When applying multiple organophosphates, how is the Restricted Entry Interval adjusted?

When applying multiple organophosphates, the appropriate adjustment for the Restricted Entry Interval (REI) is to consider the longest REI and add 50% of the next longest REI. This approach is based on the principle that different organophosphates can have varying levels of toxicity and persistence in the environment, making it crucial to account for the cumulative exposure risk to workers or bystanders when using multiple products.

By taking into account the longest REI, you ensure that you are protecting against the most toxic product's potential impact. Adding 50% of the next longest REI acknowledges the additional, albeit lesser, potential risk presented by the other products. This method recognizes the additive nature of exposure risks when multiple chemicals are used, leading to a more comprehensive and safer management approach.

The other methods of setting the REI, such as using the average of the REIs or choosing the shortest REI, do not adequately account for the combined effects of multiple organophosphates, which could potentially lead to insufficient protective measures and increase the risk of harm. Therefore, the correct approach aligns with ensuring robust safety protocols when there is concurrent use of different pesticides.