What is a Certified Operator (CO)?

• A. An individual who mixes, loads, or applies any pesticide, including RUPs, under the supervision of a qualified supervisor
• B. An individual who applies pesticides without supervision
• C. An individual who only stores pesticides
• D. An individual who sells pesticides

Answer: (A)

The key idea is who is considered a Certified Operator. In Colorado, a CO is the person who actually mixes, loads, or applies any pesticide, including restricted-use pesticides, but does so only under the supervision of a Qualified Supervisor. The supervision part is essential: it means the CO carries out the handling and application tasks with guidance and oversight to ensure proper label use, safety practices, and compliance. This role fits because it describes someone who directly handles the pesticide in the field, under supervision, rather than someone who only stores or sells pesticides or someone who applies without supervision.

Storing pesticides is a separate activity and not the duties of a CO. Selling pesticides is a different role as well, typically a pesticide dealer. Applying pesticides without supervision would not meet the CO definition because supervision is a required element of the CO designation.