What is the primary purpose of a containment pad in pesticide handling?

The primary purpose of a containment pad in pesticide handling is to catch spills and leaks. A containment pad serves as a physical barrier that prevents pesticide material from escaping into the surrounding environment, thereby minimizing the risk of contamination to the soil, water, and air. This is crucial for environmental protection and compliance with safety regulations. By effectively containing any accidental releases, containment pads help ensure that pesticides are managed safely and can significantly reduce potential harm to non-target organisms and ecosystems.

Other options, while related to pesticide management, do not specifically address the primary function of a containment pad. For instance, improving pest resistance and pesticide efficacy focuses on the biological aspects of pest management and not on the physical infrastructure for handling substances. Storing pesticides safely may involve various practices and facilities but does not capture the emergency response aspect of spill containment, which is the core intent of a containment pad.