How do you know if a pesticide is a general-use pesticide?

A pesticide is classified as a general-use pesticide if the label does not include the phrase "RESTRICTED USE PESTICIDE." General-use pesticides are designed for safe use by the general public with minimal risk when used according to label instructions. The absence of the restricted designation indicates that the product can be applied without the requirement for specialized training or certification.

Understanding this classification is crucial for ensuring that consumers and non-professional users can safely handle and apply these products without the need for professional applicator certification. The presence of "RESTRICTED USE PESTICIDE" on a label, in contrast, signifies that a product poses a higher risk and is subject to stricter regulations, limiting its use to certified applicators who have received specific training.

The other choices indicate features of pesticide labeling that may relate to safety or intended use but do not define the classification as a general-use pesticide. The signal word CAUTION refers to the toxicity level and is not a definitive indicator of use category. Similarly, phrases indicating professional use only would apply to products not available to the general public, defining them as restricted instead of general-use.