What defines a restricted-use pesticide?

A restricted-use pesticide is defined as a product that poses a higher risk to human health or the environment compared to general-use pesticides. This designation is important because it signifies that these substances may have the potential to cause significant harm if not used with the proper precautions or if used by individuals lacking the appropriate training and certification.

Because of this heightened risk, restricted-use pesticides are subject to more stringent regulations; for example, they can only be purchased and applied by certified applicators who are knowledgeable about the safe handling, application, and potential hazards related to these chemicals. This ensures that the risks associated with use are minimized and that proper safety measures are observed.

In contrast, factors such as production costs, retailer availability, or restrictions on agricultural use do not fundamentally determine a product's classification as restricted-use. The primary concern is indeed the level of risk associated with potential exposure to the pesticide in question.