted. 

§ 156.200 Scope and applicability. 

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(a) Scope. (1) This subpart prescribes statements that must be placed on the pesticide label and in 

pesticide labeling. These statements incorporate by reference the Worker Protection Standard, part 170 

of this chapter. The requirements addressed in these statements are designed to reduce the risk of 

illness or injury resulting from workers' and pesticide handlers' occupational exposures to pesticides 

used in the production of agricultural plants on agricultural establishments as defined in §170.3 of this 

chapter. These statements refer to specific workplace practices designed to reduce or eliminate 

exposure and to respond to emergencies that may arise from the exposures that may occur. 

(2) This subpart prescribes interim requirements that must be placed on the pesticide label and in 

pesticide labeling. These interim requirements pertain to restricted-entry intervals, personal protective 

equipment, and notification. On a case-by-case basis, these interim requirements will be reviewed and 

may be revised during reregistration or other agency review processes. 

(b) Applicability. (1) The requirements of this subpart apply to each pesticide product that bears 

directions for use in the production of any agricultural plant on any agricultural establishment as defined 

in §170.3 of this chapter, or whose labeling reasonably permits such use. 

(2) The requirements of this subpart do not apply to a product that bears directions solely for uses 

excepted by §170.202(b) of this chapter. 

(c) Effective dates. (1) The effective date of this subpart is October 20, 1992. 

(2) No pesticide product bearing labeling amended and revised as required by this subpart shall be 

distributed or sold by a registrant prior to April 21, 1993. 

(3) No product to which this subpart applies shall be distributed or sold without amended labeling by any 

registrant after April 21, 1994. 

(4) No product to which this subpart applies shall be distributed or sold without amended labeling by any 

person after October 23, 1995. 

§ 156.203 Definitions. 

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Terms in this subpart have the same meanings as they do in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and 

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Rodenticide Act, as amended. In addition, the following terms, as used in this subpart, shall have the 

meanings stated below: 

Fumigant means any pesticide product that is a vapor or gas or forms a vapor or gas on application and 

whose method of pesticidal action is through the gaseous state. 

Restricted-entry interval means the time after the end of a pesticide application during which entry to the 

treated area is restricted. 

§ 156.204 Modification and waiver of requirements. 

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(a) Modification on Special Review. If the Agency concludes in accordance with §154.25(c) of this 

chapter that a pesticide should be placed in Special Review because the pesticide meets or exceeds the 

criteria for human health effects of §154.7(a)(1)(2) or (6) of this chapter, the Agency may modify the 

personal protective equipment required for handlers or early-entry workers or both, the restricted-entry 

intervals, or the notification to workers requirements. 

(b) Other modifications. The Agency, pursuant to this subpart and authorities granted in FIFRA sections 

3, 6, and 12, may, on its initiative or based on data submitted by any person, modify or waive the 

requirements of this subpart, or permit or require alternative labeling statements. Supporting data may 

be either data required by Subdivisions U or K of the Pesticide Assessment Guidelines or data from 

medical, epidemiological, or health effects studies. The Pesticide Assessment Guidelines contain the 

standards for conducting acceptable tests, guidance on evaluation and reporting of data, definition of 

terms, further guidance on when data are required, and examples of acceptable protocols. They are 

available through the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 

22161. A registrant who wishes to modify any of the statements required in §§156.206, 156.208, 

156.210, or 156.212 must submit an application for amended registration unless specifically directed 

otherwise by the Agency. 

§ 156.206 General statements. 

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(a) Application restrictions. Each product shall bear the statement: “Do not apply this product in a way 

that will contact workers or other persons, either directly or through drift. Only protected handlers may be 

in the area during application.” This statement shall be near the beginning of the DIRECTIONS FOR 

USE section of the labeling under the heading AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS. 

(b) 40 CFR part 170 reference statement. (1) Each product shall bear the reference statement: “Use this 

product only in accordance with its labeling and with the Worker Protection Standard, 40 CFR part 170.” 

This statement shall be placed on the product label under the heading AGRICULTURAL USE 

REQUIREMENTS. 

