EPA Explains...How to Read a Pesticide Product Label

Remember that the label is the law! Review the EPA Explains infographic below to learn how to read a pesticide product label.

Text Version of How to Read a Pesticide Infographic

A thought cloud and “EPA Says” within it, followed by a graphic of the back of a pesticide bottle and the title, “How to Read a Pesticide Label.”

1. A text box to the right of the pesticide bottle with the following list:
   1. Read the entire label.
   2. The label is the law.
   3. Below is an example of information found on a pesticide product label
2. To the left of the pesticide bottle is a text box titled, “Active Ingredients,” with the following text:
   1. Main chemical ingredients.
3. The Active Ingredients text box points to a section of the pesticide bottle label.
   1. Active Ingredients: Alkyl (60% C14, 30% C16, 5% C12, 5% C18)
      1. Dimenthyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride……………10%
   2. Other ingredients………………………90.0%
   3. Total………………………………………….100%
4. To the left of the pesticide bottle is a text box titled, “EPA Registration Number” with the following text:
   1.  “U.S. laws require EPA to register all pesticides.”
5. The EPA Registration Number text box points to a section on the pesticide bottle label.
   1. EPA REG NO. 55555-55-55555.
6. On the pesticide bottle in red, uppercase text reads, “CAUTION.”
7. A large, outlined text box on the left side of the pesticide label titled, “Directions for Use.”
   1. Below the title reads, INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE:   
      1. It is a violation of Federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.
8. To the right of the of the Directions for Use text box on is a section of text, “PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS on the pesticide label.
   1. Hazardous to humans and domestic animals. Wear gloves and eye protections.
9. A text box outside of the pesticide bottle is titled: “Precautionary Statements.”
   1. The identified risks of product use.
   2. Denotes whether personal protective equipment is needed.
10. Below the Precautionary Statements text on the bottle reads:
    1. CAUSES MODERATE EYE IRRITATION.
       1. Avoid contact with eyes, skin or clothing. Wash throughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact foods.
11. To the left of the pesticide graphic is a text box titled, “Directions for Use.”
    1. Germs the product kills.
    2. Where and how to properly use the product.
12. The Directions for use text box points to the pesticide label within the outlined Directions for Use textbox.          
    1. For Disinfection of Healthcare Organisms:
       1. Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
    2. To Disinfect Hard, Nonporous Surfaces:
       1. Pre-wash surface. Mop or wipe with disinfectant solution. Allow solution to stay we on the surface for at least 10 minutes. Rinse well and air dry.
    3. Below the Directions for Use text box and at the bottom of the pesticide label is a recycle icon, expiration date field, and a barcode below.
13. To the left of the Directions for Use text box on the label is a section of text.
    1. FIRST AID: IF IN EYES: Hold eye open and rinse slowly and gently with water for 15-20 minutes Remove contact lenses, if present, after the first 5 minutes, then continue rinsing eye. IF ON SKIN OR CLOTHING: Take off contaminated clothing. Rinse skin immediately with plenty of water for 15-20 minutes.
14. To the right of the pesticide bottle is a text box titled, “First Aid” and points at the FIRST AID text on the pesticide label.
    1. What to do if you get the product in your eyes or mouth, on your skin, or if you breathe it in.
15. Below the FIRST AID IF IN EYES text on the pesticide label reads:
    1. POISON CONTROL: Call a Poison Control Center (1-866-366-5408) or doctor for treatment advice.
16. Below the Poison Control text on the pesticide label reads:
17. STORAGE AND DISPOSAL: Store this product in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and heat. When not in use keep center cap of lid closed to prevent moisture loss. Nonrefillable container. Do not reuse or refill this container.
18. To the left of the pesticide bottle is a text box titled, “Storage and Disposal” that points to the label text for STORAGE AND DISPOSAL.
    1. How to store.
    2. Instructions on disposal and reuse of container.
19. Below the pesticide bottle graphic and at the bottom-left of the document is a URL.
    1. epa.gov/pesticides.
20. To the left of the URL and on the bottom-right of the document is the EPA logo.