How can inert ingredients potentially affect human health?

Inert ingredients, while they may not be the active components that target pests or diseases, can have significant implications for human health. Some inert ingredients carry toxic or hazardous properties that may pose risks upon exposure. This contrasts with the common misconception that inert ingredients are harmless and non-toxic.

For example, certain solvents or additives in pesticide formulations, which do not actively kill pests but are integral to the formulation, can be harmful if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Regulatory agencies, therefore, require thorough testing and safety assessments of all components in pesticide products, including inert ingredients, to ensure they do not pose undue risks to human health.

By understanding that some inert ingredients can indeed be hazardous, pesticide applicators and supervisors are better equipped to evaluate risks associated with pesticide use and manage safety precautions effectively.