Structural Pest Control Applicator Practice Exam

What should you do when you discover that one of your pesticide containers is corroding?

1. Dispose of it immediately

2. Wrap it in plastic that can be sealed and labeled

3. Put it in a larger container that can be sealed and labeled

4. Leave it alone if it appears stable

The correct answer is: Put it in a larger container that can be sealed and labeled

When a pesticide container shows signs of corrosion, putting it in a larger container that can be sealed and labeled is the recommended action because it provides a safeguard against potential leaks or spills that could pose a risk to human health and the environment. This method effectively contains the hazardous material, preventing it from contaminating surrounding areas or harming people or wildlife. Using a larger, properly labeled container ensures that the contents are recognized as hazardous and handled appropriately, adhering to safety regulations. This technique also prepares the product for safe disposal by maintaining its integrity until it can be discarded in compliance with local and federal regulations. Other options might not provide the same level of safety. For instance, disposing of it immediately could lead to accidents if the pesticide is not handled correctly, while wrapping it in plastic could offer temporary protection but may not be a sufficient barrier if leakage occurs. Leaving it alone if it appears stable fails to address the increasing risk associated with the corrosion, which can compromise the container over time.