Previously, pesticide education and licensing programs varied from province to province. The Canadian Association of Pesticide Control Officials initiated the standard project to clear up this inconsistency. The new standard includes standardized terminology, certification categories, recertification criteria and specific criteria for reciprocity requirements. It will make it easier for provincial and territorial groups to share information and resources. As a result, workers across the country will use pesticides more responsibly.
Educators can use the standard to develop uniform educational programs.
Many provinces and territories have already adopted the standard for their certification processes. The standard lists the basic knowledge that all certified vendors and applicators must master. There are also 10 additional modules for individuals who specialize in particular types of pesticide application, such as aerial, greenhouse or fumigation applications.