Are ornamental turf sites considered agricultural under the Worker Protection Standard?

Ornamental turf sites can be considered agricultural under the Worker Protection Standard (WPS) depending on their use and the specific pesticide labels involved. The WPS is designed to protect agricultural workers and handlers of pesticides, and it classifies certain situations based on how pesticides are applied and the intended purpose of the area being treated.

When ornamental turf is maintained for commercial purposes—such as a golf course, athletic field, or a large landscaped area—it might fall under agricultural parameters. This is influenced by factors such as the types of pesticides used, how they are applied, and the intended use of these areas. For instance, if the turf is treated with pesticides that are labeled for agricultural use and meant to manage pests in a manner similar to crops, it may indeed be governed by agricultural regulations.

This flexibility in classification is essential because it acknowledges that ornamental turf can serve purposes similar to traditional agriculture, particularly in terms of pest management and worker exposure to harmful chemicals. Therefore, understanding the context of use and the specific pesticide labels is critical in determining the applicability of the WPS to ornamental turf sites.