For protection of the surrounding community, why is it important to secure pesticide application aircraft and other equipment?

Securing pesticide application aircraft and other equipment is crucial for multiple reasons, one of which is to prevent intruder access to the equipment. By safeguarding these assets, it helps ensure that unauthorized individuals cannot tamper with or improperly use the equipment, which could lead to accidental pesticide release, misuse, or safety hazards for both the community and the operators themselves. Preventing intruder access is part of a broader commitment to maintain safety and control over harmful substances.

While protecting employees from pesticide exposure and complying with regulatory agency mandates are important considerations, the immediate concern regarding the security of the equipment centers around preventing unauthorized access, which in turn helps manage risks to the surrounding community. Additionally, while preventing weather damage to the equipment is useful, it does not directly relate to the protection of the community from potential pesticide hazards.