QAL Laws & Regulation Practice Exam

What is required of workers before entering a field treated with pesticides?

1. They must wear protective gear

2. They must wait until the REI has expired

3. They must notify the supervisor

4. They must complete a health screening

The correct answer is: They must wait until the REI has expired

Before workers can enter a field treated with pesticides, they must wait until the Restricted Entry Interval (REI) has expired. The REI is a mandated period following the application of certain pesticides during which entry into the treated area is restricted due to potential risks to health from pesticide exposure. This regulation is in place to ensure the safety of workers, as the chemicals can pose significant dangers shortly after application. Waiting for the REI to pass allows for the dissipation of hazardous residues and minimizes the risk of exposure to harmful substances. Therefore, this requirement is critical as it directly pertains to safeguarding the health and safety of agricultural workers, aligning with regulations set forth by agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The other considerations, such as wearing protective gear, notifying a supervisor, and completing health screenings, may be good practices or required under specific circumstances, but they do not override the critical nature of the REI when it comes to entry into pesticide-treated fields.