US EPA introduces web-distributed labeling system

US EPA has proposed to draft guidance for Pesticide Registrants on Web-Distributed Labeling, which would allow users to retrieve a streamlined version of the pesticide product labeling, containing the directions for use and necessary information related to the user’s specific state and intended site of use. Shorter, relevant labeling could be clearer and easier for the user to understand, improving compliance with pesticide labeling requirements and thereby protecting human health and the environment from unintentional misuse of pesticides.

Web distributed labeling would also allow for more rapid updates to pesticide labeling, meaning risk mitigation measures and new uses can reach the user more quickly than under the current paper-based system.

The Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) has issued related notices to inform pesticide registrants and other interested persons about important policies, procedures, and registration related decisions, and serve to provide guidance to pesticide registrants and OPP personnel. This draft Pesticide Registration Notice (PR Notice) provides guidance concerning the process by which registrants can make legally valid versions of pesticide labeling available through the Internet.

Public comments have been opened until April 16, 2013.