(2) Each product shall bear the statement: “This standard contains requirements for the protection of 

agricultural workers on farms, forests, nurseries, and greenhouses, and handlers of agricultural 

pesticides. It contains requirements for training, decontamination, notification, and emergency 

assistance. It also contains specific instructions and exceptions pertaining to the statements on this label 

[in this labeling] about [use any of the following that are applicable] personal protective equipment, 

restricted-entry interval, and notification to workers.” These statements shall be placed immediately 

following the reference statement required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, or they shall be placed in 

the supplemental product labeling under the heading AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS. 

(3) If the statements in paragraph (b)(2) of this section are included in supplemental labeling rather than 

on the label of the pesticide container, the container label must contain this statement immediately 

following the statement required in paragraph (b)(1) of this section: “Refer to supplemental labeling 

entitled AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS in the DIRECTIONS FOR USE section of the labeling 

for information about this standard.” 

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(4) If the statements in paragraph (b)(2) of this section are included in supplemental labeling, they must 

be preceded immediately by the statement in paragraph (b)(1) of this section under the heading 

AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS in the labeling. 

(c) Product-type identification. (1) If the product contains an organophosphate ( i.e. , an 

organophosphorus ester that inhibits cholinesterase) or an N -methyl carbamate ( i.e. , an N -methyl 

carbamic acid ester that inhibits cholinesterase), the label shall so state. The statement shall be 

associated with the product name or product-type identification or shall be in the STATEMENT OF 

PRACTICAL TREATMENT or FIRST AID section of the label. 

(2) If the product is a fumigant, the label shall so state. The identification shall appear: 

(i) As part of the product name; or 

(ii) Close to the product name, as part of the product-type identification or as a separate phrase or 

sentence. 

(d) State restrictions. Each product shall bear the statement: “For any requirements specific to your 

State, consult the agency in your State responsible for pesticide regulation.” This statement shall be 

under the heading AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS in the labeling. 

(e) Spanish warning statements. If the product is classified as toxicity category I or toxicity category II 

according to the criteria in §156.10(h)(1), the signal word shall appear in Spanish in addition to English 

followed by the statement, “Si Usted no entiende la etiqueta, busque a alguien para que se la explique a 

Usted en detalle. (If you do not understand the label, find some one to explain it to you in detail.)” The 

Spanish signal word “PELIGRO” shall be used for products in toxicity category I, and the Spanish signal 

word “AVISO” shall be used for products in toxicity category II. These statements shall appear on the 

label close to the English signal word. 

[57 FR 38146, Aug. 21, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 34203, June 23, 1993] 

§ 156.208 Restricted-entry statements. 

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(a) Requirement. Each product with a restricted-entry interval shall bear the following statement: “Do not 

enter or allow worker entry into treated areas during the restricted-entry interval (REI).” This statement 

shall be under the heading AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS in the labeling. 

(b) Location of specific restricted-entry interval statements. (1) If a product has one specific restrictedentry interval applicable to all registered uses of the product on agricultural plants, the restricted-entry 

interval for the product shall appear as a continuation of the statement required in paragraph (a) of this 

section and shall appear as follows: “of X hours” or “of X days” or “until the acceptable exposure level of 

X ppm or mg/m3 is reached.”

(2) If different restricted-entry intervals have been established for some crops or some uses of a product, 

the restricted-entry statement in paragraph (b)(1) of this section shall be associated on the labeling of 

the product with the directions for use for each crop each use to which it applies, immediately preceded 

or immediately followed by the words “Restricted-entry interval” (or the letters “REI”). 

(c) Restricted-entry interval based on toxicity of active ingredient —(1) Determination of toxicity category. 

A restricted-entry interval shall be established based on the acute toxicity of the active ingredients in the 

product. For the purpose of setting the restricted-entry interval, the toxicity category of each active 

ingredient in the product shall be determined by comparing the obtainable data on the acute dermal 

toxicity, eye irritation effects, and skin irritation effects of the ingredient to the criteria of §156.10(h)(1). 

The most toxic of the applicable toxicity categories that are obtainable for each active ingredient shall be 

used to determine the restricted-entry interval for that product. If no acute dermal toxicity data are 

obtainable, data on acute oral toxicity also shall be considered in this comparison. If no applicable acute 

toxicity data are obtainable on the active ingredient, the toxicity category corresponding to the signal 

word of any registered manufacturing-use product that is the source of the active ingredient in the endElectronic Code of Federal Regulations: Page 21 of 27

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use product shall be used. If no acute toxicity data are obtainable on the active ingredients and no 

toxicity category of a registered manufacturing-use product is obtainable, the toxicity category of the 

end-use product (corresponding to the signal word on its labeling) shall be used. 

