What should you do with leftover pesticide material and wash/wastewater from cleaning equipment?

• A. Contain and dispose of wash water and residues according to the label and state hazardous waste guidelines; never discharge to water bodies.
• B. Dispose by pouring onto soil.
• C. Reuse wash water without treatment.
• D. Discharge to storm drain.

Answer: (A)

Controlling pesticide waste means treating leftover material and wash water as hazardous waste and disposing of them only according to the product label and state hazardous-waste rules. Pesticide residues can be toxic to people, pets, wildlife, and the environment, so releasing them to the environment or waterways can cause harm and violate regulations. The proper approach is to contain any leftover material in a labeled, sealed container and follow the label’s disposal instructions or use a approved hazardous-waste disposal option (such as a take-back or permitted facility). Wash water and residues from cleaning equipment must also be collected and disposed of through those same compliant methods; never discharge them to water bodies, storm drains, or onto soil. Reusing wash water without treating it risks spreading contaminants, and pouring residues onto soil or into storm drains can contaminate groundwater and surface water.