What factor primarily influences the potential for pesticide exposure during or after treatment?

The primary factor influencing the potential for pesticide exposure during or after treatment is the product and application method used. Different pesticides have varying levels of toxicity and persistence in the environment, and the way they are applied—such as through spraying, granules, or baiting—can greatly affect how much pesticide remains available, how it spreads, and how it interacts with the environment and target organisms.

For instance, some application methods may lead to higher drift or volatilization, increasing the likelihood of exposure to non-target organisms and adjacent areas. Additionally, the formulation of the pesticide (liquid, solid, etc.) can dictate how quickly it degrades or how effectively it targets the intended pest. These factors are crucial in determining not just the efficacy of the treatment, but also its safety for handlers, bystanders, and non-target species.

Other factors such as the time of day, amount of rainfall, and type of pest can influence exposure levels but do not have as direct an impact on the inherent risks associated with the pesticide product itself or the methods chosen for application. Thus, it is the characteristics of the pesticide and the chosen application technique that are the most critical in evaluating potential exposure.