School Pesticide Notifications

Pennsylvania's Act 36 of 2002 amended the Public School code of 1949 by adding to section 772.1, Notification of Pesticide Treatments at Schools.  This act provides the pesticide certified applicators and the school with specific responsibilities.

The legislation states that prior to a pesticide application, the pesticide certified applicator is to supply to the chief school administrator or building manager:

1. a pest control information sheet containing the date of treatment, the name, address and phone number of the applicator and the pesticide used and
2. A pest control sign at least 81/2" x 11" in size.

The school district is responsible for:

1. Posting the pest control sign in an area of common access where individuals are likely to view the sign at least three days before and two days after each planned treatment.
2. Provide a copy of the pest control information sheet (by hard copy or e-mail) to every individual working in the school building at least 3 days before treatment.
3. Provide notice to the parents or guardians of students enrolled in the school at least 3 days before each planned treatment.  The notice is to be provided to all parents or guardians using normal school communications or to a list of interested parents or guardians who, at the beginning of each school year, or upon the child's enrollment, requested notification of individual applications of pesticides.
4. Prohibit applications of pesticides within a school building or on school grounds where students are expected to be present within 7 hours following the application, except where pests pose an immediate threat to the health and safety of students or employees. In this case, the school may authorize an emergency pesticide application, and then notify by telephone any parent or guardian who has requested such notification.
5. Maintain detailed records of all chemical pest control treatments for at least 3 years.

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