Which agency is primarily responsible for overseeing the safe handling of pesticides?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is primarily responsible for overseeing the safe handling of pesticides because it regulates the registration, distribution, and use of these chemicals to ensure they do not pose unreasonable risks to human health or the environment. The EPA reviews the safety data provided by manufacturers before approving pesticides for use, establishes guidelines for proper application and disposal, and enforces compliance with regulations surrounding pesticide usage. This comprehensive regulatory framework is essential in promoting public safety and environmental protection regarding pesticide applications.

Other agencies, such as the Department of Agriculture, may work collaboratively with the EPA and enforce state-specific regulations, but the overarching authority and regulatory framework are established by the EPA. The Federal Aviation Agency focuses on aviation safety and regulations, which, while important for aerial applicators, do not specifically address the handling of pesticides. The Pesticide Registration Committee plays a role in advising and facilitating the registration process but operates within the framework set by the EPA.