What is the purpose of the signal word on a pesticide label?

The purpose of the signal word on a pesticide label is to give an indication of the relative acute toxicity of the product. Signal words are standardized terms that help users quickly assess the level of potential harm posed by exposure to the pesticide. Common signal words include "Caution," "Warning," and "Danger," which correspond to different toxicity levels.

These words are crucial in ensuring safety, as they guide the applicator in understanding the urgency regarding the use of personal protective equipment and safety measures that should be taken while handling the product. They act as an immediate alert to the users about the health risks associated with the pesticide, thereby promoting safety practices and informed decision-making.

The other aspects mentioned in the choices, such as packaging type, shelf life, or application rate, while they are important information, do not serve the primary purpose of indicating toxicity levels to the user. The signal word is specifically focused on the assessment of toxicity to help mitigate health risks.