(2) Restricted-entry interval for sole active ingredient products. (i) If the product contains only one active 

ingredient and it is in toxicity category I by the criteria in paragraph (c)(1) of this section, the restrictedentry interval shall be 48 hours. If, in addition, the active ingredient is an organophosphorus ester that 

inhibits cholinesterase and that may be applied outdoors in an area where the average annual rainfall for 

the application site is less than 25 inches per year, the following statement shall be added to the 

restricted-entry interval statement: “(72 hours in outdoor areas where average annual rainfall is less than 

25 inches a year).” 

(ii) If the product contains only one active ingredient and it is in toxicity category II by the criteria in 

paragraph (c)(1) of this section, the restricted-entry interval shall be 24 hours. 

(iii) If the product contains only active ingredients that are in toxicity category III or IV by the criteria in 

paragraph (c)(1) of this section, the restricted-entry interval shall be 12 hours. 

(3) Restricted-entry interval for multiple active ingredient products. If the product contains more than one 

active ingredient, the restricted-entry interval (including any associated statement concerning use in arid 

areas under paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section) shall be based on the active ingredient that requires the 

longest restricted-entry interval as determined by the criteria in this section. 

(d) Exception for fumigants. The criteria for determining restricted-entry intervals in paragraph (c) of this 

section shall not apply to any product that is a fumigant. For fumigants, any existing restricted-entry 

interval (hours, days, or acceptable exposure level) shall be retained. Entry restrictions for fumigants 

have been or shall be established on a case-by-case basis at the time of registration, reregistration, or 

other Agency review process. 

(e) Existing product-specific restricted-entry intervals. (1) A product-specific restricted-entry interval, 

based on data collected in accordance with §158.1070 or §161.390 of this chapter and Subdivision K of 

the Pesticide Assessment Guidelines, shall supersede any restricted-entry interval applicable to the 

product under paragraph (c) of this section. 

(2) Product-specific restricted-entry intervals established for pesticide products or pesticide uses that are 

not covered by part 170 of this chapter shall remain in effect and shall not be placed under the heading 

AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS in the labeling. 

(f) Existing interim restricted-entry intervals. (1) An interim restricted-entry interval established by the 

Agency before the effective date of this subpart will continue to apply unless a longer restricted-entry 

interval is required by paragraph (c) of this section. 

(2) Existing interim restricted-entry intervals established by the Agency for pesticide products or 

pesticide uses not covered by part 170 of this chapter shall remain in effect and shall not be placed 

under the heading AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS in the labeling. 

[57 FR 38146, Aug. 21, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 34203, June 23, 1993; 72 FR 61028, Oct. 26, 2007] 

§ 156.210 Notification-to-workers statements. 

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(a) Requirement. Each product that meets the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section shall bear 

the posting and oral notification statements prescribed below. The statements shall be in the 

DIRECTIONS FOR USE section of the labeling under the heading AGRICULTURAL USE 

REQUIREMENTS. 

(b) Notification to workers of pesticide application. (1) Each product that contains any active ingredient 

classified as toxicity category I for either acute dermal toxicity or skin irritation potential under the criteria 

in §156.10(h)(1) shall bear the statement: “Notify workers of the application by warning them orally and 

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by posting warning signs at entrances to treated areas.” If no acute dermal toxicity data are obtainable, 

data on acute oral toxicity of the active ingredient shall be considered instead. If no data on acute 

dermal toxicity, skin irritation potential, or acute oral toxicity are obtainable on the active ingredient, the 

toxicity category corresponding to the signal word of any registered manufacturing-use product that is 

the source of the active ingredient in the end-use product shall be used. If none of the applicable acute 

toxicity data are obtainable on the active ingredient and no toxicity category of the registered 

manufacturing-use product is obtainable, the toxicity category of the end-use product corresponding to 

the product's signal word shall be used. 

(2) Each product that is a fumigant and is registered for use in a greenhouse (or whose labeling allows 

use in a greenhouse) shall bear the statement: “For greenhouse applications, notify workers of the 

application by warning them orally and by posting warning signs outside all entrances to the 

greenhouse.” 

