The hazard of a pesticide is defined as:

The definition of a pesticide hazard is best captured by its inherent danger. This concept refers to the potential risk that pesticides pose to humans, animals, and the environment. It encompasses the characteristics of the pesticide itself, such as its properties and how it behaves in various scenarios. Understanding this inherent danger allows applicators and users to assess the potential consequences of exposure or mishandling, regardless of the actual exposure level.

While toxicity is related, as it measures how harmful a substance can be, it does not alone define the hazard because it does not account for exposure scenarios or the context in which the pesticide is used. The signal word on the label indicates the level of toxicity and provides some guidance about the potential hazard, but it does not encompass the full understanding of hazard as it relates to all safety considerations and risk factors related to the pesticide. Similarly, effectiveness pertains to how well a pesticide works in its intended role, but it does not address safety or risk, which are crucial components of understanding pesticide hazards.