Pesticide safety and certification

Extension is expanding its online education and resources to adapt to COVID-19 restrictions.

Responsible management of pests and pesticides is essential to public health, safety and environmental protection. Extension provides education for anyone who use pesticides at home, on farms, in buildings and managing natural resources and landscapes.

Workshop updates

2021 recertifying applicators in Categories C, E, F, H, I, J, L and P will receive a newsletter in the mail with recertification information, events, and registration deadlines.

See below for links to commercial, noncommercial and private applicator recertification options.

Programs and training

Commercial, noncommercial applicator

If you apply pesticides on your employer's or customer's land or sites.

Private applicator

If you apply Restricted Use Pesticides (RUP) on your agricultural land.

Private applicator spring 2021 workshop registration opens on Dec. 28, 2020.

Structural applicator

If you apply pesticides on, in, under or around structures.

Resources

Worker Protection Standard

Respirator resources

Many pesticide products on the market require a respirator for safe use. In order to safely wear a respirator and comply with the Worker Protection Standard, you must be medically cleared and fit tested. Check with your local clinic about both of these procedures. If your clinic does not offer these services, the following options are available:

Online medical clearance options

Fit testing

The map below shows places around the state that offer fit testing. Some are small businesses, others include clinics and co-ops. Some of these fit testing sites require you to bring a respirator and others have samples to try. Click on each site on the map for details.

Learn more about respirators

Four steps to choosing the right respirator and wearing it safely
Respiratory Protection for Occupational Users of Pesticides - Rutgers
Pesticide Worker Protection Standard “How to Comply” Manual - EPA
WPS Respiratory Protection Guide: Requirements for Employers of Pesticide Handlers - Pesticide Educational Resources Collaborative

Dicamba and paraquat training

Sign up for PSEE ecommunications

E-communications from the Pesticide Safety and Environmental Education program may include workshop updates, newsletter, applicator licensing information, registration deadlines, or other pesticide safety news and event information.