General Colorado Commercial Pesticide Application Practice Exam

What must the EPA conclude about pesticides according to the FQPA?

1. They pose no risk to farmers

2. They do not affect plant growth

3. No harm will come to sensitive individuals

4. They are always affordable

The correct answer is: No harm will come to sensitive individuals

The correct answer reflects the fundamental requirement of the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) regarding the regulation of pesticides. Under this legislation, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is mandated to ensure that there is a reasonable certainty of no harm to sensitive populations, which include infants, children, and other vulnerable groups, from pesticide exposure. This consideration emphasizes the protection of public health and safety, particularly for those who may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of pesticides. The other choices do not align with the FQPA's specific focus. For instance, while pesticides may indeed not pose risk to farmers or affect plant growth in certain contexts, these issues are not the central concern of the FQPA. Additionally, affordability of pesticides is not a criterion the EPA evaluates in terms of safety or regulatory approval. Thus, the requirement stated in the correct answer encapsulates the protective intent of the FQPA, emphasizing the health and safety of sensitive individuals in relation to pesticide exposure.