for the exam.
Once you have passed the "Core" exam, you are then
eligible to take your "Category" exams.
The training manuals for each category can be
obtained from the same place you obtained your Core
Training Manual--your county extension office.
The Category exams are open-book exams, but are
timed at 2 hours each. Call 609/984-6614 to sign up
for Category exams.
Once you are fully certified, you will automatically
receive the registration material in the mail. You cannot
"use" your certification until you have registered (paid
your registration fees and received a validated registration
card).
Once you are fully certified, you must keep up that
certification, which is accomplished by the "Continuing
Certification Program."

Continuing Certification Program

In New Jersey, pesticide applicator certification is
valid for 5 years. During this period, the applicator must
accumulate units of recertification credit (each unit = _
hour instruction time). The units needed are as follows:

8 Core Units.Label comprehension, safety, environmental factors, laws and regulations. 16 Category Units for Each Category. Pests, pesticides, equipment, application techniques, calibration. Call your county extension office for information on

meetings and schools for credit.
If you do not accumulate the amount of recertification
units required, you will have to retake the certification
exams.
You will receive a yearly update of your recertification
status each spring and fall from the Pesticide Control
Program. The yearly recertification update will tell you
when your 5-year period is up; how many units, if any,
you have accumulated so far; and how many more you
need.
If you have any questions on the recertification
program, call 609/984-6614.

Pesticide Operator Registration
(Commercial Only)

Anyone applying pesticides under direct supervision
of a private or commercial certified pesticide applicator
must be registered as a pesticide operator, unless the
certified applicator is always physically present when the
uncertified individual is handling pesticides. Operator
registration is accomplished by completing a form
supplied by the Pesticide Control Program after the
operator has received adequate training in safe pesticide
handling. Contact the Pesticide Control Program for
more information on pesticide operator training and
registration (609/984-6614).

Handling Pesticides

Before opening a pesticide container, all applicators
should read the label carefully, and accurately follow all
directions and precautions specified by the labeling. In
order to handle and apply pesticides safely, it is essential
to use the proper safety equipment and protective
clothing. For the custom or professional applicator,
which includes both private and commercial applicators,
safety equipment should at least consist of unlined
neoprene or rubber boots and gloves; waterproof hat, coat,
and coveralls; an approved respirator, and proper
measuring equipment.
Your physician should be advised of the types of
pesticides you use in your work. Before the start of the
spray season, each applicator should have a blood
cholinesterase level determined. Every 4 to 6 weeks
during the spray season, the level should be redetermined.
When applying pesticides, be sure to have a supply
of clean water and liquid detergent available for drenching
and washing in case of an accident. A single drop of
certain pesticides in the eye is extremely hazardous. Be
prepared to wash a contaminated eye with clean water for
as long as 15 minutes.
Only an experienced applicator wearing the protective
clothing and safety equipment prescribed by the
manufacturer should handle highly toxic pesticides, such
as Methyl parathion, Guthion, and methomyl.

Applying Pesticides

Before using a pesticide, read and obey all labeling
instructions. Always have the label readily available
when applying a pesticide.
Do nothandle or apply pesticides if you have a
headache or do not feel well. Neversmoke or eat while
using pesticides. Avoidinhaling pesticide sprays, dusts,
and vapors.
If hands, skin, or other body parts become
contaminated or exposed, wash the area immediately with
clean water and a liquid detergent. If clothing becomes
contaminated, remove it immediately. Wash
contaminated clothing separately. After each spraying or
dusting, bathe and change your clothing; always begin the
day with clean clothing.
Always have someone with you or close by if you are
using highly toxic pesticides (those with the signal word
DANGERplus skull and crossbones).

Apply the Correct Dosage

• To avoid excessive residues on crops for feed and
  food.
• To achieve optimum pest control and minimum
  danger to desirable organisms.
• To avoid chemical damage to the crops.
• To obtain the most economical control of pests.

Use pesticides for only those crops specified on the

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1998 New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide