What is meant by 'registration' in the context of pesticides?

'Registration' in the context of pesticides refers to the regulatory process established under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) that legally approves a pesticide product for use in the United States. This process involves a thorough evaluation of the pesticide's safety, efficacy, and environmental impact, ensuring that it meets federal standards before it can be marketed and used. The registration process is critical because it helps protect public health, wildlife, and the environment from potentially harmful substances.

The other options do not accurately capture the meaning of 'registration' as it pertains to pesticides. Applying for a job in pesticide management is unrelated to the regulatory framework. Additionally, while commercial applicators must often be certified and may have to undergo separate processes, the registration process applies to all pesticide products, not just those used by commercial applicators. Lastly, while pesticide retailers do have certain requirements, the term 'registration' specifically refers to the approval of pesticide products themselves rather than the retailers. This clarification emphasizes the importance of understanding the regulatory landscape for pesticide products and their safe use.