What does the term 'risk' refer to in pesticide use?

The term 'risk' in pesticide use specifically refers to the likelihood of harm occurring given a product's toxicity. This encompasses both the potential adverse effects of the pesticide on humans, beneficial organisms, and the environment, as well as the probability that these adverse effects will occur under specific conditions of use.

In practice, risk assessments take into account not only the intrinsic toxicity of the pesticide but also factors like the method of application, the environment in which it is applied, and the presence of vulnerable species. Thus, a pesticide may be highly toxic, but if it is used in a way that minimizes exposure, the risk associated with its use might be considered low. Understanding this relationship between toxicity and likelihood of harm is crucial for making informed decisions about pesticide use.