A pesticide is any substance used to control pests. Pests may be target insects, vegetation, fungi, etc. Most control the pests by poisoning them. Unfortunately, pesticides can be poisonous to humans as well. Some are very poisonous, or toxic, and may seriously injure or even kill humans. Others are relatively non-toxic. Pesticides can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or mouth. The most important thing to remember is that you should always use caution whenever you work with any pesticide!

Students completing this module will:

• Understand what toxicity is and how it affects humans.
• Learn the three routes of entry (how pesticides enter the body) and the importance of each.
• Be familiar with how toxicity is measured and what is meant by label warning statements.

Successful completion of this module will earn New York State DEC certified applicators 1 Core recertification credit.

*If you are certified in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, or West Virginia, check the appropriate state-specific credit information page under the "Store Menu" to confirm approval and recertification credit values.

*Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont have approved all DLC courses and awards the same credits as New York.