In pest management, why is understanding signal words important?

Understanding signal words is crucial in pest management because they denote the relative toxicity of a pesticide product. These words serve as a quick reference for users to gauge the potential hazards associated with a product's use. For instance, signal words such as "caution," "warning," and "danger" convey different levels of toxicity, enabling applicators to assess how careful they need to be while handling or applying the product, ensuring safe practices and reducing health risks to themselves and others. By interpreting these signal words accurately, pest management professionals can make informed decisions about product selection and safety protocols, optimizing their approach while protecting human health and the environment.

The other options do not address the primary purpose of signal words. While economic cost, application methods, and pest types are important considerations in pest management, they do not relate directly to the toxicity indicators that signal words provide.