Why is it important to assess risks when developing pesticide security?

Assessing risks when developing pesticide security is crucial because it allows for the identification of potential hazards that may arise from the use, storage, and disposal of pesticides. By pinpointing these risks, professionals can implement strategies to mitigate them, ensuring the safety of both human health and the environment. This proactive approach helps to prevent accidents, misuse, or unintended harm, which is essential when handling substances that can pose significant threats.

While limiting pesticide use, ensuring compliance with regulations, and reducing costs are also important factors in pesticide management, they are secondary to the foundational task of identifying hazards. Without first recognizing the potential dangers associated with pesticides, other aspects of risk management cannot be effectively implemented. Prioritizing the identification of hazards is the cornerstone of developing a comprehensive pesticide security plan.