Paraquat dichloride is an active ingredient found in many pesticide products that people use in both agricultural and nonagricultural areas. Also known as paraquat, this ingredient is extremely deadly if ingested or improperly used. In most cases, a single sip can be fatal. In order to use products with this ingredient, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that certified applicators take training on how to safely use these products. These new restrictions intend to help reduce accidental ingestion and other exposures to the product.

General Information

Paraquat serves as a weed control, as well as a defoliant on many crops prior to harvest. Some of the brand name products registered in Alabama are Gramoxone, Firestorm, Helmquat, and Parazone. As of November 14, 2019, the EPA requires companies to have newly labeled products on the market. The following items are listed on the new label for paraquat products:

• Only certified applicators who successfully completed the paraquat-specific training can mix, load, or apply paraquat.
• Noncertified applicators operating under the direct supervision of a certified applicator is no longer allowed.
• Applicators must repeat training every 3 years.
• The use of all paraquat products is restricted to certified applicators only.

Training

The required paraquat training module is available at syngentaus.docebosaas.com/learn/public/catalog/view/10. English and Spanish training versions are available. Review additional information for required trainings on the “Paraquat Dichloride Training for Certified Applicators” web page at www.epa.gov.

For further information, contact Sonja Thomas at sbt0010@aces.edu or (334) 844-8832.