[57 FR 38146, Aug. 21, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 34203, June 23, 1993] 

§ 156.212 Personal protective equipment statements. 

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(a) Requirement. Each product shall bear the personal protective equipment statements prescribed in 

paragraphs (d) through (j) of this section. 

(b) Exceptions. (1) If personal protective equipment were required for a product before the effective date 

of this subpart, the existing requirements shall be retained on the labeling wherever they are more 

specific or more protective (as specified in EPA guidance materials) than the requirements in the table in 

paragraph (e) of this section. 

(2) Any existing labeling statement that prohibits the use of gloves or boots overrides the corresponding 

requirement in paragraph (e) of this section and must be retained on the labeling. 

(3) If the product labeling contains uses that are not covered by part 170 of this chapter, the registrant 

may adopt the personal protective equipment required in this section for those uses. However, if the 

personal protective equipment required in this section would not be sufficiently protective or would be 

onerously overprotective for uses not covered by part 170 of this chapter, the registrant must continue to 

apply the existing personal protective equipment requirements to those uses. The labeling must indicate 

which personal protective equipment requirements apply to uses covered by part 170 of this chapter and 

which personal protective equipment requirements apply to other uses. 

(c) Location of personal protective equipment statements —(1) Personal protective equipment 

statements for pesticide handlers. Personal protective equipment statements for pesticide handlers shall 

be in the HAZARDS TO HUMANS (AND DOMESTIC ANIMALS) section of the labeling. The required 

statements may be combined to avoid redundancy as long as the requirements and conditions under 

which they apply are identified. 

(2) Personal protective equipment statements for early-entry workers. Personal protective equipment 

statements for early-entry workers shall be placed in the DIRECTIONS FOR USE section of the labeling 

under the heading AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS and immediately after the restricted-entry 

statement required in §156.208(a). 

(d) Personal protective equipment statements for pesticide handlers. (1) The table in paragraph (e) of 

this section specifies minimum requirements for personal protective equipment (as defined in §170.240 

of this chapter) and work clothing for pesticide handlers. This personal protective equipment requirement 

applies to any product that presents a hazard through any route of exposure identified in the table (acute 

dermal toxicity, skin irritation potential, acute inhalation toxicity, and eye irritation potential). 

(2) The requirement for personal protective equipment is based on the acute toxicity category of the enduse product for each route of exposure as defined by §156.10(h)(1). If data to determine the acute 

dermal toxicity or the acute inhalation toxicity are not obtainable, the acute oral toxicity shall be used as 

a surrogate to determine the personal protective equipment requirements for that route of exposure. If 

data to determine the acute toxicity of the product by a specific route of exposure (including acute oral 

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toxicity in lieu of acute dermal or acute inhalation toxicity) are not obtainable, the toxicity category 

corresponding to the signal word of the end-use product shall be used to determine personal protective 

equipment requirements for that route of exposure. If the signal word is “CAUTION,” toxicity category III 

will be used. 

(3) The minimum personal protective equipment and work clothing requirements specified in this section 

shall be included in a statement such as the following: “Applicators and other handlers must wear: (body 

protection statement); (glove statement, if applicable); (footwear statement, if applicable); (protective 

eyewear statement, if applicable); (respirator statement, if applicable).” The format of statements given 

in this paragraph is optional, but it is recommended for clarity. 

(e) Summary of personal protective equipment requirements. The following table 1 summarizes the 

personal protective equipment requirements by route of exposure and toxicity category: 

Table 1—Minimum Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Work Clothing for Handling 

Activities 

1If dermal toxicity and skin irritation potential are in different toxicity categories, protection shall be based 

on the more toxic (lower numbered) category. 

2For labeling language for chemical-resistant gloves, see paragraph (f) of this section.

3For labeling language for respiratory protection device, see paragraphs (g) and (h) of this section.

4Although no minimum PPE is required by this section for this toxicity category and route of exposure, 

the Agency may require PPE on a product-specific basis. 

(f) Chemical-resistant gloves labeling statements for pesticide handlers. If the table in paragraph (e) of 

this section indicates that chemical-resistant gloves are required, the glove statement shall be as 

specified in paragraph (f)(2), (3), (4), or (5) of this section. 

