Structural Pest Control Applicator Practice Exam

Which sprayer type is most likely to cause injury to sensitive vegetation or wildlife due to overdosing with concentrated pesticides?

1. Low pressure sprayer

2. High pressure sprayer

3. ULV ultra low volume

4. Backpack sprayer

The correct answer is: ULV ultra low volume

The ULV (Ultra Low Volume) sprayer is designed to use very small amounts of pesticide, creating a fine mist that can be easily carried by the wind. This characteristic makes it particularly effective for targeting specific pests over large areas. However, because ULV sprayers deliver pesticides in such a concentrated form, there is a heightened risk of drift, especially in windy conditions. This can lead to unintended exposure to sensitive vegetation or wildlife, resulting in potential injury or death to these organisms. In contrast, low pressure sprayers typically deliver a heavier spray that is less prone to drift, while high pressure sprayers tend to produce larger droplets that are less subject to atmospheric influence. Backpack sprayers, though they allow for more controlled application, can still be adjusted to apply at lower volumes, but generally, they do not present the same level of risk for overspray as ULV sprayers do. Therefore, the ULV sprayer's design and operational method are particularly associated with higher risks of causing injury to non-target species due to concentrated pesticide doses.