Where should you first check before cleaning spray equipment?

Before cleaning spray equipment, it is essential to first check the label for product-specific cleaning requirements. This is crucial because the label contains detailed information about how to properly clean the equipment after use. Different pesticides or agricultural chemicals may have specific cleaning procedures to prevent contamination or damage to the equipment, as well as to ensure that any residues do not affect future applications.

Following the label instructions not only helps maintain the integrity of the spray equipment but also ensures compliance with safety practices and legal regulations. This step helps to avoid any potential mishaps that could arise from improper cleaning methods, which could lead to equipment failure, contamination of upcoming applications, or even harm to the environment and non-target organisms.

While other options have their value—local environmental regulations can provide overarching guidelines, advice from fellow applicators can be helpful based on experience, and understanding warranty terms is useful for maintenance—none of these specifically address the crucial need for following the cleaning instructions provided with the actual product used.