Final answer:
Human hazard from pesticides depends mainly on the pesticide's toxicity and the individual's level of exposure, including factors like duration and concentration. Health risks are elevated by long-term, high-level exposure, especially for agricultural workers and in settings with inadequate regulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hazard to humans from the harmful effects of pesticides depends on toxicity of the pesticide and the level of exposure to it. Toxicity refers to the inherent potential for a substance to cause harm, which varies among pesticides. Exposure pertains to how much, how often, and how long humans are in contact with the pesticide. This can occur through inhalation, direct contact with the skin, or ingestion, with the potential for a range of health effects depending on individual sensitivities and genetic factors.
Long-term high-level exposure typically affects agricultural workers and those involved in pesticide manufacturing. Insecticide residues in food and water also contribute to long-term, low-level exposure risks. The use of banned or harmful pesticides in developing countries, due to weak regulatory systems, leads to even greater risk of poisonings and chronic health issues. Governments and industry agree that ensuring the safe use of highly toxic pesticides is challenging, particularly among small farmers in developing countries.