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

• A. Indicate the relative acute toxicity to humans and animals
• B. Indicate the crop it is registered for
• C. Indicate the package size
• D. Indicate the disposal method

Answer: (A)

The signal word tells you how hazardous the product is in terms of immediate, acute toxicity to people and animals. It’s a quick, at-a-glance warning that guides how carefully you handle the pesticide and what protective measures or first aid you might need. The other details—like which crops it can be used on, how much the product costs or what size the container is, and how to dispose of it—are found in different parts of the label, not in the signal word. Higher-toxicity products use terms like Danger, moderate toxicity uses Warning, and lower toxicity uses Caution, helping you judge the level of protection required.