What is a primary concern regarding the use of restricted use pesticides?

Restricted-use pesticides are classified this way due to the potential risks they pose to human health and the environment if not used properly. Their designation indicates that these pesticides can cause significant harm and therefore require special training and certification for those who apply them.

When misused, restricted-use pesticides can lead to a variety of hazards including, but not limited to, immediate health risks to humans and animals, long-term ecological damage, and contamination of water sources. This is why the proper handling, application, and disposal of these pesticides are critical; users must not only understand the product's effectiveness but also its potential dangers. Recognizing these risks helps in implementing measures that ensure safety and compliance with regulations, ultimately protecting public health and the environment.

Options that suggest these pesticides are easily purchased or are only effective for certain pests do not address the regulatory framework in place regarding their usage nor the serious consequences of inappropriate handling. Similarly, while noting that they are primarily for commercial use is accurate, it does not highlight the core concern regarding safety and misuse.