Learning Modules for Pesticide Applicators:
Record Keeping
Besides just meeting the requirements, keeping records of pesticide usage is a wise precaution. Records can establish proof of proper use or they are helpful in finding the cause of error, if an error is made. They can also provide information to trace residue and/or damage problems. Records can also save you money. They allow you to compare the results obtained from different pesticides. You can improve your pest control practices and efficiency too. They also help to reduce pesticide misuse. Careful records from year to year guide you in buying only the amount of pesticides you will need. Therefore, you can reduce winter carryover.
Key points on this page
- Learn how pesticide application records can be helpful to you.
- Know when and how to fill out record sheets.
- Understand the importance of standard forms.
What Are the Requirements?
The more information you keep on record, the more useful the records will be to you. Carry a notebook with you in the field. All the information is right there in front of you. Do not try to memorize all the necessary items. Fill in a standard form to be sure that you get all the necessary data every time.
Information Needed
- Time of day and date of application
- Crop or target
- Pest
- Equipment used
- Pesticide used
- Common name
- Trade name
- Formulation and % active ingredient
- Lot number (in case of cross-contamination or failure to control)
- Total formulation added to tank or hopper
- Amount of mixture used
- Amount or numbers treated (acres, trees, sheep, etc.)
- Additional comments
- Location
- Weather
- Applicator
- Severity of infestation
On every record form there should be a space left for additional comments. This space should be used to jot down information for your own personal use. This information can be used to improve your business, either through better customer relations or by saving you money. Such records can also be helpful in liability cases.
Remember, the job is never finished until the paper work is done.
Record Keeping – Self Study Questions
- Besides meeting the requirements, how can pesticide application records be helpful to you?
- How can pesticide records help you to improve your pest control practices and efficiency?
- When is the best time to fill out record sheets? Why?
- Why bother filling out standard forms? Why not just jot down the things you need to know?
Answers to Self Study Questions - Record Keeping
- Records can establish proof of proper use in damage suits.
- Records help to reduce pesticide misuse, as well as guide you in buying only the amount of pesticide you will need.
- In the field. All the information is right in front of you.
- By filling in a standard form you are sure to get all the necessary data.
(RDG1302008)
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Disclaimer: Please read the pesticide label prior to use. The information contained at this web site is not a substitute for a pesticide label. Trade names used herein are for convenience only; no endorsement of products is intended, nor is criticism of unnamed products implied. Most of this information is historical in nature and may no longer be applicable.
