What does the term 'hazard' refer to in pesticide safety?

In pesticide safety, 'hazard' specifically refers to the likelihood of injury or adverse effects resulting from exposure to a pesticide. This concept encompasses not just the potential harmfulness of the pesticide itself, but also factors related to the conditions under which it might be used, such as the route of exposure (inhalation, skin contact, ingestion) and the duration of that exposure. While toxicity is an important aspect of understanding the risk related to a pesticide (often discussed in relation to its chemical properties), hazard emphasizes the practical implications of encountering that toxicity under specific circumstances.

By understanding hazard in this context, pesticide users can better assess risk and implement appropriate safety measures. For instance, a pesticide may be highly toxic (high toxicity level), but if it is used in a manner that minimizes exposure (such as being applied when people and pets are not present), the overall hazard may be low. This understanding helps users make informed decisions about pesticide application and safety protocols.