When there is an inconsistency between the regulation-specified Restricted Entry Interval (REI) and the labeling-specified REI, you must always ________.

The practice of adhering to the longer Restricted Entry Interval (REI) when there is an inconsistency between the regulation-specified REI and the labeling-specified REI is rooted in the principles of safety and protection for workers. The REI is designed to minimize the risk of pesticide exposure during the critical period after application when residues may still be present and hazardous.

Using the longer interval addresses the possibility that the pesticide poses greater risks than those reflected solely in its labeling. Regulatory agencies establish these intervals based on extensive risk assessments, which take into account factors like the toxicity of the chemical and the potential for human exposure. By using the longer REI, you are ensuring that you are erring on the side of caution, thereby safeguarding the health of workers who may be exposed.

In this context, the other options do not adequately ensure worker safety. Selecting the shorter interval could increase the risk of exposure, and relying solely on the pest control operator's or manufacturer's recommendations may not account for the stricter safety measures mandated by regulatory oversight. The choice to follow only the regulation-specified REI would not prioritize safety effectively if it is the shorter interval compared to the label. Thus, adhering to the longer REI is a vital practice in the responsible enforcement of