What is the difference between general-use and restricted-use pesticides in Illinois?

• A. Restricted-use pesticides require certification and stricter handling due to potential risks; general-use can be used by trained applicators.
• B. Restricted-use pesticides require certification and stricter handling due to potential risks; general-use are available to the general public.
• C. General-use pesticides require certification; restricted-use can be used by trained applicators.
• D. There is no difference; both can be used by trained applicators.

Answer: (A)

Pesticides are classified by potential risk, and the level of control matches that risk. Restricted-use pesticides are held to a higher standard because they can pose greater hazards to people and the environment. That’s why applying them requires certification and adherence to stricter handling rules, such as proper labeling, specific application practices, and likely recordkeeping and restrictions on who can buy and use them. General-use pesticides, on the other hand, are considered lower risk and are available to a broader audience; they can be used by the general public or by trained applicators, as long as the label directions are followed. So the key distinction is certification and stricter handling for restricted-use pesticides, with general-use being accessible more widely.