What is the primary purpose of a pesticide safety data sheet (SDS)?

The primary purpose of a pesticide safety data sheet (SDS) is to offer detailed information on hazards and handling. An SDS is a critical document that is designed to communicate the potential hazards of a chemical product, which includes information about the substance's composition, physical and chemical properties, health and environmental risks, safe handling practices, and emergency response measures.

By providing this comprehensive information, an SDS equips users—including pesticide applicators, employers, and emergency responders—with the knowledge they need to safely handle pesticides, minimize risks associated with their use, and respond appropriately in case of an accident or exposure. This information is crucial for ensuring the safety of both individuals and the environment when dealing with potentially hazardous chemicals.

The other options, while they may relate to various aspects of pesticides, do not serve the primary function of an SDS. Marketing strategies, listing all pesticides, or promoting organic alternatives do not focus on the critical safety and handling information that an SDS provides.