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Pesticide Toxicity
For all pesticides to be effective against the pests they are intended to control, they must be biologically active, or toxic. Because pesticides are toxic, they are also potentially hazardous to humans and animals. Any pesticide can be poisonous or toxic if absorbed in excessive amounts. Pesticides can cause skin or eye damage (topical effects) and can also induce allergic responses. However, if used according to label directions and with the proper personal protective equipment (PPE), pesticides can be used safely. For this reason, people who use pesticides or regularly come in contact with them must understand the relative toxicity and the potential health effects of the products they use. The risk of exposure to pesticides can be illustrated with the following simple equation:
Hazard of Pesticide Use = Toxicity x Actual Exposure
Toxicity is a measure of the ability of a pesticide to cause injury, which is a property of the chemical itself. Pesticide toxicity is determined by exposing test animals to different dosages of the active ingredient. Tests are also done with each different formulation of the product (for example, liquids, dusts, and granulars). By understanding the difference in toxicity levels of pesticides, a user can minimize the potential hazard by selecting the pesticide with the lowest toxicity that will control the pest.
Applicators may have little or no control over the availability of low-toxicity products or the toxicity of specific formulated products. However, exposure can be significantly reduced or nearly eliminated by using PPE. For example, over 90 percent of all pesticide exposure comes from dermal exposure, primarily to the hands and forearms. By wearing a pair of chemical-resistant gloves, this exposure can be reduced at least 90 percent. Therefore, by wearing the correct PPE, the hazard of pesticide use can be reduced to an insignificant level for the applicator.