If tests or other data indicate that the pesticide product has the potential to cause allergic effects, such as skin irritation or asthma, the product labeling must state that fact. These statements tell you the minimum personal protective equipment that you must wear when using the pesticide. Sometimes the statements will require different personal protective equipment for different pesticide handling activities. Sometimes the statements will allow reduced personal protective equipment when you use safety systems, such as closed systems. This section of the pesticide labeling will indicate precautions for protecting the environment when you use the pesticide.
Some general statements appear on the labeling of nearly every pesticide.
Most pesticide labeling, for example, will warn you not to contaminate water when you apply the pesticide or when you clean your equipment or dispose of pesticide wastes. The labeling will contain specific precautionary statements if the pesticide poses a specific hazard to the environment. For example, it may warn you that the product is highly toxic to bees or other wildlife. This section of the pesticide labeling will tell you of any special fire, explosion, or chemical hazards the product may pose. For example, it will alert you if the product is so flammable that you need to be especially careful to keep it away from heat or open flame or if it is so corrosive that it must be stored in a corrosion-resistant container.