(1) Exception. The registrant shall specify a glove type other than that selected through the criteria in 

Route of 

Exposure

Toxicity Category of End-Use Product

I II III IV

Dermal 

Toxicity or 

Skin Irritation 

Potential1

Coveralls worn 

over longsleeved shirt 

and long pants

Coveralls worn 

over shortsleeved shirt and 

short pants

Longsleeved shirt 

and long 

pants

Longsleeved shirt 

and long 

pants

 Socks Socks Socks Socks

 Chemicalresistant 

footwear

Chemicalresistant 

footwear

Shoes Shoes

 Chemicalresistant gloves2

Chemicalresistant gloves2Chemicalresistant 

gloves2

No 

minimum4

Inhalation 

Toxicity

Respiratory 

protection 

device3

Respiratory 

protection 

device3

No 

minimum4

No 

minimum4

Eye Irritation 

Potential

Protective 

eyewear

Protective 

eyewear

No 

minimum4

No 

minimum4

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paragraphs (f)(2) through (5) of this section if information available to the registrant indicates that such a 

glove type is more appropriate or more protective than the glove type specified in this section. The 

statement must specify the particular types of chemical-resistant glove (such as nitrile, butyl, neoprene, 

and/or barrier-laminate). 

(2) Solid formulations. For products formulated and applied as solids or formulated as solids and diluted 

solely with water for application, the glove statement shall specify: “waterproof gloves.” 

(3) Aqueous-based formulations. For products formulated and applied as a water-based liquid or 

formulated as a water-based liquid and diluted solely with water for application, the glove statement may 

specify: “waterproof gloves” instead of the statement in paragraph (f)(4) of this section. 

(4) Other liquid formulations. For products formulated or diluted with liquids other than water, the glove 

statement shall specify: “chemical-resistant (such as nitrile or butyl) gloves.” 

(5) Gaseous formulations and applications. For products formulated or applied as gases, any existing 

glove statement established before the effective date of this subpart, including any glove prohibition 

statement, will continue to apply. If no glove statement or glove prohibition now exists, the glove 

statement shall specify “chemical-resistant (such as nitrile or butyl) gloves.” 

(g) Existing respirator requirement for pesticide handlers on product labeling —(1) General requirement. 

If a statement placed on a product's labeling before the effective date of this subpart indicates that 

respiratory protection is required, that requirement for protection shall be retained. The statement must 

specify, or be amended to specify, one of the following respirator types and the appropriate 

MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix: 

(i) Dust/mist filtering respirator with MSHA/NIOSH/ approval number prefix TC-21C; or 

(ii) Respirator with an organic-vapor-removing cartridge and a prefilter approved for pesticides with 

MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix TC-23C or with a canister approved for pesticides with 

MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix TC-14G; or 

(iii) Supplied-air respirator with MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix TC-19C or self-contained 

breathing apparatus (SCBA) with MSHA/NIOSH approval number TC-13F. 

(2) Respirator type already specified on labeling. If the existing respiratory protection requirement 

specifies a respirator type, it shall be retained. The respirator statement must be revised, if necessary, to 

conform to the wording in paragraph (g)(1) of this section. 

(3) Respirator type not already specified on labeling. If the existing respiratory protection requirement on 

product labeling does not specify a respirator type as listed in paragraph (g)(1) of this section, the 

specific respirator type shall be that required in the criteria in paragraphs (g)(3)(ii) through (vi) of this 

section. 

(i) Exception. The registrant shall specify a different type of respiratory protection device if information, 

such as vapor pressure value, is available to the registrant to indicate that the type of respiratory 

protection device selected through the criteria in paragraphs (g)(3)(ii) through (vi) of this section would 

not be adequately protective, or might increase risks to the user unnecessarily. 

(ii) Gases applied outdoors. For products that are formulated or applied as a gas (space and soil 

fumigants) and that may be used outdoors, the respiratory protection statement shall be: “For handling 

activities outdoors, use either a respirator with an organic-vapor-removing cartridge with a prefilter 

approved for pesticides (MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix TC-23C), or a canister approved for 

pesticides (MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix TC-14G).” 

(iii) Gases used in enclosed areas. For products that are formulated or applied as a gas (space and soil 

fumigants) and that may be used in greenhouses or other enclosed areas, the respiratory protection 

statement shall specify: “For handling activities in enclosed areas, use either a supplied-air respirator 

with MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix TC-19C, or a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) 

with MSHA/NIOSH approval number TC-13F.” 

