What does exposure refer to in the context of pesticides?

In the context of pesticides, exposure refers specifically to coming into contact with a pesticide. This can involve various scenarios, such as an individual handling a pesticide, a non-target organism being in proximity to an area where pesticides have been applied, or an environmental factor such as wind carrying pesticide particles. Understanding exposure is crucial for assessing potential risks to human health and the environment, as it determines the likelihood of being affected by the chemical properties and effects of the pesticide in question.

The amount of pesticide used and the volume of pesticides may contribute to overall exposure but do not define what exposure itself is. Furthermore, the degradation process of pesticides relates to how pesticides break down over time and does not pertain to the concept of contact or interaction with the pesticide. Knowing and managing exposure is essential for effective pest management and ensuring safety during pesticide application.