What does exposure refer to in the context of pesticide use?

In the context of pesticide use, exposure specifically refers to the incident of individuals or non-target organisms coming into contact with pesticides. This can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion, and it's critical to understand because exposure can lead to potential health risks. Correctly identifying exposure helps in implementing safety measures during pesticide application and ensuring that appropriate protective equipment is used.

The other choices relate to pesticide usage or practices but do not define exposure itself. Safe storage is crucial for preventing accidental exposure, application refers to the act of using pesticides in the environment, and incorrect application techniques can lead to unintended exposure, but these do not capture the essence of what exposure truly means in this context. Therefore, the accurate understanding of exposure helps in creating more effective safety protocols and risk assessments in the field of pest control.