1. Measure out and mark the boundaries of a specific area for your test. A 20' by 50' area equals 1000 square feet, the increment used for the application rates of many spray materials.
2. Add a measured amount of clean water to the sprayer tank.
3. Make a application covering the measured area. Use your normal walking rate and spray pattern. Your goal with this step is to evenly spray the measured area (1000 sq ft).
4. The final step in this process is to measure your output. Pour the water remaining in the tank into a measured container.
5. Now, subtract the amount left after your application from your beginning quantity.
   
6. The answer will equal the amount you are applying per 1000 square feet.

Take a few minutes now and insure an accurate application when using your backpack sprayer.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to the protective clothing or equipment required to be worn when using pesticides. PPE can range from a long sleeved shirt and pants, to a full hazardous material suit with a self contained breathing apparatus. The purpose of PPE is to protect the handler or applicator of the pesticide from exposure while using the product. Most of the time, the label requirements fall between the extremes.

It is important to note that the PPE listed on the pesticide label is not a suggestion, it is the minimum amount of Personal Protective Equipment that must be worn.

PPE varies between pesticides and generally is determined by the signal word of the pesticide being used. As the signal word changes from CAUTION to WARNING to DANGER, there is a corresponding increase in the required Personal Protective Equipment.

If you are tank mixing pesticides in your application, use the most restrictive PPE requirements indicated. Two materials with the same signal word may have differing PPE requirements because the pesticides might have different exposure characteristics. Again, the label determines the minimum level of Personal Protective Equipment.

Many times there will be varying PPE requirements depending on the potential worker exposure when doing different jobs. Or in other words, a mixer handler might have a different PPE requirement than other workers.

There is a wealth of information regarding the use of PPE. We suggest talking to your chemical supplier or by clicking here to visit the EPA PPE website for more detailed information on the types of personal protective materials and help in interpreting the Personal Protective Equipment statements on pesticide labels.

The PPE requirements are there for the protection of you and your workers. Protect your health and theirs, be sure you are in compliance with the label.