Wyoming Administrative Code
Agency 010 - Agriculture, Dept. of
Sub-Agency 0005 - General Agency, Board or Commission Rules
Chapter 28 - APPLICATOR CERTIFICATION RULES AND REGULATIONS
Section 28-5 - Standards for Certification of Commercial Applicators
Universal Citation: WY Code of Rules 28-5
Current through September 21, 2024
(a) Determination of Competency. Competence in the use and handling of pesticides shall be determined on the basis of written examination and as appropriate, performance testing, based upon standards set forth below. Such examinations and testing shall include the general standards applicable to all categories: the additional standards specifically identified for each category-subcategory (if any) in which a commercial applicator is to be classified; and, as appropriate, any special standards established pursuant to Section 11 of these regulations.
(b) General standards of competency for all categories of certified commercial applicators.
(i) All commercial applicators shall
demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of the principles and
practices of pest control and safe use of pesticides. Testing shall be based on
examples of problems and situations; appropriate to the particular category or
subcategory of the applicators' certification and the following areas of
competency:
(A) Label and Labeling
Comprehension.
(I) The general format and
terminology of pesticide labels and labeling, including all written, printed or
graphic matter associated with the product;
(II) The understanding of instructions,
warnings, terms, symbols, and other information commonly appearing on pesticide
labels;
(III) Classification of the
product, general or restricted use.
(IV) Necessity for use consistent with the
label.
(B) Safety.
(I) Pesticide toxicity and hazard to man,
including all common exposure routes (dermal, inhalation and
ingestion).
(II) Common types and
causes of pesticide accidents;
(III) Precautions necessary to gua rd against
injury to applicators and other individuals in or near treated areas;
(IV) Need for and use of protective clothing
and equipment;
(V) Symptoms of
pesticide poisoning;
(VI) First aid
and other procedures to be followed in case of a pesticide accident;
and
(VII)Proper identification,
storage, transport, handling, mixing and disposal methods for pesticides,
disposal of pesticide containers, including precaution to be taken to prevent
children from having access to pesticides and pesticide containers.
(C) Environment. The potential
environmental consequence of the use and misuse of pesticides as may be
influenced by:
(I) Weather and other climatic
conditions;
(II) Types of terrain,
soil and other substrate;
(III)
Groundwater aquifer vulnerability;
(IV) Presence of fish, wildlife and
non-target organisms;
(V) Presence
of endangered species; and
(VI)
Drainage patterns.
(D)
Pests.
(I) Common features of pest organisms
and characteristics of damage needed for pest recognition;
(II) Recognition of relevant pests;
and
(III) Pest development and
biology as it may be relevant to problem identification and control.
(E) Pesticides.
(I) Types of pesticides;
(II) Types of formulations;
(III) Compatibility, synergism, persistence
and animal and pla nt toxicity to the formulations;
(IV) Hazards and residues associated with
use;
(V) Factors which influence
effectiveness or lead to such problems as resistance to pesticides;
and
(VI) Dilution
procedures.
(F)
Equipment.
(I) Types of application equipment
and advantages and limitations of each type; and
(II) Uses, maintenance and
calibration.
(G)
Application Techniques.
(I) Methods of
procedure used to apply various formulations of pesticides, solutions and
gases, together with a knowledge of which technique of application to use in a
given situation;
(II) Relationship
of discharge and placement of pesticides to proper use, unnecessary use, and
misuse; and
(III) Prevention of
drift and pesticide loss into the environment.
(H) Laws and Regulations.
(I) Applicable state and federal laws and
regulations; and
(II) Worker
Protection Standards as they apply to farms, forests, nurseries and
greenhouses.
(c) Specific standards of competency for each category and/or subcategory. Commercial applicators when certifying in a specific category, shall be particularly qualified in that category as elaborated below:
(i) Cat. 901 Agricultural
Pest Control.
(A) Weed Control. Applicators
must demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of the crops grown and
the specific weeds of those crops on which they may be using pesticides.
Practical knowledge is required concerning soil and water problems, pre-harvest
intervals, restricted entry intervals, phytotoxicity, and potential for
environmental contamination, non-target injury and community problems resulting
from the use of pesticides in agricultural areas.
(B) Insect Control. Applicators must
demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of the crops grown and the
specific insects of those crops on which they may be using pesticides.
Practical knowledge is required concerning soil and water problems, pre-harvest
intervals, restricted entry intervals, phytotoxicity, and potential for
environmental contamination, non-target injury and community problems resulting
from the use of pesticides in agricultural areas.
