When purchasing pesticides, what should you consider regarding containers?

• A. The price per gallon
• B. How you will dispose of the container
• C. The color of the label
• D. The country of manufacture

Answer: (B)

Safe container management is the focus. When you purchase pesticides, you must plan for what happens to the container after use, because residues can pose risks to people and the environment. Proper disposal protects water, soil, and non-target organisms, and is required by label directions and state rules. To do this, rinse the container according to the label (often triple-rinse or pressure rinse), empty it, and either puncture or otherwise render it unusable. Then take it to an approved disposal or recycling program, or return it to the supplier if they offer a container take-back program. Never reuse pesticide containers for storing food, water, or other products, because contamination could occur. The other options focus on cost, appearance, or origin, which do not address safe, compliant container management.