What does calibrating a sprayer help to ensure?

Calibrating a sprayer is a critical step in the application of pesticides as it ensures that the correct amount of pesticide is applied effectively to the target area. Proper calibration allows the applicator to determine the sprayer's output—the volume of pesticide being dispensed over a specific area—thus preventing under-application or over-application, both of which can lead to ineffective pest control or environmental harm. By achieving the intended application rate, the efficacy of the pesticide increases, contributing to better pest management while minimizing potential harm to non-target organisms and the environment.

While operating at high speed, ensuring operator safety, and adhering to environmental regulations are all important considerations in pesticide application, they do not specifically refer to the primary goal of calibration, which is to achieve the correct dosage of pesticide. Calibration focuses on the mechanics of application and precision in delivering the pesticide to maximize its effectiveness.