What should be done with food contact surfaces during indoor pesticide applications?

• A. They should be left uncovered
• B. They should be removed or covered
• C. They should be washed after application only
• D. They should be ignored

Answer: (B)

Food contact surfaces should be removed or covered during indoor pesticide applications to create a barrier between the treatment area and anything that will touch food. This prevents pesticide residues from contaminating foods, utensils, or containers and helps ensure safety for people and pets. If the items can’t be moved, covering them with an impermeable material keeps them protected from drift or splatter. Leaving surfaces exposed risks contaminating anything that will later come into contact with food and may violate label directions. Washing after the application is important, but it doesn’t replace the need to protect surfaces during the treatment, since residues can settle or penetrate surfaces while the product is active. Afterward, follow label guidance to clean or replace coverings and thoroughly wash surfaces that contact food before reuse.