USDA MEDIA BY LANCE CHEUNG.

The U.S. EPA finalized its proposed rule to restore the 2015 Application Exclusion Zone (AEZ) requirements for pesticide application. The rule will take effect 60 days after publication.

The AEZ changes are intended to reduce pesticide-related illnesses and safeguard agricultural communities. It strengthens protections for more than two million farmworkers and pesticide handlers.

The AEZ prohibits people from entering an area during pesticide application. Applicators must suspend pesticide application if anyone enters the AEZ. This area would be defined as 25 feet for medium droplets and 100 feet for fine sprays. Immediate family members are allowed to remain in enclosed spaces during applications.

Read more on the U.S. EPA pesticide safety zone rule here.