OPM Termite Practice Exam

What is the greatest risk for groundwater when handling pesticides?

1. Using proper protection

2. Over-application

3. Improper disposal

4. Using larger containers

The correct answer is: Improper disposal

The greatest risk for groundwater when handling pesticides is linked to improper disposal practices. When pesticides are disposed of incorrectly—such as pouring leftovers down drains, onto the ground, or in areas where runoff can occur—there is a significant chance that these harmful chemicals could infiltrate the soil and migrate into the groundwater supply. This contamination can lead to serious environmental issues, affecting not only water quality but also the health of organisms that rely on that water. Proper disposal methods are essential to prevent this risk and to ensure that pesticides do not enter the water system. While over-application can also pose risks by increasing the likelihood of runoff, the direct action of mismanaging pesticide waste is typically more hazardous as it can lead to immediate and irreversible groundwater contamination. Using proper protective equipment or larger containers does not directly correlate to groundwater risk and instead relates more to worker safety and storage logistics, respectively. Thus, improper disposal stands out as the primary concern for groundwater safety.