What is an important factor to check when calibrating pesticide application equipment?

When calibrating pesticide application equipment, the accuracy of application rates is essential to ensure that the correct amount of pesticide is being applied to the target area. Accurate application rates are crucial for effective pest control while minimizing the risk of environmental harm, crop damage, or harm to non-target organisms. Calibration helps to confirm that the equipment is delivering the specified rate as intended, which is important for compliance with label instructions and legal regulations.

Manufacturers may provide guidance on how to calibrate equipment, but the warranty does not influence the effectiveness or precision of pesticide application. The color of the pesticide container and the age of the pesticide are also irrelevant to the calibration process, as they do not impact the efficacy or application rate, but instead pertain to practical handling and storage considerations. Therefore, focusing on the accuracy of application rates ensures that pest management practices are both effective and safe.