EPA Revises Pesticide Container and Containment Rules

EPA recently published a final rule amending the pesticide container and containment regulations, which provide for the safe storage and disposal of pesticides as a means of protecting human health and the environment pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Specifically, the final rule:

• Extends the labeling compliance date from Aug. 17, 2009, to Aug. 17, 2010;
• Changes the phrase "sold or distributed" to "released for shipment" as associated with all of the compliance dates;
• Provides certain exceptions to label language requirements;
• Allows for waivers of certain label requirements;
• Amends 40 CFR 152 by establishing a definition for "released for shipment;" and
• Makes various minor editorial changes.

Pesticide formulators, agrichemical dealers, independent commercial applicators and custom blenders may be affected by the action. Other types of entities not listed here could also be affected. This final rule is effective Dec. 29, 2008. For more information, visit www.epa.gov/pesticides/regulating/containers.htm.