New regulations for domestic class pesticides will see higher risk products sold through a dispensary or behind-the-counter system beginning this spring.
Pesticides classified as “domestic class” by Health Canada are pest control products developed for general household use. This includes products such as lawn and garden pesticides, insect repellents and rodent control products. Environment, Energy and Forestry Minister Jamie Ballem said PEI’s new regulations separate domestic pesticides into two categories based on their potential risk to human health and the natural environment:
• Self select domestic pesticides are lower risk products. They may still be displayed on store shelves.
• Controlled purchase domestic pesticides are higher risk products. They will be available only through a dispensary or behind-the-counter system. Businesses that sell controlled purchase products must be licensed; and staff who sell, or provide recommendations on the use of controlled purchase domestic pesticides must successfully complete a written examination to receive a Domestic Pesticide Vendor Certificate.
“The new regulations will encourage the use of lower risk pesticides, while those who choose to buy higher risk products will have the benefit of first speaking with a knowledgeable salesperson who can provide information on the safe use of the product,” said Ballem. “Together, these factors will help reduce risks associated with pesticide use and provide greater protection for human health and our environment.”
A complete list of self select domestic pesticides and other information on pesticides is available online at www.gov.pe.ca/go/domesticpesticides, by calling the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry at 368-5053 or 620-3110, or by emailing pesticideinfo@gov.pe.ca Products that are not on the self select list are controlled purchase domestic pesticides.
The new regulations are the result of extensive public consultations on the use and regulation of pesticides in Prince Edward Island and contribute to Government’s goal of improved quality of our environment.