What is the significance of the signal words on pesticide labels?

The signal words on pesticide labels serve a crucial role in communicating the level of toxicity of the product to users. These terms help users quickly understand how hazardous a pesticide might be to humans and animals upon exposure. The most commonly used signal words indicate varying levels of toxicity, with "Danger" typically indicating high toxicity, "Warning" for moderate toxicity, and "Caution" for low toxicity. This is essential for safe handling and application, as it informs the user about the necessary precautions to take when using the product, such as protective equipment and first aid measures. Understanding these signal words is vital for ensuring safety and compliance with pesticide regulations.

Other factors, such as marketing, environmental impact, or decorative purposes, do not apply to the function of these signal words. They are specifically designed to convey critical safety information, ensuring that users can make informed choices about handling and applying pesticides.