(C) Disease Control. Applicators must
demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of the crops grown and the
specific diseases of those crops on which they may be using pesticides.
Practical knowledge is required concerning soil and water problems, pre-harvest
intervals, restricted entry intervals, phytotoxicity and potential for
environmental contamination, non-target injury and community problems resulting
from the use of pesticides in agricultural areas.
(D) Animal. Applicators applying pesticides
directly to animals must demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of
such animals and their associated pests. A practical knowledge is also required
concerning specific pesticide toxicity and potential residue, since host
animals will frequently be used for food. Further, the applicator must know the
relative hazards associated with such factors as formulation, application
techniques, ages of animals, stress and extent of treatment.
(E) Rodent Control. Applicators shall
demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of detrimental rodents found
in agricultural situations, the potential impact on the environment of
pesticides used in rodent control programs, and knowledge of factors
influencing introduction, spread and population dynamics of relevant pests. In
addition, use requires particular ability that relates to integrated knowledge
of the locale, target species and damage patterns caused by the target
species.
(F) Chemigation.
Applicators shall demonstrate practical knowledge of equipment associated with
chemigation, including calibration techniques and use of anti-back flow/check
valves to prevent contamination of water supplies. They shall demonstrate
knowledge of labeling requirements of products registered for chemigation,
including posting requirements. Further, they shall demonstrate knowledge of
appropriate use of personal protective equipment associated with this type of
application.
(ii) Cat.
902 Forest Pest Control. Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination,
practical knowledge of the types of forest, forest nurseries and seed
production in Wyoming and the pests involved. They should possess practical
knowledge of the cyclic occurrence of certain pests and specific population
dynamics as a basis for programming pesticide applications. A practical
knowledge is required of the relative biotic agents and their vulnerability to
the pesticides to be applied. The applicator must demonstrate, by examination,
practical knowledge of control methods which will minimize the possibility of
secondary problems such as unintended effects of wildlife. Proper use of
specialized equipment must be demonstrated, especially as it may relate to
meteorological factors and adjacent land use.
(iii) Cat. 903 Ornamental and Turf Pest
Control.
(A) Weed Control. Applicators shall
demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of pesticide problems
associated with weed control in the production and maintenance of ornamental
trees, shrubs, plantings and turf, including cognizance of potential
phytotoxicity due to a wide variety of plant material, drift and persistence
beyond the intended period of pest control. Because of the frequent proximity
of human habitations to application activities, applicators in this subcategory
must demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of application methods
which will minimize or prevent hazards to humans, pets and other domestic
animals.
(B) Insect Control.
Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of problems
associated with insect control in the production and maintenance of ornamental
trees, shrubs, plantings and turf, including cognizance of potential
phytotoxicity due to a wide variety of plant material, drift and persistence
beyond the extended period of pest control. Because of the frequent proximity
of human habitations to application activities, applicators in this subcategory
must demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of application methods
which will minimize or prevent hazards to humans, pets and other domestic
animals.
(C) Disease Control.
Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of pesticide
problems associated with disease control in the production and maintenance of
ornamental trees, shrubs, plantings and turf, including cognizance of potential
phytotoxicity due to a wide variety of plant material, drift, and persistence
beyond the intended period of pest control. Because of the frequent proximity
of human habitation to application activities, applicators in this subcategory
must demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of application methods
which will minimize or prevent hazards to humans, pets and other domestic
animals.
(D) reserved
(E) Rodent Control. Applicators shall
demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of detrimental rodents found
in ornamental and turf situations, the potential impact of the environment on
pesticides used in rodent control programs, and knowledge of factors
influencing introduction, spread and population dynamics of relevant pests. In
addition, use requires particular ability that relates to integrated knowledge
of the locale, target species and damage patterns caused by the target
species.
(iv) Cat. 904
Seed Treatment. Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination, practical
knowledge of types of seeds that require chemical protection against pests and
factors such as seed coloration, carriers, and surface active agents which
influence pesticide binding and may effect germination. They must demonstrate,
by examination, practical knowledge of hazards associated with handling,
sorting and mixing, and misuse of treated seed such as introduction of treated
seed into food and feed channels, as well as proper disposal of unused treated
seed.
(v) Cat. 905 Aquatic Pest
Control. Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of
the secondary effects which can be avoided by proper application rates, correct
formulations and correct application of pesticides used in this category. They
shall demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of various water use
situations and the potential of downstream effects. Further, they must have a
practical knowledge concerning pesticide effects on plants, fish, birds,
beneficial insects, and other organisms which may or may not be present in
aquatic environments. These applicators shall demonstrate, by examination,
practical knowledge of the principles of limited area application.
