What is a key factor in determining the hazard of a pesticide?

The hazard of a pesticide is determined by both its toxicity and the exposure level. Toxicity refers to how harmful a substance can be to living organisms, while exposure indicates the likelihood and extent to which an organism comes into contact with that pesticide.

When assessing hazard, it is crucial to consider that a highly toxic pesticide may not pose a significant risk if exposure is minimal. Conversely, a less toxic pesticide could become hazardous if exposure levels are extremely high. Therefore, understanding both factors allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the potential risks associated with pesticide use.

Environmental conditions can influence both toxicity and exposure, but they are not the sole determinants of a pesticide's hazard. Relying on just one aspect—either exposure or toxicity—would provide an incomplete picture, which is why considering both together is essential for accurately assessing the risk that a pesticide may pose in various situations.