What happens when a pesticide is used legally and according to regulations?

When a pesticide is used legally and according to regulations, it is permitted to have tolerable residues up to a certain limit. Regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), evaluate pesticides for safety and effectiveness before they are registered for use. This evaluation includes establishing maximum residue limits (MRLs) for the pesticides, which determine how much residue may remain on food or in the environment without posing a health risk to humans or the ecosystem.

These tolerable limits ensure that when pesticides are applied as per label instructions, the levels of these chemicals will not exceed what is considered safe. Hence, the regulations surrounding pesticide use are designed to safeguard public health and the environment while allowing for effective pest management.

Other options, while relevant to pesticide use, do not accurately describe the outcome of using pesticides legally and per regulations. Safety is assured only within the established guidelines, contamination can occur if misused or if regulations are not followed, and the application still allows for flexibility depending on the type of pest and specific circumstances rather than a strictly specified schedule.