What must a commercial applicator do prior to applying pesticides?

A commercial applicator must read and understand the product label prior to applying pesticides because the label contains essential information about the safe and effective use of the pesticide product. This includes details on the proper application rates, the types of pests it targets, any safety precautions to follow, and legal regulations that govern its use. Understanding the label ensures that the applicator knows how to minimize risks to themselves, the environment, and non-target organisms while maximizing the effectiveness of the pesticide application.

Wearing protective gear, while important, comes into play after understanding the label and its safety requirements. Consulting with a supervisor may be a necessary step in some situations, but it is not a requirement for all pesticide applications. Testing the soil for pests might be part of a comprehensive pest management approach but is not a necessary action specifically tied to pesticide application. The core requirement remains the understanding of the label, as it is the foundation of responsible pesticide use.