In terms of pesticide exposure, where does the majority come from?

The majority of pesticide exposure typically comes from non-fumigant pesticides. These are commonly used in various residential and agricultural settings, and they often account for a significant portion of total pesticide exposure. This type of pesticide includes sprays, granules, and other formulations that are applied directly to the environment or crops.

Hand spraying, aerial applications, and granular applications all involve specific methods of applying pesticides, but they do not encompass the wide range of products associated with non-fumigant pesticides. Aerial applications are generally limited to larger-scale agricultural operations and can be subject to specific regulatory and environmental controls. Hand spraying typically involves smaller volumes and is used in more localized settings, while granular applications may also be targeted but do not represent the overall majority when considering all pesticide use scenarios.

The prevalence of non-fumigant pesticides is linked to their versatility and effectiveness in controlling a variety of pests in diverse environments, which contributes to their leading role in exposure statistics. Understanding the primary sources of exposure helps in addressing safety measures and regulations surrounding pesticide usage.