The first comprehensive Federal regulation of pesticides began with the Federal Environmental Pesticide Control Act of 1972. This law was substantially amended in 1975 by the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). This act created several programs to protect human health and the environment from harmful pesticides. The major directives include:

• Establishing a registration process for pesticides, pesticide products, manufacturers and formulators and commercial applicators.
• Creating a classification system of prohibited, restricted, and general use pesticides.
• Developing child-resistant packaging standards and labeling specification for pesticide products.
• User protection standards assuring end users comply with label and applicator certification for restricted pesticides and special standards for agricultural workers.

Drexel University currently practices Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices. The basic principal of IPM is to limit or avoid the use of dangerous pesticides. The university contracts a third-party vendor for pest control. The vendor is instructed to follow all IPM practices.

All chemical pesticide applications are reviewed and approved by EH&S prior to application. Please contact EH&S if you have any questions or concerns.

Additional Resources:

• EPA Pesticide Program
• Pesticide Action Network