Which of the following is a key factor in determining the risk associated with pesticides?

The risk associated with pesticides is primarily determined by evaluating both the toxicity of the pesticide and the likelihood of exposure. Toxicity refers to how harmful a particular pesticide can be to humans, animals, or the environment, indicating the potential severity of adverse effects that might occur following exposure. Simultaneously, likelihood of exposure considers how often, when, and under what circumstances individuals might come into contact with the pesticide.

By understanding both of these factors, one can assess the overall risk more accurately. For instance, a highly toxic pesticide may pose a lower overall risk if the likelihood of exposure is very low, while a less toxic pesticide might still present significant risk if exposure is frequent and widespread. This dual consideration allows handlers, professionals, and regulators to make informed decisions regarding pesticide use, safety measures, and regulations to minimize risks effectively.

Identifying the amount of pesticide present, frequency of exposure alone, or the specific type of pesticide can contribute to understanding risk, but they do not provide a complete picture without taking into account both toxicity and likelihood of exposure. Thus, focusing on the combination of these two key factors leads to a more comprehensive risk assessment in pesticide management.