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(iv) Solids. For products that are formulated and applied as solids, the respiratory protection statement 

shall specify: “dust/mist filtering respirator (MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix TC-21C).” 

(v) Liquids in toxicity category I. For products that are formulated or applied as liquids, and, as 

formulated, have an acute inhalation toxicity (or its surrogate as specified in paragraph (d)(2) of this 

section) in category I, the respiratory protection statement shall specify: “either a respirator with an 

organic-vapor-removing cartridge with a prefilter approved for pesticides (MSHA/NIOSH approval 

number prefix TC-23C), or a canister approved for pesticides (MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix 

14G).” 

(vi) Liquids in toxicity category II. For products that are formulated or applied as liquids, and, as 

formulated, have an acute inhalation toxicity (or its surrogate as specified in paragraph (d)(2) of this 

section) in category II, the respiratory protection statement shall specify: “For handling activities during 

(select uses applicable to the product: airblast, mistblower, pressure greater than 40 p.s.i. with fine 

droplets, smoke, mist, fog, aerosol or direct overhead) exposures, wear either a respirator with an 

organic-vapor-removing cartridge with a prefilter approved for pesticides (MSHA/NIOSH approval 

number prefix TC-23C), or a canister approved for pesticides (MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix 

14G). For all other exposures, wear a dust/mist filtering respirator (MSHA/NIOSH approval number 

prefix TC-21C).” 

(h) New respirator requirement established for pesticide handlers in this part —(1) General requirement. 

If the table in paragraph (e) of this section indicates a respiratory protection device is required, and 

existing product labeling has no respiratory protection requirement, the registrant shall add a respiratory 

protection statement that specifies a: “dust/mist filtering respirator (MSHA/NIOSH approval number 

prefix TC-21C).” 

(2) Exception. The registrant shall specify a different type of respiratory protection device if information, 

such as vapor pressure value, is available to the registrant to indicate that the type of respiratory 

protection device required in paragraph (h)(1) of this section would not be adequately protective or might 

increase risks to the user unnecessarily. 

(i) Additional personal protective equipment requirements for pesticide handlers. In addition to the 

minimum personal protective equipment and work clothing requirements given in the table in paragraph 

(e) of this section, the labeling statement for any product in toxicity category I or II on the basis of dermal 

toxicity or skin irritation potential (or their surrogate as specified in paragraph (d)(2) of this section), shall 

include the following personal protective equipment instructions, additions, or substitutions as applicable: 

(1) If the product is not ready-to-use and there is no existing requirement for a chemical-resistant suit, 

the following statement shall be included: “Mixers/Loaders: add a chemical-resistant apron.” 

(2) If the application of the product may result in overhead exposure to any handler (for example, 

applicator exposure during airblast spraying of orchards or flagger exposure during aerial application), 

the following statement shall be included: “Overhead Exposure: wear chemical-resistant headgear.” 

(3) If any type of equipment other than the product container may be used to mix, load, or apply the 

product, and there is no requirement for a chemical-resistant protective suit, the following statement 

shall be included: “For Cleaning Equipment: add a chemical-resistant apron.” 

(j) Personal protective equipment for early-entry workers. This paragraph specifies minimum 

requirements for personal protective equipment (as defined in §170.240 of this chapter) and work 

clothing for early-entry workers. 

(1) For all pesticide products, add the statement: “For early entry to treated areas that is permitted under 

the Worker Protection Standard and that involves contact with anything that has been treated, such as 

plants, soil, or water, wear: (list the body protection, glove, footwear, protective eyewear, and protective 

headgear, if applicable, statements specified for applicators and other handlers, but omit any respiratory 

protection statement).” 

(2) If the body protection statement in the personal protective equipment requirement for handlers 

specifies a long-sleeved shirt and long pants, “coveralls” must be specified in the statement of personal 

protective equipment for early-entry workers. 

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(3) If there is no statement requiring gloves and no prohibition against gloves for applicators and other 

handlers under the heading HAZARDS TO HUMANS (AND DOMESTIC ANIMALS) in the labeling, add 

a requirement for “waterproof gloves” in the statement of personal protective equipment for early-entry 

workers. 

[57 FR 38146, Aug. 21, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 34203, June 23, 1993] 

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