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Label Review Training: Module 3: Special Issues, Page 16

Section 4: How should I review directions for use?

Formatting Directions for Use

Directions for use should be presented so that they are easy to read and understand. Bulleted lists, tables, and subheadings can help organize information for the user.

The following are some suggested formats for directions for use:

Bulleted Format

Bulleted lists are easier to read and understand than long narrative paragraphs. For example:

It is a violation of federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE
It is a violation of federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.
 
[General] Precautions/restrictions
- Use may damage marble surfaces.
 
Application Instructions
- Turn nozzle to “Spray” or “Stream.”
 
For General Cleaning:
  1. Hold nozzle 6-8 inches from surface.
  2. Spray soiled area.
  3. Wipe clean
  4. For surfaces in direct contact with food, a rinse is required. 
To Control Mildew:
  1. Pre-clean surface
  2. Spray until thoroughly wet.
  3. Let air dry
  4. Repeat weekly or when new growth appears. 

Tabular Format

When more lengthy and complicated information is required, consider organizing information in a table (i.e., tabular format). For example:

CROP CROP TARGET PESTS RATE SPECIAL DIRECTIONS

Broccoli
For use only in California, Oregon, and Washington

Do not apply within X days of harvest

Aphids
Flea beetles
Leafhoppers
Whiteflies
X fl. oz in X gal of water (diluent) by ground or X gal of water (diluent) by aircraft

Method of Application
Spray, Broadcast, Chemigation, Ultra Low Volume. 

Equipment
Sprayer, Sprinkler Irrigation, Mist Sprayer, Spreader.

Timing
Foliar, Pre-plant, Post-plant, Post-harvest, Dormant.

Application Interval
Can be X-X days as needed. no more than X times per year.

Notes: (applying to a specific pest)

      Armyworms
Lygus bugs
X fl. oz in X gal of water (diluent) by ground or X gal of water (diluent) by aircraft (different from above) Same as above but with different timing, pre-plant incorporated including a different type of equipment
      Restrictions:
  1. Do not apply more than X fl. oz. of Product per acre per application
  2. No more than X gallons per acre per season or year
  3. Make no more than X applications per season or year.
    Grazing Restrictions: Describe grazing restrictions here NOTES: Information on phytotoxicity, pest resistance, or other general comments that apply to the site.

Modified Paragraph Format

If a paragraph format must be used, it is helpful to the reader to include either subheadings, or to highlight key words/phrases. For example:

Apply to surfaces only. Hold container upright 12" from surface and spray. Spray until surfaces are wet. Over wetting asphalt tile, rubber and plastic materials may cause damage. Repeat treatment as necessary, but no more than once a week. ROACHES, CRICKETS, SILVERFISH, SPIDERS: Spray directly on insects when possible. Thoroughly spray cracks, baseboards, underneath kitchen shelves, and other places where insects live. ANTS, EARWIGS: Spray door sills, wood frames, outside foundations and porches. Spray directly on ant hills. FLIES, MOSQUITOES, GNATS, WASPS: Apply on screens, walls, door and window frames, and other surfaces where insects congregate.

FOR HOUSEHOLD USE: SHAKE WELL BEFORE EACH USE.
Apply to surfaces only. Hold container upright 12" from surface and spray. Spray until surfaces are wet. Over wetting asphalt tile, rubber and plastic materials may cause damage. Repeat treatment as necessary, but no more than once a week. ROACHES, CRICKETS, SILVERFISH, SPIDERS: Spray directly on insects when possible. Thoroughly spray cracks, baseboards, underneath kitchen shelves, and other places where insects live. ANTS, EARWIGS: Spray door sills, wood frames, outside foundations and porches. Spray directly on ant hills. FLIES, MOSQUITOES, GNATS, WASPS: Apply on screens, walls, door and window frames, and other surfaces where insects congregate.

Resource

For more information about formatting directions for use, see Chapter 11, Section IV of the Label Review Manual.

Directions for Use Checklist

The Directions for Use Checklist includes questions to ask when conducting a label review. Refer to it whenever you review directions for use.

Resource

To access the Directions for Use Checklist, see Chapter 11, Appendix A, of the Label Review Manual.

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