Some insects, such as mosquitoes, biting flies, ticks and other insects can pose public health risks through the transmittal of diseases. Other types of insects may infest and destroy crops. Under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) EPA regulates the manufacture, distribution and labeling of insecticides for commercial and personal use. Through its strict registration and certification requirements, the Agency makes sure that insecticides are properly and safely applied. The Agency also studies the short and long-term consequences of pesticide usage on the environment and makes this information available to the public. The EPA's goal is to promote a safer means of pest control through research, public education, and public-private partnerships.

Recommended EPA Web pages

• How to Use Insect Repellents Safely
  How to choose insect repellents, safely apply the repellent, and avoid ticks and Lyme disease.
• Termiticide Data and Labeling Requirements
  Provides links to information on termiticide data and labeling requirements.
• Active Ingredients Found in Insect Repellents
  Provides information about active ingredients in insect repellents.

Pest Management
Crop Protection, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), State Management Plan

Pesticide Effects
Animal Safety, Child Safety, Food Safety, Health Effects, Pesticide Spills, Risk Assessment

Pesticide Legal Aspects
Compliance, Enforcement, Guidance, Labeling, Legislation, Public Comment, Regulations, Reporting

Pesticide Monitoring
Models, Residues, Test Methods

Pesticide Types
Insecticides, Antimicrobial Pesticides, Biopesticides, Disinfectants and Sanitizers, Rodenticides