Why does mixing and loading pesticides pose a significant hazard?

• A. Because it is fun.
• B. Because pesticides are harmless at mixing stage.
• C. Due to concentrations and quantities, accidental release poses a high risk of ground and surface water contamination, and exposure to concentrated pesticides.
• D. Because mixing is easy.

Answer: (C)

Mixing and loading pesticides is especially hazardous because you’re handling concentrated products whose active ingredients are much more toxic than the diluted formulations used in applications. During mixing, transferring and diluting materials creates opportunities for spills, splashes, or leaks. A release of concentrated pesticide can quickly expose the handler and bystanders and can contaminate soil and water through ground or surface water, especially when large quantities are involved. The combination of high concentration and the potential for accidental release means the environmental and exposure risks are much greater than during normal use. These hazards aren’t about it being fun, easy, or harmless during mixing—the danger comes from the concentrations and the large amount of material that could be released.