(vi) Cat. 906 Right-of-Way Pest Control.
Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of a wide
variety of environments since rights-of-way can traverse many different
terrains, including waterways. They shall demonstrate, by examination,
practical knowledge of problems of runoff, drift and excess foliage destruction
and ability to recognize target organisms. They shall also demonstrate, by
examination, practical knowledge of the nature of herbicides and the need for
containment of these pesticides within the right-of-way area, and the impact of
their application activities on the adjacent areas and communities.
(vii) Cat. 907 Industrial, Institutional,
Structural and Health Related Pest Control. Applicators must demonstrate, by
examination, a practical knowledge of a wide variety of pests including their
life cycles, types of formulations appropriate for their control and methods of
application that avoid contamination of food, damage and contamination of
habitation, and exposure of people and pets. Since human exposure is a
potential problem, applicators must demonstrate, by examination, practical
knowledge of the specific factors which may lead to a hazardous condition,
including continuous exposure in the various situations encountered in this
category. Because health related pest control may involve outdoor applications,
applicators must also demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of
environmental conditions, particularly related to this activity.
(A)-(F) Reserved
(G) Fumigation. Applicators shall demonstrate
practical knowledge of conditions requiring the application of fumigants, and
selection of the most appropriate fumigation methods to use. They shall
demonstrate knowledge of equipment used in fumigation, such as application,
monitoring, testing, calculating, and personal protective devices. Applicators
shall demonstrate ability to release, distribute and maintain the correct
fumigant concentrations for the product/structure being fumigated, under
differing conditions. They shall also have knowledge of the hazards involved
with the use of fumigants, including requirements for properly ventilating
enclosed spaces after application.
(H) Bird Control. Applicators shall
demonstrate practical knowledge of protected and unprotected pest birds and
conditions conducive to bird problems. They shall demonstrate knowledge of all
applicable laws and regulations protecting birds and the actions required in
order to control protected pest species. Applicators shall demonstrate
knowledge of bird control methods and the hazards involved with pesticide
usage, especially secondary poisoning of non-target
organisms.
(viii) Cat.
908 Public Health Pest Control. Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination,
practical knowledge of vector-disease transmission as it relates to and
influences application programs. A wide variety of pests are involved, and it
is essential they be known and recognized, and appropriate life cycles and
habitats be understood as a basis for control strategy. These applicators shall
have practical knowledge of a great variety of environments ranging from
streams to those conditions found in buildings. They should also have a
practical knowledge of the importance and employment of such non-chemical
control methods as sanitation, waste disposal and drainage. This category does
not include control of vertebrate pests which are disease vectors. (Vertebrate
disease vectors are included in paragraph (c)(ix)(H) of this section)
(ix) Cat. 909 Regulatory Pest Control.
Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of regulated
weeds, insects and diseases, and the potential impact to the environment of
pesticides used in control programs. They shall demonstrate, by examination,
knowledge of factors influencing introduction, spread and population dynamics
on relevant pests.
(A)-(D) reserved
(E) Rodent Control. Applicators
shall demonstrate practical knowledge of detrimental rodents, the potential
impact on the environment of pesticides used in rodent control programs and
knowledge of factors influencing the introduction, spread and population
dynamics of relevant pests. In addition, applicators shall demonstrate
integrated knowledge of the locale, target species and damage patterns caused
by the target species.
(F)-(G)
reserved
(H) Bird Control.
Applicators shall demonstrate practical knowledge as indicated under paragraph
(c)(vii)(G) of this Section.
(I)
Vertebrate Pest Control. Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination,
practical knowledge of regulated vertebrate pests (excluding birds) and, the
potential impact on the environment of pesticides used in control programs.
They shall demonstrate, by examination, knowledge of factors influencing
introduction, spread and population dynamics of relevant pests. In addition,
use requires particular ability that relates to integrated knowledge of the
locale, target species and damage patterns caused by the target
species.
(J) M-44. Applicators
shall demonstrate practical knowledge on the use of the M-44 device to control
coyotes, including the history of the M-44 device, toxic effects of sodium
cyanide, first aid for cyanide poisoning, M-44 parts and their use, preparation
of the M-44 for use, setting the M-44, the use of baits and attractants,
selecting M-44 use sites, EPA use restrictions, and all reporting and record
keeping requirements pertaining to the use of M-44's. Applicators shall also
demonstrate knowledge of basic coyote information, characteristics of predatory
species, and use of alternative methods for predator control. Certification in
this subcategory shall require separate and specific training, examination and
certification.
