EPA Extends Comment Period for Proposed Pesticide Applicator Certification Rule

EPA Extends Comment Period for Proposed Pesticide Applicator Certification Rule EPA is extending the public comment period on the proposed changes to the certification rule for an additional 30 days. EPA is proposing stronger standards for pesticide applicators who are certified to apply the riskiest pesticides, known as restricted use pesticides (RUPs). The goal is to reduce the likelihood of harm from the misapplication of RUPs and ensure a consistent level of protection among states. More information about this rule is available at http://www2.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/epa-proposes-stronger-standards-people-applying-riskiest-pesticides. A formal announcement of the 30-day extension to the comment period will be published in the Federal Register shortly. The closing date for comments is now January 22, 2016. Comments can be submitted via www.regulations.gov under docket number EPA-HQ-OPP-2011-0183. If you need more information see the EPA Fact sheet on this proposal at: http://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-08/documents/ct_factsheet.pdf Some highlights Requires a higher degree of competency standards; Minimum age of 18 years old; requires renew certificates (private applicators) every three years. Requires additional specialized certification.