(K) Livestock
Protection Collars. Applicators shall demonstrate practical knowledge on the
use of the Livestock Protection Collar to control coyotes, including criteria
for applicators, specific certification requirements for applicators,
monitoring protocols and labeling and the use of the technical bulletin on the
LP Collar. Applicators shall also demonstrate knowledge of procedures for
evaluating predation on livestock and wildlife, and all reporting and record
keeping requirements pertaining to the use of the LP Collar. Certification in
this subcategory shall require separate and specific training, examination and
certification.
(x) Cat.
910 Demonstration and Research Pest Control. Applicators demonstrating the safe
and effective use of pesticides to other applicators and the public will be
expected to meet comprehensive standards reflecting a broad spectrum of
pesticide uses. Many different pest problem situations will be encountered in
the course of activities associated with demonstrations, and practical
knowledge of problems, pest and population levels occurring in each
demonstration situation is required. Further, they should demonstrate an
understanding of pesticide - organism interactions and the importance of
integrating pesticide use with other control methods. In addition, they shall
meet the specific standards required for categories 901 through 909 of this
section as they may be applicable to their particular activity. Persons
conducting field research or method improvement work with pesticides should
know the general standards under paragraph (b) of this section. In addition,
they shall meet the specific standards required for categories 901 through 909
of this section, applicable to their particular activity, or alternatively, to
meet the more inclusive requirements listed under "demonstration".
(xi) Cat. 911 Specific Use Pest Control.
Applicators shall demonstrate, by examination, practical knowledge of the
specific pest to be controlled, and the potential impact on the environment of
the specific pesticide to be used. The applicator shall also demonstrate, by
examination, practical knowledge concerning all pertinent factors influencing
application methods, hazards to the applicator and the public, and any other
factors which the Board of Certification deems of importance for the specific
pesticide. The Board of Certification will develop the examination only after
consulting with the manufacturer of the specific restricted-use pesticide.
Because of the unusual nature of these specific pesticides, neither the Board
of Certification, the Wyoming Department of Agriculture, nor the University of
Wyoming will be required or expected to provide training for applicators prior
to the examination. Not withstanding the provisions under Section
6(k) dealing with training
for re-certification, the board of certification is not required to approve
training courses for re-certification, and the board of certification may
require the applicator to be re-examined to maintain certification.
(A)-(K) reserved
(L) Wood Preservation. Applicators shall
demonstrate practical knowledge of conditions for which preservative treatment
of wood is used. Applicators shall demonstrate a knowledge of all laws specific
to the use of wood preservatives, the health and environmental hazards
associated with wood treating procedures, and the need for informing purchasers
of precautions for handling, use, and disposal of treated wood products. They
shall demonstrate knowledge of all applicable treating and testing equipment,
structural wood destroying organisms, conditions conducive to infestation and
shall demonstrate knowledge and ability to select, calibrate and use
appropriate control procedures.
(M)
Non-Government M-44. Applicators shall demonstrate practical knowledge as
indicated under paragraph (c)(ix)(i) of this section.
(N) Non-Government Livestock Protection
Collar. Applicators shall demonstrate practical knowledge as indicated under
paragraph (c)(ix)(J) of this section.
(O) Mosquito Control. Applicators shall
demonstrate practical knowledge of appropriate life cycles and habitats of
mosquito populations which form the basis of a control strategy. Applicators
shall have practical knowledge of a great variety of environments ranging from
exterior water sources to those conditions found in buildings and also have
knowledge of non-chemical control methods such as sanitation, waste disposal
and drainage.
(P) Sewer Line Root
Control. Applicators shall demonstrate by practical knowledge of various
technical aspects of sewer line root control, with emphasis on the safe use and
application of chemical products, especially those which contain metam sodium,
a restricted-use pesticide.
(xiii)
Cat. 912 Aerial application. Applicators shall demonstrate practical knowledge of aerial equipment calibration and maintenance and the avoidance of problems associated with aerial application, such as drift and non-target injury. In addition, applicators will demonstrate knowledge appropriate to the type of aerial application being performed through their additional certification in one or more of the categories listed under paragraph (c) of this section.
(d) The above standards do not apply to the following persons for purposes of these regulations:
(i) Persons conducting research
in a laboratory, involving pesticides; and
(ii) Doctors of Medicine and Doctors of
Veterinary Medicine applying drugs or medication during the course of their
normal practice and who do not publicly represent themselves as pesticide
applicators.
Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. Wyoming may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
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